Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge at Pier Park: More than Just Another Country Bar
If you live or vacation in Panama City Beach, chances are you have heard of Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge at Pier Park. The first Tootsie’s started out as “Mom’s” in Nashville, Tennessee, and was bought in 1960 by Tootsie Bess. Tootsie actually credits a painter with naming the bar, after she came in one day and found that he had painted the whole place orchid – thus the name Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Today, Tootsie’s in Nashville is world-famous, and one of the nation’s top country music nightspots, with many famous names stopping by or performing on a regular basis. In May 2008, Tootsie’s came to the then new Pier Park in Panama City Beach and has been showing both locals and tourists a rockin’ good time ever since.
There are many reasons Tootsie’s has climbed higher and higher towards the top of the Panama City Beach best nightlife list. One of the first things you’ll notice as you walk in is that the place exudes friendliness – there’s no pretentiousness, no attitude, just a down-home, what you see is what you get vibe. People show up complete with cowboy hat and dancing shoes, ready to have a great time and enjoy the music. Unlike its cozy Nashville counterpart, Tootsie’s in Panama City Beach is spacious, with plenty of room inside to dance and mingle, plus there is also a large outdoor area at the front of the building where you can sit and relax with a drink, and watch the lively goings-on at Pier Park. Aside from the atmosphere, another big draw to Tootsie’s is the fantastic live music. There are many places in town that feature live entertainment, but Tootsie’s takes it to a whole new level. Talented musicians from Nashville take the stage each and every night and wow the audience with their exciting renditions of popular country and southern rock tunes that will have you on your feet in no time. Band members are totally in sync with each other and allow for plenty of audience interaction, including taking requests and asking everyone to sing along. It’s a good time for all, and there’s nowhere else like it in the area.
Tootsie’s is more than just a hot nightspot. Opening at 11:00 am daily, the music actually begins early, with a live performer playing throughout the day. Families can stop by and enjoy some great food and a cool drink or friends can pop in for after work cocktails and bar snacks – the music doesn’t stop. Tootsie’s really comes alive at night, but it’s also a wonderful and convenient stop during the day, especially if you are already indulging in some Pier Park retail therapy. If you are a fan of country music, or even if you’re not, you should definitely check Tootsie’s out. (I grew up in England where country music is non-existent, and I love Tootsie’s). It’s one of the best things to ever happen to Panama City Beach nightlife, and it’s here to stay. Bonus – you never know who you might see!
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is located at 700 S. Pier Park Drive, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 236 3459 for more details.
