Soccer never cast its spell over Panama as it has with the rest of Latin America -- here baseball is king, yet stadium crowds and big-league games are not common. Games are mostly by national and local teams vying for regional championships. For spectator sports, check out the horse races (below) for a lively show and lots of colorful Panamanian characters. Walking and bicycling are best on the Amador Causeway, especially early in the morning with the sunrise.
Bird-Watching
Serious birders will want to visit renowned sites such as Pipeline Road. Within the city limits, Metropolitan Park is a fine spot for glimpsing some of the more than 200 species found here. Check the Panama Audubon Society's website, www.panamaaudobon.org, for upcoming field trips to the park and other destinations around the city.
Horse Racing
The Hipódromo Presidente Remón (tel. 217-6060; www.hipodromo.com) inaugurated more than a half-century ago, is a prestigious venue and a fun place to spend an afternoon. Races are held on Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. To get here, take a taxi to Vía José Agustín Arango, on the way out to the airport. The Hipódromo can be reached via the Corredor Sur or by following Vía España until it turns into Vía Arango.
Hotel Spas & Workout Facilities
Nearly every moderate to high-end hotel has a fitness center, and major hotels have full-service spas, which are the best in the city. Especially noteworthy are the spas at the Veneto, Decapolis Radisson, and Marriott. These hotels allow you to book a session even if you're not lodging there.
