Fodor's Expert Review Agua Clara Visitor Center

Not far from the Gatún locks, this visitor center offers the best view of the newly completed Panama Canal expansion, which allows a new generation of larger, so-called post-Panamax ships to traverse the canal. A video presentation provides an introduction to the canal's history and expansion, but the open-air observation area is the most interesting part, since it offers hilltop views of the project. The facility has a playground and gift shop, as well as a pleasant open-air restaurant operated by Panama City's El Panamá hotel. The restaurant, which is open for lunch daily noon–4 (call 507/215–9927 for reservations) offers great views of Gatún Lake.