Yes but we bought ticket in advance and guide brought us right in.

Sorry for the late reply. Be careful with taxis. They will try to take advantage of you. I came out of Miraflores Locks and I told the taxi man how much I would pay to go to Albrook Mall -- a total of $6. They will try to get you to pay $8 or $10. Most of what I did was travel via Uber, but I did not know about Uber when out at Miraflores Locks. Uber is, in my opinion, the most economical way to travel and generally a nicer vehicle.

We took an Uber from the airport and liked him so much that we negotiated a price for a private tour the next day. Much cheaper than hiring a taxi or booking through a tour company. Clean, modern vehicle and very safe and courteous driver. I saved him as Jose “Panama” in my contacts; his WhatsApp number is +507 6890 8535

IMAX movie ($10) is interesting too and takes about 35 minutes

Before 12 noon and after 2pm.

The truth is, the big & interesting ships are no more passing there. Though there are still some small and medium ships passing, make sure you take the schedule in advance, otherwise you could end up waiting for hours. In general, the best times are early morning and late afternoon.

Sorry, I dont know.

I find your question a little confusing ??do you want to go to the visitors center and see the Mira Flores locks and also experience the ride thru the locks and canal. I was only there once but we used the hop on /off bus($34 for one day/$37 for two days) to see most of panama city. You can check their routing and see if it suits you)The Maria Flores has a small museum($) and a grandstand to view ships going thru the Locks. I (and my wife)found the old city very interesting using the self walking guide. Taxi's are very reasonable and everyone uses American $$.

Not yet. It's still under construction.