Fort Lauderdale, FL: Gondola Glides, Sunset Cruises & Millionaire’s Row
Plan your Fort Lauderdale trip for a mix of sun, canals, food, and easy city adventures. Lounge on wide sandy beaches, cruise the famous inland waterways, dig into fresh seafood, and find lively shopping and nightlife—all close by.
It’s easy to blend beach time, outdoor adventures, arts, and dining here. I’ll toss in some simple tips to help you plan each day, too. Street-level maps, boat tours, and local favorites help you make the most of every hour in the “Venice of America.”
Top Places to Stay in Fort Lauderdale, FL
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Tropical Getaway - 628A 628 Northeast 17th Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 287 |
| BlueEden 2/1 w/ Private Pool near DT FTL & Beach 1317 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 231 |
| Wiltonplex C 519 Northeast 23rd Street Unit C, Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, United States of America | 230 |
| Wiltonplex B 519 Northeast 23rd Street Unit B, Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, United States of America | 205 |
| Wiltonplex D 519 Northeast 23rd Street Unit D, Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, United States of America | 239 |
| Beach Aqualina Apartments 4553 North Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 635 |
| Villa Venezia 132 Isle of Venice Drive Office, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, United States of America | 305 |
| Premiere Hotel 625 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 804 |
| Windjammer Resort and Beach Club 4244 El Mar Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 464 |
| Coral Reef Guesthouse 2609 Northeast 13th Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 224 |
| Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach, Curio Collection By Hilton 525 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States of America | 1,478 |
| Tropical Getaway Studio-628B 628 NE 17th Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 335 |
| Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach 551 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 326 |
| The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club 1700 South Ocean Lane, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States of America | 1,247 |
| Alani Bay Premium Condos 1716 - 1720 Northeast 7th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 308 |
| Alani Bay Condos 320 Northeast 15th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, United States of America | 271 |
| Harbourside Flats Miami Road 2110, Fort Lauderdale, 33316, United States of America | 214 |
| Nobleton Hotel 2908 Bayshore Drive, Fort Lauderdale, 33304, United States of America | 433 |
| Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale 100 East Las Olas Blvd, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, 33301, United States of America | 1,826 |
| Sun Tower Hotel & Suites on the Beach 2030 North Ocean Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, United States of America | 277 |
| Coconut Bay Resort 919 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 721 |
| Snooze 205 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard (A1A), Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 694 |
| Napoli Belmar Resort 625 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 202 |
| Casitas Coral Ridge 2648 NE 32 Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, United States of America | 356 |
| Soleado Hotel 2901 Belmar Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 318 |
| Victoria Park Hotel 855 Northeast 20th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 909 |
| Green Island Inn 3300 Northeast 27th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 303 |
| avid hotels - Ft Lauderdale Airport - Cruise, an IHG Hotel 3001 SW 26th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, 33312, United States of America | 913 |
| Cambria Hotel Fort Lauderdale Beach 2231 North Ocean Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, 33305, United States of America | 693 |
| Silver Seas Beach Resort 101 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 390 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Downtown 721 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 33304, United States of America | 209 |
| Plunge Beach Resort 4660 El Mar Dr., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 1,694 |
| Oasis Hotel 1200 Miami Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States of America | 1,352 |
| Riverside Hotel 620 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, United States of America | 1,050 |
| Coral Key Inn 4601 El Mar Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 989 |
| Pelican Grand Beach Resort, a Noble House Resort 2000 North Ocean Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305, United States of America | 902 |
| Sea Garden by the Sea 4625 North Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 699 |
| The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 5711 Seminole Way Suite 200, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, United States of America | 595 |
| Elita Hotel 3030 Bayshore Drive, Fort Lauderdale, 33304, United States of America | 527 |
| Sea Beach Plaza 3081 Harbor Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States of America | 356 |
| Marriott's BeachPlace Towers 21 South Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States of America | 233 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale North/Cypress Creek 2440 West Cypress Creek Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, United States of America | 543 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Downtown, Fl 315 NW 1st avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, United States of America | 990 |
| Aqua Hotel 531 Breakers Ave , Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 808 |
| Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort 505 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 614 |
| Bayview Regency 2929 Northeast 49th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 210 |
| Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach 999 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, United States of America | 1,224 |
| Castle by the Sea Motel 4520 North Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 688 |
| Blue Strawberry by the Sea 4208 North Ocean Drive Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, United States of America | 628 |
| The Dalmar, Fort Lauderdale, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 299 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 33301, United States of America | 210 |
Explore Fort Lauderdale’s Iconic Beaches
Wide white sand, clear water, and easy access to shops and restaurants—what’s not to like? Each beach has its own vibe: family parks, lively promenades, or quiet diving spots. Just pick what fits your mood.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach runs along A1A with a long promenade for walking, running, or just people-watching. Rent chairs, umbrellas, and water-sport gear at several public access points.
Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, a short walk from the sand, adds shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground—handy for families. Lifeguards watch the main entrances, and you’ll find metered parking along the road.
Hotels, bars, and restaurants line the street. Grab seafood with an ocean view or hit a café for a quick bite between swims.
Las Olas Beach
Las Olas Beach sits at the east end of Las Olas Boulevard, near shops, galleries, and restaurants. The beach is smaller but well serviced, with an amphitheater and a splash pad for kids.
Rent beach chairs and gear nearby, then wander straight onto Las Olas Boulevard for cafes and boutiques. It’s a good spot if you want a beach day with easy access to shopping and nightlife.
Parking fills up fast on weekends and evenings—arrive early, or just use public transit or rideshare to save time.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a few miles north of central Fort Lauderdale, feels calmer and more local. The beach is known for snorkeling and diving, with reefs and a historic shipwreck close to shore.
Stroll the Commercial Boulevard strip for sidewalk dining and small shops after a dive or snorkel. It’s got a low-key vibe compared to the busy Fort Lauderdale Beach areas—perfect for a relaxed beach day.
Outfitters rent snorkel gear or offer short boat trips to the best dive spots.
Must-See Attractions & Landmarks
These sites give you a strong sense of Fort Lauderdale’s history, art, and natural life. Each spot offers guided tours, photo ops, and easy walking paths.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Walk the 35-acre estate between the Intracoastal Waterway and the beach. The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens mixes a historic house full of art with subtropical gardens.
Inside, you’ll spot original furniture, paintings, and personal items from the early 1900s. The guided tour covers family history, architecture, and the estate’s art collection.
Outside, follow shaded paths past native orchids, banyans, and a coastal hammock. Watch for shorebirds and iguanas around the marsh and lagoon.
Buy timed-entry tickets in advance, bring bug spray in warm months, and give yourself 60–90 minutes to see everything comfortably.
Historic Stranahan House Museum
Visit the oldest surviving structure in Broward County, built in 1901 by trader Frank Stranahan. The Historic Stranahan House Museum shows early Fort Lauderdale life with period rooms, artifacts, and old photos.
Docents lead tours that cover trade, river travel, and stories about local Native Americans and pioneers. You’ll hear how the town grew from a trading post to a coastal city.
The site sits on the New River and has panels about local commerce and riverboats. Tours last about 45 minutes; check the schedule for special events like living-history programs.
Flamingo Gardens
Explore 60 acres of botanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary focused on native Florida species. Flamingo Gardens features a historic wade house, big collections of tropical and subtropical plants, and a free-flight aviary.
See rescued native animals—Florida panthers, bobcats, and American alligators—in naturalistic enclosures. The boardwalk through the hammock takes you under tall live oaks and royal palms.
Plan for at least two hours to stroll the gardens, visit the wildlife area, and catch the narrated tram tour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection for the open boardwalks and gardens.
Discover Downtown & Las Olas Boulevard
Downtown Fort Lauderdale blends waterfront parks, art, and dining. Stroll along canals, shop on a lively boulevard, or check out a nearby arts district with murals and galleries.
Las Olas Boulevard Shopping and Dining
Las Olas Boulevard stretches from downtown to the beach and centers on S.E. 17th Street. You’ll find boutiques selling clothing, home goods, and jewelry alongside art galleries. Many shops stay open late on weekends.
Dining options line the street: waterfront seafood spots, casual cafes, and upscale bistros. Grab a sidewalk table to watch people and boat traffic on the Intracoastal. Several restaurants have outdoor seating and happy hour specials. Parking is usually metered, but garages nearby help if street spots are gone.
Walking between blocks is way easier than driving. You can pop into galleries, stop for ice cream, and browse specialty stores—no need to hunt for parking every few minutes.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale runs along the New River through downtown. Follow the paved path past parks, public art, and green spaces that host outdoor concerts and festivals.
Key stops include the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Historic Stranahan House, both within easy walking distance. Bring comfortable shoes—sections of the Riverwalk connect to bridges, boat docks, and riverfront restaurants. Plenty of benches and shaded spots let you pause and watch the water taxis go by.
The Riverwalk links to Las Olas shops and dining, so you can easily combine a scenic stroll with a meal or a show.
Flagler Village
Flagler Village—locals call it FATVillage or the FATVillage Arts District—sits just north of downtown. You’ll find converted warehouses with galleries, studios, and art walks every month.
The neighborhood’s food scene is growing: food trucks, craft breweries, and small restaurants pop up all over. Check listings for First Friday Art Walks when galleries open new shows and live music fills the streets. Flagler Village also hosts creative businesses and design firms, so the area feels lively and contemporary.
If you enjoy street art and a younger vibe, Flagler Village is worth exploring on foot. Street parking is available, and bike lanes make it easy to pedal between venues.
Get Out in Nature & Adventure
Paddle calm lagoons, ride an airboat through sawgrass, or walk among tropical butterflies. Each place offers clear activities, hours, and tips to help you plan a safe, fun outing.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Hugh Taylor Birch sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, so you can switch from beach to hammock trails in minutes. Rent a kayak or paddleboard at the park’s launch and paddle the one-mile freshwater lagoon—you might spot turtles, herons, or even manatees. Trails wind through shaded tropical hardwood hammock and mangrove edges, great for a short hike or a picnic.
Parking fills early on weekends; show up before 9:00 AM to get a spot. The park has restrooms, picnic tables, and a small concession for rentals. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and water. If you like cycling, bring a bike—paved paths connect to nearby neighborhoods and the beachfront promenade.
Everglades National Park Tours
The Florida Everglades start just west of Fort Lauderdale, and you can join guided tours that focus on wildlife and wetlands. Airboat tours at Everglades Holiday Park or Sawgrass Recreation Park zip you through sawgrass marshes where you’ll probably spot alligators and wading birds. For a quieter trip, book a ranger-led tram or boat tour inside Everglades National Park to learn about habitats and conservation.
Tours vary by length—half-day airboat rides last about 1–3 hours; park boat trips can go longer. Wear lightweight, sun-protective clothing and closed shoes. Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. Always follow guide instructions near wildlife and keep kids and pets away from the water’s edge.
Butterfly World
Butterfly World in Coconut Creek offers a calm, family-friendly escape with thousands of butterflies in planted aviaries. Walk through tropical gardens where butterflies breed and feed, and you might even have one land on your shoulder. The facility also has tropical birds and a butterfly emergence area where you can see chrysalises open.
Shaded paths, benches, and educational signs explain life cycles and native plant species. Arrive mid-morning when butterflies are most active. Buy tickets online to skip the line. If you’re coming after a rainy morning, expect fewer butterflies while they dry out; plan ahead and bring a light rain jacket just in case.
Unique Waterway Experiences: Venice of America
Fort Lauderdale’s canals show off waterfront mansions, mangroves, and wildlife. Pick a narrated riverboat, a quiet gondola, or a kid-friendly pirate cruise—whatever matches your mood that day.
Jungle Queen Riverboat
Board the Jungle Queen for a classic sightseeing cruise on the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. The boat’s narrated tours point out Millionaire’s Row, Port Everglades, and local landmarks, so you’ll pick up some history as you ride. Multiple departure points along Las Olas Boulevard make it easy to hop on wherever you are.
Evening cruises add dinner and a staged show at an island venue, if you want food and entertainment without juggling separate plans. Expect covered seating, restrooms, and a relaxed pace—good for families, couples, or solo visitors who want an easy, informative outing.
Las Olas Gondola Tours
Try Las Olas Gondola for a quiet, romantic trip through Fort Lauderdale’s smaller canals. A single gondola carries a few guests, and the gondolier steers and shares local tidbits. It’s great for proposals, anniversaries, or just a peaceful family outing away from the busy waterways.
Tours usually last around 75 minutes and launch from the Las Olas area near downtown. Float past lush landscaping and private homes for calm, up-close photos and a slower pace than the big tour boats. Bring a camera and a light jacket for breezy evenings.
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures
Pick Bluefoot Pirate Adventures for an upbeat, kid-friendly cruise with interactive entertainment. Themed boats, costumed crew, water cannon battles, treasure hunts, and on-deck games keep kids busy. Staff provide safety gear and life jackets, focusing on hands-on activities and family fun.
Trips run from the Fort Lauderdale waterfront and sometimes include short swimming stops or shallow-water play when the weather’s right. You’ll find snacks and drinks onboard, plus photo ops with the pirate crew—ideal for families chasing an active, memorable time on the “Venice of America.”
Arts, Museums & Culture
Live shows, major art collections, and hands-on science exhibits cluster close to downtown and the riverwalk. Each spot has clear access, ticket options, and programs for families and curious visitors.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts
The Broward Center sits on the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District and hosts Broadway tours, concerts, ballet, and comedy. Check the calendar before you go; shows range from big-name musicals in the main theater to smaller performances in intimate black-box spaces.
Buy tickets online for assigned seating and quicker entry. The center has on-site dining, nearby parking garages, and accessible seating if you need it. Arrive early, poke around the public art on the plaza, and maybe grab a snack along the riverwalk before the show.
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale highlights modern and contemporary art, with a strong focus on Latin American and post-war works. The galleries rotate special exhibitions, often showing photography, installation art, and pieces by regional artists.
Join a guided tour or grab an audio guide if you want more context. The museum hosts family days and lectures, so peek at their event calendar for hands-on activities or evening talks. It’s a short walk from Las Olas Boulevard, so you can easily pair art with a meal nearby.
Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science packs in interactive exhibits about Florida ecosystems, aviation, and technology, plus an IMAX theater for nature films and documentaries. Kids love the touch tanks, flight simulators, and Everglades displays.
Plan at least two hours, longer if you’re catching an IMAX show. Buy tickets online—membership pays off if you’ll visit more than once. The museum has stroller parking, a café, and educational programs for families and school groups.
Local Food, Shopping & Nightlife
Fort Lauderdale’s got craft beer, massive outlet shopping, and lively neighborhood spots for drinks and bites. There are brewery tours, outlet deals at a huge mall, and local taprooms pouring Florida-inspired brews.
Funky Buddha Brewery & Breweries
Funky Buddha Brewery, just north of Fort Lauderdale, is a go-to for craft beer fans. The taproom pours seasonal brews like Hop Gun IPA and dessert-style stouts. They release limited cans and host food trucks, so check their calendar before heading over.
Arrive early on weekends if you want a tasting flight or a spot on a brewery tour. The vibe is casual and family-friendly during the day. Other nearby small breweries rotate their taps too, so a mini brewery hop isn’t a bad idea if you’re curious.
Sawgrass Mills
Sawgrass Mills is Florida’s biggest outlet mall—serious shoppers love it. There are over 350 stores, including Nike, Saks OFF 5TH, and designer outlets with frequent discounts. Bring a map or download the app; it’s easy to get turned around hunting for deals.
Dining clusters and quick spots keep you fueled between stores. Parking is usually ample but fills up fast on holidays, so get there early or use valet at certain entrances. If you’re after something specific, call ahead to check store stock.
Invasive Species Brewing
Invasive Species Brewing is a local favorite for beers with Florida-inspired flavors. Expect brews highlighting tropical fruit, citrus, and easy-drinking ales for the South Florida heat. The space often hosts live music and community events, giving it a friendly, local vibe.
Order a flight to sample what’s new, and ask staff about the rotating menu. They brew in small to medium batches, so some beers disappear fast—grab a can if you find one you like. It’s easy to pair a stop here with dinner nearby for a low-key night out.
Family Activities & Adventure Parks
There’s no shortage of big thrills, hands-on history, and interactive exhibits for kids and adults. Timed activities are common, so check hours and book tickets ahead for the busiest spots.
Xtreme Action Park
Xtreme Action Park brings indoor fun with several attractions under one roof. Race on a multi-lane go-kart track with electric karts for speed and safety. There’s a big arcade, VR games, and a ropes course for balance and agility.
Families appreciate the toddler zones and bumper cars for mixed ages. Food options on site mean you don’t have to leave for a break. Some attractions have height or age rules and require waivers—definitely check the website before you go.
Hours vary by season, and weekends get packed. Timed-entry or combo passes can save money and help dodge long lines. The park is wheelchair accessible and provides safety gear for activities.
Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum
The Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum showcases a focused collection of American classics, especially Packards from the early 1900s through the 1950s. Displays group cars by era and include original showroom signs, vintage pumps, and accessories that give a sense of daily life back then.
Labels share production dates, specs, and restoration notes. You can get close to many cars, so kids interested in engines or design will have fun. Docent-led tours sometimes run on weekends and offer deeper stories about the models and owners.
The museum’s compact, so most visits last about an hour. Watch for special events like car shows or restoration demos that add something extra.
Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum
The Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum explores the city’s firefighting history with antique engines and interactive displays. See horse-drawn steamers, early motorized pumpers, and mannequins in period gear showing how equipment changed through the years.
Kids can try on firefighter helmets and explore a mock dispatch console to learn how calls were routed. Panels explain fire prevention and modern safety practices in simple language you can actually use at home.
Admission is usually low-cost or by donation. It’s a quick, interesting stop, and pairs well with nearby parks or a waterfront walk. Check hours and programming for kid-focused workshops or demos.
Hollywood & Nearby Attractions
There’s a mix of beach time, outdoor dining, and entertainment. Stroll a long ocean promenade, rent gear for water sports, or spend an evening at a big resort with concerts, dining, and gaming.
Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach revolves around the Broadwalk, a 2.5-mile oceanfront promenade with shops, cafes, and bike rentals. Walk, bike, or skate while watching the Atlantic and stopping at playgrounds, public art, or live music spots.
The beach is wide and family-friendly. Lifeguards watch key sections, and rental kiosks offer paddleboards, bikes, and chairs. Nearby restaurants range from casual seafood shacks to sit-down spots with ocean views.
If you enjoy events, look up the Hollywood Beach Bandshell schedule for concerts or outdoor movies. For nature, check out Anne Kolb Nature Center’s mangrove trails and the observation tower with estuary views.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel
Seminole Hard Rock, just inland from Hollywood Beach, combines a casino, restaurants, and a big events venue. Try your luck at slots or tables, eat at celebrity-chef restaurants, or catch national acts at Hard Rock Live.
The Guitar Hotel—shaped like a guitar, of course—is the resort’s landmark. It has upscale rooms, pools, and a lagoon area with cabanas. Book spa treatments, poolside day passes, or check out seasonal music and nightlife events on site.
Parking’s available, but crowds swell for big concerts and weekends. For a quieter vibe, visit the casino on weekday afternoons or reserve shows and dining ahead of time.
Tips for Visiting Fort Lauderdale
It’s always warm, with beaches, boats, and busy holiday weekends. Pack sun protection, light rain gear for summer storms, and comfortable shoes for walking Las Olas or the Riverwalk.
Best Time to Visit Fort Lauderdale
The driest, most comfortable weather runs from November through April. Daytime temps hover in the mid-70s to low-80s—perfect for beach days, boat tours, and outdoor dining.
Summer (June–September) brings heat, humidity, and afternoon storms. But rates drop, crowds thin, and you’ll find quieter beaches. Hurricane season is June 1–Nov 30, so check forecasts and consider travel insurance if you’re coming then.
Major holidays and spring break mean big crowds and higher prices. Book flights and boat tours early if you’re traveling around Thanksgiving, Christmas, or spring break.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
Stay on or near Fort Lauderdale Beach for sand and quick boardwalk access. Hotels along A1A put you steps from the ocean and restaurants.
Pick Las Olas Boulevard or downtown if you want nightlife, museums, and ferry access. You’ll be close to the Riverwalk, shops, and Water Taxi docks.
For quieter, budget-friendly stays, check neighborhoods west of the Intracoastal or near Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. When choosing, think about:
- Distance to beach: walkable (5–15 minutes) vs. needs a car
- Parking cost: free vs. paid on-site or street fees
- Access to water transport: near Water Taxi or ferry terminals
Book refundable rates during hurricane season and double-check shuttle or parking details if you’re cruising from Port Everglades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find top beaches, boat tours, parks, and dining spots. You’ll pick up ideas for kid-friendly outings, outdoor adventures, and off-the-beaten-path places to shop or relax.
What are the top attractions to visit in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale Beach and its wide sandy shorelines are a must for sun and swimming.
Las Olas Boulevard offers shops, galleries, and restaurants along a lively street.
Take a Water Taxi to see the canals, mansions, and waterfront dining from the water.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park gives you shaded trails, picnic areas, and a calm place to paddle.
Can you recommend some family-friendly activities in Fort Lauderdale?
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures and Jungle Queen Riverboat make kids laugh with interactive rides.
The Museum of Discovery and Science has hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater for curious children.
Everglades Holiday Park runs airboat tours where kids can spot alligators and learn about the ecosystem.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is great for easy snorkeling and shallow reef swims with little ones.
Where are the best places to dine out in Fort Lauderdale?
Las Olas Boulevard hosts many top restaurants, from seafood to Italian.
Louie Bossi is popular for Italian fare and weekend brunch on Las Olas.
Try local taco stands like Tacos El Papi for casual, flavorful meals.
For craft beer and a relaxed taproom, visit Funky Buddha Brewery just north of town.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots to explore in Fort Lauderdale?
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens blends history, art, and coastal gardens near the beach.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has a nearshore coral reef you can snorkel to from the beach.
Flamingo Gardens is a quieter wildlife sanctuary with native plants and birds.
Rent an e-bike or a bike from Broward BCycle to discover neighborhoods and quieter canals.
What are the most popular outdoor activities in Fort Lauderdale?
Snorkeling and scuba diving on nearby reefs and shipwrecks attract many visitors.
Kayaking and paddleboarding through the Intracoastal and canals show a different city view.
Sailing or chartering a boat gives you ocean time and coastal sightseeing.
Hiking, cycling, and picnicking in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offer shaded nature time.
Where can I find the best shopping experiences in Fort Lauderdale?
Las Olas Boulevard has a lively mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and quirky specialty stores.
The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale brings together big-name brands and plenty of dining spots inside a classic indoor mall setting.
If you wander down the side streets, you’ll stumble on local markets and small storefronts loaded with one-of-a-kind souvenirs and handmade pieces. Sometimes the best finds happen when you’re not even looking for them.