They call it the “Venice of America” since Fort Lauderdale has miles upon miles of inland waterways spanning across the city. As part of the famed tri-county area, Fort Lauderdale is an exciting destination in South Florida that has plenty to keep you occupied during your stay. In fact, it has so much to do, it’s impossible to do everything, though this travel guide will help you narrow it down for the best experience possible.
Walk around Riverwalk
Right on the New River, you’ll get to gawk at mega-yachts and other vessels as you wander around. Plus, there are museums, parks, restaurants, and bars all among the towering new skyscrapers. You can cross the river using the free water taxi too!
Live it up on Las Olas
Las Olas Boulevard is where you’ll find tons of things to do. While upscale, it offers a unique vibe throughout its many boutiques, hotels, restaurants, and cafes. It’s one of the best places to be seen at night, though by day is fabulous for wandering along or riding a bike.
Get in the water
If snorkeling or scuba diving are your favorite things, make sure you do them in Fort Lauderdale. There are coral reefs running along the shore plus over 70 shipwrecks you can explore.
See Florida’s natural side
More inland, you’ll find Flamingo Gardens which is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary. People young and old love this park for its beautiful foliage and the chance to see alligators, bald eagles, flamingos, and Florida panthers.
Shop yourself silly
Sawgrass Mills was at a time, the largest outlet mall in the world. It’s still one of the largest in the US and has everything you need in one place. You’ll find bargains on top brands and plenty of restaurants where you can dine in style.
Bet on horses
At Gulfstream Park, you can check out the horse races from December through October. However, that’s not all there is to do at this park which was founded in 1939. There’s a casino, shops, and restaurants to keep you occupied, plus this awesome venue hosts concerts and events year-round.
Get on a boat
Fort Lauderdale has tons of boating adventures in store for you. If you’re traveling with kids, check out Bluefoot Pirate Adventures. It’s an hour-long interactive tour that features a pirate battle and water cannons, and it’s fun for everyone. For something more romantic, try the Las Olas Gondola. And for something that couples, friends, or people with kids will all love, get on the legendary Jungle Queen Riverboat Tour which features fire dancing, a comedy show, and an impressive all-you-can-eat BBQ spread.
Have a drink at the iconic Elbo Room
The Elbo Room is a dive bar that has been firmly in place since 1938. It’s a cash-only spot right on Las Olas Boulevard and Ocean Drive, giving you a sublime view of the ocean. You have to have at least one drink here before making your way along the shore.
Live longer at Southport
Another iconic Fort Lauderdale place is Southport Raw Bar. It is the oldest raw bar in Fort Lauderdale and if you want to taste some of the best seafood anywhere, you need to come to this dockside casual place for one of your meals.
Check out the museums
Fort Lauderdale has plenty of museums that will enlighten you. The Historic Stranahan House Museum is the oldest surviving structure from the late 1800s and shares the history of this city with you. The Museum of Discovery and Science is another one to check out, especially if you’ve got your children along on this trip, with loads of interactive exhibits about prehistoric animals, the Everglades, and Florida’s ecology.
Visit the Everglades
You can easily explore the Everglades while you’re in Fort Lauderdale too. In fact, it’s something you should see at least once in your life. Holiday Park offers great experiences with boats, boardwalks, and plenty more to see this amazing ecosystem in the flesh!
Enjoy the beaches
Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are beautiful though the best ones are Loggerhead and Vista Parks. They give you a chance to enjoy the beach without as many crowds as Fort Lauderdale Beach. Plus, you may be able to see the sea turtle nests. If you do, be respectful and stay back, and don’t shine lights toward them. Even the flash from your camera can disrupt this amazing feat of nature!
Go see the giant guitar
The Guitar Hotel is part of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino experience. It is one of the best places you can stay for an amazing trip to Fort Lauderdale since you’ll have access to all the amenities at the resort. Plus, you’ll get to see the light show every night. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is the place for gambling, nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and concerts. Even if you’re not a hotel guest here, you should most certainly come to have a rockin’ good time!
Or stay on the beach
Especially if you’re coming from somewhere cold or landlocked, you’ll want to book your hotel stay on Fort Lauderdale beach. While the Hard Rock is awesome, it’s inland, and you can always go play on the property there for an activity. If you want the beach life for the duration of your trip, make sure you check into The Ritz-Carlton which has beach access and a spa to pamper you until all your cares waft away. You’ll also love the W and the Dalmar for other prime beachfront hotel properties that are top-tier experiences.
And of course, while there’s so much to do in Fort Lauderdale itself, the prime location puts you between Miami and Palm Beach. Maybe you can extend your stay just so you can see and do it all!
