- Stroll Through Las Olas Boulevard
- Don’t Miss the Riverwalk
- Visit the Local Galleries
- Go on a Brewery Crawl
- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
- Paddle or Kayak the Venice of America
- Savor the Coral Reef of Fort Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
- Don’t Forget to Go to the Beach
- Tips for Visiting Fort Lauderdale
- Plan Your Next Getaway, Mix it Up in Fort Lauderdale.
- FOLLOW MY JOURNEY
When you hear the name “Fort Lauderdale” visions of young, barely-clothed bodies, Cuban-influenced house music, and beach parties might fill your head. While spring break is celebrated by college coeds every year, that’s only the tip of the Fort Lauderdale iceberg. People of all ages can eat, drink, relax, dance, and be entertained by all the city offers!
Before you begin your beach holiday in Southeast Florida, do your due diligence comparing hotel prices in Fort Lauderdale. Find the best place for your budget and vacation goals. Any money you save will go a long way toward enhancing your relaxation and enjoyment.
Stroll Through Las Olas Boulevard
One end of Las Olas Boulevard is situated near blocks of prime coastline. Check out what the city has to offer as you pass al fresco eateries, upscale restaurants, friendly bars, cozy cafes, and more. It’s common to see people leisurely cycling through the area or lazily coasting on a segway (feel free to rent with conveyance and do the same).
You can either start on the beach end and let the journey take you into the city center or vice versa. We recommend the latter for a European-style aperitif on your way to the beach as the weather cools before dinner time. Stop at the Elbo Room for a stiff drink any time of day with stunning views of the locals and landscape.
Don’t Miss the Riverwalk
You can take Las Olas Boulevard all the way to Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale. It’s not the sea, but it’s the next best thing. The area has gone through several phases of development and features green spaces, canals, high rises, and yachts. Drop by Luie Bossi’s to sample authentic Italian cuisine from a venue that orms the culinary heart of the city. If you don’t fancy a meal, drop by Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar for carefully crafted cakes, scones, and a cold or nitro brew.
You can follow the liner promenade to the Museum of Discovery and Science to stimulate young and old minds alike. After that, check out the Broward Center for the Performing Arts to catch a local production of your favorite musical or ballet.
Book a post on a Paddle Pub boat tour to see the city from a different perspective. (It’s also BYOB so be sure to grab your preferred beverage before getting on board).
Visit the Local Galleries
You can find art all over the city including street art in Hollywood (no, not that Hollywood). However, if you make it to the Riverwalk you’ll trip and fall into a fair few art galleries that host local and international art.
New River Gallery
Beautiful, cozy space that features impressionist, contemporary, and pop art. Grab a glass of something sparkling and admire the tapestries.
Bellagio International Gallery
Take a trip outside of South Florida and absorb contemporary artists from South America, Russia, Europe, and the rest of the world.
Burgess Modern & Contemporary
A private gallery dedicated to fine and blue-chip art for collectors and institutions. It’s not always open to the public but runs exhibitions frequently so check out their website.
Go on a Brewery Crawl
Foodies and drink enthusiasts (“drinkies?) can amuse their palates by visiting one of the many craft breweries in Fort Lauderdale. Each venue has its specialties. With around 10 breweries in the city, you can make it a quick drink or a full day out.
Here are some of our favourite venues:
Funky Budda Brewery
One of the city’s largest breweries with a relaxed, minimal taproom. Book a tour to see how beer is made and finish off with a sample platter of what’s currently available.
Gulf Stream Brewery & Pizzeria
A few things pair together as a slice of Neapolitan pizza and a freshly made beer. Try the jerk chicken pizza with a refreshing pint of Watermelon Hibiscus Lager.
Invasive Species Brewing
Beer drinker’s paradise featuring 24 distinct styles of beer on tap — there’s something for everyone including craft soft drinks for the kids!
Tarpon River Brewing
A brewery in what was once an old barn. Play some oversized Jenga while sipping on a prickly pear sour ale. If you get hungry try the “Fleetwood Mac (and Cheese)” or the fried fish tacos.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Bonnet House is a historic estate on Fort Lauderdale Beach that spills out over 35 acres. Experience South Florida during the 1920s with an opulent house that’s almost cartoonish in design. Besides architecture and all things Art Deco, you can enjoy the Bartlett family’s personal collection of paintings. Make sure to take a walk through the many gardens and try cataloging the diverse plants and wildlife on display.
Paddle or Kayak the Venice of America
You won’t hear gondoliers singing to couples cozied up in gondolas when in Fort Lauderdale. However, you can explore the 165 miles of waterways that traverse the city in every direction imaginable. Book a stand-up paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous. If you prefer to stay dry, opt for a kayak from one of the many rental companies nearby.
Savor the Coral Reef of Fort Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Fort Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a quiet seaside hamlet a bit out of the way. It’s worth venturing 20 minutes by car to get to this part of Greater Fort Lauderdale. The beach itself is perfect for those who want peaceful sunbathing. The real gem is hidden under the aqua blue sea, a coral reef that is merely hundreds of yards off the white sand beaches.
Hire some gear and go snorkeling or scuba diving. Be prepared with waterproof gear to capture stunning photos of the marine wildlife. Better yet, be present in the moment and shoot everything with your mind’s eye.
Don’t Forget to Go to the Beach
With so many things on this list, it can be easy to forget the main attraction: Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful sun-painted beaches. The city offers something for every type of beachgoer, regardless of what they’re looking for.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
The namesake of the city offers clean white sand beaches for as far as the eye can see. It’s the largest beach in the area and typically the most busy during peak times, making it great for people-watching.
Los Olas Beach
Across the street from a well-known stretch of dive bars, beach clubs, and neighborhood restaurants. It’s a great spot for sunbathing, shopping, and mixing it up with partygoers.
Hollywood Beach
Features a wide oceanfront boardwalk dotted with resort hotels. Find old favorites like Margaritaville nearby and soak up the sun in the arms of luxurious restaurants and bars.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Named after a civil rights activist, this slice of the coast is technically in Dania Beach. However, this beach merits the 20-minute drive from Fort Lauderdale. It’s the perfect option for those who enjoy untouched beaches and escaping the crowd.
Tips for Visiting Fort Lauderdale
When visiting Fort Lauderdale, you’ll have your heart set on a seamless experience. After all, you’ll want to make the most of the breathtaking beaches, the laid-back vibes, and various attractions that make this place a must-visit. Check out our range of practical tips to help you make the most of your time here.
Plan for the Heat
Although famous for its beaches and bustling arts and culture scene, Fort Lauderdale is also known for its humidity and heat – particularly in the summer months. Whatever range of activities you have planned, we recommend planning your itinerary for mornings or later afternoons. This way, you avoid the peak levels of heat and humidity, and stay comfortable with whatever you have planned.
Keep Hydrated
As part of your planning for the humidity, ensure you and your family stay hydrated. The last thing you need when on vacation is a medical emergency! Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times during your visit to ensure you keep your hydration levels up during any outdoor activities.
Don’t Rush
Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its laid-back vibe and relaxed atmosphere. So, why not embrace it? Dress casually, take your time, and soak in the aesthetic of this easygoing and unhurried lifestyle – you’ll enjoy your trip much more!
Consider Using Public Transport
There’s a lot of traffic in Fort Lauderdale, which makes parking quite a challenge – particularly during peak season. Tourists are recommended to use public transport or make the most of ride shares to get around quickly and as stress-free as possible. Fort Lauderdale is easy to navigate and has plenty of transport links to get you from A to B. You could even hire a bicycle and cycle around the city at your own pace!
Be Mindful of the Weather
We’ve already covered how hot and humid Fort Lauderdale is, but the weather can change quickly here. That’s why keeping an eye on the forecast is always recommended. Be prepared for sudden rain showers and weather alerts during the hurricane season (June-November). Additionally, although the days may be warm, Fort Lauderdale can get quite chilly at night, a light sweater or a shawl is ideal for staying warm against the fresh evening breeze.
Respect the Natural Beauty
Fort Lauderdale is a large city, but its beautiful beaches and natural beauty are what attract visitors the most. To keep these areas pristine and enjoyable for everyone, visitors are encouraged to take their litter home, respect wildlife, and be conscious of their impact on these natural environments.
Support Local Businesses
An expansive city like Fort Lauderdale has its fair share of chain restaurants, big brands, and household names – but it’s important to support local establishments too, especially those that rely on the tourism industry to survive. Supporting local businesses and family-owned restaurants not only helps the local economy and the families that own them but also allows you to connect with the area better and enjoy a more authentic experience.
Always Bring a Beach Bag
Packing a daily beach bag is a must when visiting Fort Lauderdale. Even if you don’t have a beach day planned, having some essentials such as suncream, towels, water, and swimwear to hand is ideal for those impromptu walks along the shoreline. It also means you don’t have to worry about heading back to your hotel every time you feel like exploring the pristine sands, allowing you to make the most of your visit.
Practice Sun Safety
The Florida sun is powerful – even on cloudy and overcast days. So, make sure you and everyone in your party are practicing sun safety during your visit. This means applying a high-factor sun cream every morning and reapplying throughout the day. You may also want to wear hats to protect your head and neck from the sun, as well as cool, loose clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect yourself further from sunburn and skin damage.
Check Out Local Happy Hours
Did you know that many bars and restaurants in Fort Lauderdale have happy hours where drinks and meals are cheaper? This is a great opportunity to enjoy local cuisine at a lower price – making it ideal for larger groups or families with young children who prefer to eat earlier.
Respect the Ocean
Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are inviting and fun! However, it’s important to respect the ocean and pay close attention to beach safety flags and conditions. Only swim when it is safe to do so and in areas where there are lifeguards on duty. If you’re partaking in watersports, make sure you follow all the instructions given and always prioritize safety on the water.
Plan Your Next Getaway, Mix it Up in Fort Lauderdale.
It might be only 30 miles north of Miami, but Fort Lauderdale has its own vibe. The city offers weary travelers a bit of respite from the spectacle of South Beach and plenty of things to see and do.
We hope you’ve found more than enough reasons to convince you to visit the Venice of America. Now that you know what to put on the itinerary, check out our guide on everything you need to get started traveling in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.