Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Travel Guide

Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the “Venice of America,” is a vibrant city in South Florida known for its beautiful beaches, boating canals, upscale outdoor restaurants, bars, boutiques, and luxury hotels. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure, with activities ranging from lounging on the sandy shores to exploring the city’s lively cultural scene.

Where is Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is located on the southeastern coast of Florida, in the United States. It is situated approximately 28 miles north of Miami and is a part of Broward County. Nestled along the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its boating canals and stunning beaches. It is a major city in Florida's tourism and hospitality industry, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is during the dry season, between December and April. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the city. However, this period is also the peak tourist season, so accommodations and attractions may be busier, and prices might be higher. Early bookings are recommended to secure the best rates and availability.

Getting There:

By Air:

Fort Lauderdale is served by Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), a major airport with numerous domestic and international flights. Upon arrival, you can use taxis, rental cars, shuttles, or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft to reach your final destination in the city.

By Car:

Fort Lauderdale has a well-connected road network, and you can easily drive to the city. It is located along Interstate 95, making it accessible from various parts of Florida and other states.

By Cruise:

Fort Lauderdale is home to Port Everglades, one of the deepest ports in the United States, serving as a gateway for numerous cruise lines. If you're arriving by cruise, you can easily access the city and its amenities from the port.

Top Attractions:

Fort Lauderdale is abundant with diverse attractions ranging from beautiful beaches to cultural and historical sites. Here are some of the top attractions in Fort Lauderdale:

1. Fort Lauderdale Beach:

   • A stunning, clean, and family-friendly beach known for its soft sand and clear waters, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

2. Las Olas Boulevard:

   • This vibrant street is the go-to place for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a variety of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars.

3. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens:

   • A historic early 20th-century estate surrounded by lush, tropical gardens, offering tours showcasing art, architecture, and horticulture.

4. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park:

   • A tranquil oasis for nature lovers, offering hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and picnicking amid diverse ecosystems.

5. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale:

   • A modern and innovative museum featuring a wide range of contemporary and 20th-century art from renowned and emerging artists.

6. Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum:

   • A unique museum dedicated to the history of the Packard Motor Company, showcasing a variety of classic cars and automotive memorabilia.

7. Stranahan House Museum:

   • The oldest surviving structure in Broward County, offering insight into the lives of Fort Lauderdale’s pioneering residents through guided tours.

8. Museum of Discovery and Science:

   • A family-friendly museum featuring interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and live animal shows, focusing on science, technology, and the natural world.

9. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale:

   • A scenic, landscaped park along the New River, offering walking paths, green spaces, and access to several cultural attractions.

10. Sawgrass Recreation Park:

    • An adventurous attraction offering airboat tours of the Florida Everglades, wildlife viewing, and educational exhibits about the region’s ecosystems.

11. Everglades Holiday Park:

    • Known for its exciting airboat tours, live alligator shows, and opportunities to explore the unique ecosystems of the Everglades.

Top Activities to do in Fort Lauderdale

In Fort Lauderdale, visitors can enjoy a diverse array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the top activities to do in Fort Lauderdale:

• Beach Lounging:

  • Relax on the sandy shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, sunbathe, swim, and build sandcastles.

• Boating and Sailing:

  • Rent a boat or join a sailing tour to explore the city’s extensive canal system and the Atlantic Ocean.

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:

  • Discover the underwater world of Fort Lauderdale with its numerous reefs and wrecks teeming with marine life.

• Exploring Las Olas Boulevard:

  • Stroll along this vibrant street, shop at upscale boutiques, dine in gourmet restaurants, and enjoy the lively nightlife.

• Visiting Museums:

  • Explore the city’s rich culture and history at museums like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Stranahan House Museum.

• Kayaking in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park:

  • Paddle through the serene waters and enjoy the scenic beauty of this tranquil park.

• Taking an Airboat Tour:

  • Experience the thrill of an airboat ride in the nearby Everglades and observe alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

• Attending Live Performances:

  • Enjoy concerts, plays, and other performances at venues like the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

• Fishing:

  • Join a deep-sea fishing charter or fish from a pier to try your luck at catching a variety of fish species.

• Art Gallery Hopping:

  • Visit the numerous art galleries around the city to view and purchase works from local and international artists.

• Culinary Experiences:

  • Savor the diverse food scene, participate in a food tour, or attend a cooking class to learn about local cuisines.

• Water Sports:

  • Try out jet-skiing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, or other water sports available at various beach locations.

Where to Stay:

Fort Lauderdale offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets, from luxury beachfront resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly inns and vacation rentals.

• Fort Lauderdale Beach: Ideal for beach lovers and those looking for a lively atmosphere, offering a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, all close to the beach, restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

• Las Olas Boulevard: Perfect for those interested in upscale dining, shopping, and art galleries. The area has various boutique hotels and is close to the beach and the downtown area.

• Downtown Fort Lauderdale: Suitable for travelers interested in culture, arts, and entertainment, offering proximity to museums, theaters, and parks, with a mix of hotels for various budgets.

• Wilton Manors: Known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, this area offers diverse dining, nightlife, and shopping options, with a range of accommodations available.

• Harbor Beach: Great for those looking for a quieter, more secluded stay, offering high-end resorts and private beaches, yet still close to attractions.

• Hollywood: Located south of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood offers a beautiful boardwalk, family-friendly beaches, and various dining options, with accommodations ranging from resorts to budget hotels.

• Pompano Beach: Ideal for those looking for a quieter beach experience, offering various water sports, dining options, and accommodations for all budgets.

• Dania Beach: A good option for travelers looking to stay close to the airport and cruise port, with several affordable hotel options, parks, and beaches nearby.

• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: A charming, walkable area suitable for those who enjoy small-town vibes, beautiful beaches, dining, and snorkeling, with accommodations ranging from quaint inns to larger hotels.

• Plantation: Suitable for travelers looking for a suburban setting, offering shopping centers, golf courses, and a variety of hotels, with easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s attractions.

Food Scene:

The food scene in Fort Lauderdale is eclectic, vibrant, and reflective of the city’s diverse cultural influences. It caters to a variety of palates and preferences, offering a wide range of culinary delights.

• Diverse Cuisines: Fort Lauderdale is a melting pot of flavors, offering everything from gourmet dining to food trucks. You can find a variety of international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, Asian, Mediterranean, and Caribbean, alongside traditional American and Southern fare.

• Seafood Specialties: Given its coastal location, seafood is a staple of Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene. Fresh catches like snapper, mahi-mahi, and grouper are often featured on menus, and stone crabs, shrimp, and oysters are local favorites.

• Beachfront Dining: Many restaurants along the coastline offer stunning ocean views and al fresco dining, allowing guests to savor their meals amid the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque surroundings.

• Vibrant Nightlife and Bars: Fort Lauderdale boasts a lively nightlife with a plethora of bars, pubs, and clubs offering creative cocktails, craft beers, live music, and dance floors.