Boating tops the list of top things to do in Fort Lauderdale, and rightfully so. The Venice of America is home to the largest boat show globally. Beachgoers do their best to maximize their tans between shopping sprees on Las Olas, though the travelers who look inland find even more fun. Tag popping at Sawgrass Mills’ outlets, day trips into Everglades National Park, and live theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts offer attractive alternatives to days spent wandering the renovated LGBTQ-friendly waterfront.
Fort Lauderdale is the yachting capital of the world, and any sailor worth their salt should visit during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, held every October. The cool weather makes for a lovely day inside and out spent perusing the latest luxury vessels. Consider staying through the winter like a snowbird: The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is nothing short of epic. This half-century old event kicks off the holiday season for everyone who’s naughty, nice, and nautical.
If you’ve got your boat in tow—or don’t mind the slow travel of a water taxi—then you’ll love sailing through the canals in the “Venice of America.” Those who prefer the pavement have ample options, too. Biking is an easy choice thanks to the Broward BCycle Bike Share System—especially if you’re spending time near the beach. A day pass to the Sun Trolley hop-on hop-off bus only costs US$3 per day, stopping at Las Olas and the beach.
Visiting Fort Lauderdale doesn’t mean forgoing a Miami or Palm Beach vacation—and you can thank the Tri Rail for that. It’s a fast, affordable, and airport-inclusive way to maximize your South Florida experience. Don’t assume the shoreline is all the city has going for it, either. Follow the New River west and explore the cultural attractions surrounding the riverfront Esplanade Park. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Museum of Science and Discovery are two local favorites.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 22 | Tours 380 | Reviews 23,721 |
In the past, Fort Lauderdale had a reputation as a spring-break party destination, but it’s transformed into a more upscale vacation spot, with a renovated waterfront, thriving culinary scene, and postcard-worthy beaches. Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale boasts a maze of canals that you can explore by water taxi.
...MoreNo. But between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, a 2.2 mile-long (3.5 kilometer) brick-paved pedestrian promenade crowded with joggers, skaters, and bicyclists along the Atlantic Ocean. It's a 30-minute drive from Fort Lauderdale and lined with boutiques, restaurants, seaside cafes, bars, and activities.
...MoreYes. Although Fort Lauderdale doesn’t have a bustling club scene like neighboring Miami, it does have rooftop bars, dinner cruises, and music venues. Head to Las Olas Boulevard for the Elbo Room, a go-to joint for locals and tourists for 75-plus years. Other hot spots include Rhythm & Vine, America's Backyard, and Capone’s.
...MoreGet to know the city by hopping aboard a water taxi to cruise the Fort Lauderdale canals, taking in the scenic views. Then, stroll down Las Olas Boulevard, lined with restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Or head to Fort Lauderdale Beach to soak up some sun, windsurf, and play volleyball.
...MoreLocated about 30 minutes away from Fort Lauderdale, the Everglades are perhaps the most popular tourist attraction for those visiting southern Florida. At Sawgrass Recreation Park and Everglades National Park, book a guided airboat ride and travel through the marshy, humid swamp waters, spotting alligators and other creatures.
...MoreEnjoy the sun and sand free of charge—all eight Fort Lauderdale area beaches are public with no fee. Some cultural attractions, such as the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum and the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, are free. The Anne Kolb Nature Center is free on non-holiday weekdays.
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