Every Day's an Epic Story! Fort Lauderdale
Explore the sunny shores and vibrant attractions of Fort Lauderdale! Start your day with a fun-packed visit to the Museum of Discovery and Science, where interactive exhibits delight children and adults alike. Head over to the beach for some sun and sand in the afternoon, building sandcastles or taking a dip in the warm Atlantic waters.
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Fort Lauderdale
Places to Visit
Fort Lauderdale: Where Every Sunset is an Event.
Fort Lauderdale, often called the “Venice of America,” is a vibrant city located on Florida’s southeastern coast. Known for its intricate canal system, sun-soaked beaches, and year-round warm weather, Fort Lauderdale offers a blend of relaxation and excitement. With a population of approximately 180,000, this coastal gem has grown from a sleepy beach town to a thriving cultural and entertainment hub.
Fort Lauderdale’s appeal lies in its laid-back vibe, perfect for sunbathers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors are drawn to its waterfront lifestyle, bustling arts scene, and diverse dining options. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Riverwalk or cruising down its endless canals, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal destination for both leisure and exploration.
Historically, Fort Lauderdale has a rich past as a strategic military outpost during the Seminole Wars and later as a key city in Florida’s tourism boom. Today, it balances its heritage with modern attractions, offering a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary allure.
Geography and Climate
Located between Miami and Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale boasts more than 23 miles of beaches along the Atlantic coast. The city experiences a tropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is between November and April when temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s, offering perfect beach weather.
In The Map
Known Facts
Extensive Canal System
Fort Lauderdale features 165 miles of waterways and canals, many of which are navigable, making it a prime location for boating and yachting. The city is a major yachting center, with numerous marinas and boatyards.
Boating Capital
Often referred to as the "Yachting Capital of the World," Fort Lauderdale plays host to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, one of the largest boat shows in the world.
Lodging Options
Overview of Available Accommodations
Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy short-term rentals and RV parks, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
Short-Term Rentals (e.g., Airbnb, VRBO)
Short-term rentals in Fort Lauderdale range from oceanfront condos to spacious villas. These accommodations offer the comfort of home with added privacy and flexibility.
- Advantages: More space, kitchen facilities, and a local living experience.
- Disadvantages: Lack of hotel-like services such as daily housekeeping.
- Booking Tips: Check reviews, location, and amenities before booking. Airbnb and VRBO offer great options for families or larger groups looking for unique stays.
RV Parks and Campgrounds
For those wanting to stay closer to nature, Fort Lauderdale offers excellent RV parks and campgrounds.
Paradise Island RV Resort
- Features: Full hook-up sites, pool, and shuffleboard. Close to downtown and beaches.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking an affordable, nature-filled stay with modern amenities.
Yacht Haven Park & Marina
- Features: Waterfront RV sites, marina access, and close proximity to major attractions.
- Ideal For: Boaters or RV travelers looking for a peaceful riverside location.
Hotels and Resorts
Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy short-term rentals and RV parks, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
Address: 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Features: Oceanfront views, infinity pool, luxury spa, and fine dining restaurants.
Ideal For: Luxury seekers looking for refined amenities and beachfront access.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Address: 2000 N Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305
Features: Private beach, lazy river, oceanfront dining, and charming boutique vibe.
Ideal For: Couples and families seeking a tranquil seaside retreat.
W Fort Lauderdale
Address: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Features: Modern design, rooftop pool, ocean views, and vibrant nightlife scene.
Ideal For: Young travelers and partygoers looking for a stylish stay.
The Atlantic Hotel & Spa
Address: 601 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Features: Full-service spa, beachfront location, and spacious suites.
Ideal For: Relaxation enthusiasts wanting a spa-centered vacation.
Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach
Address: 801 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Features: Marina access, outdoor pool, and close proximity to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park.
Ideal For: Boaters and beach lovers looking for easy access to water sports.
Beyond the Beach, Discover the Heart of Fort Lauderdale.
Dining Destinations
Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of international flavors, seafood specialties, and local favorites. From fine dining to casual eats, the city offers something for every palate.
Sustainable Dining: Many restaurants in Fort Lauderdale prioritize local and sustainable ingredients. Try Market 17, a farm-to-table restaurant focused on fresh, seasonal dishes.
Casa D'Angelo
Cuisine: Upscale Italian
Signature Dishes: Homemade pasta, veal, and fresh seafood.
Location: 1201 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Ideal For: Romantic dinners and special occasions.
Coconuts
Cuisine: Seafood
Signature Dishes: Raw bar, lobster rolls, and “Bacon Wrapped Scallops.”
Location: 429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Ideal For: Casual waterfront dining.
Louie Bossi's Ristorante
Cuisine: Italian-American
Signature Dishes: Wood-fired pizza and handmade pastas.
Location: 1032 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Ideal For: Group dinners and Sunday brunch.
S3 – Sun, Surf, Sand
Cuisine: American-Asian fusion
Signature Dishes: Sushi rolls, seafood towers, and craft cocktails.
Location: 505 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Ideal For: Trendy beachfront dining.
Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille
Cuisine: Seafood
Signature Dishes: Oysters, grilled octopus, and fresh-catch specials.
Location: 620 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Ideal For: Seafood lovers and brunch aficionados.
Shopping Scene in Houston
Fort Lauderdale offers a range of shopping options, from upscale boutiques to artisan markets.
Key Shopping Areas:
- Las Olas Boulevard: A charming street lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafes.
- The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale: Upscale mall featuring designer brands.
- Swap Shop: An iconic flea market and drive-in theater for bargain hunting.
- Sawgrass Mills: The largest outlet and retail shopping destination in the U.S.
What to Buy: Pick up local crafts, handmade jewelry, and unique home decor at The Las Olas Sunday Market or Yellow Green Farmers Market.
Sustainable Shopping: Check out eco-conscious brands and locally sourced products at MKTplace at Go Riverwalk.
Guided Tours
From cultural explorations to outdoor adventures, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of guided tours to suit every traveler.
Walking Tours
Las Olas Art Tour: Explore galleries, studios, and street art along Las Olas Boulevard.
Cost: $25 per person.
Bus Tours
Fort Lauderdale Historical Bus Tour: Learn about the city’s rich history while visiting key landmarks.
Cost: $30 per person.
Culinary Tours
Taste Fort Lauderdale: Discover the city’s best restaurants and local dishes on this guided food tour.
Cost: $75 per person (includes tastings).
Halloween on Las Olas
- Dates: October 31, 2025
- Location: Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Contact: (954) 555-8765
- What Makes It Special: A family-friendly Halloween festival with costume contests, trick-or-treating, and spooky-themed activities.
- Highlights: Haunted house, street performers, and live music.
- Tickets: Free to attend.
Turkey Trot
- Dates: November 28, 2025
- Location: Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
- Contact: (954) 555-6543
- What Makes It Special: A Thanksgiving morning 5K race along the beach, open to all ages.
- Highlights: Family-friendly race, post-race celebration with food and drinks.
- Tickets: $30 entry fee.
Winterfest Boat Parade
- Dates: December 15, 2025
- Location: New River and Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Contact: (954) 555-4321
- What Makes It Special: A holiday tradition where decorated boats parade along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, creating a magical evening of lights.
- Highlights: Holiday-themed boats, celebrity grand marshals, and waterfront viewing parties.
- Tickets: Free to watch along the riverfront.
Activities
Getting Around: Fort Lauderdale is easy to navigate with public transportation options like Sun Trolley and Broward County Transit. The city is also bike-friendly, and Uber and Lyft are readily available.
Visitor Resources: The Greater Fort Lauderdale Visitor Center on Las Olas Blvd offers maps, brochures, and local insights.
Accessibility: Fort Lauderdale is largely accessible for visitors with disabilities. Major attractions, parks, and public transportation systems offer wheelchair access.
Beach Day at Fort Lauderdale Beach
What’s Unique: Pristine sands and a vibrant boardwalk.
Cost: Free
Difficulty: Easy, family-friendly.
Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
What’s Unique: A historic cruise through the city’s canals and waterfront mansions.
Cost: $30 per adult.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Everglades Airboat Adventure
What’s Unique: Glide across the Everglades and spot alligators and native wildlife.
Cost: $50 per adult.
Duration: 90 minutes.