Tours
The Ultimate Guide to Fort Lauderdale's Top Guided Tours
Fort Lauderdale, known for its sun-kissed beaches, intricate canal system, and rich cultural history, is a destination ripe for exploration. While the city is famous for its vibrant nightlife and luxury shopping, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in its charm is through a guided tour. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or food enthusiast, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of tours that cater to every interest. This guide will introduce you to the different types of tours available, including walking tours, bus tours, culinary experiences, historical explorations, and more.
Types of Tours Available
Walking Tours
Fort Lauderdale’s pedestrian-friendly streets and scenic waterfront make walking tours an excellent way to explore the city. These tours are typically slower-paced, allowing visitors to take in the sights and learn about the city’s history and culture up close.
Las Olas Art & History Tour
Address: Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Contact: (954) 123-4567
What It Offers: This tour walks you through the iconic Las Olas Boulevard, focusing on its historic landmarks, public art installations, and boutique galleries.
Unique Feature: Guests can meet local artists in their studios.
Price: $35 per person.Historic Riverwalk Tour
Address: Riverwalk, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Contact: (954) 765-1234
What It Offers: A leisurely stroll along the New River, this tour covers Fort Lauderdale’s role in the Seminole Wars and the development of its waterfront.
Unique Feature: Visit the Stranahan House Museum during the tour.
Price: $25 per person.Ghosts of Fort Lauderdale
Address: 335 SE 6th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Contact: (954) 987-6543
What It Offers: A spooky evening tour highlighting haunted locations and eerie tales from the city’s past.
Unique Feature: Participants use ghost-hunting equipment during the tour.
Price: $30 per person.
City Highlights Tour
Address: 1700 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Contact: (954) 333-7890
What It Offers: A comprehensive overview of Fort Lauderdale’s key landmarks, from the downtown arts district to the Intracoastal Waterway and Port Everglades.
Unique Feature: Stops at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.
Price: $45 per person.Everglades Eco Adventure
Address: 21940 Griffin Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33332
Contact: (954) 555-6789
What It Offers: A bus ride to the Everglades, where guests can experience an airboat tour and learn about the local wildlife.
Unique Feature: Close encounters with alligators.
Price: $70 per person, including airboat ride.Tropical Gardens & Mansion Tour
Address: 3200 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Contact: (954) 444-5678
What It Offers: A luxurious tour of Fort Lauderdale’s most prestigious homes and lush gardens, including the Flamingo Gardens.
Unique Feature: Champagne served on board.
Price: $85 per person.
Bus Tours
Bus tours are perfect for those who want to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. These tours often provide air-conditioned comfort, making them ideal for visitors during the warmer months.
Adventure Tours
For thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, adventure and wildlife tours provide unforgettable experiences in Fort Lauderdale’s natural surroundings.
Airboat Ride in the Everglades
Address: 5000 Everglades Pkwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33331
Contact: (954) 555-8765
What It Offers: Speed through the Everglades on an airboat, spotting wildlife like alligators and tropical birds.
Unique Feature: Includes a visit to a Native American village.
Price: $60 per person.Kayak Tour of the Mangroves
Address: 3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Contact: (954) 333-1234
What It Offers: Paddle through the tranquil mangroves of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park while learning about the local ecosystem.
Unique Feature: Opportunities to spot manatees and dolphins.
Price: $45 per person.Snorkeling Tour of the Coral Reefs
Address: 801 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Contact: (954) 987-3210
What It Offers: Explore Fort Lauderdale’s coral reefs, home to vibrant marine life.
Unique Feature: Includes all snorkeling equipment and an introductory lesson.
Price: $75 per person.
Taste of Las Olas Food Tour
Address: Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Contact: (954) 456-7890
What It Offers: A walking tour that stops at five different restaurants, sampling everything from local seafood to gourmet desserts.
Unique Feature: Behind-the-scenes look at a chef’s kitchen.
Price: $65 per person.Brewery Tour of Fort Lauderdale
Address: 1201 NE 38th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Contact: (954) 888-2345
What It Offers: This tour takes you to the city’s best craft breweries, offering tastings and insights into the brewing process.
Unique Feature: Meet the brewers and enjoy exclusive tastings.
Price: $50 per person.Farm-to-Table Tasting Tour
Address: 1901 S Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Contact: (954) 654-7890
What It Offers: Visit local farms and markets before sitting down to a farm-to-table meal prepared by a local chef.
Unique Feature: Farm visits include interactive tastings of freshly harvested produce.
Price: $90 per person.
Culinary Tours
Fort Lauderdale’s food scene is influenced by its diverse cultural heritage, and culinary tours offer a tasty way to explore its flavors.
Pricing and Booking Information
Tour prices range from $25 for walking tours to $90 for more exclusive culinary or adventure tours. Prices often vary based on the season, group size, and tour length. For example, tours during peak tourist season (November to April) may cost slightly more due to high demand. Most tours allow bookings through their websites, travel agents, or hotel concierges. Many tours require a deposit, and cancellation policies vary—some offer full refunds if canceled 48 hours in advance, while others may have stricter policies.
What to Expect
- Clothing and Essentials: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking tours. For outdoor or adventure tours, wear breathable clothing, and bring sunscreen, hats, and water. For water-based activities like snorkeling or kayaking, swimwear and a change of clothes are recommended.
- Physical Demands: Walking tours are generally suitable for most fitness levels, but check if there are stairs or uneven ground. Adventure tours may require a moderate level of fitness, and age restrictions may apply for some activities.
- Accessibility: Some tours, particularly bus and culinary tours, offer wheelchair access or accommodations for individuals with mobility concerns. Check with the tour operator when booking.
Benefits of Guided Tours
Taking a guided tour offers numerous benefits, including access to local experts who can provide in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and wildlife of the area. Guides often offer insider tips and stories that you wouldn’t get from self-guided exploration. Another major advantage is convenience—many tours include transportation and tickets to attractions, saving you the hassle of planning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Expert insights from local guides.
- Convenience of pre-arranged transportation and itineraries.
- Access to areas not available to independent travelers.
Cons:
- Less flexibility with timing and location.
- Time constraints at each stop may limit exploration.
Safety and Comfort
Adventure and wildlife tours often include safety measures such as life jackets, helmets, or guided supervision. Always bring sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay comfortable, especially on longer or outdoor tours. For wildlife tours, follow all guidelines to ensure safety for both you and the animals.
Final Thoughts
Fort Lauderdale’s guided tours offer a unique way to experience the city, blending history, culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re strolling through historic districts, savoring local cuisine, or exploring the Everglades, these tours provide an enriching travel experience. Check availability, book your tour, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of Fort Lauderdale.