What Is Fort Lauderdale Best Known For?
Welcome to our exploration of Fort Lauderdale’s charm and allure! Nestled along the southeastern coast of Florida, this vibrant city boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Join us as we uncover the treasures that make Fort Lauderdale a beloved destination for travelers and locals alike. From stunning beaches to bustling nightlife, discover what truly sets this city apart.
Discover the vibrant tapestry of activities awaiting you in Fort Lauderdale, a city that rivals any other in Florida. From being a spring break hotspot to offering an ideal escape for adults seeking relaxation, kick off your shoes and immerse yourself in Broward County’s jewel’s sun-soaked beaches, winding waterways, and lively atmosphere. Here are the top 10 experiences you will want to experience in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Beach of Fort Lauderdale
Step into a paradise for sun worshipers. Pause amidst the hustle of urban living and relish a moment to let the grains of sand caress your weary feet. Fort Lauderdale Beach is legendary, and as you inhale the fresh Florida ocean breeze, its allure will captivate you instantly.
Nestled gracefully between Las Olas and Sunrise Boulevard, pristine white sands extend endlessly, surrounded by parks, lakes, and boulevards adorned with swaying palm trees. Dive into crystal-clear waters or relax under a cool umbrella to soak in the ambiance of this renowned beachfront.
2. Flamingo Gardens
Upon your entrance, as indigenous gators extend a warm welcome, playful river otters delight with their antics, and Josh the bear graciously acknowledges your presence from his secluded aquatic haven, you’ll swiftly comprehend why Flamingo Gardens stands as a premier haven for wildlife in the Everglades. Showcasing Florida’s five distinct ecosystems, from the serene sawgrass prairies to the labyrinthine mangrove swamps, this sanctuary offers an immersive experience.
Embark on a tram tour to familiarize yourself with this verdant expanse and delve into the rich tapestry of South Florida’s natural and cultural heritage. While the vibrant flamingos undoubtedly steal the spotlight, encounters with Florida panthers and majestic peacocks add a tropical flair to your journey.
3. Museum of Discovery and Science
Embark on a journey from encountering gators to exploring prehistoric creatures, soaring through airplane adventures, and experiencing a simulated boat tour through the Everglades. Immerse yourself in an hour of interactive discovery at The Museum of Discovery and Science, where hands-on exploration awaits. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday Fort Lauderdale life and invite the whole family to discover, engage, and revel in the wonders of exploration.
Venture downtown to encounter Sabre-toothed cats, Imperial Mammoths, and open-mouthed megalodons as they recount the tale of Prehistoric Florida, while engaging in skill-based experiments at the Science Park. Admission is $17 for adults and $14 for children.
4. Las Olas Boulevard
Venture down Las Olas Boulevard for a delightful morning stroll, where you’ll discover an array of unique shops, lively eateries, and charming cafes. Explore artistic wonders at Sienna Fine Art or the Bellagio International Gallery, all while enjoying the coastal breeze as you browse through vintage storefronts. Feeling peckish? Indulge in a sweet powdered treat from La Bonne Crepe before meandering along New River.
This enchanting locale not only promises a memorable experience but also offers convenient access, seamlessly linking Downtown Fort Lauderdale to the Atlantic Ocean. Arrive effortlessly and, if you’re early enough, savor a breathtaking sunrise amidst the picturesque boats adorning this captivating avenue.
5. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
Explore the enchanting Bonnet House Museum and Gardens by unlatching the welcoming yellow gates. Step into the epitome of Old Florida charm within this meticulously maintained historic residence. Wander through the untamed beauty of the hibiscus garden and peruse relics once cherished by the Birch and Bartlett families. Admission is $20 for adults, granting access to both the lush gardens and a 90-minute tour of the house, while entry solely to the gardens is priced at $10.
Nestled just south of Sunrise Boulevard, embark on a water taxi adventure to uncover the treasures hidden within the sprawling 35-acre estate. Encounter the gentle giants of the Boathouse Canal as they gracefully navigate the waters, and keep an eye out for the playful resident monkey frolicking amidst the verdant foliage.
6. Everglades Vacation Park
Venture into the enchanting realm of Everglades Vacation Parks, where a pristine wildlife sanctuary meets the excitement of a theme park. Rain or shine, embark on an exhilarating airboat journey across the Everglades’ waters, seeking out elusive alligators in their natural habitat. With an expert guide illuminating the wonders of the ecosystem, your adventure will be enriched with knowledge and wonder, while your social media feeds will be adorned with unforgettable snapshots.
Set your sights westward for an unforgettable vacation experience, where riverboat excursions and up-close encounters with indigenous fauna await. Airboat expeditions set sail every 20 minutes starting at 9 am daily, offering an hour-long exploration of this captivating landscape. Ticket options vary depending on the chosen package, with prices starting as low as $32 to encompass the most thrilling highlights of your journey.
7. Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
Venture along the scenic southern coast with the exhilarating experience of a water taxi journey. Immerse yourself in the invigorating Floridian breeze as you embark on your aquatic adventure, gliding seamlessly from one picturesque locale to another, from the grandeur of Birch State Park’s Banyan trees to the delectable delights awaiting at 15th Street Fisheries.
Traverse from the tranquil park pier to the serene marina deck, and it becomes evident why so many wanderers choose to drift along the intercoastal currents of Fort Lauderdale, affectionately known as the “Venice of America”. It’s an enchanting mode of city exploration.
8. Sawgrass Mills Mall
Journey to Sunrise’s suburban charm and indulge in the shopping extravaganza at Sawgrass Mills Mall, where designer treasures await at unbeatable prices. With an impressive array of over 350 stores featuring renowned brands like Nike, Gap, and Ralph Lauren, you’ll find yourself drawn to countless storefronts beckoning you inside.
Renowned as one of the premier value retail destinations in the United States, Sawgrass Mills Mall offers a day’s worth of exploration. Refuel at the expansive food court without ever having to depart, and when it’s time for a respite from shopping, catch a film at the 18-screen movie theater nestled in the mall’s northeast corner.
9. South Florida Distillers
Raise your hand if you’re a fan of rum punches! Well, you’re in for a treat because Fort Lauderdale is the ultimate destination for top-notch spirits in Florida. Yes, we’re talking about the tangible, authentic kind. Thanks to the enduring friendship of Avi Aisenberg and Joe Durkin, FWAYGO (their renowned rum brand) has captured the hearts of South Florida locals.
While you can discover alcoholic delights all over town, for the finest rum, kush, and gin, make your way straight to the origin and prepare to toast to an abundance of cocktails. The distillery offers gin-making workshops most weekends, which can be reserved online starting from $95 per person. Are you a fan of fruity flavors? Indulge in the skinny apple pie for an irresistibly sweet experience.
10. Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Witness the sunset amidst a vibrant soirée in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where renowned nocturnal haunts beckon revelers regardless of their libation preferences. Imbibe vibrant concoctions and groove to the evening rhythm at Capone’s, YOLO, and America’s Backyard – all primed for enthusiastic dancers to grace their illuminated floors.
Conclude the day by orchestrating your exclusive gathering in this bustling epicenter, situated just north of the river. Trace the smooth melodies of jazz lounges, unleash your best dance steps at seaside bars and clubs, and savor a nightcap in authentic downtown fashion.