A lifeguard tower on a beach. There is text on the image that reads, "Best things to do in Fort Lauderdale".

15 Best Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

ByJoseph Duff Hours

Located along Florida’s southeastern coast, Fort Lauderdale is a hugely popular vacation spot with pristine beaches and a cultural blend that’s both vibrant and eclectic. Often dubbed the “Venice of America” due to its expansive and scenic waterways, Fort Lauderdale effortlessly marries its nautical charm with modern, sophisticated vibes.

An aerial view of Fort Lauderdale in Florida. There are rows of buildings separated by water and a long perpendicular row of buildings in the back.
(Photo courtesy of cntraveler.com)

From sun-soaked afternoons on golden sands to starlit strolls down the iconic Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale offers amazing experiences for the whole family. But with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to get started.

An image of Fort Lauderdale at night, There is water in the middle of two streets. There is a large building in the back.
(Photo courtesy of lonelyplanet.com)

To help you plan your trip, let’s dive in and discover the 15 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale.

1. Head to the Beach

With sun-kissed shores stretching along the coast, Fort Lauderdale boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Choosing the right beach really depends on the vibe you are looking for, but some of the most popular include:

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park

Located just a short drive from downtown, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is definitely the city’s signature beach. While it may only be a small stretch of sand, it is always lively here with tourists and locals alike and has loads of activities, watersports, and other fun things to do for the entire family.

A view of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. There are blue bench tables with palm trees and a trashcan in the sand. There is a large building in the background.
(Photo courtesy of Expedia)

If you are looking for something to eat and drink, there are some great bars and eateries along the beach, as well as public BBQ grills and picnic tables. Just be aware, these get very busy quickly on the weekends and holidays so get there early if you want to secure one.

Las Olas Beach

Just north of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park and near the eastern end of the iconic Las Olas Boulevard, Las Olas Beach offers a blend of urban energy and coastal tranquility. Las Olas Beach itself boasts soft, golden sands and clear waters while its proximity to the bustling Las Olas Blvd (see below) means you’re only steps away from upscale boutiques, art galleries, and a diverse array of restaurants (my personal favorite is the Lobster Bar & Grille).

A view of Las Olas Beach in Florida. To the right is the beach and the water with recliners and blue umbrellas. There are palm trees. To the right is a wavy walkway and a street.
(Photo courtesy of Expedia)

Dania Beach

Positioned to the south in Broward County, near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Dania Beach is slightly removed from the hustle of the city center. This gives a more peaceful vibe but there are still some great little bars and restaurants available. The adjoining Dania Beach Ocean Park provides a lovely view of the pier and the vast Atlantic Ocean and is the perfect spot for an evening stroll.

A view of Dania Beach in Florida as the sun is setting. There is a big palm tree and a pier that goes over the water.
(Photo courtesy of Dania Beach)

Hollywood Beach

Further south of Dania, Hollywood Beach is an entertainment hub with a boardwalk and pedestrian promenade lined with eateries, shops, and live music venues. It stretches parallel to the A1A highway, making it a bridge of sorts between Fort Lauderdale and Miami vibes. The Hollywood Beach boardwalk is a great spot for rollerblading and skateboarding while the beach itself has a bit of a party vibe and is particularly popular with local young people.

A view of Holywood Beach from a bridge as the sun is setting. There are palm trees in the shot.
(Photo courtesy of visitlauderdale.com)

2. Party in Downtown Fort Lauderdale

Downtown Fort Lauderdale is the pulsating heart of the city and is home to some of the city’s best restaurants. There are gourmet dining options overlooking the waterways and amazing local seafood restaurants sourcing their catch directly from the nearby Atlantic waters.

A view of Fort Lauderdale at night. The water in the bottom of the image is reflecting the light. There are boats in the water and palm trees on the edge of the water.
(Photo courtesy of largerheadcycleboats.com)

Beyond the draw of Fort Lauderdale food, the downtown district buzzes with live music venues, trendy bars, and clubs playing everything from the latest hits to classic rock. If you are looking for a more laid-back evening like me (I’m definitely not as young as I used to be) there are numerous rooftop bars where you can sip a cocktail and take in the spectacular views of the city skyline.

3. Learn about Fort Lauderdale’s History

Fort Lauderdale museums and historical sites provide fascinating insights into the history of the city and surrounding area. Some of my personal faves include:

Stranahan House Museum

A view of the front of Stranahan House Museum. There is water out front and trees to the left.
(Photo courtesy of US News)

As the oldest surviving structure, the historic Stranahan House Museum stands as a testament to the city’s early 20th-century beginnings. Once the home of Frank Stranahan, the city’s founding father, and his wife Ivy, today the Stranahan House Museum offers tours that take visitors through rooms preserved with original furnishings and explain the building’s various uses as a home, post office, and trading post.

Bonnet House Museum

A view of the Bonnet House behind palm trees and still water.
(Photo courtesy of Bonnet House)

Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, the Bonnet House Museum is an oasis of art, architecture, and ecology. This historic estate encapsulates the rich artistic spirit of the 20th century, with its rooms adorned with art pieces collected from around the world. The grounds that surround the Bonnet House Museum are also great for a stroll with tranquil ponds and beautifully designed gardens.

Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum

Dedicated to the city’s brave firefighters and the evolution of fire safety, the Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum offers visitors an enlightening journey through time. There are antique fire trucks, rare firefighting equipment, and exhibits providing a detailed look into the firefighters’ dedication and sacrifice.

4. Take a Stroll along Las Olas Boulevard

Stretching from the beach at A1A and winding its way downtown, Las Olas Boulevard captures the essence of the city’s culture, commerce, and coastal vibes. It is perfect for an early evening stroll with street musicians, and food stalls dotting its length. There are loads of fantastic restaurants to check out along the boulevard including The Boathouse at the Riverside Hotel which is perfect for watching the sunset on the New River.

A view of Las Olas Boulevard. There is a giant tree in the middle of the tree with lights on it. There are cars on the street and people walking by the storefronts. There are tall buildings in the back.
(Photo courtesy of onlyinyourstate.com)

Las Olas Blvd is also the place to window shop as it has an array of boutique stores and small art galleries with local craftspeople selling their work. One must-visit on the boulevard is the iconic Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar. Whether you’re picking up a bouquet or settling in for a latte, the fusion of florals with coffee is a unique experience, capturing the innovative spirit of Las Olas.

5. Catch a Show at the Broward Center

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Fort Lauderdale. Located along the serene New River, this performing arts venue is the perfect place for a date night with a diverse lineup of shows and performances. You will need to check the schedule and book tickets before you go but the Broward Center has everything from Broadway hits and classical ballets to rock concerts and thought-provoking plays.

A view of the auditorium of the Broward Center. There are blue seats and a few balconies.
(Photo courtesy of Broward Center)

6. Take a Boat Tour of Fort Lauderdale’s Waterways

Dubbed the “Venice of America” for good reason, Fort Lauderdale’s intricate network of canals and waterways offers a unique perspective of the city. A boat tour is the most popular way to navigate these waters, providing guided experiences that delve into the history, architecture, and natural beauty of the Fort Lauderdale region.

A view of a taxi tour cab in Fort Lauderdale. There is a yellow boat with passengers in the water and tall buildings in the background.
(Photo courtesy of craigslegztravels.com)

The Intracoastal Waterway, a 3,000-mile inland waterway running parallel to the Atlantic Coast, is a must-see and is included on all the boat tours. This bustling aquatic highway, dotted with luxury yachts, fishing boats, and sailboats, offers a snapshot of the maritime life that defines Fort Lauderdale.

If you are looking for a more flexible approach, the water taxi connects various parts of Fort Lauderdale and allows you to hop on and off at your leisure. It is currently $35 for an adult all-day water taxi pass but you can also charter your own private water taxi to take you around.

7. Get Back to Nature

Fort Lauderdale has some amazing green spaces that are ideal for animal lovers and anyone who is just looking to relax in nature. Two of the most-visited are:

Flamingo Gardens

A view of flamingos in the Flamingo Gardens in Fort Lauderdale.
(Photo courtesy of visitlauderdale.com)

Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida and also has a fantastic wildlife sanctuary. The botanical garden is an idyllic place for a stroll, immersed in a diverse array of tropical plants, ancient oaks, and a variety of flowers. The Flamingo Gardens wildlife sanctuary is home to some of the most exciting native Florida wildlife with a wide range of species of birds, alligators, and even the elusive Florida panther.

Butterfly World

A view of two children walking through Butterfly World in Fort Lauderdale. are many green plants and red flowers and a clear wall.
(Photo courtesy of visitlauderdale.com)

A really fun place to take little children, Butterfly World is a haven where thousands of butterflies take wing, creating a fluttering display of colors. This is the biggest butterfly house in the world with 20,000 butterflies from over 50 species.

8. Cruise the New River on the Jungle Queen Riverboat

The iconic Jungle Queen Riverboat is a Fort Lauderdale staple that has been taking visitors along the New River since 1935! This was definitely one of the highlights of my Fort Lauderdale trip and I highly recommend it to everyone.

A view of the Jungle Queen IV Riverboat, a three story boat, sailing through the water with palm trees in the background.
(Photo courtesy of fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com)

The sights of the river are incredible but as you take in the picturesque views, the Jungle Queen also has live music, a comedy show, an all-you-can-eat BBQ feast, and a fire dancing performance to finish off the day.

9. Go Tortoise Spotting at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Often referred to as the “Central Park” of Fort Lauderdale, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The main trail is about 2 miles long and is a great chance to spot the resident gopher tortoises. These gentle creatures, with their distinctive burrows and slow pace, are loved by locals and tourists alike.

A Tortoise with its mouth open on grass.
(Photo courtesy of warshgonewild.com)

10. Check Out the Exhibits at NSU Art Museum

Fort Lauderdale is dotted with numerous galleries but the NSU Art Museum is my absolute favorite. Situated in the heart of the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District, the NSU Art Museum offers a dynamic blend of permanent and rotating exhibitions, including the best William Glackens collection you will find anywhere. A lot of the pieces here are by local Latino artists, showcasing the city’s Latin American influences.

A view of three people in an art gallery in the NSU Art Museum.
(Photo courtesy of Expedia)

11. Explore the Florida Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park

The Everglades are a vast wetland ecosystem teeming with wildlife and an airboat tour through the Sawgrass Recreation Park is a must-do for Fort Lauderdale nature lovers. The airboat ride itself offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure but is also the best way to spot the wild South Florida species including, snakes, turtles, alligators, and native birds. You can even book an airboat for a nighttime tour when the animals are more active.

A view of a group of people riding through the Florida Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park.
(Photo courtesy of visitflorida.com)

12. Take a Segway Tour of the City

For those looking to explore Fort Lauderdale with a twist, a guided Segway tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and sightseeing. These self-balancing personal transporters add a touch of modernity to the age-old charm of the city and as you cruise through the streets, boardwalks, and parks, your guide will share all their knowledge about Fort Lauderdale’s landmarks and hidden gems. I have to admit, I was a little nervous at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s really easy and a lot of fun!

A view of four people on segways with their hands raised wearing helmets.
(Photo courtesy of ultimatefloridatours.com)

BTW If a segway isn’t your thing, you can also tour the city on the Sun Trolley, completely free of charge!

13. Try Your Luck at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Located not too far from the city center, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has an extensive range of slot machines and table games for you to try your luck. If gambling isn’t your thing, there are also multiple dining options and nightly shows, making it a buzzing spot for an evening out. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel is also a great place to stay with the family with some seriously impressive swimming pools for the kids.

An aerial view of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel. There are many buildings with a building that looks like a guitar and a body of water.
(Photo courtesy of visitlauderdale.com)

14. Hike the Coastal Hammock Trail

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head east to the Coastal Hammock Trail in Fort Pierce State Park. It’s a relatively easy trail and is the perfect way to get a dose of nature without venturing too far out of Fort Lauderdale. As you walk, you’ll pass through native coastal vegetation, and there are a few informational signs along the way that provide insights about the local ecosystem.

A view of a tree with oval leaves in the Coastal Hammock Trail.
(Photo courtesy of floridahikes.com)

15. Take a Day Trip to Key West

While Fort Lauderdale itself is brimming with attractions, if you’re looking to venture a bit further for a day, Key West is an excellent choice. Located about a 4-hour drive from Fort Lauderdale, Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and is renowned for its laid-back vibe, vibrant history, and stunning sunsets. Though it’s a bit of a drive, it’s a perfect way to add a different flavor to your Fort Lauderdale vacation.

A view of the beach from a bridge in Key West. There are palm trees and recliners on the beach.
(Photo courtesy of lazytrips.com)

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale

Whether you’re a sun-chaser, a history aficionado, or a nightlife enthusiast, Fort Lauderdale promises to captivate and enchant at every turn.

A picture of a beautiful building in the city of Fort Lauderdale.
(Photo courtesy of Expedia)

Honestly, Fort Lauderdale really was one of my family’s favorite vacation destinations ever, and we already planning to return.

A view of a beach in Fort Lauderdale, with a few palm trees, a sunset, and a little lifeguard's hut.
(Photo courtesy of harpersbazaar.com)

With many of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale within walking distance of the main tourist areas, and with some of the most beautiful beaches and nature spots anywhere in the country, your Fort Lauderdale trip is sure to be one you remember forever.

Interested in visiting florida? check out these other locations that you’ll love:

“How boring would the world be if everywhere and everyone were the same. Safe travels and good adventures.” Scuba Jay

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