Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant coastal city known as the 'Venice of America' for its expansive canal system and stunning Atlantic shoreline. It offers a perfect blend of sophisticated yachting culture, historic estates, and a relaxed beach town atmosphere, making it a premier Florida destination.
Top Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
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Getting Around Fort Lauderdale
From the Airport
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are both highly active at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with dedicated pickup zones at each terminal. Train. The Brightline high-speed train connects the airport area to downtown Fort Lauderdale via a short shuttle or rideshare to the Fort Lauderdale station.
Once You're There
Water Taxi. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a iconic, convenient way to hop between major tourist attractions along the Intracoastal Waterway. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are the most reliable ways to get around the city, especially when traveling between the beach and downtown. Walking. While the beach strip and Las Olas Boulevard are very walkable, you will need a car or rideshare to travel between the different neighborhoods.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
Hotel picks for Fort Lauderdale are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Fort Lauderdale
Dumpling King (North Miami Beach)★★★★★237 NE 167th St, North Miami Beach, FL 33162, United StatesAlways get the soup dumplings. Their scallion pancake is very different. Not a fan from this place. I would only recommend the soup dumplings here. Everything else is a little different from your traditional Chinese food.
Souvlaki Fast Boca Raton★★★★★21200 St Andrews Blvd Ste 13, Boca Raton, FL 33433, United StatesBest gyro within an hour radius. Very close to Boca Raton Towne Center.
Casa Sensei★ 4.6 (7,569)1200 E Las Olas Blvd Ste 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, USAA unique fusion of Pan-Asian and Latin flavors that serves as a staple for waterfront dining on the Himmarshee Canal.
Shooters Waterfront★ 4.5 (15,611)3033 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, USAOffers iconic Intracoastal views paired with high-end seafood and a very popular Sunday brunch.
Rustic Inn Crabhouse★ 4.5 (12,631)4331 Anglers Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USAA quintessential Florida institution where you must order the famous garlic blue crabs.
Coconuts★ 4.5 (10,194)429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USAFamous for its 'Coconut Shrimp' and prime location right on the water overlooking the Atlantic.
El Camino★ 4.5 (6,922)817 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, USAThe go-to spot for authentic Mexican street food and an extensive selection of artisanal tequilas in the heart of Las Olas.
Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria★ 4.4 (9,389)1032 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, USAKnown for its massive outdoor patio and incredible house-made pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
Steak 954★ 4.4 (2,137)401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USAA high-end oceanfront steakhouse located in the W Hotel, famous for its massive jellyfish tank and dry-aged steaks.
The Floridian Restaurant★ 4.2 (3,446)1492 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, USAA classic 24-hour diner that is a local landmark for breakfast and late-night comfort food.
Etaru Hallandale★ 4.0 (1,593)111 S Surf Rd, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, USAA sleek, modern Japanese robatayaki restaurant that provides a sophisticated dining experience.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Fort Lauderdale
Sun, Sand, and Sophistication
Morning. Start your trip by heading straight to the iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach to enjoy the golden morning light. Walk along the wave-wall promenade, which stretches for miles and offers a perfect vantage point for people-watching. After getting your fill of the ocean breeze, walk a few blocks inland to the International Swimming Hall of Fame to admire the aquatic history of the area. It is best to arrive early in the morning to beat the intense Florida heat and secure a parking spot near the beach. Once you are done, head north toward the entrance of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to experience a more natural side of the coast.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush trails of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, where you can rent a bicycle or take a leisurely walk through tropical hammocks. After you have explored the park, cross the street to enter the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a historic estate that showcases art and architecture from the early 20th century. Take your time wandering through the orchid houses and the beautifully landscaped grounds. It is highly recommended to book a guided tour of the main house in advance to learn about the eccentric history of the Birch and Bartlett families. Afterward, head back toward the beach area to relax for a few hours before evening activities.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head to the bustling Las Olas Boulevard for an evening of high-end shopping and dining. This street is the heartbeat of the city, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and glowing palm trees. Start with a cocktail at a sidewalk bar before choosing from the many world-class restaurants that line the street. If you have time, take a quick detour to the nearby Riverwalk to see the city lights reflecting off the New River. End your night by grabbing a dessert or a nightcap at one of the lively cafes that stay open late into the evening.
History and Waterways
Morning. Begin your day in the historic district by visiting the Stranahan House, the oldest surviving structure in the city. This beautifully preserved house offers a fascinating look at the early pioneers who established the trading post that would become Fort Lauderdale. Spend about an hour here learning about the history of the New River before taking a short walk to the nearby Museum of Discovery and Science. This museum is perfect for all ages, featuring interactive exhibits and an impressive IMAX theater. Be sure to check the showtimes for the IMAX theater online before you arrive to coordinate your visit.
Afternoon. After grabbing a quick lunch, walk over to the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale to admire its contemporary collections and rotating exhibitions. The museum is located right in the heart of downtown, making it easy to access from the riverfront. Once you have finished your museum tour, head to the docks to board the Jungle Queen Riverboat for an afternoon sightseeing cruise. This is the best way to see the 'Venice of America' and get an up-close look at the massive yachts and mega-mansions that line the Millionaire's Row canals. The cruise lasts about 90 minutes and offers a unique perspective on the city's maritime lifestyle.
Evening. Wrap up your second day by exploring the Himmarshee Village area, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene. The neighborhood is very walkable and features a mix of industrial-chic bars and upscale eateries. Find a spot along the canal to enjoy dinner, watching the water taxis glide by under the moonlight. If you are feeling energetic, this area has plenty of live music venues where you can catch a local band. It is the perfect way to soak in the relaxed, fun-loving energy that defines the downtown Fort Lauderdale experience.
Coastal Relaxation and Exploration
Morning. For your final day, take it easy and head to the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea area, located just north of the main city center. This small, charming town feels like a step back in time with its low-rise buildings and laid-back beach vibe. Start by walking out onto the Anglin's Fishing Pier to watch the local fishermen and take in the panoramic ocean views. Spend your morning snorkeling off the beach, as the reef is very close to the shore here. It is a fantastic spot to see tropical fish without needing a boat charter, so be sure to bring your own gear or rent some from a local shop.
Afternoon. After a morning in the water, dry off and enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many seafood shacks that line the main street of this coastal village. Spend the rest of your afternoon browsing the local souvenir shops and art galleries that make this town so unique. If you want to see more, consider a quick drive or rideshare to the nearby Coral Ridge neighborhood to see the upscale residential canals. It is a quiet, beautiful area that provides a nice contrast to the busy tourist zones. Take your time moving slowly and enjoying the slower pace of life here.
Evening. Conclude your trip with a memorable farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant back in the main city. Choose a place with an outdoor deck so you can enjoy the warm evening air one last time. Reflect on your trip while watching the boats navigate the Intracoastal Waterway. If you have time for one last activity, take a sunset walk along the beach to see the city skyline begin to twinkle. It is the perfect, peaceful end to a three-day adventure in South Florida.
