Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (2024)

  1. Outdoor Fun at Las Olas Oceanside Parks
  2. Explore Hollywood
  3. Hop on a Boat Tour
  4. Encounter Wildlife at Flamingo Gardens
  5. Score Designer Deals at Sawgrass Mills
  6. Make Memories on the Riverwalk
  7. Beach Fun in Pompano

Outdoor Fun at Las Olas Oceanside Parks

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (1)

From open-air farmers markets and workout classes to movie nights and music concerts, the Las Olas Oceanside Parks (also known as The LOOP) offers a unique experience beyond the beach. The LOOP comprises four green spaces in Fort Lauderdale, including Las Olas Oceanside Park, Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade, Sunset Terrace at the Las Olas Beach Garage, and DC Alexander Park. Las Olas Oceanside Park, where much of the action happens, is nestled on A1A across from Fort Lauderdale beach.

Shop & Dine on Las Olas Boulevard

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (2)

Stroll, people watch, dine, stay, or shop on Las Olas Boulevard, a tree-lined mile of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and hotels parallel to the New River, leading to Fort Lauderdale beach. Enjoy diverse cuisine at trendy spots like YOLO or Bombay Darbar or a quick bite at Gran Forno Las Olas. Hit family-friendly attractions like the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale or the Historic Stranahan House Museum, and enjoy the Las Olas nightlife at vibrant venues like The Wharf Fort Lauderdale and Rooftop @1WLO.

Explore Hollywood

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (3)

Stretching over two miles along the Atlantic coast, lined with palm trees, a sandy beach, and dozens of boutiques, hotels, bars, and restaurants, the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is a must-see spot for outdoor fun. Stroll, bike, rollerblade, or skateboard down the ocean promenade; catch live music at the Hollywood Beach Bandshell Wednesdays through Sundays; or sunbathe on the beach or paddleboard along the shore.

Beyond the beach, Hollywood is home to galleries, boutiques, and attractions like ArtsPark at Young Circle, , Yellow Green Farmers Market and the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project. Find dozens of top-notch dining spots, from Billy’s Stone Crab to GG’s Waterfront.

Hop on a Boat Tour

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (4)

Sit back and cruise the Intracoastal while someone else leads (and narrates) the way on the Water Taxi. You can hop on and off at 11 stops and, along the way, enjoy views of superyachts, million-dollar homes, and waterfront restaurants like Shooters Waterfront and 15th Street Fisheries. Choose from the following experiences – all-day or multi-day cruises or a sunset or private cruise. The Hollywood Express, for instance, cruises between Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood and is included with the all-day pass.

Another way to cruise the Intracoastal is on the Jungle Queen Riverboat. Options include a 90-minute sightseeing tour, an evening cruise with an island dinner and show, and a private charter. The Jungle Queen, which has cruised the local waterways since 1935, departs from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center.

Venture Back in Time at the Bonnet House Museums & Gardens

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (5)

Learn about Fort Lauderdale's history, art, and nature at the , an art-filled 35-acre estate nestled between the beach and the Intracoastal in Fort Lauderdale. The 20th-century home is on the National Register of Historic Places and houses original furniture from artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Helen Louise Birch. Go on a guided or self-guided tour of the house and grounds and attend special events held throughout the year.

Encounter Wildlife at Flamingo Gardens

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (6)

Discover tropical gardens and majestic creatures at Flamingo Gardens in Davie, one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida, established in 1927. A sprawling 60 acres, the natural attraction features several gardens, including a butterfly and hummingbird garden, over 3,000 species of plants and trees, and animal exhibits, from the flamingo pond to the panther and bobcat habitats. Flamingo Garden hosts events, VIP tours, and exhibits throughout the year.

Score Designer Deals at Sawgrass Mills

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (7)

More than 350 designer outlets, specialty shops, and restaurants await at Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, along with The Colonnade Outlets, featuring high-end luxury fashion brands, including Michael Kors, Gucci, Prada, Jimmy Choo, and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5TH. When you need a shopping break, dine at Matchbox, Seasons 52, Texas de Brazil, P.F. Chang’s, or Yard House, among others.

Make Memories on the Riverwalk

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (8)

Find historical sites, waterfront dining, and outdoor activities on the Riverwalk along the New River in Fort Lauderdale. Take a stroll along the riverfront or join a bike or segway tour to cover more ground. The Riverwalk is a lush oasis comprising parks, plazas, and gazebos. Plus, attractions like the Historic Stranahan House Museum and the provide entertainment and education for the entire family. There are also a couple of Water Taxi stops and waterfront dining options, from the trendy Salt7 to the laid-back Boathouse at the Riverside. Catch a Broadway show, opera, ballet or concert at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts Center, ranking among the top 10 most-visited theaters in the world.

Party, Relax, Repeat - Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (9)

Whether you stay there as a guest or not, offers dynamic dining, nightlife, and water-soaked amenities.

Dine at trendy and classic restaurants like Kuro or Hard Rock Cafe. Catch your favorite touring artist at Hard Rock Live before hitting the Oculus and Center bars for drinks and gaming. For a club experience, party at DAER day or night and enjoy table service. And relax at the spa or play in the vibrant 4.5-acre lagoon-style pool area filled with waterfalls, cabanas, watersports, and more.

Beach Fun in Pompano

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Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (10)

Pompano Beach is a destination in itself, and its jewel is the Fisher Family Pier, nearly 900 feet long and open for fishing, strolling, and people-watching. The end of the pier is in the shape of a pompano (fish) head. Nearby, explore the Fishing Village, featuring oceanfront walkways, beach pavilions and playgrounds, and restaurants, including Beach House Pompano and Oceanic.

Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (2024)

FAQs

Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida? ›

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture, and events. From shopping on Las Olas Boulevard to gondola rides on the canals, to a historic riverfront, this is the "Venice of America." Along Las Olas Boulevard, shopping, dining, and the historic districts.

Why is Fort Lauderdale so famous? ›

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture, and events. From shopping on Las Olas Boulevard to gondola rides on the canals, to a historic riverfront, this is the "Venice of America." Along Las Olas Boulevard, shopping, dining, and the historic districts.

What food is Fort Lauderdale known for? ›

Fort Lauderdale is located toward the southern tip of Florida, which is why it comes as no surprise that the places locals love to eat are mostly fresh seafood and Latin-inspired restaurants. People travel from all over to enjoy their beautiful beaches and take advantage of the amazing laid-back vacation vibe.

What is the most famous street in Fort Lauderdale? ›

Las Olas Boulevard – The “Best” of Fort Lauderdale

Today, the Boulevard is a “must visit destination” with over three dozen bistros, clubs and restaurants, most with indoor and outdoor dining, making Las Olas a food lovers paradise.

What is the best month to go to Fort Lauderdale? ›

The best times to visit Fort Lauderdale are in spring (mid-April–early June) and autumn (October–mid-December). The weather is pleasant, though it's rainier in autumn. Beaches and attractions are less crowded and it's when you'll find the most affordable flight and hotel prices.

What is the number 1 tourist spot in Florida? ›

World-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida make Orlando a year-round tourist destination, but there are many attractions and activities outside of the theme parks.

Is Fort Lauderdale a walkable city? ›

Between its waterways, beach walks, public transportation and totally pleasant pedestrian promenades, Fort Lauderdale makes driving practically obsolete. Big city meets carefree beach within a three-mile stroll along Fort Lauderdale's most fashionable streets and walkways.

Who lives on Millionaires Row in Fort Lauderdale? ›

Enjoy a private yacht tour through Fort Lauderdale Millionaire's Row featuring extravagant mansions and yachts. Along the boat tour, some of the homes and yachts you'll see belong to stars like billionaire Wayne Huizenga, Papa John's founder John Schnatter, and the famous comedian and TV host Jay Leno.

What is a fun fact about Fort Lauderdale? ›

The City of Fort Lauderdale is named for a Second Seminole War fortification built on the banks of the New River in 1838. That year, Major William Lauderdale led a detachment of Tennessee Volunteers south along the east coast of Florida to capture Seminole agricultural lands and battle the elusive Indian warriors.

Is it expensive in Fort Lauderdale? ›

Fort Lauderdale, Florida's cost of living is 22% higher than the national average.

What is the safest part of Fort Lauderdale? ›

Coral Ridge is widely regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. This area is known for its more significant properties, tree-lined streets, and nearby waterways. It's an excellent place for families, with plenty of parks, outdoor spaces, and easy access to some of Fort Lauderdale's best schools.

What's the prettiest beach in Fort Lauderdale? ›

Pompano Beach

If you're looking for the best beaches in Ft. Lauderdale, look no further than Pompano Beach. Otherwise known as the Heart of the Gold Coast, Pompano Beach is well-known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and clear blue waters that look as if they belong on a postcard.

Which is safer Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale? ›

Fort Lauderdale is 14% safer than Miami. But if you avoid certain neighborhoods, you're all safe in both, Miami & Fort Lauderdale.

Why is Fort Lauderdale special? ›

Our 165-miles of scenic inland waterways wind through the city, highlighting what makes Fort Lauderdale unique and why it truly lives up to its designation as the “Venice of America.” Our semi-tropical climate is highlighted by more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year and pleasant year-round ocean breezes.

Why do people love Fort Lauderdale? ›

Fort Lauderdale has miles of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a thriving arts and culture scene. It's also home to some of the best restaurants and shopping destinations in South Florida. And don't get us started on the weather … With year-round sunshine, you'll never have to shovel that snow again!

What is Fort Lauderdale main business? ›

Fort Lauderdale's coastal location is a boon to its maritime and marine industries. The city serves as a major hub for yacht manufacturing, marine technology development, and cruise lines.

Is Fort Lauderdale a party town? ›

The party basically happens around the clock in Fort Lauderdale, a boisterous nightlife destination featuring hopping clubs, high-end casinos and cosmopolitan speakeasies.

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