Sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife define this Florida city. Visitors enjoy water sports, art museums, and Caribbean cruises from its busy port.
Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city in Florida known for its extensive network of canals and waterways. With 24 miles of beaches, numerous art galleries, and warm weather year-round, it attracts visitors from all over. You can walk along the Riverwalk, shop on Las Olas Boulevard, or take a water taxi tour to see the city's waterfront homes. Fort Lauderdale's blend of urban amenities and beach lifestyle makes it a popular destination in South Florida.
Fort Lauderdale's Beaches
Fort Lauderdale's 24 miles of Atlantic coastline are a major draw for visitors. Fort Lauderdale Beach is the most popular, with its white wave wall and brick-paved promenade. For a calmer atmosphere, head to Vista Park or Las Olas Beach. These areas are less crowded and have picnic spots and waterfront seating. If you're traveling with a dog, Canine Beach allows pets on the sand and in the water.
Waterways and Canals
The city has 165 miles of inland waterways, earning it the nickname "Venice of America." You can take a water taxi tour to see the city from the water. For $35, you can use the service all day, passing by large yachts and waterfront houses. For a smaller group experience, try a gondola ride through the canals, which is particularly nice in the evening.
Arts and Culture
The Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District is home to several of Fort Lauderdale's cultural institutions. Here you'll find the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances. The NSU Art Museum has over 7,000 works, focusing on post-World War II and contemporary art. For hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater, visit the Museum of Discovery and Science.
Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is the main street for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Fort Lauderdale. This tree-lined street runs from downtown to the beach, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. You can visit the Sistrunk Marketplace & Brewery, Fort Lauderdale's first food hall, to try various cuisines. In the evening, the street is lively with people enjoying outdoor dining and live music.
Parks and Nature
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park provides a green space in the middle of the city. You can hike on nature trails, rent a canoe to explore the freshwater lagoon, or have a picnic. For a different nature experience, take an airboat tour of the nearby Everglades, where you can see alligators, turtles, and various bird species in their habitat.
Transportation in Fort Lauderdale
While driving gives you the most flexibility in Fort Lauderdale, the city has several public transportation options. The Sun Trolley offers free rides along popular routes, including Las Olas Boulevard and the beach area. For longer trips, you can use the Brightline high-speed rail service, which connects Fort Lauderdale to Miami and West Palm Beach. The city also has many bike-friendly paths if you prefer cycling.
Accommodation Options
Fort Lauderdale has places to stay for different budgets and preferences. The new Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale is a luxury oceanfront hotel with two infinity pools and a spa. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Plunge Beach Resort in nearby Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. If you want something unique, the Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is in a historic 1949 building and combines old-style design with modern amenities.
