Fort Lauderdale FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
1. Las Olas Boulevard
TRENDY SHOPPING AND DINING
Las Olas Boulevard is renowned for its picturesque, palm-lined avenue filled with stylish boutiques, art galleries, and eclectic eateries. Visitors can stroll the boulevard, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and savor international cuisine at a variety of upscale restaurants. The area comes alive in the evenings, offering a lively nightlife scene and frequent cultural events.
2. Fort Lauderdale Beach
ICONIC URBAN BEACHFRONT
Fort Lauderdale Beach is famed for its soft white sands and pristine turquoise waters, stretching along a lively promenade dotted with cafes and luxury hotels. Beachgoers enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a wide range of water sports beneath the Florida sun. The beachfront is perfect for people-watching, with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe all year round.
3. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE SANCTUARY
The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a unique blend of art, architecture, history, and ecology nestled on a historic beachfront estate. Visitors can tour the whimsical house, filled with original furnishings and art, and explore the surrounding lush gardens teeming with native wildlife. This tranquil oasis provides insight into South Florida's early 20th-century lifestyle.
4. Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
SCENIC URBAN GREENWAY
The Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk stretches along the New River, creating a picturesque path through the heart of downtown. Lined with parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions, it's a favorite spot for walking, jogging, and enjoying riverside events. Riverwalk's blend of natural beauty and urban energy showcases the dynamic spirit of Fort Lauderdale.
5. Historic Stranahan House Museum
OLDEST FORT LAUDERDALE HOME
The Historic Stranahan House Museum, built in 1901, is the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale. Guided tours reveal its fascinating history as a trading post, community hall, and the residence of pioneering settlers Frank and Ivy Stranahan. The house offers a glimpse into the area's early days and its transformation into a modern city.
6. Museum of Discovery and Science
FAMILY SCIENCE ADVENTURE
The Museum of Discovery and Science captivates visitors with interactive exhibits highlighting everything from local ecosystems to space exploration. Popular features include a live animal display, an IMAX theater, and engaging science demonstrations for all ages. This museum is a must-visit for families eager to learn and discover in an entertaining setting.
7. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
URBAN NATURE RETREAT
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a peaceful escape with its scenic trails, freshwater lagoon, and hammock forests right by the beach. Visitors can kayak, bike, fish, or simply enjoy picnics beneath the trees in this oasis of natural beauty. The park is also a haven for birdwatching and spotting native wildlife.
8. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale features modern and contemporary art in an architecturally striking building within the downtown arts district. It showcases traveling exhibitions and a renowned permanent collection, including work from Latin American and Cuban artists. The museum enriches the city's cultural landscape with lectures, workshops, and film screenings.
9. Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
COASTAL STATE PARK
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, formerly known as John U. Lloyd Beach State Park, is a tranquil coastal preserve ideal for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. The park, located just south of Port Everglades, offers serene beaches, mangrove ecosystems, and a scenic hiking trail. It holds historical significance as a site of civil rights milestones.
10. Flamingo Gardens
BOTANICAL GARDENS AND SANCTUARY
Flamingo Gardens is a sprawling botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary, home to thousands of tropical and subtropical plants. Visitors encounter native Florida wildlife, including flamingos, alligators, and panthers, within beautifully landscaped habitats. Educational exhibits and tram tours make this a delightful destination for families and nature lovers.
11. Everglades Holiday Park
GATEWAY TO THE EVERGLADES
Everglades Holiday Park is known for its thrilling airboat tours that whisk guests into the wild landscape of the Florida Everglades. The park also features live alligator shows and opportunities to spot wildlife such as birds, turtles, and exotic fish in their natural habitat. It's a popular launch point for eco-adventures and family outings.
12. Pompano Beach Fishing Village
SEASIDE DINING AND FUN
The Pompano Beach Fishing Village is a vibrant oceanfront complex featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment for all ages. Its lively boardwalk connects to the Pompano Beach Pier, popular for fishing and spectacular Atlantic views. The area buzzes with activity, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
13. Yellow Green Farmers Market
MASSIVE INDOOR MARKET
The Yellow Green Farmers Market is the largest of its kind in South Florida, with over 350 vendors selling fresh produce, gourmet foods, crafts, and artisanal goods. The bustling market is a weekend favorite, offering tastes and treasures from around the world. Its lively and social atmosphere invites guests to linger and sample local flavors.
14. Art and Culture Center/Hollywood
DYNAMIC ARTS HUB
The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood showcases rotating contemporary art exhibitions and provides performance spaces for local theater, music, and dance. Its engaging programs foster creativity and community engagement in an inviting setting. The center balances national and international art with a strong focus on emerging local talent.
15. Snake Warrior Island Natural Area
WILDLIFE VIEWING AND TRAILS
Snake Warrior Island Natural Area is a historic park celebrated for its wildlife viewing, nature trails, and archeological significance. Visitors can observe a variety of birds and aquatic life while exploring the scenic walking paths that wind through wetland habitats. The site also preserves ancient Native American mounds, making it a special place for history and nature enthusiasts.