Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary in Fort Lauderdale, Florida! Beyond the sun-drenched beaches, you can paddle through scenic waterways, immerse yourself in lively art along Las Olas Boulevard, or embark on an exciting airboat ride in the Everglades to encounter alligators.
With a list of things to do in Fort Lauderdale catering to history enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts, the city offers a diverse array of experiences. Pack your swimsuit, embrace your adventurous spirit, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of this lively coastal city!
At Flamingo Gardens, dive into captivating wildlife encounters in a 60-acre sanctuary. Meet Josh the bear, feed flamingos, and enjoy daily wildlife shows at the Everglades Amphitheater.
Home to diverse wildlife, Flamingo Gardens aims to preserve and educate about South Florida's heritage- a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers. Visiting this place is a fun stuff to do in Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 3750 S Flamingo Rd
Fort Lauderdale Beach in Florida is a top destination with crystal-clear waters and soft sands, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Along the beach, find lively restaurants, bars, and shops.
Additionally, this beach is one of the best places to visit in Florida offering a blend of outdoor activities, relaxation, and entertainment, and is a must-visit destination close to attractions like Las Olas Boulevard and Bonnet House Museum.
Address: Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale
Explore the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a 35-acre historic estate listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Discover the preserved home and studio of American artists through self-guided audio or docent-led tours, seamlessly blending art, history, and nature in a unique island ecosystem.
Open year-round, the site offers various admission options, providing a captivating experience for history, art, and nature enthusiasts. Paying a visit to this place is one of the best things to do in Florida Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 900 N Birch Rd
Las Olas Beach is a serene stretch of sand attracting visitors of all ages. Accessible from Fort Lauderdale Beach Park or Las Olas Boulevard, it offers amenities like an amphitheater, splash pad, rentals, restrooms, and metered parking.
Across the street, visitors can find dining and shopping, including Elbo Room and S3 at Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. With clean sand and clear water, the beach is perfect for those seeking a beautiful Florida beach without a hectic party scene.
Address: 240 Las Olas Cir
Explore Fort Lauderdale's waterways and attractions through a variety of boat tours, offering a unique perspective of the city's beauty and landmarks. Options include sightseeing cruises on the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as water-based activities like jet skiing, parasailing, fishing, and paddleboarding.
The boat tours, including the Jungle Queen Riverboat and private sailing charters, cater to both relaxation and adventure, making it a top destination for watersports enthusiasts.
Address: 801 Seabreeze Blvd
Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is a dynamic destination offering upscale shopping, diverse dining, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife. Trendy boutiques and chic cafes create a unique shopping and dining experience.
Additionally, nearby art galleries and the scenic Riverwalk add cultural richness. As night falls, the boulevard transforms into a lively nightlife hub. Overall, Las Olas Boulevard is a must-visit for a memorable urban experience in Fort Lauderdale.
Address: E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, also known as the city's "Central Park," spans 180 coastal acres, offering picnicking, camping, swimming, and more. Preserving southeast Florida's natural heritage, the park features the last Tropical Maritime Hammock in Broward County.
Visitors enjoy beach wheelchair rentals, ranger-guided walks, and live animal exhibits in a unique coastal habitat. With its natural beauty and recreational options, this state park in Florida is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Address: 3109 E Sunrise Blvd
At Sawgrass Recreation Park, embark on an exciting airboat tour through the Florida Everglades. Public rides offer a chance to explore this remarkable ecosystem with experienced captains sharing fun facts. The park includes educational presentations, the opportunity to meet alligators, and private airboat tours for a more exclusive experience.
These airboat tours provide a unique adventure to witness the wild beauty of the Everglades, making it a must-try experience for nature enthusiasts in Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 1006 US Hwy 27, Weston
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Fort Lauderdale is a premier venue on the New River, hosting Broadway musicals, operas, ballets, concerts, and plays. Known for excellent sound and comfortable seats, it offers a convenient location with its parking garage.
Surrounded by top-rated restaurants, it's perfect for an evening of entertainment and dining. With a capacity of 2,700, including accessible seating, the center caters to diverse artistic preferences year-round.
Address: 201 SW 5th Ave
Butterfly World, near Fort Lauderdale in Coconut Creek, is the world's largest butterfly house and bird park, covering 3 acres. It includes butterfly aviaries, botanical gardens, and a butterfly farm and research center. Visitors can explore six outdoor aviaries with over 20,000 live butterflies and tropical birds.
The facility also has a garden center, butterfly-themed art, souvenirs, and a cafe. This place is a unique destination, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those wanting a close encounter with beautiful creatures.
Address: Tradewinds Park - South, 3600 W Sample Rd
The Historic Stranahan House Museum, the city's oldest surviving structure, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Built in 1901, the wood-frame vernacular house offers guided tours with knowledgeable docents.
Restored by the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society and the Fort Lauderdale Board of Realtors, it opened as a historic house museum in 1984. So, if you are interested in history or around the area, visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale FL.
Address: 335 SE 6th Ave
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, in downtown Fort Lauderdale, is a cultural hub designed by architect Edward Larrabee Barnes. With 25,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 256-seat auditorium, a museum store, and a cafe, it's a premier destination.
Additionally, the museum's diverse exhibitions and education programs challenge perceptions, making it a central attraction near Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk.
Address: 1 E Las Olas Blvd
Strolling along Fort Lauderdale's New River via the scenic Riverwalk is a popular activity for visitors and locals. This picturesque pathway, conveniently located off Las Olas Boulevard, offers outdoor cafes, lush landscapes, and charming shops.
The river, featuring multimillion-dollar homes and several bridges, is a central attraction. Enhance the experience by taking a water taxi to explore the surroundings. Overall, it's a relaxing and enjoyable way to soak in the beauty and charm of the city.
Address: New River, Fort Lauderdale
Invasive Species Brewing, owned and operated by brewers, is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. Offering tours, the brewery features a rotating selection of unique craft beers in a museum-meets-warehouse atmosphere.
Located in Flagler Village, it has an outside beer garden, is employee-owned, and boasts a knowledgeable and passionate staff. With fresh weekly offerings crafted by experienced brewers, it's a must-visit for those seeking a unique beer experience in Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 726 NE 2nd Ave
Explore the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, a Christian megachurch founded in 1960 by D. James Kennedy. With a significant architectural presence and a seating capacity of 2,300, the church offers both contemporary and traditional worship services under the leadership of Senior Pastor Rob Pacienza.
As a religious and architectural landmark in the area, the church is known for its affiliation with the Presbyterian Church in America. Visitors can experience its unique atmosphere and learn about its history, activities, and diverse worship services.
Address: 5555 N Federal Hwy
Enjoy a peaceful stroll in Volunteer Park near Fort Lauderdale. This scenic walk through the park's natural surroundings provides a relaxing outdoor experience with walking paths and green spaces.
It's a great way to connect with nature and unwind in a tranquil atmosphere. Whether alone or with friends and family, this park offers a refreshing activity in Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 12050 W Sunrise Blvd, Plantation
Xtreme Action Park is Florida's largest indoor entertainment venue, spanning 200,000 square feet with exciting attractions like go-kart racing, bowling, arcade games, trampoline park, and more. With a full liquor sports bar and restaurant, it's open seven days a week, offering a variety of fun activities suitable for all ages.
Whether you're into virtual reality games or classic go-karting, visiting this action park is one of the best things to do in Florida Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 5300 Powerline Rd
Explore Fort Lauderdale with a Segway tour, a unique and fun way to discover iconic sights. Glide along the New River, Riverwalk Trail, and scenic neighborhoods, passing mega yachts and lush surroundings. Choose from various tour options, including Yacht & Mansion, "Venice of America" Plus Animal Feeding, and Birch Park Nature Tours.
Some companies also offer food, private, and night-time comedy tours. With Segway training provided, it's a safe and thrilling experience to uncover the city's highlights.
Address: 219 SW 2nd Ave
Explore Fort Lauderdale's waterways on a thrilling jet ski adventure. Rent from various companies such as Jet Ski Fort Lauderdale FL offering guided tours, self-guided rentals, and private tours. Glide through the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, and some companies even provide additional water sports activities.
Jet skiing is a fun and exciting way to experience the beauty of Fort Lauderdale, making it a must-try for water sports enthusiasts.
Address: 2670 E Sunrise Blvd
Riding the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a popular and convenient way to explore the city's waterways and visit various attractions. The water taxi provides a unique and scenic perspective of Fort Lauderdale, connecting passengers to numerous stops along the Intracoastal Waterway.
With an all-day pass, passengers can hop on and off at any of the 15 stops, allowing for a flexible and leisurely exploration of the area. The water taxi operates seven days a week, offering a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood.
Address: 1366 SE 17th St
