Things to do in Fort Lauderdale: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Xtreme Action Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Xtreme Action Park is a massive indoor entertainment center in Fort Lauderdale featuring go-kart racing, bowling, arcade games, escape rooms, and a ropes course all under one roof.
History: Created to bring high-energy indoor attractions to South Florida, the park was developed by PrimeTime Amusements as part of revitalizing the area’s recreational scene.
Since When: It opened in 2015 and has since expanded to become Florida’s largest indoor entertainment venue.
Review: Visitors love the variety of activities and group-friendly atmosphere, though it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
When to Go: Best to visit on weekdays or early on weekends to avoid peak-hour lines and enjoy all activities with less wait.
How to Go: Located on Powerline Road, it’s easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available onsite.
What to Do: Race high-speed go-karts, play arcade and VR games, bowl, conquer the ropes course, or enjoy the sports bar and food court.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but all individual attractions and games are paid separately or through game cards.
Las Olas Beach, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Las Olas Beach is a picturesque and lively urban beach known for its turquoise waters, palm-lined promenade, and vibrant social scene.
History: Once a quieter coastal stretch, the beach became a popular spring break and tourist destination beginning in the mid-20th century.
Since When: It has been a central part of Fort Lauderdale’s tourism identity since the 1960s, evolving with modern beach amenities.
Review: Loved for its clean shoreline, walkability, and nearby bars and cafés, though parking can be difficult during peak times.
When to Go: Visit during the morning or late afternoon for quieter sunbathing and stunning sunset views.
How to Go: Located at the east end of Las Olas Boulevard, it’s reachable by car, bike, or the Sun Trolley service.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, stroll the promenade, dine nearby, or enjoy beach volleyball and people-watching.
Free or Paid: Beach access is free, though parking and nearby amenities may have fees.
Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is a 2.5-mile pedestrian-friendly promenade running along the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for walking, cycling, and beachfront dining.
History: Developed in the 1920s and revitalized over the decades, the Broadwalk has become a staple of relaxed Florida beach culture.
Since When: The Broadwalk has been a public beachfront path since around 1925 and has received multiple enhancements since.
Review: Visitors enjoy the casual, retro feel, family-friendly vibe, and access to the beach, shops, and entertainment.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or evening to enjoy a cool breeze and catch live music at sunset.
How to Go: Located just south of Fort Lauderdale, it’s accessible by car or public bus, with metered parking available nearby.
What to Do: Walk, jog, rent a bike or surrey, dine beachside, enjoy street performers, or relax on the sandy beach.
Free or Paid: The Broadwalk itself is free, though rentals, food, and parking come at a cost.
Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Fort Lauderdale Beach is a world-famous destination known for its white sands, crystal-clear waters, and bustling beachfront promenade.
History: Gaining fame as a spring break haven in the 1960s, the beach area has since transformed into a family-friendly, upscale coastal retreat.
Since When: Its development as a major tourist hotspot began in earnest in the post-WWII era, with major renovations in the early 2000s.
Review: Travelers love the clean, wide beach, calm waters, and lively atmosphere with plenty of nearby amenities.
When to Go: Best enjoyed from November to April when the weather is warm but less humid, and ocean conditions are ideal.
How to Go: Located just off A1A, it’s accessible by car, trolley, bike, or ride-sharing from anywhere in Fort Lauderdale.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, rent jet skis, dine or drink at oceanfront cafés, or explore nearby shops and art galleries.
Free or Paid: Public beach access is free, but nearby parking and rentals require payment.
The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Galleria is an upscale indoor shopping mall offering luxury brands, fine dining, and department stores in a stylish air-conditioned setting near the beach.
History: Originally an open-air plaza, it was redeveloped into a high-end shopping destination in the 1980s to cater to the area’s growing affluent population.
Since When: It has been operating in its current format since 1980, with continuous updates to retail and dining options.
Review: Shoppers appreciate its clean environment, convenient location, and mix of stores, though some find it quieter than other major malls.
When to Go: Visit during weekdays or early weekends for easier parking and a relaxed shopping experience.
How to Go: Situated on Sunrise Boulevard, it’s accessible by car, public bus, or hotel shuttles, with ample paid parking.
What to Do: Shop at high-end retailers like Macy’s and Apple, dine at The Capital Grille or Seasons 52, or unwind indoors.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but shopping and dining are of course paid.
Flamingo Gardens, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary in Fort Lauderdale that showcases native and exotic plants, along with rescued animals like flamingos, panthers, and alligators.
History: Originally a citrus grove established in 1927 by Floyd and Jane Wray, it evolved into a nonprofit botanical garden and wildlife refuge.
Since When: It has operated as a public garden and sanctuary since 1969 under the Floyd L. Wray Memorial Foundation.
Review: Visitors love the lush environment, beautiful flamingos, and up-close wildlife encounters, though the summer heat can be intense.
When to Go: Best visited in the cooler months from November to March for comfortable weather and active wildlife.
How to Go: Located in Davie, it’s easily reached by car from Fort Lauderdale via I-595, with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Walk through themed gardens, visit the wildlife exhibits, see live animal shows, and explore the historic Wray Home.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with general admission around $22 for adults and discounts for children and seniors.
Sawgrass Recreation Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Sawgrass Recreation Park offers thrilling airboat rides through the Florida Everglades, combined with wildlife exhibits featuring reptiles and exotic animals.
History: The park began as a small airboat tour operation and grew into a full-fledged Everglades adventure and educational attraction.
Since When: Operating for over 30 years, the park became a key tourist destination for Everglades exploration in the 1990s.
Review: Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and chance to see alligators in the wild, though the experience is weather-dependent.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the dry season from November to April when wildlife sightings are more common.
How to Go: Located about 30 minutes west of Fort Lauderdale, it’s best accessed by car via I-75 or US-27.
What to Do: Take an airboat ride, explore the reptile exhibit, learn about the Everglades, and view native and exotic animals.
Free or Paid: Entry and tours are paid, with airboat rides starting around $25 for adults.
Museum of Discovery and Science, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Museum of Discovery and Science is an interactive science and technology museum featuring exhibits on aviation, ecosystems, space, and an IMAX theater.
History: Opened to promote STEM education in South Florida, the museum has become a cornerstone of family learning and entertainment.
Since When: It opened in 1992 and has continued expanding its exhibits and educational programs.
Review: Families and school groups love the hands-on activities and immersive experiences, though weekends can get crowded.
When to Go: Best visited on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and more interactive access.
How to Go: Located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, it’s accessible by car, Brightline train, or public buses.
What to Do: Explore exhibits, watch IMAX documentaries, try simulators, and engage in live science demonstrations.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with general admission around $24 for adults and $19 for children.
Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural district known for its upscale boutiques, galleries, and lively nightlife.
History: Developed in the early 20th century, the boulevard grew into an arts and entertainment hotspot by mid-century.
Since When: It began flourishing as a commercial and cultural hub in the 1930s and gained prominence through urban renewal in the 1980s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the elegant vibe, diverse restaurants, and walkability, though parking can be a challenge during busy hours.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening for dinner, nightlife, or special events like art fairs and street festivals.
How to Go: Centrally located, it’s accessible by car, water taxi, or Sun Trolley, with parking lots and garages nearby.
What to Do: Dine al fresco, shop at boutiques, visit galleries, grab dessert, or attend events at the NSU Art Museum.
Free or Paid: Walking the boulevard is free, but shopping, dining, and parking are paid.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a scenic coastal preserve offering nature trails, kayaking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
History: Donated by Chicago attorney Hugh Taylor Birch in 1941, the park preserves a unique slice of coastal ecosystem for public enjoyment.
Since When: It has been open to the public as a state park since 1949.
Review: Nature lovers appreciate the quiet escape from the city, shaded trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities, though some facilities are dated.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the morning or during cooler months to enjoy shaded hikes and avoid mosquitoes.
How to Go: Located between the Intracoastal Waterway and A1A, it’s accessible by car, bike, or on foot from the beach area.
What to Do: Hike scenic trails, rent a kayak, picnic under the trees, fish, or explore the visitor center and lagoons.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with a modest fee of around $6 per vehicle.
Butterfly World, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Butterfly World is a large tropical park and aviary located in Coconut Creek near Fort Lauderdale, featuring thousands of butterflies, hummingbirds, botanical gardens, and insect exhibits.
History: Founded by butterfly enthusiast Ronald Boender in 1988, it became the first butterfly house in the United States and helped launch commercial butterfly farming.
Since When: It opened to the public in March 1988 and has since grown into one of the world’s largest butterfly parks.
Review: Visitors rave about the serene beauty, vibrant butterflies, and educational exhibits, although the experience may be short for the admission price.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or during spring and fall when butterfly activity is high and the weather is pleasant.
How to Go: Located in Tradewinds Park, it is accessible by car from Fort Lauderdale via Florida’s Turnpike or I-95.
What to Do: Walk through butterfly aviaries, see hummingbirds and tropical birds, explore insect museums, and shop for garden supplies.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with adult admission starting around $32 and discounts available for children and seniors.
Hollywood North Beach Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Hollywood North Beach Park is a tranquil beachfront park offering picnic areas, scenic trails, a fishing pier, and direct access to the quiet North Hollywood Beach.
History: Designed to provide a natural beachfront escape within city limits, it was developed by Broward County Parks in the late 20th century.
Since When: The park has been serving the public since the 1980s as part of regional efforts to conserve coastal areas.
Review: Visitors appreciate the peaceful environment, ample shade, and clean facilities, though some wish for more dining options.
When to Go: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and stunning sunrise or sunset views.
How to Go: Accessible by car from Fort Lauderdale via A1A or Hollywood Boulevard, with parking available at the entrance.
What to Do: Enjoy beach activities, walk along nature trails, have a picnic, fish from the pier, or rent a bike nearby.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free, but vehicle parking is paid, usually around $10 per day.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Broward Center is a premier performing arts venue located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, ballet, and community performances.
History: Opened in 1991 as part of a city redevelopment initiative, it revitalized the cultural scene and became a landmark in South Florida’s arts community.
Since When: It has been operational since February 1991 and has since expanded its offerings and educational programs.
Review: Audiences praise the world-class performances, acoustics, and architecture, though premium events can be pricey.
When to Go: Best visited during the fall to spring performing arts season (October–April) when the calendar is most active.
How to Go: Located on the New River, it’s accessible by car, Brightline train, or Water Taxi, with nearby parking garages.
What to Do: Attend a play, concert, musical, or opera, dine at on-site restaurants, or take part in arts education workshops.
Free or Paid: Events are ticketed and paid, with prices varying by show and seating.
Jungle Queen Riverboat, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Jungle Queen Riverboat is a famous sightseeing and dinner cruise experience that offers guided tours along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways and a tropical island stop with a BBQ dinner show.
History: Operating since 1935, the Jungle Queen has become an iconic part of Fort Lauderdale tourism, entertaining millions of visitors over the decades.
Since When: It has been continuously operating since 1935, making it one of the city’s longest-running attractions.
Review: Tourists love the unique river views, entertaining narration, and island experience, though the dinner cruise can feel touristy to some.
When to Go: Evening cruises are ideal for dinner and show experiences, while day tours offer better sightseeing and photography.
How to Go: Departing from Bahia Mar Yachting Center, it’s accessible by car or Water Taxi from central Fort Lauderdale.
What to Do: Enjoy a narrated river cruise, dine on an island BBQ, watch a variety show, and explore scenic waterways.
Free or Paid: It is a paid attraction, with ticket prices starting around $35 for sightseeing cruises and $60+ for dinner shows.
T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: T.Y. Park is a sprawling 150-acre urban park in Hollywood near Fort Lauderdale, known for its shaded trails, man-made lake, water park, and family-friendly amenities.
History: Developed by Broward County, the park’s name comes from a Seminole phrase meaning “meeting or gathering place,” emphasizing its community focus.
Since When: It opened to the public in the 1970s and has remained a popular recreational site for families and nature lovers.
Review: Locals and visitors love the spacious picnic areas, cleanliness, and variety of activities, especially the Castaway Island water playground.
When to Go: Ideal during weekends and holidays for family gatherings or during weekdays for a quieter nature walk.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car via Sheridan Street or I-95, with plenty of on-site parking.
What to Do: Picnic, walk or bike the trails, fish in the lake, rent paddle boats, or cool off at the seasonal water park.
Free or Paid: Entry is free for pedestrians or cyclists, but vehicle entry costs around $1.50 per person, and water park access is paid.
Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier is a uniquely designed, fish-shaped public pier offering panoramic ocean views, fishing opportunities, and beach access.
History: Originally built in the 1960s and later redeveloped as part of Pompano Beach’s oceanfront revitalization project, the new pier opened with modern amenities and design.
Since When: The redesigned pier officially reopened to the public in May 2020.
Review: Visitors appreciate the clean, modern design, scenic views, and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note it can get crowded on weekends.
When to Go: Early mornings and sunsets are the best times to visit for cooler weather, peaceful ambiance, and ideal photography.
How to Go: Located off Atlantic Boulevard, it’s easily accessible by car with adjacent parking garages and nearby public transit options.
What to Do: Fish from the pier, stroll along its length, relax on the beach, or dine at nearby oceanfront restaurants.
Free or Paid: Access to the pier for walking is free, but fishing requires a small fee or daily pass.
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: This coastal state park offers a quiet beach, mangrove trails, picnic spots, and historical significance tied to civil rights activism in Broward County.
History: Originally called John U. Lloyd Beach State Park, it was renamed in 2016 to honor civil rights leaders who fought to desegregate Florida’s beaches in the 1950s and 60s.
Since When: The park has been open since 1973 and was renamed to recognize its deeper cultural legacy.
Review: Visitors enjoy the serene, uncrowded beach and natural setting, with praise for its educational and historical value.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and enjoy nature trails or beach walks.
How to Go: Located near Port Everglades, it’s accessible by car via A1A with ample parking inside the park.
What to Do: Swim, kayak, birdwatch, hike mangrove trails, explore the Jetty Trail, or learn about its civil rights history.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with a vehicle fee of around $6 for the day.
BlueFoot Pirate Adventures, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: BlueFoot Pirate Adventures is a themed boat tour offering interactive pirate experiences for children and families aboard a replica pirate ship.
History: Founded to combine sightseeing with theatrical adventure, the tour became a popular educational and entertaining attraction on Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.
Since When: It has been entertaining families and tourists since 2011.
Review: Parents love the enthusiastic crew and child-focused fun, while kids enjoy dressing up and water cannon battles.
When to Go: Ideal during the morning or early afternoon for calmer seas and better interaction under the sun.
How to Go: Departs from the Bahia Mar Marina, easily reachable by car or Water Taxi in Fort Lauderdale.
What to Do: Join a pirate crew, go on a treasure hunt, fire water cannons, and enjoy scenic Intracoastal views.
Free or Paid: It is a paid activity, with tickets around $25 for children and $30 for adults.
Dania Beach Pier, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Dania Beach Pier is a tranquil fishing and sightseeing pier offering beautiful views, angling access, and close proximity to quiet beaches and eateries.
History: A popular spot since the 1950s, the pier was reconstructed and modernized following hurricane damage over the decades.
Since When: The most recent version of the pier reopened in the early 2000s after major renovations.
Review: Visitors enjoy the relaxed vibe, great fishing opportunities, and less crowded experience compared to other local piers.
When to Go: Early mornings or sunsets offer the best views, cooler temperatures, and more active marine life.
How to Go: Easily reached by car via Dania Beach Boulevard with paid parking available nearby.
What to Do: Fish from the pier, enjoy beachside dining, take in ocean views, or relax on the adjacent public beach.
Free or Paid: Walking access is free, but fishing requires a small fee or daily permit.
K1 Speed – Indoor Go Karts, Corporate Event Venue, Team Building Activities, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: K1 Speed is a high-energy indoor kart racing facility offering electric go-karts, arcade games, and event spaces for individuals, families, and corporate groups.
History: Part of the nationwide K1 Speed chain, the Fort Lauderdale location brought eco-friendly, high-speed racing to the area’s entertainment scene.
Since When: The Fort Lauderdale branch has been operating since the mid-2010s.
Review: Visitors appreciate the adrenaline rush, clean facilities, and friendly staff, though wait times can vary during busy hours.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and maximize track time.
How to Go: Located near I-95, it’s easily accessible by car with on-site parking.
What to Do: Race high-speed electric go-karts, compete in arcade games, relax in the lounge, or host private events.
Free or Paid: It is a paid attraction, with race packages starting around $25–30 per session.
Tree Tops Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Tree Tops Park is a sprawling 250-acre natural park featuring dense forests, hiking trails, horseback riding paths, and scenic picnic areas.
History: Developed by Broward County to preserve native Florida ecosystems, the park has long been a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the 1980s as part of local conservation efforts.
Review: Visitors praise its peaceful ambiance, well-maintained trails, and diverse wildlife sightings, though some note limited facilities.
When to Go: Early mornings or cooler months are best for hiking and wildlife observation to avoid heat and bugs.
How to Go: Accessible by car via Stirling Road with parking available at multiple entrances.
What to Do: Hike, horseback ride, birdwatch, picnic, and enjoy nature photography.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but horseback riding rentals and guided tours may be paid.
The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is a lively open-air waterfront venue offering food trucks, bars, live music, and a social atmosphere along the New River.
History: Opened in 2017, The Wharf was designed to revitalize the riverfront and create a community gathering spot with eclectic events.
Since When: Operating since late 2017, it quickly became a popular nightlife destination.
Review: Visitors love the vibrant ambiance, variety of food and drinks, and regular themed events, though it can get crowded on weekends.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening or weekends to enjoy live music and social events.
How to Go: Located downtown on the New River, accessible by car, Water Taxi, or rideshare with nearby parking.
What to Do: Eat from food trucks, enjoy craft cocktails, listen to live music, and socialize by the river.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but food, drinks, and special event tickets are paid.
Sky Zone Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Sky Zone Fort Lauderdale is an indoor trampoline park featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits, and fitness classes for all ages.
History: Part of the global Sky Zone franchise, the Fort Lauderdale location brought innovative indoor active entertainment to the area.
Since When: It has been operational since the mid-2010s.
Review: Families and teens enjoy the energetic environment and variety of activities, though some visitors find it crowded during peak hours.
When to Go: Weekdays and early afternoons are best for less crowded, more flexible jumping sessions.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car from I-95 or local highways with ample parking onsite.
What to Do: Jump on trampolines, play dodgeball, dive into foam pits, or attend fitness classes.
Free or Paid: It is a paid facility with session prices typically starting around $20 per hour.
Snyder Park, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Snyder Park is a 110-acre urban park offering multi-use trails, a dog park, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a butterfly garden.
History: Established by Broward County to provide green space and recreational amenities for Fort Lauderdale residents and visitors.
Since When: The park has been open since the late 20th century and has undergone several upgrades to enhance facilities.
Review: Visitors appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere, well-kept grounds, and variety of outdoor activities available.
When to Go: Early mornings or weekends for family outings and dog walking when the park is lively but not overcrowded.
How to Go: Accessible by car via Oakland Park Boulevard with free parking available.
What to Do: Walk trails, play at playgrounds, picnic, exercise dogs, and visit the butterfly garden.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free.
The Parker, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Parker is a boutique hotel and social hub known for its chic design, rooftop bar, and vibrant nightlife in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
History: Opened as part of a recent wave of luxury boutique hotels aimed at elevating the city’s hospitality scene.
Since When: Operating since 2019, it has become a trendy spot for locals and tourists alike.
Review: Guests and visitors enjoy the stylish ambiance, excellent cocktails, and panoramic city views, though prices are on the higher side.
When to Go: Best visited in the late afternoon to evening for sunset views and nightlife atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, it’s accessible by car, rideshare, or walking from nearby attractions.
What to Do: Enjoy rooftop cocktails, socialize at events, relax in luxury rooms, and attend weekend parties.
Free or Paid: Entry to the rooftop bar is free, but food, drinks, and hotel stays are paid.
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale is a scenic navigable waterway running along the coast, offering beautiful views, boating access, and waterfront living.
History: Constructed over the 20th century, the waterway was developed to provide a safe inland passage for boats and to promote marine commerce and recreation.
Since When: The waterway has been fully operational since the mid-1900s, evolving with Fort Lauderdale’s growth as the “Venice of America.”
Review: Boaters and visitors praise its calm waters, stunning waterfront estates, and opportunities for cruising, though traffic can be busy during peak seasons.
When to Go: Early mornings or weekdays are best to enjoy peaceful boating and less crowded waterways.
How to Go: Accessible by boat from multiple marinas, or view from waterfront parks and bridges across Fort Lauderdale.
What to Do: Go boating, kayaking, sightseeing, fishing, or enjoy waterside dining along the route.
Free or Paid: Navigating the waterway itself is free, but rentals and marina services are paid.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a historic estate offering art collections, lush tropical gardens, and insight into early 20th-century Florida lifestyle.
History: Built in 1920 by artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, the house and grounds preserve a unique blend of art, nature, and history.
Since When: The estate has been open to the public as a museum since 1983.
Review: Visitors admire the well-preserved architecture, tranquil gardens, and engaging guided tours that blend history with art appreciation.
When to Go: Weekdays and mornings are best to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful exploration.
How to Go: Located near Fort Lauderdale Beach, it’s accessible by car with parking and public transit nearby.
What to Do: Take guided tours, explore gardens, view art exhibits, and attend special events.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with tickets around $20 for adults.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach is a charming, small-town beachfront destination known for its coral reef diving, relaxed vibe, and vibrant local scene.
History: Once a quiet fishing village, it developed into a popular beach town maintaining its old Florida charm alongside modern amenities.
Since When: It has been a recognized beach destination since the mid-1900s.
Review: Visitors appreciate its clean sandy beach, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and quaint downtown with shops and restaurants.
When to Go: Year-round, with winter months offering mild weather and calmer waters for diving and snorkeling.
How to Go: Accessible by car via State Road A1A with public parking and shuttle options.
What to Do: Swim, snorkel, dive on the coral reefs, dine at local eateries, or stroll the pier and shops.
Free or Paid: Beach access is free; equipment rentals and diving tours are paid.
Fern Forest Nature Center, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Fern Forest Nature Center is a 69-acre tropical hardwood hammock preserve featuring walking trails, native plants, and educational exhibits.
History: Established by Broward County to protect native ecosystems and provide environmental education in an urban setting.
Since When: The center has welcomed visitors since the 1970s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, birdwatching, and well-marked trails, though some trails can be muddy after rain.
When to Go: Early mornings and cooler months are ideal for wildlife spotting and comfortable hiking.
How to Go: Located off Stirling Road, accessible by car with free parking available on site.
What to Do: Walk nature trails, attend guided tours, photograph wildlife, and learn at the visitor center.
Free or Paid: Entry is free.
Fishing Headquarters, Fort Lauderdale
Overview: Fishing Headquarters is a popular retail and charter fishing service offering gear, bait, and guided fishing trips in Fort Lauderdale’s rich fishing waters.
History: Established to serve recreational anglers, the store and charter service have supported Fort Lauderdale’s reputation as a top fishing destination.
Since When: Operating since the early 2000s, it has grown into a trusted name for fishing enthusiasts.
Review: Anglers commend its knowledgeable staff, quality equipment, and excellent guided fishing experiences.
When to Go: Best to visit during fishing seasons, typically from fall through spring, with trips available year-round.
How to Go: Located near the Intracoastal Waterway, accessible by car with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Purchase fishing gear, book fishing charters, get bait and tackle, or join fishing classes.
Free or Paid: The store is free to enter, but charters and equipment rentals are paid.