Choose from 15 Fun Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
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Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Florida
The Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood in Florida is a multi-tiered venue with a hotel, casino, restaurants, spa, and nightlife entertainment all on-site. It features 500 luxury suites, award-winning dining experiences, and performance venues hosting popular music and comedy acts. There’s also the Beach Club, a tropical pool, and a fully-equipped spa for those who just want to relax.
Like all Hard Rock Cafes, the main emphasis here is on food and fun. However, the Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood, Florida provides the space and functionality to host events and meetings of all kinds; while it’s ideal for groups who like to play and party all through the night, it’s also set up to accommodate things like corporate meetings and networking events.
Practical Info
The Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood is situated at 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Florida, USA
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:00AM-12:00AM (Bar open until 1:00AM)
Fri & Sat 11:00AM-2:00AM
From $ 32
Sawgrass Mills Mall
Shoppers looking for deals on brand name items have a great option when traveling to the Fort Lauderdale area thanks to Sawgrass Mills Mall in South Florida. Sawgrass Mills Mall is a Simon Center outlet mall with the claim to fame of being the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in the United States.
With over 350 stores, Sawgrass Mills Mall has something for every fashionista and budget. Outlets for designer labels are plentiful with some of the most popular ones being outlet locations for Burberry, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tory Burch and more. There are also outlets for Nike, Gap, Tommy Hilfiger and other popular brands. Department stores include Neiman Marcus and Saks Off 5th, which carry even more designer labels. Budget shoppers will enjoy perusing through T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s.
You can even stock up on necessities while shopping at Sawgrass Mills Mall as there is a Target and Bed, Bath and Beyond onsite. If you’re not into fashion, but are traveling with someone who is, you can break away and catch a movie at the onsite movie theater. When hungry, head to the animated Rainforest Café or to the mall’s food court.
Practical Info
Sawgrass Mills Mall is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is located at 12801 West Sunrise Boulevard in the city of Sunrise, which is just ten miles from Fort Lauderdale.
Address: 12801 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise, Flordia 33323, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9:30pm, Sun 11am-8pm
From $ 39
Jungle Queen Riverboat
The dignified Jungle Queen Riverboats have plied Fort Lauderdale’s New River for more than 80 years. Passengers aboard the historic vessels enjoy sightseeing along the city’s riverfront as well as in the waterway’s tropical environment—complete with extraordinary plants, exotic birds, and resident alligators. Whether you opt for a daytime or evening cruise, all come with the crew’s signature hospitality and entertainment along the way.
The Basics
The Jungle Queen Riverboat Company owns two boats and offers several tours. The daytime sightseeing cruises go up the New River, sailing past Millionaire’s Row, downtown Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades, and the Intracoastal Waterway, and more. Some cruises include a stopover at the Jungle Queen Tropical Isle where passengers see an alligator show and other native wildlife. The evening dinner cruise heads up the New River as well, but also includes an island stopover for an all-you-can-eat dinner of barbecue ribs, chicken, and shrimp, and a variety show under the tropical foliage.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Reservations are required, so make sure to book in advance.
- Choose between an evening dinner cruise (four hours) and shorter sightseeing cruises (90 minutes or three hours).
- For the dinner cruise, vegetarian meals are available upon request, but must be arranged at least 24 hours in advance.
- The boat and Tropical Isle are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
All cruises depart from Bahia Mar Yachting Center, in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Paid parking is available in the Bahia Mar Hotel lot or a public lot across from the Jungle Queen box office.
When to Get There
Jungle Queen cruises sail year-round, rain or shine, with the boats featuring covered tops. Boats begin boarding 45 minutes prior to departure.
Jungle Queen Throughout History
Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises were started in 1935 as a few small boats that gave sightseeing tours through the "Venice of America" — Fort Lauderdale's historic New River. After WWII, a dinner cruise was incorporated and since 1958 the cruises have included a vaudeville-style variety show. Today Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises are still run by the same family who took over in 1958.
Address: 801 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale 33316, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Hollywood Beach
Florida’s Hollywood Beach is best known for its red-brick boardwalk and panoramic seaside views. Located in the coastal city of Hollywood between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, this sandy stretch of coast is an ideal spot for people watching, sunbathing, and swimming.
The Basics
Hollywood Beach Boardwalk stretches 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) along the coast, making it a popular exercise spot for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Seaside restaurants offer a variety of dining options, from hot dogs and pizza to sit-down Italian fare. Family-friendly parks provide entertainment for younger kids, while the Hollywood Beach Theatre often hosts free concerts. Due to the beach’s large size, Segway tours are a good option for exploring as they allow you to cover more ground than you would on foot. For a special treat, air tours offer epic sunset views of the beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The children’s water playground at Charnow Park is a great destination for families with kids.
- There are three sets of public restrooms along the boardwalk.
- Pets are prohibited in public areas of the beach and the boardwalk.
- Parking is available in both garages and non-metered neighborhood spots. Drivers with disabled-parking placards can park for up to four hours in any non-metered space.
How to Get There
Hollywood Beach is located 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Miami International Airport and less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Fort Lauderdale and the Hollywood International Airport. Public buses run roughly every hour from downtown Hollywood to the beach, and parking is readily available nearby.
When to Get There
Hollywood Beach is open 24 hours daily, although boardwalk businesses keep varying hours. Summer weekends are typically busy, especially from March through May when South Florida weather is at its best. Fall brings hurricane season.
Downtown Hollywood
Located just 10 minutes by road from Hollywood Beach, downtown Hollywood is an important center for arts and culture. Arts enthusiasts can enjoy visiting the gallery at the Art and Culture Center, the curated collection of murals at the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, and concerts and visual-arts shows at the Young Circle ArtsPark.
Address: Hollywood Beach, Flordia, USA
From $ 63
Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk is a linear public park located by the New River in the historic downtown district of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Its tropical landscaping and winding pathways link some of the city’s best attractions.
The Basics
The Riverwalk area, frequently described as the "Venice of America" by locals and visitors, consists of a park, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a movie theater, making it a popular destination for strolling, eating, and catching some outdoor entertainment. The complex also includes big attractions such as the Stranahan House, the Broward Center for Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Florida Grand Opera, and Esplanade Park.
There are several ways to explore the Riverwalk, including walking tours, Segway tours, or sightseeing cruises with operators such as Jungle Queen Riverboat. Those boat rides will cover the Riverwalk, as well as glimpses of Millionaire's Row, a stretch of luxe houses and their attendant mega yachts that runs from Tarpon Bend to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Public restrooms are stationed at regular intervals along the Riverwalk.
- In addition to a variety of local restaurants, there are also several picnic areas for those who want to pack a meal.
- The Riverwalk is ADA accessible.
- Parking is available on SW 4th Street by the pavilion.
- Dogs are allowed on the Riverwalk, but they must be leashed.
How to Get There
Two main streets run through the Riverwalk district: Las Olas Boulevard and Himmarshee Street. Bus numbers 11, 30, and 40 stop in the area. There is no dedicated parking lot, but there is parking available up and down the streets connecting to the Riverwalk.
When to Get There
The Riverwalk is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round. Paths are lighted, which can make for a delightful evening stroll—especially in summer and fall, when the weather tends to be uncomfortably hot and humid during the day. The most popular time to visit Fort Lauderdale is between December and April, when temperatures are between the mid-50s and mid-80s.
Events at the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
The Riverwalk has a packed calendar year round, including yoga classes, musical performances, sports competitions, and popular annual events such as the Riverwalk Fall Festival, the 80s Dance Party, or the Smoke on the Water Barbecue Competition.
Address: Fort Lauderdale, USA
From $ 25
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Located only 30 minutes outside downtown Ft Lauderdale, the Sawgrass Recreation Park offers guided airboat rides through the marshy, humid swamp waters of the Florida Everglades. Visitors get the chance to spot alligators and other marshland animals such as pythons, black leopards, and the endangered Florida panther living in the wild. A visit to the park is a venture into the heart of Florida's past and the wilderness that it still supports today.
Those looking for a unique thrill can take part in the nighttime alligator-viewing sessions, during which it's possible to spot lurking gators by flashlight.
Practical Info
Boats leave every 20 minutes from 9:30am to 3:30pm. A final boat leaves at 5pm, but it's recommended to arrive no later than 4pm because the animal exhibits close at 5pm when the last boat boards. During the summer months, it's best to visit during morning hours—afternoons in the Everglades are prone to wind and thunderstorms. Children under age 4 enter for free, and free parking is avaliable onsite.
Address: 1006 N. U.S. Highway 27, Weston, Florida 33327, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Adults $22.95, children (4–12) $12.95
From $ 24
Fort Lauderdale Beachfront
Featuring over 23 miles (37 kilometers) of pristine beach, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to swim and sunbathe. The Fort Lauderdale beachfront offers a wide number of experiences, like wind surfing, jet skiing, boating, snorkeling, deep sea fishing and scuba diving. If you’d rather stay on land, jogging, cycling, rollerblading and beach sports like volleyball and Frisbee are worthwhile beachfront options.
Spend some time in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, known for its scuba diving offerings and pier where you can watch fishermen reeling in fresh catch. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is another top experience when exploring Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront, and can be accessed via the pedestrian tunnel under A1A. This park has a tropical-feel and offers chances to kayak, fish and cycle. And of course, visiting the beaches themselves is a must, like the family-friendly Deerfield Beach, trendy Fort Lauderdale Beach and adventure-focused Hallandale Beach.
In terms of accommodation, there are a number of Fort Lauderdale beachfront hotels, including the Atlantic Resort & Spa, a luxury boutique hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway; the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel; and the beachfront Ocean Sky Hotel and Resort.
There are also a number of restaurants on the waterfront. After you eat, stroll down the Boulevard to peruse the many boutique shops or grab a drink at a tiki bar.
Spend some time in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, known for its scuba diving offerings and pier where you can watch fishermen reeling in fresh catch. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is another top experience when exploring Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront, and can be accessed via the pedestrian tunnel under A1A. This park has a tropical-feel and offers chances to kayak, fish and cycle. And of course, visiting the beaches themselves is a must, like the family-friendly Deerfield Beach, trendy Fort Lauderdale Beach and adventure-focused Hallandale Beach.
In terms of accommodation, there are a number of Fort Lauderdale beachfront hotels, including the Atlantic Resort & Spa, a luxury boutique hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway; the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel; and the beachfront Ocean Sky Hotel and Resort.
There are also a number of restaurants on the waterfront. After you eat, stroll down the Boulevard to peruse the many boutique shops or grab a drink at a tiki bar.
Practical Info
There are no fees to visit Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront. The city’s beaches are pristine and offer many opportunities for recreation, so allot a minimum of four hours -- although you’ll probably want more -- for your visit. Keep in mind it can get very hot in Fort Lauderdale, so sunscreen, a hat and extra drinking water is recommended.
Address: Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
From $ 25
Stranahan House
The Stranahan House is the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale. It was built in 1902 as a trading post by Frank Stranahan, the founder of the city, and used by Stranahan’s wife, Ivy, as a school house. Over the decades it has also served as a post office, community center, and town hall. Today it’s a historic attraction that’s open daily for guided tours.
The Basics
The Stranahan House is a wood-frame, two-story green-and-white house, now modest and unassuming at its location on Fort Lauderdale’s bustling Las Olas Avenue. The house has been restored to show visitors what it looked like in 1915, when it first fitted with electricity and indoor plumbing. On your guided tour, you can learn about the Stranahans’ life and see Ivy’s original china and quilt, which is draped across her bed upstairs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a must for history buffs, as it tells the story of the evolution of present-day Fort Lauderdale and Florida.
- There is an on-site gift shop stocked with unique souvenirs.
- The Stranahan House is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
This house is located between the Riverside Hotel and the Icon just off Las Olas Boulevard on the New River, over the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel. From I-95, take the Broward Boulevard exit, and then turn right on 6th Street. Public parking is located on Las Olas Boulevard and in nearby lots.
When to Get There
Guided tours of the house take place at 1, 2, and 3pm each day, and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. One of the best times to visit is during the holidays, when the Historic Stranahan House Museum is decorated in a Victorian Christmas theme. Holiday River Tours, which float down the New River, include costumed docents and festive live music.
Ivy and Frank
Ivy Stranahan, a former teacher in Miami, worked with the Seminole tribe and offered informal lessons to Seminole children. Though her husband is credited as the ounder of modern day Fort Lauderdale, he became severely depressed after the collapse of Florida’s land boom and two devastating hurricanes. After he drowned himself in the river in front of his home, in May 1929, Ivy continued to live there, renting out the rooms and leasing out the lower floor to restaurants, until her death in 1971.
Address: 335 Southeast 6th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale 33301, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 55
Dania Beach Pier
If you’re an angler— or just an aspiring angler—head to Dania Beach Pier in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This pier has some of the best fishing in the area, plus everything to help you get started, with on-site fishing pole rentals and bait, plus prime spots for catching yellowtail snapper, grouper, and bluefish.
The Basics
Dania Beach Pier, a 974-foot (297-meter) pier jetting out across the Atlantic Ocean, is occasionally surrounded by manta ray, barracuda, or even some sharks. You can either watch the locals fishing—or, better yet, cast a line yourself. Buy bait and rent rods at the sundry store right on the pier; there are benches and tables used for cleaning fish. There’s also a restaurant, Quarterdeck, and lights should you be interested in night fishing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a great stop for people who like to fish, as well as those who want to watch locals doing their thing.
- You don’t have to have a Florida fishing license in order to fish on the pier.
- A small entry fee varies based on whether you’re fishing or spectating.
- There are restrooms at the pier.
How to Get There
Dania Beach Pier is located in Dania Beach, about 5 miles (8 kilometers ) south of Fort Lauderdale. From Fort Lauderdale, take U.S. 1 South to Dania Beach Boulevard. Metered parking is available in a nearby lot. The closest stop on Broward County Public Transit is Dania Beach B/Gulfstream R, just a 5-minute walk from the pier.
When to Get There
You can access the pier from 6am to midnight daily; the best time to fish is generally in the early morning or late afternoon. If you can avoid fishing on weekends, during spring break, and other times when the pier will be most crowded, you might have the best luck.
Quarterdeck Restaurant
Quarterdeck, the restaurant on the pier, offers delicious seafood and some of the best views around. You can’t go wrong ordering up some fresh fish—the sushi’s great here, too. Best of all, every table overlooks the water.
Address: 300 N Beach Rd, Dania Beach, Flordia 33004, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 63
Intracoastal Waterway
Long disparaged as Miami's lesser northern neighbor, Fort Lauderdale has recently come into its own with a renovated waterfront, a burgeoning culinary scene, and beaches worthy of palm-swept daydreams bringing rightful attention to the Venice of America. Stretching 3,000 miles (4,800 km) between the United States' Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the city's Intracoastal Waterway provides easy access to maritime activities and on-shore attractions along the 300 miles of inland canals that wind through south Florida's unmistakable sky-high resorts and Everglades ecosystem.
The Basics
How to Get There
Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway functions as the city's artery; it's impossible to miss. Aside from organized boat tours and sightseeing tours near the water, you can take a hop-on, hop-off water taxi through the city's canals and access 15 popular stops, including Seville Street Beach, Las Olas Boulevard, the Stranahan House, Bahia Mar Marina, and the Hilton Marina/Convention Center.
When to Get There
The Basics
Aside from serving as a means of transportation, the Intracoastal Waterway offers countless opportunities for recreation, especially in Fort Lauderdale's year-round sunshine. From classy dinner and sightseeing cruises to riverfront gondola tours, visitors can enjoy the water in whatever fashion floats their boat as they travel past forested coasts at Port Everglades; high-end real estate at the famous Millionaires Row; luxury resorts at Hyatt Pier; the drawbridge at the 17th Street Causeway; and the entertainment complex at the Las Olas Riverfront. Didn't pack your sea legs? The water-wary can opt for a walking or Segway tour along the coast, or even see the sights from above on a helicopter excursion over turquoise waters.
- The waterway offers activity options for every type of traveler, from families to the adventurous solo explorer.
- Book tickets for higher-end tours in advance, as limited-passenger options fill up more quickly than less exclusive tours.
- Be sure to bring plenty of sun protection and dress for sunshine and ocean breezes.
- Waterside restaurants are generally casual, but travelers should dress to impress at the fine dining establishments.
Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway functions as the city's artery; it's impossible to miss. Aside from organized boat tours and sightseeing tours near the water, you can take a hop-on, hop-off water taxi through the city's canals and access 15 popular stops, including Seville Street Beach, Las Olas Boulevard, the Stranahan House, Bahia Mar Marina, and the Hilton Marina/Convention Center.
When to Get There
Fort Lauderdale's tropical climate remains warm and wet year-round, with average highs of more than 80°F (27°C) for eight months of the year. Heat and humidity lovers will thrive from May to October; otherwise, opt for a winter or spring tour.
Address: Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
From $ 17
Everglades Holiday Park
Everglades Holiday Park is a classic—if a bit kitschy—introduction to the Florida Everglades and its wild inhabitants. Geared toward the whole family and nicknamed the "Gateway to the Everglades," the 29-acre park has been entertaining and educating visitors for more than 30 years. Most famous for its guided airboat rides, Everglades Holiday Park is also the home to Animal Planet’s Gator Boys show.
On an airboat tour, see where Florida gators make their home and learn why it's so important to protect these areas. An experienced guide will point out some of the region's unique features, including wild birds, snakes, and other flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else in the United States.
As a working park and rescue operation, Everglades Holiday Park believes the best way to raise awareness about the importance of conserving natural wetlands is by allowing its visitors access to some of its best-known inhabitants. All the alligators featured at Everglades Holiday Park are natural inhabitants of the Everglades, or rescue animals, and their health and wellbeing is taken very seriously.
Practical Info
Everglades Holiday Park is located at the western end of Griffin Road, off U.S. 27. Admission includes an airboat tour, a gator show, and a group photo. While Viator does not sell these activities, animal encounters are available for purchase at the park for an additional cost of $99. Airboat tours operate daily, departing every 20 minutes during the park's opening hours. Children 3 years of age and younger enter free.
Address: 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33332, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm
Admission: Adults $30.99; children (3–11) $18.99
From $ 33
Las Olas Beach
With soft, white sand and clean, calm waters ideal for families and people who like to wade and relax in the ocean, Las Olas Beach is the quintessential Fort Lauderdale beach. The beach offers great sunbathing, and you can also rent beach umbrellas and chairs.
The Basics
Located a few steps from the trendy restaurants and shops of famed Las Olas Avenue, Las Olas Beach feels like a small beach with calm waters and a family-friendly environment during the day. In the evening, things become a bit more lively atmosphere as the nightlife crowd on Las Olas Avenue heats up. In addition to chair and umbrella rentals, you can also rent water sports equipment.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The beach has public restrooms.
- Alcohol and loud music aren't permitted at this beach.
- Chairs and umbrellas rent for about $12 and $20 per day, respectively.
How to Get There
Las Olas Beach is located about 1 mile east of downtown Fort Lauderdale, Florida. You can reach the beach by taking either the No. 11 or 40 bus right to Las Olas Beach. Public parking is available, but spaces can be limited during busier times of the day.
When to Get There
Las Olas Beach is open 24 hours a day throughout the year. If you're seeking a quieter experience, time your visit for earlier in the morning; a more lively beach scene typically kicks off in the afternoon and early evening, and there's often a party atmosphere on weekends.
Try a Water Taxi
One of the most interesting ways to get around this area of Fort Lauderdale is by water taxi. You can take a water taxi from Las Olas around Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, hitting up shops, hotels, restaurants, and major attractions, with a narrated tour along the way.
Address: Las Olas Beach, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
From $ 18
Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science
More than 200 interactive exhibits await families at this Fort Lauderdale museum, which is dedicated to curiosity and exploration. With the largest captive live Atlantic coral reef habitat, an IMAX theater, an Everglades Airboat Adventure, and an FA-18 cockpit 7D simulator, the museum offers children and their parents a day of exploration.
The Basics
Located on Las Olas Boulevard in downtown Fort Lauderdale, this two-story art and science museum is family-friendly. On the main floor, you’ll find the permanent exhibits, including the Discovery Center (for kids 6 and under); an Everglades Airboat Adventure, which simulates a ride through the Florida swamps; exhibits on Florida’s ecosystems; a glimpse at live otters at play; and a Storm Center with a hurricane simulator. Don’t miss getting your photo in the mouth of the Megalodon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the museum. The IMAX theater concession sells snacks and drinks.
- There is an on-site gift shop.
- The museum offers free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
MODS is located in the Arts & Science District in downtown Fort Lauderdale on Second Street, across from Riverwalk’s Esplanade Park. From Miami or Palm Beach, take I-95 to the Broward Boulevard exit, then drive east to SW Fifth Avenue and turn right. The museum is on your left, with a parking garage on the right. The Brightline express train stops two blocks away from the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open 10am–5pm Monday through Saturday and noon–5pm on Sunday; it’s closed only closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and special events. If you can, catch an IMAX 3D show in the largest theater in Florida. In March, the museum hosts an annual Wine, Spirits, and Culinary Celebration, with a Grand Tasting featuring more than 40 South Florida restaurants.
In the Mouth of a Megalodon
One of the best photo opportunities at MODS is in the mouth of the Megalodon, considered to be the largest sharks that ever lived on earth. Some of their teeth alone measured seven inches (17 centimeters) long, and their jaws are estimated to be about three times as big as the Great White Shark. Occasionally, visitors to South Florida find fossilized Megalodon teeth washed up on area beaches.
Address: 401 Southwest 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale 33312, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 63
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, which spans 80 acres (73 hectares) of land, is a ruggedly beautiful park in the middle of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There’s something for everyone here: paved paths for bicyclists, several nature trails for hikers, and more than 200 plant species. A freshwater lagoon is a great place for canoeing or kayaking, and you can fish here, too.
The Basics
Start by swinging by the Terramar Visitor Center, where you’ll gain a basic understanding of the ecology and history of the park. From there, you can go swimming, canoeing, camping, bicycling, or picnicking among the plentiful wildlife, which includes turtles, butterflies, opossums, squirrels, and more than 200 species of birds. There are several guided walks and presentations each week.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can order a meal or a snack at Park & Ocean, the on-site restaurant and bar.
- Beach wheelchairs are available from the Beach Concession.
- You can check out the park’s one-mile audio tour for free.
- Restrooms are located at the Beach Concession.
How to Get There
The park is adjacent to Fort Lauderdale Beach on East Sunrise Boulevard, about three miles (4.8 kilometers) northeast of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Take US-1 North to Sunrise Boulevard. Paid parking is available on-site. The nearest bus stop is Sunrise and A1A, about a four-minute walk.
When to Get There
The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is open 8am to sunset year round and hosts regular events, from the annual South Florida Folk Festival to nature walks throughout the week, including guided themed tours on Fridays and Saturdays. Check the calendar to see what’s happening during your visit, and remember that weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Gopher Tortoises
One of the most interesting animals you might see here is the Gopher Tortoise, a threatened species and the only native tortoise species in the eastern United States. It’s also considered a keystone species because it shares its burrow with more than 350 other animal species.
Address: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
Hours: Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Admission: Varies
From $ 47
Las Olas Boulevard
You can spend a full day strolling up and down this eclectic South Florida district, which is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and al fresco dining options. The 10 blocks that span all the way to the ocean are lined with palm trees and Mediterranean architecture, and set the stage for a relaxing day or night in Fort Lauderdale.
The Basics
Las Olas Boulevard is home to some 65 stores, 10 international art galleries, two museums (the NSU Art Museum and the Museum of Discovery & Science), and more than 30 restaurants, which are considered some of the best in the area. Shoppers and window shoppers alike enjoy visiting this Fort Lauderdale destination, which you can also enjoy by bike tour. The eastern side of the boulevard is lined with canals, making it a picturesque place to stroll.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Las Olas Boulevard is an ideal destination for shoppers and art lovers.
- Several shops in the district are pet friendly.
- Note that there are few public restrooms in this area.
- The Sun Trolley runs from Fort Lauderdale up the boulevard to the beach.
How to Get There
Las Olas Boulevard is located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and spans the city from Andrews Avenue to the beach. If you’re traveling from Boca Raton, take I-95 South to the Broward Boulevard exit. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. The Sun Trolley also runs through Las Olas Boulevard from Fort Lauderdale.
When to Get There
Happy hour, from 4–7pm on weekdays, is an ideal time to enjoy light bites and drink deals. Weekend brunch is another great way to enjoy the restaurants and people-watch on the boulevard. Several restaurants offer live entertainment; check the schedule in advance to see what’s playing when you’re in town.
Origin of Las Olas
“Las Olas” means “the waves” in Spanish, a reference to the street’s proximity to the beach. In the early 1900s, the now-bustling boulevard was simply a dirt road that led to the beach. For years, the area was nothing more than a local spot to run errands, offering little to do in the evenings. But in the last few decades, the stretch has seen a surge in businesses catering to young professionals, including several pubs and trendy restaurants.
Address: Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
From $ 29