Welcome to Fort Lauderdale, a city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll highlight the top attractions and must-see places in the city, so you can make the most out of your visit.
Key Takeaways:
- Fort Lauderdale is a city full of diverse activities and sights.
- The city is known for its beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and rich history.
- The top attractions in Fort Lauderdale include beaches, museums, and scenic promenades.
Fort Lauderdale Beaches
Fort Lauderdale is known for its beautiful beaches, attracting tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Fort Lauderdale:
| Beach Name | Location | Features and Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale Beach | Along A1A, near Las Olas Boulevard | Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, restaurants and bars nearby |
| Las Olas Beach | Along A1A, near Las Olas Boulevard | Family-friendly, picnic areas, playgrounds, lifeguards on duty |
| Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Beach | 3109 E Sunrise Blvd | Nature trails, fishing, picnic areas, camping, canoeing and kayaking |
Fort Lauderdale Beach is probably the most famous beach in the city, offering a stunning view of the ocean and the city skyline. It also has plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Las Olas Beach is a great option for families with children, as it features playgrounds, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty. It’s located within walking distance of Las Olas Boulevard, where you can find shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Beach is a great spot for nature lovers, offering plenty of outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. It’s also a great place for camping, with plenty of campsites available for visitors.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure-packed day of outdoor activities, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone.
Las Olas Boulevard
Looking for a chic and sophisticated shopping experience in Fort Lauderdale? Look no further than Las Olas Boulevard. This trendy street is home to some of the city’s most upscale shops, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fashion and fine dining.
The boulevard stretches from the beach to the heart of downtown and is packed with attractions and points of interest. Stop by the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale to admire its impressive collection of contemporary art, or visit the Stranahan House, one of the oldest structures in the city and a great place to learn about local history.
But Las Olas Boulevard isn’t just about high-end shopping and culture. It’s also a great place to hang out with friends, grab a drink, and people-watch. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Italian, or American cuisine, the boulevard has a restaurant to suit your taste buds.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
The Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale, located along the New River, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Offering a scenic promenade amidst lush greenery and serene waters, the Riverwalk is a perfect spot for a tranquil walk or a picnic with family and friends.
Along the Riverwalk, visitors can explore a plethora of attractions, including the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, a world-class cultural venue featuring top-notch performances and events. Additionally, history buffs will appreciate the Historic Stranahan House Museum, a unique glimpse into the city’s past, showcasing the lives and times of the pioneers who helped shape Fort Lauderdale.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a unique historic house museum located in Fort Lauderdale. The house was built in the 1920s and 1930s by Frederic Clay Bartlett, a wealthy artist and art collector. The property is known for its stunning gardens, which are open to the public for tours and events.
The gardens at the Bonnet House feature a variety of ecosystems, including a freshwater slough, mangrove wetlands, and a maritime forest. Visitors can explore the gardens on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the plants and wildlife native to the area.
| Address: | 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-4pm (last tour at 3pm) |
| Admission: | $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, $12 for students, and $7 for children (ages 6-12) |
Note: The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is closed on Mondays, as well as on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Reservations are recommended for guided tours.
Museum of Discovery and Science
Get ready for a fun-filled day of learning and exploration at the Museum of Discovery and Science! This family-friendly museum is the perfect place to discover the wonders of science and technology through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
Explore the fascinating world of Florida’s ecosystems at the Florida Ecoscapes exhibit, where you can learn about the state’s diverse plants and animals. Or, experience the thrill of a flight simulation at the Runways to Rockets exhibit, where you can pilot a plane or launch a rocket into space!
But that’s not all – the museum also features an IMAX Theater, where you can watch breathtaking films on a giant screen. With ever-changing exhibitions and special events throughout the year, there is always something new to discover at the Museum of Discovery and Science.
Everglades Day Safari
Looking for an adventure? Look no further than the Everglades Day Safari, an immersive guided tour through the stunning Everglades. This unforgettable experience is perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
The safari includes a variety of activities, from airboat rides to nature walks. You’ll have the chance to spot incredible wildlife, including alligators, birds, and more. The knowledgeable guides will educate you on the unique ecosystem of the Everglades and the importance of conservation efforts.
This tour is great for families or groups looking for an exciting day trip. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Everglades.
Fort Lauderdale Historical Society
Explore the rich history of Fort Lauderdale by visiting the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society. The society preserves and showcases the city’s history through exhibits and artifacts that bring the past to life.
Step back in time and learn about the pioneers who settled in the area, the Seminole Indians who lived off the land, and the city’s growth and development throughout the years. The Fort Lauderdale Historical Society offers a unique and immersive experience that provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s past.
| Exhibits | Events |
|---|---|
| The Pioneer House | Celebrate the city’s history at the annual Pioneer Days Festival |
| The Seminole Encampment | Attend lectures and presentations by local historians and authors |
| The History Museum | Experience living history performances by costumed actors |
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society also hosts special events and programs throughout the year. From lectures and presentations by local historians and authors to living history performances by costumed actors, these events offer a unique and engaging experience for visitors.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about Fort Lauderdale’s past, the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society is a must-visit attraction.
Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art
The Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers in the city. This renowned museum features a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs from a range of time periods.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Diego Rivera, and Norman Rockwell. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary and traditional art from around the world.
Visitors to the museum can also participate in educational programs and events, including lectures, films, and workshops. The museum’s outdoor plaza hosts live music performances and other cultural events throughout the year.
Conclusion
With its beautiful beaches, charming streets, and rich cultural offerings, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an educational experience, this vibrant city has it all.
From the stunning Riverwalk and the fascinating Museum of Discovery and Science to the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens and the renowned Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art, there are plenty of must-see attractions to explore.
So why not plan a trip to Fort Lauderdale today and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer? We guarantee it will be a trip you’ll never forget!
FAQ
Q: What are the must-see attractions in Fort Lauderdale?
A: The top attractions in Fort Lauderdale include Fort Lauderdale Beaches, Las Olas Boulevard, Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, Museum of Discovery and Science, Everglades Day Safari, Fort Lauderdale Historical Society, and Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art.
Q: Which beaches are worth visiting in Fort Lauderdale?
A: Fort Lauderdale is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the top beaches to visit include Fort Lauderdale Beach, Las Olas Beach, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Beach.
Q: What can I expect to find on Las Olas Boulevard?
A: Las Olas Boulevard is a popular street in Fort Lauderdale known for its upscale shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Along the boulevard, you’ll find attractions such as the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale and the Stranahan House.
Q: What is there to do along the Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale?
A: The Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale is a scenic promenade along the New River. Along the Riverwalk, you can explore attractions such as the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Historic Stranahan House Museum.
Q: Tell me about the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.
A: The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic house museum in Fort Lauderdale known for its beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history, as well as enjoy the various gardens on the property.
Q: What can I expect at the Museum of Discovery and Science?
A: The Museum of Discovery and Science is a family-friendly museum in Fort Lauderdale. It features interactive exhibits, educational programs, an IMAX theater, and the Florida Ecoscapes exhibit.
Q: What activities are included in the Everglades Day Safari?
A: The Everglades Day Safari is a guided tour through the Everglades. It includes activities such as airboat rides, wildlife spotting, and nature walks, allowing visitors to experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades.
Q: What can I learn at the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society?
A: The Fort Lauderdale Historical Society preserves and showcases the history of the city. Visitors can explore exhibits and artifacts, as well as participate in special events and programs offered by the society.
Q: What kind of art can I find at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art?
A: The Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art is a renowned art museum featuring a diverse collection of artworks. You can expect to see various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also offers special events and programs.
