things to do in fort lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, also known as the "Venice of America," is a popular tourist destination in Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural scene. Here are some things to do in Fort Lauderdale:

Beaches and Water Activities

1. Beach Relaxation: Fort Lauderdale has 23 miles of coastline, with popular beaches like Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood Beach, and Pompano Beach.
2. Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, Everglades National Park, or the Florida Keys.
3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Discover the underwater world at the Fort Lauderdale Beach, where you can spot marine life like sea turtles and colorful fish.
4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Attractions and Landmarks

1. Las Olas Boulevard: This iconic boulevard is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, and is a great place to stroll and people-watch.
2. Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of the ocean and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
3. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale: This museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by famous artists like Picasso and Warhol.
4. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens: This historic estate was once the home of artist and philanthropist Frederic Clay Bartlett, and features beautiful gardens and a museum.

Nightlife and Entertainment

1. Las Olas Boulevard at Night: The boulevard comes alive at night, with bars, clubs, and restaurants offering live music and cocktails.
2. The Wharf: This entertainment complex features a marina, restaurants, and bars, as well as live music and events.
3. Hollywood Beach Boardwalk: This boardwalk is a great place to stroll and enjoy the nightlife, with bars and restaurants along the way.
4. Fort Lauderdale Improv Comedy Club: Catch a live comedy show at this popular club, featuring both local and national comedians.

Outdoor Activities

1. Everglades National Park: Take an airboat tour or hike through the park’s vast wetlands and mangrove forests.
2. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: This park features hiking trails, a nature center, and a beautiful beach.
3. Markham Park: This 180-acre park offers hiking trails, a lake, and a variety of wildlife.
4. Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk: This scenic walkway follows the New River and offers stunning views of the city.

Food and Drink

1. Seafood: Fort Lauderdale is famous for its seafood, with many restaurants serving fresh fish and shellfish.
2. Cuban Cuisine: The city has a large Cuban population, and you can find many restaurants serving traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and arroz con pollo.
3. Craft Beer: Fort Lauderdale has a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
4. Food Tours: Take a guided food tour to sample the city’s diverse culinary scene.

Events and Festivals

1. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: This annual boat show attracts thousands of visitors and features the latest boats and yachts.
2. Fort Lauderdale Jazz Festival: This festival features live jazz music and performances by local and national artists.
3. Las Olas Art Fair: This annual art fair features works by local and national artists, as well as live music and food.
4. Fort Lauderdale Pride: This annual festival celebrates the city’s LGBTQ+ community with parades, parties, and events.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.