30 Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale
Discover 30 top things to do in Fort Lauderdale, from beaches and Water Taxi cruises to Las Olas, Everglades airboats, museums and nightlife.
Discover the best of Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale combines laid-back beach days with boating, waterfront dining, culture and easy access to the Florida Everglades. Nicknamed the “Venice of America” for its extensive network of canals and waterways, the city is particularly rewarding when explored from the water, whether you hop aboard the Water Taxi, charter a private boat or cruise past mansions and superyachts along the Intracoastal.
Back on land, you can spend your time around Fort Lauderdale Beach, Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk, explore historic homes and museums or head to nearby nature reserves, reefs and family attractions. Evenings bring everything from waterfront restaurants and live theater to cocktails and lively bars.
Our Fort Lauderdale vacation rentals give couples, families and groups a private base for exploring South Florida, with selected homes featuring private pools, spacious outdoor areas, waterfront settings, games rooms and large entertainment spaces.
Iconic Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
1. Stroll along Las Olas Boulevard
Location / Neighborhood: Downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Best For: Couples, families, shopping, restaurants.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to explore; shopping and dining extra.
Start your Fort Lauderdale sightseeing along Las Olas Boulevard, one of the city’s best-known streets for restaurants, boutiques, galleries and evening entertainment. The boulevard stretches from the downtown area towards the beach, with palm-lined sections that are easy to explore on foot between coffee stops, shopping and lunch.
Its central location also makes Las Olas a convenient starting point for the Riverwalk and Water Taxi. Insider tip: visit during the late afternoon so you can browse the shops before staying for dinner and drinks once the boulevard becomes livelier after dark.
2. Walk along the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
Location / Neighborhood: Downtown / New River.
Best For: Couples, families, walking, free activities.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free.
Follow the Riverwalk beside the New River for an easy introduction to downtown Fort Lauderdale. Landscaped paths connect parks, restaurants, cultural attractions and historic sites, while boats and yachts regularly pass along the water beside you.
The route puts you close to attractions such as the Museum of Discovery and Science, Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Stranahan House, making it easy to build a full sightseeing day around the riverfront. Insider tip: walk the Riverwalk towards late afternoon, then continue to Las Olas Boulevard for dinner.
3. Ride the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
Location / Neighborhood: Intracoastal Waterway and New River.
Best For: First-time visitors, families, couples, sightseeing.
Estimated Time Needed: 2 hours to full day.
Cost / Entry: $$; ticket options vary.
See why Fort Lauderdale is called the “Venice of America” aboard its distinctive Water Taxi. Boats connect waterfront neighborhoods, beaches, restaurants and attractions, allowing you to hop on and off while enjoying views of luxury homes, yachts and the Intracoastal Waterway.
It works as both transportation and sightseeing, making it particularly useful if you want to experience the city without spending the whole day driving. Insider tip: use the Water Taxi early in your vacation to get your bearings, then return to the neighborhoods and restaurants that catch your attention.
4. Relax on Fort Lauderdale Beach
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach / A1A.
Best For: Families, couples, swimming, sunbathing.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: Free; parking and rentals extra.
Spend a classic South Florida day on Fort Lauderdale Beach, where broad stretches of sand meet warm Atlantic water beside the city’s distinctive beachfront promenade. Swim, sunbathe or take a walk beside the ocean before crossing A1A for restaurants, cafés and shops.
The beach’s proximity to downtown means you can combine several hours by the sea with Las Olas, the Water Taxi or an evening restaurant reservation without making a long journey. Insider tip: always check the lifeguard flags and current ocean conditions before swimming, particularly when rip-current warnings are in place.
5. Tour Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Best For: Couples, families, art, history, gardens.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; admission applies.
Step into a quieter side of Fort Lauderdale at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a historic estate surrounded by tropical vegetation close to the beach. The property combines art, architecture, family history and landscaped gardens, creating a striking contrast with the modern hotels and waterfront developments surrounding it.
Spend time exploring the house and grounds while learning about the artists and families connected with the estate. Insider tip: allow enough time for the gardens rather than focusing only on the house, and combine your visit with nearby Fort Lauderdale Beach or Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
6. Visit the Historic Stranahan House Museum
Location / Neighborhood: Downtown / New River.
Best For: History lovers, couples, families.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; guided tour admission applies.
Learn how Fort Lauderdale developed from a small settlement into a major South Florida city at the Historic Stranahan House Museum. Built beside the New River in the early 20th century, the house is closely associated with pioneers Frank and Ivy Stranahan and offers an intimate introduction to the city’s early history.
Its riverside location also makes it particularly easy to include during a Riverwalk or Las Olas sightseeing day. Insider tip: take a guided tour rather than simply viewing the exterior, as the stories connected with the building provide much of the reason to visit.
Best Water Activities in Fort Lauderdale
7. Take a Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
Location / Neighborhood: New River / Intracoastal Waterway.
Best For: Families, couples, groups, sightseeing.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–4 hours depending on cruise.
Cost / Entry: $.
Cruise through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat, one of the city’s long-running sightseeing experiences. Routes travel along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway, passing waterfront homes, yachts and sections of the city that are best appreciated from the water.
Different cruise formats can include straightforward sightseeing or longer experiences with dining and entertainment. Insider tip: choose the shorter sightseeing cruise if you mainly want views of the waterways, or make the boat ride your main evening activity with one of the longer experiences.
8. Take a private gondola cruise
Location / Neighborhood: New River and downtown canals.
Best For: Couples, celebrations, romantic evenings.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$$.
For a more intimate way to experience the waterways, book a private gondola-style cruise along Fort Lauderdale’s canals and New River. Smaller boats offer a quieter alternative to large sightseeing cruises, passing waterfront homes, marinas and downtown buildings while you relax away from the road traffic.
Some cruises can also be combined with dinner, making this particularly appealing for anniversaries and romantic trips. Insider tip: book an evening departure if you want to see the waterfront homes and downtown skyline illuminated after dark.
9. Kayak at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Location / Neighborhood: Between Fort Lauderdale Beach and the Intracoastal.
Best For: Families, couples, kayaking, nature.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; park entry and rentals extra.
Paddle through one of Fort Lauderdale’s most convenient natural escapes at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Kayak and canoe rentals allow you to explore the park’s coastal dune lake, while the surrounding maritime hammock and mangrove habitat provide a peaceful contrast to the nearby beachfront.
You can combine paddling with walking trails, a picnic or time on the Atlantic beach accessed from the park. Insider tip: visit during the morning before the strongest afternoon heat, then cross to the beach once you have finished exploring.
10. Try jet skiing, paddleboarding or parasailing
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Best For: Active travelers, couples, groups, older families.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Cost / Entry:$.
Add some action to your beach day with one of Fort Lauderdale’s many watersports. Depending on conditions and local operators, you can take to the water by jet ski or paddleboard, or head into the air for a parasailing experience with views across the Atlantic and coastline.
Activities range from relaxed paddleboarding to higher-adrenaline options, so mixed groups can choose something that suits different confidence levels. Insider tip: book through established operators and always follow current weather and marine guidance, as wind and ocean conditions can affect availability.
11. Go deep-sea fishing
Location / Neighborhood: Atlantic Ocean / Fort Lauderdale marinas.
Best For: Families with older children, groups, anglers.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: $$$.
Fort Lauderdale’s easy access to the Atlantic and Gulf Stream makes it a popular base for deep-sea fishing charters. Depending on the season and conditions, trips may target species such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, sailfish and tuna, with experienced captains adjusting locations and techniques throughout the year.
Choose a shared charter for a more affordable outing or book a private boat if your group wants a personalized experience. Insider tip: ask what fishing license, equipment, bait and fish-cleaning services are included before booking so you know exactly what you need to bring.
12. Snorkel the reefs at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Location / Neighborhood: Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
Best For: Couples, families with confident swimmers, snorkeling, diving.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free with your own equipment; rentals and guides extra.
Head north to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, where natural reef habitat lies unusually close to shore. The town is particularly well known for beach snorkeling and shore diving, allowing experienced swimmers to reach reef areas without needing a boat charter.
After snorkeling, explore the compact town center and restaurants around Anglin’s Square for a relaxed seaside afternoon. Insider tip: reef conditions vary with waves, currents and visibility, so check local guidance before entering the water and consider a guided experience if you are unfamiliar with ocean snorkeling.
Cultural & Family Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
13. Visit NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
Location / Neighborhood: Downtown / Las Olas Boulevard.
Best For: Art lovers, couples, rainy days, culture.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; admission applies.
Spend a few hours exploring NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, where modern, contemporary and Latin American art feature alongside changing exhibitions. The museum’s downtown location on Las Olas Boulevard makes it easy to combine with lunch, shopping and a Riverwalk stroll.
Collections include notable holdings connected with William Glackens, postwar CoBrA artists and Latin American art. Insider tip: check the current exhibition calendar before your vacation, as temporary shows can significantly change what you experience during your visit.
14. Explore the Museum of Discovery and Science
Location / Neighborhood: Downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Best For: Families, children, science, rainy days.
Estimated Time Needed: 3–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; museum and IMAX tickets vary.
Make science interactive at the Museum of Discovery and Science, one of Fort Lauderdale’s strongest family attractions. Hands-on exhibits explore subjects ranging from Florida ecosystems and animals to engineering, technology and physical science, while the large-format AutoNation IMAX theater adds movies and educational programming.
There is enough here to occupy children for several hours, making the museum particularly useful on a very hot or rainy South Florida day. Insider tip: check IMAX showtimes before arriving so you can build a movie into your visit without waiting around between exhibits.
15. Visit Butterfly World
Location / Neighborhood: Coconut Creek.
Best For: Families, photographers, nature lovers.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; admission applies.
Walk among thousands of colorful butterflies at Butterfly World, a tropical attraction north of central Fort Lauderdale. Large screened gardens are filled with butterflies, flowering plants and tropical birds, creating an immersive environment that works particularly well for younger children and keen photographers.
The experience provides an appealing alternative to another beach or museum day. Insider tip: visit earlier in the day when conditions are cooler and butterflies may be more active.
16. Explore Flamingo Gardens
Location / Neighborhood: Davie.
Best For: Families, wildlife, gardens, photography.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; admission applies.
Discover native Florida wildlife and tropical plants at Flamingo Gardens, a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary west of Fort Lauderdale. Wander among mature trees and gardens before seeing rescued native animals that cannot be released into the wild, including birds, reptiles and other Florida species.
The historic Wray Home provides another glimpse into South Florida’s past, making this a combination of nature, wildlife and local history. Insider tip: allow several hours rather than rushing through, and check the day’s wildlife presentations or tram schedule when you arrive.
17. See a show at Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Location / Neighborhood: Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District.
Best For: Couples, families, theater, evening entertainment.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $.
Add a live performance to your itinerary at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, set beside the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The program spans Broadway touring productions, concerts, comedy, ballet, family shows and other performances throughout the year.
Its Riverwalk location makes it easy to turn your tickets into a complete evening with dinner or drinks nearby. Insider tip: check the schedule before your trip rather than waiting until arrival, particularly if a Broadway musical or headline performer is important to your plans.
Outdoor & Unique Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
18. Take an Everglades airboat tour
Location / Neighborhood: Everglades west of Fort Lauderdale.
Best For: Families, wildlife lovers, adventure, first-time visitors.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day.
Cost / Entry: $.
Swap beaches and canals for the Florida Everglades on an airboat excursion through the River of Grass. Operators west of Fort Lauderdale take visitors across wetlands where you may see alligators, birds and other native wildlife while learning about this enormous and ecologically important landscape.
Popular departure points include Sawgrass Recreation Park and Everglades Holiday Park, making an airboat tour straightforward to add to your stay. Insider tip: choose an earlier tour when temperatures are more comfortable and remember that wildlife sightings vary naturally from day to day.
19. Spend a day in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Location / Neighborhood: North of Fort Lauderdale.
Best For: Families, couples, beaches, relaxed dining.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: Free to explore.
Slow the pace in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a compact seaside town with a more intimate, Old Florida feel than central Fort Lauderdale Beach. Spend time swimming, walking along the sand, browsing around Anglin’s Square or relaxing in beachfront public spaces before stopping for lunch or dinner.
Its easy walkability and close-to-shore reefs make it particularly appealing if you want to combine beach time with snorkeling. Insider tip: plan this as a relaxed half-day rather than rushing through — the appeal is the slower seaside atmosphere as much as any single attraction.
Food & Romantic Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
20. Dine at a waterfront restaurant
Location / Neighborhood: Intracoastal, New River, Las Olas and beach areas.
Best For: Couples, families, celebrations, food lovers.
Estimated Time Needed: Around 2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $.
In a city built around waterways, one of the most enjoyable ways to dine is beside the water. Restaurants along the Intracoastal, New River and surrounding marinas range from relaxed seafood spots to more polished dining rooms where yachts cruise past your table.
Fresh fish and seafood are natural choices, but Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene extends well beyond coastal classics. Insider tip: reserve an outdoor table around sunset for a special evening, particularly during the busier winter and spring vacation season.
Best Things to Do for Couples in Fort Lauderdale
From romantic sunset cruises to indulgent spa treatments and waterfront picnics, Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of memorable experiences for two. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a honeymoon or simply enjoying a couples' vacation, these activities combine coastal scenery, relaxation and romance.
21. Take a romantic sunset sailing cruise
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach / Intracoastal Waterway.
Best For: Couples, anniversaries, romantic evenings, sailing.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; cruise prices vary.
Experience Fort Lauderdale's beautiful coastline aboard a sunset catamaran cruise, where golden skies, ocean breezes and waterfront scenery create a romantic setting. Sailing excursions offer views of luxurious waterfront homes, passing yachts and the Atlantic Ocean as the city begins to light up for the evening.
Some operators, including Tropical Sailing, offer sunset cruises with refreshments, making this a wonderful experience for honeymoons and special occasions. Insider tip: book a departure that coincides with sunset and reserve ahead during the popular winter and spring vacation seasons.
22. Enjoy a couples' spa day
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach / luxury beachfront resorts.
Best For: Couples, relaxation, wellness, special occasions.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$$; treatments priced individually.
Unwind together at one of Fort Lauderdale's luxury beachfront spas, where couples can enjoy massages, revitalizing facials and restorative wellness treatments. The Ritz-Carlton Spa and The Spa at Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale offer sophisticated surroundings and treatments designed to help guests relax after busy sightseeing days.
A spa experience is particularly appealing for couples seeking a peaceful afternoon away from the beaches and attractions. Insider tip: reserve a couples' treatment in advance and check whether your booking includes access to additional facilities, such as relaxation lounges, steam rooms or resort amenities.
23. Enjoy a wine tasting at Wine Watch
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale / northeast downtown area.
Best For: Couples, wine lovers, food enthusiasts, date nights.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$–$$$; varies by tasting or dining event.
Discover exceptional wines from around the world at Wine Watch, a specialist wine boutique known for its carefully selected bottles, wine tastings and intimate dining experiences. Its calendar includes themed tastings and wine dinners, offering couples the opportunity to explore different regions and grape varieties together.
Whether you're discovering new favorites or celebrating a special occasion, this is an enjoyable alternative to Fort Lauderdale's livelier bars. Insider tip: check the Wine Watch events calendar before your trip and reserve places early for popular tastings, as event availability and access arrangements vary.
24. Enjoy a romantic picnic at Colee Hammock Park
Location / Neighborhood: Colee Hammock / New River.
Best For: Couples, relaxation, scenic views, budget-friendly activities.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free.
Escape the busier waterfront attractions with a peaceful picnic at Colee Hammock Park, a small riverside green space overlooking the New River. With shady trees, picnic tables and views of passing boats, this charming neighborhood park offers a relaxed setting to enjoy lunch or spend a quiet afternoon together.
Its location within the historic Colee Hammock neighborhood also makes it easy to explore nearby residential streets and continue towards Las Olas Boulevard afterward. Insider tip: bring a picnic from a local deli and visit during the late afternoon when temperatures become more comfortable.
25. Sip rooftop cocktails overlooking the ocean
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach / downtown rooftops.
Best For: Couples, nightlife, sunset drinks, celebrations.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$–$$$; drinks and dining extra.
Elevate your evening at one of Fort Lauderdale's stylish rooftop bars, where panoramic views stretch across the Atlantic Ocean, waterways and illuminated city skyline. Nubé Rooftop, on the 26th floor of Beach House Fort Lauderdale, offers an impressive oceanfront setting with creative cocktails, sophisticated lounge areas and elevated dining.
For a different atmosphere, Sparrow at The Dalmar brings stylish rooftop nightlife to downtown Fort Lauderdale, complete with inventive drinks and city views. Insider tip: arrive before sunset to enjoy the changing views, and check reservations, dress codes and age restrictions before visiting.
Best Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale for Families
Fort Lauderdale is packed with family-friendly attractions, from pirate adventures and indoor entertainment to nature trails and water parks. Alongside its beautiful beaches, families can enjoy activities suited to toddlers, older children and teenagers, with plenty of options for sunny days and rainy afternoons.
26. Set sail on a Bluefoot Pirate Adventure
Location / Neighborhood: Dania Beach Marina.
Best For: Families, younger children, boat trips, interactive entertainment.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; tickets required.
Bring a little adventure to your Fort Lauderdale family vacation aboard Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, an interactive pirate-themed boat cruise departing from nearby Dania Beach. Young passengers become part of the crew, learning pirate phrases, searching for hidden treasure and battling the mischievous Barnacle Bill with water cannons.
The experience combines imaginative storytelling with scenic views of South Florida's waterways, making it particularly entertaining for families with younger children. Insider tip: arrive approximately 30 minutes before departure so children can enjoy pirate tattoos, costumes and other pre-cruise activities.
27. Experience the thrills at Xtreme Action Park
Location / Neighborhood: North Fort Lauderdale / Powerline Road.
Best For: Families, teenagers, indoor activities, rainy days.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; activities priced separately.
For an action-packed day away from the beach, head to Xtreme Action Park, a large indoor entertainment complex offering activities for a range of ages. Families can challenge each other to go-kart racing, laser tag, bowling and arcade games, while additional attractions include roller skating, trampolines, escape rooms and virtual reality experiences.
With multiple activities under one roof, it's an excellent choice when the weather is too hot or wet for outdoor sightseeing. Insider tip: check age and height requirements before arriving, particularly for go-kart racing, and consider activity packages if your family wants to try several attractions.
28. Play at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
Location / Neighborhood: Fort Lauderdale Beach / Seabreeze Boulevard.
Best For: Families, younger children, picnics, outdoor recreation.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free; parking extra.
Enjoy a family-friendly day beside the Atlantic at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, where playgrounds, picnic areas and outdoor recreation facilities offer plenty of alternatives to swimming and sunbathing. Children can enjoy the playground while older family members make use of the volleyball courts, basketball facilities and nearby beachfront paths.
The park's convenient location makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed picnic before exploring the surrounding beach restaurants and attractions. Insider tip: pack snacks, plenty of water and sunscreen, and visit in the morning when the playground and outdoor areas are generally more comfortable.
29. Explore Fern Forest Nature Center
Location / Neighborhood: Coconut Creek / north of Fort Lauderdale.
Best For: Families, nature lovers, walking, wildlife spotting.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free.
Discover a quieter side of Greater Fort Lauderdale at Fern Forest Nature Center, a protected natural area filled with native plants, shaded walking trails and elevated boardwalks. Families can explore South Florida's wetland habitats while looking for birds, butterflies, turtles and other wildlife among the trees and waterways.
The nature center offers an educational outdoor experience without needing to travel deep into the Everglades, making it ideal for children interested in wildlife and the natural world. Insider tip: bring insect repellent and comfortable walking shoes, and consider joining a guided nature walk to learn more about the area's unique ecosystem.
30. Splash around at Castaway Island Water Park
Location / Neighborhood: T.Y. Park / Hollywood.
Best For: Families, younger children, water play, summer vacations.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; water park admission applies.
Cool off at Castaway Island, a family-friendly water playground within T.Y. Park in nearby Hollywood. Featuring interactive water-play areas, slides and shallow splash zones, this seasonal attraction is especially popular with families looking for a fun alternative to ocean swimming.
The surrounding park also provides picnic areas, walking paths and green spaces, making it easy to turn your visit into a longer family outing. Insider tip: check seasonal opening dates, operating hours and any age or height restrictions before visiting, as the water park does not operate year-round.
Best Shopping in Fort Lauderdale
From luxury boutiques and designer outlets to bustling shopping malls and beachfront markets, Fort Lauderdale offers excellent retail experiences for every taste and budget. Whether you're searching for fashion, souvenirs or unique local gifts, these top shopping destinations in Fort Luaderdale are well worth exploring!
Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale's most famous shopping street is lined with independent boutiques, fashionable clothing stores, jewelry shops, art galleries and specialty retailers. Its palm-lined sidewalks, restaurants and cafés make Las Olas Boulevard particularly appealing for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, followed by dinner or drinks in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale
Located close to Fort Lauderdale Beach, The Galleria is a convenient indoor shopping mall featuring well-known retailers, fashion brands and beauty stores. With shopping options including Macy's, Dillard's, Apple and Sephora, alongside restaurants and cafés, it's a popular choice for a shopping break away from the Florida heat.
Sawgrass Mills
One of South Florida's largest shopping destinations, Sawgrass Mills in nearby Sunrise is famous for its enormous selection of outlet stores and designer brands. Shoppers can browse everything from sportswear and everyday fashion to luxury labels, including Gucci, Prada and other premium retailers, making it a popular choice for discounted designer shopping.
Dania Pointe
Just south of Fort Lauderdale, Dania Pointe combines open-air shopping with restaurants, cafés and entertainment in a contemporary setting. Browse popular fashion and lifestyle brands before enjoying a meal, catching a movie or exploring the surrounding public spaces. It's an excellent shopping destination for families looking to combine retail therapy with other activities.
The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park
For a more local shopping experience, visit The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park, a weekend beachfront market showcasing handmade gifts, jewelry, clothing, artisan products and specialty foods. With ocean breezes, live entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere, it's a lovely place to discover unique souvenirs while enjoying Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Best Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale's thriving culinary scene offers everything from casual waterfront seafood restaurants to upscale Italian dining and Michelin-starred experiences. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, family meal or special celebration, these best-rated Fort Lauderdale restaurants showcase some of the city's most appealing dining options.
Coconuts
Price Range: $$ – Moderate
Cuisine: American, seafood, coastal cuisine.
Good For: Waterfront dining, casual lunches, families, seafood lovers.
Overlooking Fort Lauderdale's waterways near the beach, Coconuts is a popular waterfront restaurant celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere, fresh seafood and views of passing boats. Enjoy dishes such as coconut shrimp, fish tacos and seafood platters while dining outdoors. Its laid-back setting makes it an excellent choice for lunch, sunset drinks or a casual family dinner.
Boatyard
Price Range: $$$ – Upscale
Cuisine: American, seafood, steaks.
Good For: Romantic dinners, waterfront views, celebrations, weekend brunches.
Combining refined coastal dining with an inviting waterfront setting, Boatyard is a stylish restaurant along Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway. The menu features freshly caught seafood, raw bar selections, grilled fish and premium steaks, while its dockside seating offers excellent yacht-watching opportunities. It's particularly appealing for romantic dinners, celebrations and leisurely weekend brunches.
Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria
Price Range: $$ – Moderate
Cuisine: Italian, pizza, pasta.
Good For: Families, couples, group dining, lively evenings.
Located on bustling Las Olas Boulevard, Louie Bossi's brings authentic Italian-inspired dining to the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Known for its freshly made pasta, wood-fired pizzas and lively atmosphere, the restaurant offers a welcoming setting for couples, families and groups. Its energetic bar and inviting outdoor dining areas make it a favorite for relaxed lunches and evenings out.
Takato
Price Range: $$$ – Upscale
Cuisine: Japanese-Korean fusion, sushi, Asian cuisine.
Good For: Romantic dinners, oceanfront dining, sushi lovers, special occasions.
For upscale Asian cuisine beside the Atlantic Ocean, Takato offers an elegant Japanese-Korean fusion dining experience along Fort Lauderdale Beach. The restaurant specializes in sushi, sashimi, inventive small plates and beautifully presented dishes, complemented by sophisticated cocktails and ocean views. Its stylish surroundings make it particularly popular for romantic dinners and special occasions.
MAASS
Price Range: $$$$ – Fine dining
Cuisine: Contemporary American, modern fine dining.
Good For: Luxury dining, anniversaries, romantic celebrations, tasting menus.
Situated within Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, MAASS offers contemporary American fine dining with carefully sourced ingredients, creative cooking techniques and an elegant atmosphere. For a memorable culinary experience, the Michelin-starred Chef's Counter offers an intimate tasting menu with views of the chefs preparing each course. This exceptional restaurant is a standout choice for anniversaries, celebrations and luxury dining.
Seasonal Events in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Usually taking place in late October, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show fills multiple waterfront venues with yachts, boats, marine technology and boating exhibits. As one of the world’s major in-water boat shows, it transforms Fort Lauderdale’s marinas and waterways for several days. Insider tip: the Water Taxi can be particularly useful during the show, helping you move between waterfront areas without relying entirely on road transport.
Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival
Usually held in January, the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival brings together chefs, restaurants and drinks producers for tastings, dinners and culinary events across Greater Fort Lauderdale. It’s an excellent time to visit if dining is a major part of your vacation. Insider tip: popular signature events can sell out, so check the program and book before your trip.
Tortuga Music Festival
Held on Fort Lauderdale Beach each spring, the Tortuga Music Festival combines major country, rock and roots performers with a spectacular oceanfront setting. The three-day festival also supports marine conservation through Rock the Ocean. Insider tip: accommodation, transport and restaurant demand increases considerably over festival weekend, so plan your stay well ahead.
Stonewall Pride in Wilton Manors
Typically celebrated in June, nearby Wilton Manors hosts Stonewall Pride, bringing a parade, street festival, entertainment and LGBTQ+ celebrations to one of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s most vibrant communities. Insider tip: expect road closures and large crowds around Wilton Drive and use rideshare or public transport where practical.
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
Held in December, the Winterfest Boat Parade brings the festive season onto the Intracoastal as decorated boats and yachts cruise through Greater Fort Lauderdale covered in lights. Waterfront viewing areas turn the parade into one of the region’s most distinctive holiday traditions. Insider tip: arrive at public viewing locations early or reserve a waterfront restaurant if you want to combine dinner with the parade.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
Stay close to Fort Lauderdale Beach if ocean access, waterfront restaurants and easy beach days are your priorities. This puts you within convenient reach of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Bonnet House and the Intracoastal while keeping the Atlantic just steps away.
Choose Las Olas and downtown Fort Lauderdale if restaurants, nightlife, the Riverwalk and cultural attractions feature heavily in your itinerary. A location near the New River is also ideal if you want to use the Water Taxi and explore the city from the water.
For boating-focused vacations, homes near the Intracoastal and canal neighborhoods give you a particularly authentic Fort Lauderdale experience, with selected waterfront properties offering docks alongside private outdoor areas and pools.
Our Fort Lauderdale vacation rentals range from stylish smaller properties to substantial homes for families, groups and multigenerational vacations. Selected homes feature private pools, waterfront settings, games rooms, spacious kitchens and large indoor and outdoor entertaining areas.
Plan your Fort Lauderdale Trip
Where to stay in Fort Lauderdale
