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Fort Lauderdale is one of the most fulfilling destinations in South Florida. In addition to enjoying its beautiful beaches, you can also have a relaxing experience among its shops, restaurants, parks, and tourist attractions. This city is quite unique thanks to the numerous water canals that run through it, which is why it is also known as the American Venice.
There are many things to see and do in Fort Lauderdale, which is why in this article, we’d like to highlight the best places you can visit during your vibrant stay in this picturesque city.
What to See in Fort Lauderdale
Although this is a medium-sized city, the distances to cover are quite long and public transport can be very limited. That is why we recommend you use your car or rent one so you can visit this fantastic metropolis in the most comfortable and fastest way.
While exploring Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant attractions and scenic waterways, it’s vital to stay energized and hydrated, especially under the warm Florida sun. Fortunately, the city offers a myriad of dining options to suit every preference, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. For those prioritizing healthy habits, there are numerous spots offering fresh nutritious meals in Fort Lauderdale so you can stick to your diet while are amused by your vacation.
Touring the Beaches of Fort Lauderdale
Strolling along the paradisiacal beaches of Fort Lauderdale is one of the best things to do in the city. These are characterized by having spellbinding crystal-clear water and beautiful golden sand, from which you can admire the best landscape in all of Florida.
Among the beaches you can visit are Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach. Also, you should try Taylor Birch Park, where you can swim on a beautiful beach that faces a lake or do other activities such as kayaking or having a picnic surrounded by nature.
Shop at the Best Stores in Fort Lauderdale
Another unmissable plan in this city is shopping, for which you will find some of the most important shopping centers in all of Florida, such as Las Olas Boulevard or The Galleria. If you are into sales, you could opt for the Bealls Outlet outlets or, a little further away, Sawgrass Mills.
Dare to Walk Along the City’s Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a very special area of Fort Lauderdale, located next to the New River, and is a beautiful space from which you can explore its many shops, restaurants, and bars.
It will also be a top-notch opportunity to tour its water channels, as this space has several Water Taxi stations that navigate these channels and where you can enjoy a boat ride while admiring the unique landscape of Fort Lauderdale.
Savor the Food at the City’s Iconic Restaurants
Trying the exquisite food of Fort Lauderdale will be one of the best experiences on your trip. Different cuisines from around the world are combined on its tables, giving your palate a unique sensation. Go ahead and try it for yourself at one of these iconic restaurants:
- Lona Cocina Tequileria. This restaurant fuses Mexican food with seafood that will definitely hit your taste buds.
- Bubba Gump Shrimp. Feel like you’re on a fishing boat while you dine on the best American food and seafood.
- Kaluz Restaurant. The venue is loved for its excellent atmosphere and the preparation of its meats and other dishes.
Explore the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
Visiting this place will be a very enriching experience, as this house-museum seeks to promote art and culture through the exhibition of important and interesting works that were part of the collection of Frederic Clay Bartlett, who was the original owner of this house that later became this iconic place.
The Bonnet House also houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts that belonged to Frederic.
Get to Know Port Everglade
While touring the city, you cannot miss a visit to Port Everglade, one of the most important cruise ports in the world, as it is the second busiest port for these enormous ships, only surpassed by Miami.
Visiting this mythical place will make you want to be on board these gigantic machines to sail the sea while having unlimited fun.
Discover South Florida’s Flora and Fauna
Another of the best experiences that Fort Lauderdale offers you is that you can connect with nature through different experiences. For example, at Butterfly World (the city’s butterfly garden), you will learn about all kinds of plant and butterfly species.
Other must-see places to see animals and plants in Fort Lauderdale include Flamingo Gardens and Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Venture to Everglades National Park
If you have some time, an excellent option is to take a getaway and feel like Indiana Jones while touring one of the most important natural reserves in the United States.
This park is home to a huge ecosystem from which you can discover the fauna and flora of this impressive destination. One of the most popular ways to explore the park is on an airboat, a vehicle adapted to move through this lush territory with the least possible damage to the ecosystem.
Other Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
Here are some extra tips on what to do in Fort Lauderdale so you can experience the city in a different way. We hope you like them and have a fun time with your loved ones.
- Drive-In Swap Shop. This is one of those classic American drive-in theatres, having all the fun of watching a movie but without leaving the car.
- Pirate ship. Touring the city on board a pirate ship will be a great adventure for the whole family. The little ones will surely be chuffed to bits with the pirate invasion and the older ones with an interesting tour of the most exuberant mansions in the area.
- Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. This iconic art museum features more than 7,000 pieces of art, including several works by Pablo Picasso and a considerable contribution from Latin American art. It will be a very interesting visit for art and culture lovers.
Enjoy your stay in Fort Lauderdale and get the most out of the city by following the tips mentioned in the guide above. The city won’t leave you bored for sure.
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