Wish you were here in Greater Fort Lauderdale! Discover the sun-kissed paradise of Greater Fort Lauderdale, nestled in Broward County, Florida! This vibrant and diverse region is a haven for everyone, offering a unique blend of beach culture, arts, and outdoor adventure. With 31 cities, including Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy 23 miles of coastline, scenic waterways, and a thriving downtown area. Did you know Greater Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Yachting Capital of the World?” Greater Fort Lauderdale hosts the world’s largest in-water boat show! I’m impressed that Greater Fort Lauderdale ensures accessibility for people with disabilities and supports the LGBTQIA community! We felt so welcome when we visited! 🚢

Bookmark this post and get ready to soak up the sun in this tropical paradise! 🌞

Accommodation:

W Hotel Fort Lauderdale

W Hotel Fort Lauderdale is the best beachfront hotel in Fort Lauderdale! Enjoy the ultimate oceanfront luxury experience at the W Hotel Fort Lauderdale, featuring two shimmering pools, two delectable restaurants, and two stylish bars. Savor the flavors of Stephen Starr’s Steak 954 and El Vez while taking in the beachside views. Plus, uncover hidden gems in the Extreme Wow Suites, relax by the rooftop pool overlooking the ocean, and indulge in expertly crafted cocktails in the Living Room, where live music creates an unforgettable atmosphere. 🙌🏼 

Address: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Instagram: @wfortlauderdale
Facebook: W Fort Lauderdale

Activities:

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Step into a world of art, history, and natural beauty at the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a 35-acre historic estate on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Built in the 1920s as the winter retreat of the Birch/Bartlett family, this enchanting property is a treasure trove of whimsical design, personal art collections, and breathtaking gardens. Wander through the picturesque grounds, explore the tropical plants, and discover the secrets of this extraordinary estate, where art and nature blend seamlessly. 🖼️ 

Address: 900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Hours: 11AM-3PM on Tues-Fri, 11-AM-4PM on Sat-Sun
Pricing: $25/adult, $8/ages 6-17, free/under 5 for self-guided tours, $30/adult, $10/ages 6-17 for guided tours
Instagram: @bonnethouse
Facebook: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, a premier multi-venue destination in downtown Fort Lauderdale hosts a diverse range of performances, including operas, ballets, concerts, plays, lectures, and community events. This iconic center is home to the Au-Rene Theater, Amaturo Theater, Abdo New River Room, and the Parker Playhouse. We had the pleasure of attending the popular Jamaican reggae sensation, Beres Hammond’s Forever Giving Thanks Tour concert and it was a full house! 🎶

Address: 201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Hours: Box office opens 2 hours before show time for ticketed events on event days only.

Flamingo Gardens

Step into a lush oasis at Flamingo Gardens, a 60-acre botanical wonderland and wildlife haven in South Florida, thriving since 1927! Discover a kaleidoscope of over 3,000 plant species, trees, and vibrant flowers, cohabiting with an array of fascinating creatures like flamingos, alligators, and panthers. Delve into the beauty and magic of this sanctuary, enjoying guided tram tours, up-close animal encounters, and enriching educational experiences. As a non-profit organization, Flamingo Gardens is dedicated to conservation, education, and research, nurturing a harmonious bond between nature and human connection. 🦩

Address: 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330
Hours: 9:30AM-5PM daily
Instagram: @flamingogardens
Facebook: Flamingo Gardens

Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade 

Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade boasts a gorgeous iconic white wave wall, gracefully lined with palm trees, which serenely accompanies the beautiful beach highlighting Fort Lauderdale’s world famous coastline. As you stroll along the picturesque pathway, indulge in the charm of nearby shops, restaurants, sidewalk cafes and entertainment venues. The two-mile promenade is a haven for runners, in-line skaters, walkers, and cyclists, inviting all to bask in the beauty of the ocean and the romance of the setting. 💗

Address: A1A between Las Olas and Sunrise Boulevards Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers a fun and convenient way to explore the city’s waterways, revealing the hidden gems of the “Venice of America”! With an extensive network of canals and waterways, Fort Lauderdale boasts a scenic paradise. Hop on and off the water taxi to discover hidden gems, shopping and dining hotspots, all from the comfort of the water along the Intracoastal Waterway. It took us approximately 3 hours to complete the round trip from Stop 1 to Stop 10 and back. 💦

Hours: 10AM-10PM
Pricing: For All Day Pass, $40/adult, $35/senior & military, $20/Child (5-11), free/under 5. For Evening Pass (5PM-10PM), $25/adult, senior & military, $20/Child (5-11), free/under 5
Instagram: @fortlauderdalewatertaxi
Facebook: Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Discover the serene oasis of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. This 180-acre gem was generously donated by Hugh Taylor Birch in 1941 and features a picturesque lagoon, winding nature trails, a pristine beach, and idyllic picnic areas. Dubbed Fort Lauderdale’s own “Central Park”, this urban retreat is sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, creating a tranquil haven amidst the bustling city. Marvel at the stunning banyan trees and let the natural beauty of this park enchant you! 🌳

Address: 3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Museum of Discovery and Science

The Museum of Discovery and Science is a gigantic hub of interactive learning and entertainment that attracts the most visitors of any museum in the state! With an IMAX theater showing 3D films, immersive ecoscapes, and thrilling simulated experiences, there’s something for every curious young mind. It’s the perfect destination for a family day out, with a treasure trove of exhibits that will leave kids wide-eyed and inspired! 🧪

Address: 401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Hours: 10AM-5PM on Mon-Sat, 12-5PM on Sun
Instagram: @modsftl
Facebook: Museum of Discovery and Science

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a vibrant cultural hub. With a collection of over 7,500 works of art, it showcases contemporary, modern, and African art. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring an 83,000-square-foot modernist design.

Address: 1 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Hours: 11AM-5PM on Tue-Sat, 12-5PM on Sun, closed on Mon,
Pricing: $16/adult, $10/seniors, $8/military, $5/students. Free on first Thursday of every month
Instagram: @nsuartmuseum
Facebook: NSU Art Museum

Thrive Statue by Daniel Popper

Walk through the “Thrive” by Daniel Popper is a towering, 30-foot giant, bursting open its chest to reveal a lush, green tunnel. This 14-ton marvel of glass-fiber reinforced concrete symbolizes hope and transformation, a powerful reflection on the trials of 2020. You can explore Popper’s permanent installation anytime, and bask in the beauty of this gorgeous artwork! 😀

Address: 301 SW 1st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Instagram: @danielpopper
Facebook: Daniel Popper – artist

Food and Drinks:

Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale

Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale is a culinary gem nestled within the luxurious Four Seasons resort! Enjoy a delightful casual dining experience with delectable Mediterranean flavors that will leave you craving more! Highly recommended for a taste bud explosion! It was awesome running into Deaf employees at my favorite hotel, the Four Seasons! 💥

Address: 525 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Hours: 7:30AM-11PM
Menus: https://www.fourseasons.com/fortlauderdale/dining/restaurants/evelyns/

La Fuga Restaurant

Escape to La Fuga, a haven of Italian culinary bliss, where the flavors of the coast come alive in every bite. Handcrafted pizzas and seasonal cocktails harmonize with our signature coastal Italian cuisine, beckoning you to indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you craving more. It was a pleasure meeting the owner of La Fuga, Michael Mayer, and Robert, the Director of Hotel Operations at The Westin, who is Hard of Hearing and knows American Sign Language. 🍕

Located inside: Kimpton Shorebreak resort
Address: 2900 Riomar St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Hours: 7-11AM, 5-10PM daily
Menus: https://lafugarestaurant.com/menus
Instagram: @lafugafortlauderdale
Facebook: La Fuga Fort Lauderdale

The Wreck Bar

The Wreck Bar is a unique and creative bar that offers an immersive underwater experience! It’s a must-visit bar, where you can watch mermaid performances while enjoying dinner and drinks in an underwater-themed setting. The 21+ venue hosts various events and shows, including the original MeduSirena mermaid show, Sirens & Sailors, The Aquamen Underwater Burlesque Show, and Aqua Burlesque Show. Fun performance! 🧜‍♀️

Tip: Reserve tickets in advance. Arrive a few hours early for dinner, then watch the performance. Valid your parking pass for free.
Located inside: B Ocean Resort
Address: 1140 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Hours: 6PM-2AM on Wed-Sat, 11AM-3PM on Sun
Pricing: over $65

For more information about Greater Fort Lauderdale, check out my “FT LAUDERDALE” Instagram Story Highlight, and be sure to follow @visitlauderdale on Instagram.

Have you explored Greater Fort Lauderdale? Share your favorite spots in the comments below! 😍