The Exceptional Fort Lauderdale Vacation Guide

Experience Fort Lauderdale at Its Best

Fort Lauderdale brings together Atlantic beaches, celebrated waterways, distinctive neighborhoods and an increasingly sophisticated culinary and cultural scene. Whether your ideal vacation unfolds aboard a private boat, beside the ocean or over an unhurried dinner, South Florida offers countless ways to make the stay your own.

Use this guide as a starting point for discovering the experiences that make Greater Fort Lauderdale an exceptional destination.

Beaches and Ocean Experiences

Begin along Fort Lauderdale’s palm-lined shoreline, where warm Atlantic waters and miles of sandy beaches invite relaxed mornings and active afternoons.

• Spend the day at Fort Lauderdale Beach or nearby Lauderdale-By-The-Sea
• Arrange a private yacht charter or sailing excursion
• Explore offshore reefs through snorkeling or scuba diving
• Book a guided deep-sea or sportfishing charter
• Enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming or waterfront cycling
• Reserve oceanfront dining or a private beachfront experience

Explore the Venice of America

Fort Lauderdale’s extensive network of navigable waterways is central to the city’s character. Some of its most memorable views are experienced from the water.

• Charter a private boat for a customized day on the Intracoastal Waterway
• Use the Water Taxi to explore waterfront neighborhoods and dining
• Cruise past remarkable estates, yachts and marinas
• Enjoy a gondola excursion along the New River and surrounding canals
• Dine at one of the city’s many dockside restaurants

Las Olas and Downtown Fort Lauderdale

Las Olas Boulevard connects downtown Fort Lauderdale with the beach and offers an inviting collection of boutiques, galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafés.

• Browse independent boutiques and art galleries
• Enjoy cocktails, dinner or Sunday brunch
• Walk along the Riverwalk and New River
• Visit the historic Stranahan House
• Explore the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
• Attend a performance at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Dining and Nightlife

Greater Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene ranges from elegant waterfront restaurants and chef-driven concepts to intimate neighborhood favorites. Reservations are strongly recommended for sought-after restaurants, particularly during weekends and peak travel periods.

• Waterfront dining along the Intracoastal and New River
• Fine dining and contemporary cuisine on and near Las Olas Boulevard
• Fresh seafood and raw-bar experiences
• Rooftop lounges, wine bars and sophisticated cocktail destinations
• Live music and evening entertainment throughout Fort Lauderdale

Arts, Culture and Historic Estates

Beyond the waterfront, Fort Lauderdale offers architecture, visual arts, gardens and live performances in settings that reflect the city’s distinctive history.

• Tour Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
• Visit the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
• See a Broadway production, concert, ballet or theatrical performance at the Broward Center
• Explore Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District
• Discover local galleries and seasonal exhibitions
• Attend a concert or professional event at Amerant Bank Arena

Golf, Wellness and Recreation

Balance time at the beach with championship golf, restorative wellness experiences and private recreation throughout South Florida.

• Reserve a tee time at one of the area’s public or resort golf courses
• Book a spa day, massage or private wellness experience
• Schedule private tennis, pickleball, yoga or fitness instruction
• Explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park by bicycle, kayak or on foot
• Attend a Florida Panthers, Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat or Inter Miami match

Shopping and Design

From polished boutiques and luxury fashion to home design and art, South Florida offers several distinctive shopping destinations.

• Explore the boutiques and galleries of Las Olas Boulevard
• Visit The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale
• Plan an excursion to Aventura Mall for luxury and designer shopping
• Discover the Miami Design District’s fashion, art and architecture
• Browse antiques, art and home furnishings throughout the region

Memorable South Florida Excursions

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent base for exploring the wider region. A private driver or thoughtfully planned itinerary can turn these destinations into effortless day trips.

• Experience the natural landscape of the Everglades with a private or small-group guide
• Visit Palm Beach for Worth Avenue, galleries and waterfront dining
• Explore Miami Beach, South Beach and the Art Deco Historic District
• Spend the day in Miami’s Design District, Wynwood or Coconut Grove
• Discover Hollywood Beach, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea or Pompano Beach
• Attend a seasonal festival, boat show, food event or sporting occasion

Plan Ahead

Hours, availability, admission requirements and seasonal schedules can change. Confirm details directly with each venue or provider and reserve popular restaurants, charters, performances and experiences in advance.

Looking for more South Florida inspiration?

Explore additional Fort Lauderdale vacation ideas on the iTrip blog.