Affectionately known as the "Venice of America”, Fort Lauderdale is more than just pristine beaches—it’s an adventure-packed destination with activities of all types.
Whether you’re a homebuyer considering a move or a resident looking to explore, there are plenty of fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. From exploring 60 acres of rare plants at Flamingo Gardens to cruising the famous Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Lauderdale has endless activities to enjoy.
Fort Lauderdale residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to fun and memorable activities.
Here are 7 of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale:
Flamingo Gardens is one of the most peaceful places in Fort Lauderdale. It's also one of the best places to experience Florida’s natural beauty.
Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre oasis where exotic plants, pink flamingos, and rescued Florida panthers coexist. It's an escape to tropical nature just 10 minutes west of downtown Fort Lauderdale.
The garden isn’t just for flamingo selfies (though they’re worth it). It’s a botanical haven with over 3,000 species of rare plants and trees, some towering over 200 feet. You’ll find everything from bamboo to native palms to the massive “Champion” trees, some of Florida’s oldest and largest.
Families love this wildlife sanctuary, home to over 90 species, including Florida panthers, alligators, and bobcats. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from downtown, this serene escape is a must-visit.
The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale is a must-see for those looking to learn in adventurous fashion. This isn’t a typical museum where everything’s “look, don’t touch.” Here, it’s all about hands-on fun for every age.
Families love the AutoNation IMAX theater here, too. It has a five-story screen, the largest in South Florida, and showcases educational films that make science come to life. Visitors can explore coral reefs, soar over mountains, or even the solar system—all without leaving their seats.
The museum is also near popular neighborhoods like Tarpon River and Sailboat Bend, known for their mix of newly constructed and historic homes.
Fort Lauderdale is called the “Venice of America” for a reason, and the Intracoastal Waterway is the heart of it all. Thanks to the Intracoastal Waterway, exploring the city by boat is a regular weekend activity.
The Intracoastal Waterway stretches 3,000 miles from Boston to the Gulf of Mexico, with Fort Lauderdale boasting one of the most scenic and bustling sections. The waterway isn't just for city transport: it's a hub for boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and—of course—yacht-spotting.
With over 40,000 registered boats, Fort Lauderdale has more yachts per capita than anywhere else. So, if you’re a fan of luxury boats, this waterway will feel like an endless showroom.
If you’re house-hunting in neighborhoods like Coral Ridge or Rio Vista, know that you’ll be close to this amazing attraction. Many waterfront homes here come with private docks, making it easy to hop on a boat and cruise along the waterway whenever you like.
The Riverwalk is the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s downtown vibe. It consists of the Riverwalk Linear Park and the Downtown Riverwalk District, including a tropical waterfront, all in the heart of the urban metropolis.
Stretching along the New River, this promenade connects you to Fort Lauderdale’s best restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment spots. This region, as a whole, is one of the best places to eat in Fort Lauderdale.
Casa Sensei is a Riverwalk favorite for Pan-Asian meals with Latin flair in a beautiful riverside setting. The Wharf Fort Lauderdale brings a lively, open-air vibe perfect for enjoying seafood tacos, craft cocktails, and live music. When looking for a brunch spot, YOLO (You Only Live Once) is a restaurant lounge serving brunch classics and mimosas.
As you stroll, you’ll pass a mix of boutique shops. You may check out The Emporium, a quirky boutique offering unique art, jewelry, and gifts crafted by local artisans. For art enthusiasts, MAC Fine Art Gallery showcases local and international pieces, often with pop-up events and new exhibitions.
Riverwalk is also home to major cultural attractions. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts comedy tours, shows, and concerts year-round, making it a local entertainment cornerstone. Nearby, the History Fort Lauderdale Museum gives visitors a fascinating look at the city’s past with exhibits on everything from Seminole history to Fort Lauderdale’s development boom.
For those considering buying a new home in Las Olas Isles or Victoria Park, this is a welcoming and energetic neighborhood to plant roots.
If you want a slice of nature right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is where you’ll find it. This 180-acre oasis, named after the Chicago lawyer and conservationist Hugh Taylor Birch, offers a refreshing break from the city’s beaches and nightlife.
Biking and jogging are famous here, thanks to the 1.9-mile paved loop around the park, which takes 33 minutes on average to complete. If you’re into fishing, you can cast a line and reel in a catch from the seawall along the Intracoastal Waterway. The park also has unique connections to real estate history—Hugh Taylor Birch helped develop Fort Lauderdale by donating this land for public use, envisioning a green sanctuary in the growing city.
For future homebuyers, living near this park is like having an instant outdoor escape right in your backyard. Nearby neighborhoods like Coral Ridge and Las Olas Isles offer easy access to the park, making it perfect for those who value green space.
Las Olas Boulevard is where Fort Lauderdale goes from a relaxing beach town to a bustling center for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Think of it as Fort Lauderdale’s “Main Street”—but with palm trees, art galleries, and waterfront views.
First, Las Olas Boulevard has some of the best places to eat in Fort Lauderdale. You may start with Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar & Pizzeria, where you’ll find mouthwatering pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a charming outdoor setting. Nearby, El Camino serves fresh Mexican food and cocktails that turn any lunch into a fiesta. And if you’re in the mood for seafood, Wild Sea Las Olas is the place to savor everything from oysters to seared scallops.
In the evenings, the boulevard transforms as bars and lounges light up. Spots like American Social are popular with locals and tourists, offering waterfront views and a social vibe ideal for a night out.
For prospective homebuyers, the neighborhoods surrounding Las Olas, like Colee Hammock and Las Olas Isles, are highly desirable for anyone who wants to be steps away from the city’s best attractions. Owning a home here means you’re not just buying a property but investing in Fort Lauderdale’s pulse.
You'll find Fort Lauderdale Beach Park just south of Las Olas Boulevard. This park is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale if you’re looking for a full and fun beach day.
The beach park isn’t just for sunbathing—though the sandy shoreline is perfect for that, too. There are volleyball courts right on the sand, where locals and tourists play. You’ll also find picnic areas shaded by palm trees, complete with grills, so you can quickly turn a casual beach day into a BBQ gathering with friends.
When you need a break from the sun, grab a spot at one of the shaded picnic tables and enjoy a seaside lunch.
The park is also conveniently close to some of the city’s top restaurants and cafes. After a day on the beach, walk to Beach House Pompano for fresh seafood with an ocean view, or head to Burlock Coast for a quick bite with Caribbean flair.
Fort Lauderdale doesn’t just have beaches, waterways, and parks. It has an event calendar packed with annual festivals that bring the city to life. Here are a few can’t-miss events that make living in Fort Lauderdale a year-round celebration:
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and restaurants, parks, pubs, festivals, and other activities and amenities on the other, Fort Lauderdale gives residents and visitors alike a taste of the Florida lifestyle.
Whether you're soaking up the sun at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park or exploring the scenic Riverwalk, there are plenty of things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
While Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of day-trip options, you can enjoy a stroll along the Riverwalk, relax at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, or hop onto the Intracoastal Waterway for a boat tour.
The beaches and waterways are the biggest tourist attractions in Fort Lauderdale. The beach draws visitors for its white sand and turquoise waters, while Las Olas Boulevard attracts crowds with top-notch restaurants, boutique shopping, and lively nightlife.
Absolutely. Las Olas Boulevard is the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife, with everything from beachside bars to trendy lounges. Locals and visitors flock here every night for endless rounds of cocktails and live music.
It depends on your lifestyle! Fort Lauderdale is family-friendly with a relaxing charm, beautiful beaches, and an arts scene. Meanwhile, Miami is fast-paced, with famous non-stop partying and nightlife. Each city offers unique experiences, but Fort Lauderdale’s relaxed pace makes it perfect for those wanting to escape Miami’s hustle.