Recent years have seen Fort Lauderdale bloom as one of the hottest tourist destinations in Florida, much like its sister cities like Miami and Orlando. The city rose to prominence thanks to its natural and manmade attractions that go a long way to create vibrant nightlife and a myriad of opportunities to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Once an underdog in the tourism world, Fort Lauderdale is quickly becoming a hotspot for beach and nature lovers alike. The never-ending sandy shores, paired with world-class restaurants, art and recreation centers, sprawling shopping destinations, and community parks, lend charm to the city. With that in mind, here are some fun things you can do in Fort Lauderdale.
A botanical garden and an Everglades wildlife refuge spanning over 60 acres, Flamingo Gardens is a non-profit organization that aims to serve endangered and injured animals while educating the public. This stunning tropical oasis is home to nearly 250 bird species, 3,000 plants, and many animals like peacocks, panthers, sea otters, alligators, and more.
The park also features a narrated tram tour which allows visitors to dive into the rich history of native Florida and explore its tropical groves and 200-year-old oak trees. If you want to spend quality time with loved ones in an eclectic natural setting with tons of new things to learn, head to Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida.
Brimming with local wildlife, the Floridian Everglades is a prime destination for every nature lover. From turtles, alligators, panthers, and pythons to storks, the park is home to many exotic and endangered animals. A guided airboat ride will take you through the wilderness and the Big Cypress National Reserve if you want to get the most out of your trip to the park.
Make sure to pack your hiking shoes, as there will be plenty of opportunities to explore the preserve's serenity with expert naturalists. You might even be able to hold a baby alligator if you are brave enough.
A boat tour is one of the best ways to get acquainted with your surroundings. A standard cruise lasts about 3 hours and takes keen visitors around the city’s waterways in a large vessel. From sightseeing to fishing charters and more, these specialty boat rides offer a compelling way to explore the rich landscapes.
You can either bring your food and drinks or enjoy local delicacies at one of the many seaside restaurants. For those who want an immersive experience, a narrated boat tour is the best way to explore the Intracoastal waterways of Fort Lauderdale.
Nestled in Sunrise, Florida – about a 20-minute drive from downtown – Sawgrass Mills is the largest outlet mall in the nation. A shopping destination like no other, this 350-store complex houses some of the biggest name brands like Target and Nike and luxury-brand stores such as Prada, Kate Spade, and Tory Burch.
Exploring the entire mall will need at least a full day. The mall caters to all kinds of guests, including international travelers. Visitors can avail of the third-party direct shuttle from Fort Lauderdale International Airport or town car services to get to the mall. If you want to grab a bite during your shopping escapade, you can stop by The Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza, or Rainforest Cafe.
The Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District is home to some of Fort Lauderdale’s most appealing attractions. Spanning 22 blocks, this district is situated along the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale and offers a culmination of restaurants, movie theaters, shops, and more. Whether you are looking for a busy day of shopping, exploring the rich history of Ft Lauderdale, or just want to enjoy a cup of joe by the river, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the top attractions of the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District include the Nova Southeastern University Art Museum, the Florida Grand Opera, Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, and the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society. Additionally, you can enjoy an array of shopping and dining venues at Las Olas Boulevard.
While Fort Lauderdale might sport a relaxed and go-with-the-flow vibe, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to get your blood pumping. If you love naturistic activities and want to spend your day out of town, carving through the Venetian Isles in a Kayak is a great way to explore the waterways and mangroves at your pace. Along the way, you can gawk at huge mansions and luxurious yachts or go snorkeling for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
With Fort Lauderdale quickly becoming a vacation hotspot for travelers worldwide, you might wonder how you can become a part of this legacy. If you are interested in hosting guests and looking for a hassle-free management experience, Chady Property Management is here to help. From optimizing your listing to catering to tenants’ questions and providing cleaning services, we do everything to help you set up as a host. Contact us today to learn more about our services or get started.
