Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, FL
From beach days on the Atlantic to canal-side culture and one-of-a-kind events, Fort Lauderdale mixes easygoing sunshine with a genuine sense of place. Use this guide to plan an itinerary that balances outdoor time, arts, and uniquely local attractions.
Fort Lauderdale Beach & Promenade
Start where the sea meets the city. The beachfront promenade curves past sand, palm trees, and a lineup of cafés and hotels, making it ideal for morning walks, bike rides, or a post-sunset stroll. With 24 miles of regional shoreline and calm, swimmable water most days, beach time is a year-round staple. The city-run Fort Lauderdale Beach Park adds conveniences like restrooms, grills, courts, and a playground, so it works equally well for families and friend groups.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Just across A1A from the ocean, this park feels like a pocket of the Everglades in the middle of town. Visitors kayak on a shaded lagoon, walk or bike along oak-canopied trails, and join ranger-led programs that unpack the area’s coastal ecology. It’s a favorite for picnics and birdwatching, and the Water Taxi even has a stop nearby, making it easy to pair with beach time or Galleria shopping. Seasonal guided walks on weekends add context to the flora and history.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Step into a whimsical 20th-century estate where art, architecture, and tropical nature mingle. The historic house showcases the creative life of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, while the grounds feature ponds, orchids, and a coastal dune habitat—rare this close to downtown. Self-guided visits are offered most days, with docent-led tours on select dates; check the calendar for rotating programs and special events throughout the year.
Riverwalk & Las Olas Boulevard
Follow the New River through a string of parks, boat docks, and public art, then continue onto Las Olas for galleries, boutiques, and sidewalk dining. The district’s event calendar is lively—from family festivals on the Riverwalk to touring shows at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts—so there’s usually something happening within walking distance. The area also connects to Water Taxi stops, handy for a “Venice of America” canal cruise between neighborhoods.
Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale
Seeing the city from the water is part sightseeing, part local life. Hop on and off at stops that include the beach, Las Olas, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, and iconic marinas. Along the way, you’ll pass mansions and yacht rows that define Fort Lauderdale’s maritime identity. The route map makes it easy to plan a DIY tour or a relaxed afternoon of waterfront exploring.
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
Anchoring the downtown arts scene, this museum rotates exhibitions that range from modern masters to contemporary voices, complemented by talks and programs that draw the community. It’s a great indoor counterpoint to beach time and pairs nicely with coffee or dinner on Las Olas before or after your visit. Check “Currently on View” and “Upcoming” for what’s showing during your trip.
Museum of Discovery & Science (MODS)
Hands-on exhibits, a towering gravity clock, and one of South Florida’s largest IMAX screens make MODS a go-to for families and curious adults alike. It’s an easy add to a downtown day, especially if afternoon storms send you indoors. Look for weekend demos and special event nights on the museum calendar.
Signature Seasonal Events
Fall brings the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show—the largest in-water boat show in the world—spreading across marinas and the convention center with thousands of vessels and marine exhibits. December lights up with the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, a beloved nighttime procession along the New River and Intracoastal. Spring puts the spotlight on music and aviation: Tortuga Music Festival turns the beach into a three-day concert for a cause, and the Fort Lauderdale Air Show brings formation teams and demos to the shoreline sky. If your trip coincides with any of these, plan for tickets and viewing areas.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Fort Lauderdale is truly year-round. Winter and spring offer mild temperatures and a heavy events calendar, while summer and early fall bring warmer water and afternoon showers that usually pass quickly. Signature happenings like the boat show (fall), Winterfest Parade (December), Tortuga (spring), and the air show (spring) can help you choose dates that match your interests.
How do I get around without a car?
Base in the beach-to-downtown corridor and combine walking with the Water Taxi to reach major sights such as Las Olas, the Riverwalk, the beach, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, and several marinas. Rideshares and Brightline rail at the downtown station expand options for day trips.
What are good rainy-day options?
Head to MODS for exhibits and IMAX films, explore current shows at NSU Art Museum, or take a guided tour at Bonnet House. Performances at the Broward Center often fill evening plans regardless of the weather.
Where can I find local events while I’m in town?
Check the Riverwalk community calendar and the Broward Center schedule for festivals, concerts, and family programs downtown, then browse the Visit Lauderdale listings for citywide highlights during your stay.