- What to Do in Fort Lauderdale for Fun
- Top 5 Best Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- 5 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale with Kids
- 5 Unique Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
- 5 Fun Outdoor Activities in Fort Lauderdale
- 5 Free Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
- 5 Fun Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale for Couples
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is best known for its sun-drenched beaches and winding waterways, which have earned the city its nickname “Venice of America.” But there’s much more to explore here than the canals.
This coastal city also features upscale dining, lively art spots, and plenty of entertainment. Whether you’re moving to Fort Lauderdale, planning a visit, or already live here and want to switch up your routine, here are some of the most fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
What to Do in Fort Lauderdale for Fun
Wondering how to spend a day in Fort Lauderdale? Try starting your morning with coffee along Las Olas Boulevard. Grab a latte and pastry at Gran Forno Bakery & Café or an artisanal coffee at Dammiano’s before heading toward the water. From there, spend the day soaking up the sun at Fort Lauderdale Beach.
The city’s walkability makes it easy to stumble on hidden gems along the way, with plenty of views to capture, shops and galleries to explore (like South Moon Under and Abra), and restaurants to enjoy (dinner at Earls or Voodoo Bayou won’t disappoint).
If you’re looking for even more ideas to fill your day, we’ve collected our favorite fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, below to help you make the most of your time here.
Top 5 Best Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Don’t have much time to build an itinerary? No problem. We’ve narrowed down our extensive list to the top 5 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
1. Cruise the “Venice of America” waterways. The city’s canals are what Fort Lauderdale is best known for, so pull the boat out of your Fort Lauderdale self-storage unit for a day on the water or book a tour on the Water Taxi.
2. Become a pirate for a day. Bring the kids to get dressed up, learn how to talk and fight like a pirate, and enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waterways on a Bluefoot Pirate Adventure.
3. Dive into wondrous coral reefs. Just off of Fort Lauderdale’s coast are miles of Florida’s coral reef system available to be explored.
4. Release sea turtle hatchlings into the ocean. Just north of Fort Lauderdale is Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, a coastal preserve where visitors can spot sea turtles or help volunteers release hatchlings.
5. Get a taste of the city’s fine dining. The best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, especially Michelin-awarded MAASS, highlight diverse cuisines with fresh ingredients and even fresher seafood.
Read on to find out more about these and all the other fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
5 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale with Kids
There are plenty of engaging things to do in Fort Lauderdale with kids year-round. Here are five great places to start.
1. Mix Education and Entertainment at the Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale with kids because it blends education and entertainment. With dozens of hands-on exhibits and special events like sea turtle nesting, the museum lets kids learn about science, engineering, archeology, and more in a fun, engaging way.
2. Cool Off in Splash Pools at Quiet Waters Park
Splash Adventure Water Park is open during the warmer Florida months and offers slides, spray zones, and shallow play areas designed especially for younger children. With affordable admission, the splash pools at Quiet Waters Park are a perfect way to have fun while beating the heat.
3. Become a Pirate for a Day
The Bluefoot interactive pirate cruise invites kids and playful adults to dress up, hunt for treasure, and take part in swashbuckling fun on the water. It’s easily one of the most unique and fun things to do with kids in Fort Lauderdale.
4. Treat the Family to Old-Fashioned Ice Cream
Located in the Dania Beach area just south of Fort Lauderdale is Jaxson’s Ice Cream, one of the oldest ice cream parlors in the area. Featuring nearly 50 hand-crafted flavors and nostalgic toys, the parlor is a must-visit for the whole family.
5. Step Back in Time at the Florida Renaissance Festival
In February and March each year, the Florida Renaissance Festival transports visitors to a whimsical festival full of jousting, costumed performers, and artisan vendors. Get immersed in the sword fights, axe throwing, archery, and medieval fare that keep visitors of all ages entertained.
5 Unique Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
South Florida is home to incredible wildlife, stunning natural ecosystems, and a rich history. These activities are some of the best, unique things to do in Fort Lauderdale, so you don’t miss out.
1. Cruise the Iconic Waterways on a Water Taxi Tour
The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is one of the most popular attractions in the city. This guided sightseeing cruise runs along the famous Intracoastal Waterway, with stops near waterfront bars, restaurants, hotels, and attractions. The LauderGO! Water Trolley is a free alternative with fewer stops that helps you get around and sightsee Downtown.
2. Book an Airboat Adventure in the Everglades
The Florida Everglades, famous for its airboat tours and alligator park, stretch over millions of acres and are filled with native wildlife. The tour lets you glide through the marshes and experience the thrill of this unique Florida landscape up close.
3. Step into History at the Stranahan House Museum
Discover Fort Lauderdale’s roots at the Stranahan House Museum, the city’s oldest surviving structure. Built in 1901, the house acted as a trading post, post office, and home. Now, you can book a tour to see how the area around the New River, which runs through Downtown Fort Lauderdale, has developed throughout Florida’s history.
4. See Wildlife Up Close at Flamingo Gardens
This botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary has 60 acres filled with lush gardens and stunning wildlife native to South Florida. Catch glimpses of alligators, falcons, flamingos, panthers, parrots, river otters, and more, all while learning about these species and current conservation efforts.
5. See Fort Lauderdale’s Reefs Without Getting Wet
Glass-bottom boat tours offer an easy way to explore Florida’s gorgeous reef system while staying completely dry. If you’d rather get closer to the marine life, you can also book snorkeling or diving trips to explore Fort Lauderdale’s reefs up close.
5 Fun Outdoor Activities in Fort Lauderdale
With Fort Lauderdale’s average of 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, you can easily fill your days with plenty of outdoor activities in Fort Lauderdale, whether you’re out on the water or on land. Just remember to learn how to store summer vacation gear properly so you can enjoy these adventures regularly without hiccups.
1. Learn Watersports at Tigertail Lake
The Tigertail Lake Recreational Center offers visitors a chance to learn how to paddleboard, kayak, and scuba dive. It’s a great pick for an active day in the water with a little more guidance to help you feel more comfortable trying other outdoor activities in Fort Lauderdale.
2. Enjoy the Boating Culture
Fort Lauderdale’s extensive waterways and collection of marinas make it one of the most boat-friendly cities in the country. And after a long day of boating in the sun, you can dock your vessel at one of the many waterfront restaurants and along the canal.
3. Walk or Bike Peaceful Trails in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Nestled between the Fort Lauderdale coast and Intracoastal Waterway, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is considered the city’s very own Central Park. Its winding trails and picnic areas are shaded by a canopy of native Florida trees, making it the perfect place to spend a full day outdoors.
4. Kayak or Paddleboard Along the New River
Buying or renting a kayak or paddleboard is a great way to enjoy the many outdoor activities in Fort Lauderdale. Launch your kayak into the New River route or paddleboard at Cooley’s Landing. From there, you can catch some views of Downtown and the waterfront mansions that line the canals and even make your way down to the beach.
5. Snorkel or Dive near the Beach
There are more than 100 reefs and wreck sites easily accessible for a dive or snorkel along the 23-mile stretch of beaches near Fort Lauderdale. The colorful coral reefs are home to fish, sea turtles, and other marine life just below the surface.
5 Free Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
What are some free things to do in Fort Lauderdale? You’re in luck because this city has so many free events and activities to enjoy every season. These are some of our favorite free or cheap things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Catch Free Signature Events at the Riverwalk
Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk District regularly hosts free community events that feature local food and live music throughout the year. One of the most beloved is the Sunday Jazz Brunch held on the first Sunday of every month at Esplanade Park.
2. Learn About Sea Turtles at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
Located just north of Fort Lauderdale in Boca Raton, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center offers free admission and an up-close look at 20 acres of South Florida’s coastal ecosystems, including native sea turtles and their nests.
3. Immerse Yourself in Fort Lauderdale’s Arts Scene
Fort Lauderdale is home to an active and diverse arts scene. Walk through some of the large murals in the MASS District or check out contemporary art at the NSU Art Museum. The museum offers free admission and longer hours on the first Thursday of the month.
4. Window Shop at Dozens of Local Merchants and Artisans
Even if you’re just window shopping, Sunny Side Up Market at Huizenga Park offers a fun way to spend an afternoon browsing handmade goods, local art, and artisan products. The market hosts live music and other family-friendly activities that you can participate in for free, too.
5. Enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s Beaches
Sometimes the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale are the simplest. Head toward Lauderdale-By-The-Sea for a laid-back atmosphere where you can walk in the sand and enjoy the views.
5 Fun Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale for Couples
If you’re wondering how to spend a date night (or day) with a special someone, these ideas offer a great starting point for finding things to do in Fort Lauderdale for couples.
1. Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Whether you’re grabbing coffee in the morning or partaking in Las Olas Boulevard happy hour, you don’t have to choose just one stop on this street. Here, you can easily hop between different venues for small bites and tasty drinks while enjoying the other boutiques and businesses along the way. You’ll quickly discover why Las Olas is such a coveted area and one of the best places to retire in Fort Lauderdale.
2. Immerse Yourself in Creativity and Art
At MAD Arts, you’re surrounded by stunning art and light displays from the moment you walk in. The space is filled with innovative installations that play with light, color, and sound to create an experience that is both immersive and unforgettable. There’s so much to explore with your sweetheart, and you’ll have plenty to talk about afterward.
3. Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise
Set the tone for romance aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat. As you cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll enjoy golden-hour views of waterfront mansions and yachts while sharing dinner and taking in live dancing and entertainment.
4. Get a Taste of Fort Lauderdale’s Fine Dining Scene
For an elevated evening, reserve seats at the Michelin-starred Chef’s Counter at MAASS, where you can watch the chefs prepare and plate each course right in front of you. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more casual, consider Heritage, a lively Italian spot known for its creative pizzas and house-made pastas.
5. Catch a Show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
For an evening of live entertainment, head to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Whether you’re looking for a Broadway musical, concert, or comedy show, this performing arts center will have you covered.
Make Space for All the Fun Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
What is there to do in Fort Lauderdale? Lots, it turns out. From waterfront adventures and beach days to vibrant art experiences and unforgettable nights out, Fort Lauderdale makes it easy to stay busy and active year-round.
Make room for the boats, kayaks, bicycles, and more that help you enjoy all the fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale with CubeSmart self-storage. Find a CubeSmart storage facility near you.
