Find Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Feb 27, 2025

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a city known for its stunning beaches, lively entertainment, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, top-rated restaurants, or unique attractions, Fort Lauderdale offers something for everyone. This guide covers the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, from beachfront relaxation to nightlife, shopping, and historic sites.

Beaches in Fort Lauderdale

• Fort Lauderdale Beach - One of the most popular spots in the city, Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a clean shoreline, clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great alternative to Miami Beach, featuring a more laid-back vibe with family-friendly spaces. Along the beachfront promenade, visitors can walk, jog, or enjoy oceanfront dining.
• Las Olas Beach - Located near Las Olas Boulevard, this beach is ideal for those who want quick access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. It has a mix of relaxation and activity, with plenty of spots for sunbathing and swimming.
• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea - A short drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is known as South Florida’s beach diving capital. Coral reefs just offshore make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving.

Outdoor Activities and Water Adventures

• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - This 180-acre park offers a mix of hiking, kayaking, and biking trails, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Located between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, the park provides a natural escape within the city.
• Airboat Tours in the Everglades - For a thrilling outdoor adventure, head to Sawgrass Recreation Park or Everglades Holiday Park for an airboat tour. These tours offer an up-close look at Florida’s famous alligators, bird species, and swamp ecosystems.
• Boat Tours and Water Taxi Rides - Nicknamed the "Venice of America", Fort Lauderdale is home to 300 miles of waterways. A boat tour or a ride on the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a great way to see Millionaires' Row, luxury yachts, and waterfront mansions.

Cultural and Historic Attractions

• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens - A historic estate with lush gardens and art collections, the Bonnet House offers a glimpse into Florida’s past. Guided tours provide insights into its unique history and architecture.
• Stranahan House Museum - Built in 1901, the Stranahan House is the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale. Once a trading post, it now serves as a museum showcasing the city’s early days.
• Museum of Discovery and Science - Perfect for families, this museum features interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a live animal habitat. Popular attractions include the aviation station and prehistoric Florida exhibit.

Shopping and Dining

• Las Olas Boulevard - A hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife, Las Olas Boulevard features a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and top-rated restaurants. Enjoy alfresco dining at spots like S3 – Sun, Surf & Sand Restaurant or explore rooftop bars.
• Sawgrass Mills - For those who love shopping, Sawgrass Mills is the largest outlet mall in the United States, offering over 350 stores, including high-end brands and discount outlets.

Entertainment and Nightlife

• Broward Center for the Performing Arts - A must-visit for theater lovers, this venue hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and live performances year-round.
• Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Located just outside Fort Lauderdale, this massive entertainment complex includes a casino, luxury dining, bars, and a concert venue featuring top artists.
• Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale - A scenic area along the New River, Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale offers restaurants, green spaces, and cultural attractions, making it a great place for an evening stroll.

Adventure and Unique Experiences

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - Fort Lauderdale is home to several snorkeling and diving spots, including the reefs near Pompano Beach and shipwreck sites offshore.
• Flamingo Gardens - This 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary is home to flamingos, alligators, otters, and some of Florida’s oldest trees.
• Butterfly World - As the largest butterfly park in the world, this attraction features over 20,000 butterflies in a lush tropical setting.
• Xtreme Action Park - For an indoor adventure, visit Xtreme Action Park, which offers go-kart racing, bowling, arcade games, and an indoor ropes course.

Explore Fort Lauderdale with a Guided Motorcycle Tour

Want to experience Fort Lauderdale's best spots from the saddle? Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across Florida that take you beyond the tourist trails and onto roads most visitors never find. From coastal cruises along A1A to rides through the Everglades, a guided tour lets someone else handle the route planning while you focus on the ride.

Rent a Motorcycle and Take a Ride!

Enjoy the Florida sights with a motorcycle rental from Riders Share. With the largest selection of bikes in the United States, Riders Share makes it easy to find the perfect ride. Ride along the coast, visit the Everglades, or take a trip to see the historic sights. Renting a motorcycle is a fun and exciting way to explore everything For Lauderdale has to offer.

OTHER FORT LAUDERDALE BLOG’S YOU’LL WANT TO CHECK OUT:

• How Much Do Motorcycle Rentals Cost in Fort Lauderdale?
• Your Guide to Motorcycle Laws in Florida
• BMW Motorcycle Rentals in Fort Lauderdale You Can Rent Today

Fort Lauderdale is a destination that offers something for everyone, from relaxing beaches to thrilling outdoor activities and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you’ll find plenty to explore.