ricardo gomez angel L6T 6Rp2iEk unsplash scaled

What is Fort Lauderdale?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

What is Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is a city in Florida near the Atlantic Coast. It is located in Broward County and is the county seat. As of 2019, it had a population of 180,072. It is well known for its beaches, bars, clubs, and culture that attract a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Fort Lauderdale was established in 1911 and initially was a farming community. Over the years, the city has grown and developed into a major tourist destination. It is now home to a large number of luxurious resorts, beaches, and entertainment venues. Fort Lauderdale is considered one of the most beautiful locations in the entire United States.

What to do in Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing destination for tourists and residents alike. The main attractions in the area are its world-class beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and playing beach volleyball. Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of activities, including water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, fishing, and boat tours.

The city also has several cultural attractions such as the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, and the Historic Stranahan House Museum. These attractions provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the local history and culture.

For nature lovers, there are plenty of options in Fort Lauderdale. The city has numerous parks and nature preserves that are great for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and Deerfield Island Park are particularly popular among nature enthusiasts.

In addition to its numerous attractions, Fort Lauderdale also has many interesting shops, restaurants, and bars. Las Olas Boulevard is a particular hotspot, renowned for its lively atmosphere and excellent shopping opportunities. This street also has a number of fantastic restaurants that specialize in seafood, Italian cuisine, and more.

Lastly, Fort Lauderdale is one of the nation’s largest yachting destinations. Some of the world’s best marinas are found here, offering vessels of all kinds for day and weeklong charters. Whether sailing on your own vessel or taking one of the many charters available, sailing around Fort Lauderdale’s waterways is an unforgettable experience.

Where to stay in Fort Lauderdale?

When it comes to accommodations, Fort Lauderdale offers something for every budget. From small inns or bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts and beachfront villas, there are plenty of lodging options available. The most popular area for tourists is along the coast or on Las Olas Boulevard as these areas tend to provide easy access to both beach activities and tourist attractions.

High-end luxury resorts can be found throughout the city, although these are usually located on the oceanfront properties. Some of the more notable resorts include the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and the W Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel.

For those travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option there are plenty of mid-level hotels located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. These hotels tend to be close to the airport and public transportation is available from most downtown locations to reach any area in the city. Popular mid-level hotels include Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Everglades Cruise Port Area, Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport North and Best Western Plus Fort Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port Hotel.

Conclusion

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent vacation destination offering something for every traveler. Of course its main draw is its gorgeous beaches which make it a perfect spot for sunbathers, swimmers and those looking to try out any number of watersports. But its vibrant culture with museums, entertainment venues, shopping and excellent dining options have earned it a place among the best vacation spots in America. With numerous lodging options available to fit any budget, there’s no shortage of reasons why it’s worth visiting this Florida city. For more information about Fort Lauderdale you can check out The Official Greater Fort Lauderale Tourism Website.

An Insider’s Guide to Fort Lauderdale: Discovering the Hidden Gems

Fort Lauderdale, situated in the heart of Florida, is often considered a popular beachfront destination with beautiful sandy beaches. However, delve deeper, and you’ll discover that the city has much more to offer than its sun, sand, and surf. As a local, here’s my insider’s guide to Fort Lauderdale, with unique and fascinating experiences beyond the typical tourist spots.

Local Attractions: Exploring the Hidden Gems

Sure, Fort Lauderdale has the well-known attractions like the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens and the Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum. Still, the city also boasts some hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, be sure to check out the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, the Flamingo Gardens and Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Secret Woods Nature Center.

Visit the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, which gives you a glimpse of a slice of paradise hidden from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle. Take a stroll around the park, breathe in the fresh air, and revel in the stunning views of nature.

For an immersive wildlife experience, visit the Flamingo Gardens and Wildlife Sanctuary, which hosts over 3000 species of wildlife and various botanical gardens.

Finally, hop on kayaks for a day trip at the Secret Woods Nature Center, where the meandering water trail is perfect for exploring a unique ecosystem.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Local Flavors

From the classic seafood to the new and modern cuisines, Fort Lauderdale is a food lover’s paradise. Wander beyond the tourist traps and explore the city’s culinary heritage by indulging in some authentic and local dishes. Cuban food, such as the Cuban sandwich and the popular guava and cheese pastries, are local specialties.

Head over to the historic district of Los Olas Boulevard and try the Chimney House Grill and Café for a taste of the ‘hidden’ but heavenly menu, the Chimney Cake, which is a Hungarian chimney cake stuffed with cheese or nutella.

For a more upscale dining experience, try Café Martorano, where the typical Italian-American fare meets gangster films making for an intriguing ambiance.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering the City’s Traditions

Fort Lauderdale has a rich cultural history, with various festivals, art, music, and customs that visitors should experience during their stay. Some notable cultural experiences to explore include the Strawberry Festival, the Las Olas Art Fair, and the Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival.

The Strawberry Festival, held annually during February, brings together food, music, and family-friendly activities to celebrate the strawberry harvest season.

Las Olas Art Fair held twice a year is an excellent opportunity to explore local art, photography, sculpture, and crafts, all while enjoying live music and indulging in delicious food and drinks.

Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival is one of America’s largest outdoor music festivals. It features an array of musical talents, sustainable eco-initiatives, and ocean conservation and preservation efforts.

Local History: The Stories That Made The City

Fort Lauderdale has a history that goes beyond the sandy beaches and blue waters. Delve deeper and you’ll discover some fascinating stories of the city’s past. The Stranahan House, built in 1901, is the oldest structure in the city, now a museum, where you can learn about the region’s history and its impact on the community.

The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum offers a glimpse into the military past of the city, the role it played during World War II.

Finally, for an eerie but engaging excursion, explore the SS Copenhagen Shipwreck – the remains of a 19th-century merchant ship, which now lies six miles off Fort Lauderdale’s shore.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures

Looking for a unique experience beyond the conventional? Consider exploring the everglades, where you can witness the local wildlife, such as alligators, panthers, and egrets in their natural habitat. For some adrenaline, take an airboat ride over the swamps, which will make for an unforgettable experience.

If you’re keen on thrift shopping, head over to the historic district of Wilton Manors. You can find thrift finds of everything from vintage clothing to antique kitchenware, at unbeatable prices.

In conclusion, Fort Lauderdale is more than just a beach destination. It’s a city steeped in culture, with hidden gems to explore, and immersive experiences that will leave an unforgettable impression. So, whether you’re looking for a dose of history, culture, or adventure, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone to discover.

ricardo gomez angel L6T 6Rp2iEk unsplash scaled

What is Fort Lauderdale?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!