Ft. Lauderdale Things to do…At a Glance
Best Time to Go
Although summer is cheaper, visitors to Fort Lauderdale flock in all year long. Winter (November-March) is an ideal time to visit the area, especially if you’re coming from chillier climates. However, keep in mind that this is the season of snowbirds and things don’t come too cheap (or un-crowded).
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Average Weather
Summer is hot, hot, hot. The breeze from the Atlantic slightly helps to cool the air, but the humidity is enough to keep you indoors. This is a great time of year for watersports, as the water temperature is rather balmy. Winter in Ft. Lauderdale is perfect. The temperatures average in the low to mid 70s, dropping to mid 60s at night. Summer is the rainy season. Expect at least one tropical-style downpour per day, but it’s not usually enough to put a damper on your day.
Transportation
Your best bet is to drive in Fort Lauderdale. Situated off Interstate 95, there are a number of different exits you can take in this city. It’s rather sprawling and not conducive to walking–unless you’re staying along the Las Olas strip. Except during rush hour, Ft. Lauderdale is a fairly easy place in which to drive. East-west I-595 runs from westernmost Broward County and links I-75 with I-95 and U.S. 1. If you’re worried about drinking and driving or just want to spend time in the water, hail a Water Taxi, which provides service along the Intracoastal Waterway. These taxi boats stop at more than 30 restaurants, hotels, shops, and nightclubs; the fare is reasonable and all day passes are available. When it comes to the big yellow taxi, keep in mind this isn’t New York. You may be able to catch one at a major hotel, otherwise call ahead. Or Uber.
In-Season Costs
Prices skyrocket and reservations are a must when tourism peaks from November through early April.
Day Trips
- Enjoy your day in Hollywood. And don’t forget to stroll along the scenic Boardwalk or walk through the aviary at Flamingo Gardens, in Davie, before relaxing in peaceful Hollywood North Beach Park.
- South Beach, Bay Side, Art Deco District of Miami–these are only a 45-minute drive.
- Head over to Coral Gables to take in the eye-popping display of 1920s.
- Also keep in mind that, time permitting, you can continue your drive south all the way to Key West (about 4 hours) and indulge in some margaritas, snorkeling, parasailing and just plain (sometimes raunchy) fun.
Want to know what the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale are? Here’s our top recommendations, including where to stay in the city!
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s historic Riverwalk is a great way to take in the sights of downtown.
The Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale is home to over 7,000 works of art, including many modern pieces.
Florida Grand Opera performs at the Au-Rene Theater of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
Stranahan House, built as a trading post, is now a museum that shows what life was like in South Florida in the early 1900s.
Places to stay in Fort Lauderdale
The Ritz-Carlton: The Ritz-Carlton sits on the Intracoastal Waterway and has a private beach just across the road. It’s also only about half an hour away from the airport (FLL), which can be very convenient if you’re trying to catch an early flight. Plus, it offers some great amenities, like a spa and fitness center. We recommend staying here if you can afford it—it’s one of the best luxury hotels in town!
If you’re looking for a trendy and hip city with a beach vibe and plenty of top-notch attractions, then you’ll love the Fort Lauderdale area. It’s the ultimate destination for boating lovers, history buffs and foodies alike, offering something for everyone. And while it’s often overshadowed by its neighbor Miami, which is just 40 miles away, there’s actually quite a bit to do in Fort Lauderdale. So pack your sunblock, and let’s get started!Fort Lauderdale may be best known for its beaches and boating, but this vibrant city on Florida’s southeastern coast offers a myriad of exciting things to do. The city has an ever-growing list of museums and art galleries, as well as theaters, concert halls, sports venues, and other attractions. With so much to see and do in Fort Lauderdale, the question isn’t what to do—it’s how to fit it all in!
Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
Museums & Galleries
For arts lovers, Fort Lauderdale offers a number of museums and galleries featuring everything from classic paintings and sculptures to contemporary photography. The NSU Art Museum features a variety of permanent collections, including Spanish art from the 15th through 20th centuries. Additionally, there are seven distinct galleries at this museum that display works by local artists. For photography lovers, the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale is a must-see attraction. This museum houses more than 6,000 photographs in its permanent collection along with rotating exhibits from some of the world’s most famous photographers.
