Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning waterways, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. Often referred to as the "Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale boasts an intricate network of canals and waterways that offer a unique perspective of the city. A canal cruise is a must-do, providing scenic views of waterfront mansions and lush landscapes. For a deeper dive into the city’s maritime history, the Museum of Discovery and Science offers interactive exhibits and a stunning IMAX theater.
The city’s beaches are another major draw, with Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach offering pristine sands and clear waters. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports. The Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, with its picturesque oceanfront promenade, is a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Nearby, the bustling Las Olas Boulevard features an array of shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a hotspot for both dining and entertainment.
Fort Lauderdale is also known for its arts and culture. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts a range of performances from Broadway shows to local productions, while the NSU Art Museum showcases contemporary art with a focus on the Americas. For a taste of local history and charm, the Historic Stranahan House Museum offers insights into the city’s early development and serves as one of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest landmarks.
A fun fact about Fort Lauderdale: the city hosts the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, one of the largest in-water boat shows in the world, attracting maritime enthusiasts and showcasing an impressive array of luxury yachts and boats. For the best experience, plan your visit during the cooler months from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and the city is bustling with events and activities.
Learn More About Fort Lauderdale
East Los Olas Boulevard
Shopping boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, bars and more dot this popular thoroughfare in the Central Business District. Enjoy a walk by canals, as well as the courtyards and breezeways.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
This Florida State Park on East Sunrise Boulevard is a spectacular outdoor space for the whole family. Beaches and beautiful green spaces await!
Museum of Discovery and Science
Check out fun, interactive and family-friendly exhibits at this impressive museum, one of Florida's largest. The sensory-overloading IMAX theater here is another reason to visit.
Butterfly World
Our colorful, winged friends are in resplendent display at this, the biggest butterfly park in the world.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
A historic home with lush greenery that has the distinction of being on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Getting Around
For public transportation from the Fort Lauderdale Airport, go to the transportation area outside the baggage claim on the lower level. There, arriving visitors will find a comparison list of fares for the GO Airport Shuttle.
The free Sun Trolley takes visitors to the Welcome Center in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where they can buy admission passes to museums & historic sites, store & restuarant discounts and all-day free trolley pass. The trolley runs every hour on the hour and stops at: lower level of T1 (west end); between T2 & T3; & between T3 & T4.
The Broward County BCT bus will connect to the Tri-Rail commuter system linking Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties.
The free Sun Trolley takes visitors to the Welcome Center in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where they can buy admission passes to museums & historic sites, store & restuarant discounts and all-day free trolley pass. The trolley runs every hour on the hour and stops at: lower level of T1 (west end); between T2 & T3; & between T3 & T4.
The Broward County BCT bus will connect to the Tri-Rail commuter system linking Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties.
Art Fort Lauderdale
Destination art fair held in January, where attendees are transported via water taxi and yacht, stopping at waterfront mansions to view emerging artists' work.
4th of July Spectacular
Family entertainment doesn't get much better than this beach-set extravaganza with water slides, bounce houses, apple pie eating contests, and fireworks at the end of the day.
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
This major, illuminated boat procession is a kick-off to the holiday season, and a proud Fort Lauderdale tradition held in early December.
Tortuga Music Festival
Country music's top performers highlight this 3-day music fest. Get yourself a cowboy hat and sand-resistant boots! Ocean conservation and research is a focus of this event, so good causes go along with the good times.
Pottery Wheel for Beginners
From 6/1/2019 - 6/1/2025
Learn how to make pottery pieces on the wheel, with the help of profesional potters. This 2-hour class is ideal for first timers who want to try it out and get their hands dirty.
The MKT
From 4/6/2024 - 3/1/2025
Enjoy stunning ocean views as you discover a diverse selection of homemade, homegrown, and handmade goods. Explore a range of offerings including fresh produce, global flavors, made-to-order treats, and unique items for both personal wear and home decor.
Florida Grand Opera
On 2/13/2025
Experience the beauty of opera with Florida Grand Opera. Enjoy music, drama, and breathtaking sets in a spectacular performance. This will be an unforgettable performance.
Sistrunk Parade and Street Festival
On 2/22/2025
Celebrate the history and vibrant culture of Fort Lauderdale at the Sistrunk Annual Parade and Street Festival, a lively event that brings together the community for a day of music, art, and tradition. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and local organizations, while the street festival offers live entertainment, food vendors, and a marketplace showcasing local artisans.
That Motown Band
On 2/22/2025
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Symphony of the Americas
On 2/25/2025
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Robert Cray Band
On 2/19/2025
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On 2/26/2025
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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
On 2/26/2025
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Herb Alpert
On 2/11/2025
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South Florida Symphony
On 2/12/2025
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Kathleen Madigan
On 2/14/2025
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Gimme Gimme Disco
On 2/14/2025
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Alton Brown
On 2/18/2025
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Paul Anka
On 2/19/2025
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Nikki Glaser
On 2/20/2025
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Robin Trower
On 2/21/2025
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Wallows
On 2/24/2025
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Little Feat
On 2/27/2025
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They Might Be Giants
On 3/1/2025
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The Beach Boys
On 3/1/2025
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Gold Coast Jazz
On 2/12/2025
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A.J. Croce
On 2/20/2025
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Miami City Ballet
On 2/22/2025
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State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine
On 3/2/2025
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Palace
On 3/5/2025
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On 3/6/2025
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Shovels & Rope
On 3/6/2025
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MODI
On 2/16/2025
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Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles
On 3/7/2025
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Green Day
On 3/7/2025
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Danny Go!
On 2/16/2025
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St. Patrick's Parade and Festival
On 3/8/2025
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Spyro Gyra
On 3/8/2025
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Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida
On 3/8/2025
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Jefferson Starship
On 3/9/2025
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Howie Mandel
On 3/10/2025
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GloRilla
On 3/10/2025
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