If you're wondering what to do in Fort Lauderdale, you're in for a vibrant mix of sandy beaches, cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures and relaxed waterfront living. Nicknamed the “Venice of America” for its winding canals and yacht-filled marinas, this sunny South Florida city is more than just a cruise port. Whether you’re spending a day before your sailing or planning a full vacation, here are the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Stroll the Iconic Fort Lauderdale Beachfront
Fort Lauderdale’s golden-sand beach is the heart of the city. Stretching for miles along A1A, this scenic shoreline invites you to swim in warm Atlantic waves, take a sunrise walk or relax beneath a palm-lined promenade. Beachfront cafés and bike rentals add to the laid-back vibe. If you're deciding what to do in Fort Lauderdale with limited time, this stretch of coastline is the perfect place to start.
2. Cruise the Canals on a Water Taxi
Explore the city from the water aboard a Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, which offers hop-on, hop-off access to major attractions, shopping areas and waterfront dining spots. Glide past mega-yachts, celebrity mansions and historic neighborhoods as you learn about the city’s nautical history. For a relaxing and scenic way to sightsee, this is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
3. Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Step into Old Florida charm at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a historic estate that blends art, nature and architecture. Originally a winter retreat for artists and pioneers, the house boasts a whimsical design, and is nestled amidst lush gardens and a vibrant coastal dune ecosystem. For visitors seeking what to do in Fort Lauderdale beyond the beach, this tranquil escape offers a glimpse into the city's creative past.
4. Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Lined with palm trees, galleries, boutiques and open-air restaurants, Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s premier shopping and dining district. Whether you're hunting for handmade jewelry, enjoying a sidewalk brunch or simply strolling with a gelato in hand, this buzzing street has something for every mood. It's one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale for casual daytime fun or an easygoing night out.
5. Take a Day Trip to the Everglades
Just west of the city, Everglades National Park offers a wild contrast to Fort Lauderdale’s polished waterfronts. Airboat tours let you skim across sawgrass marshes while spotting alligators, turtles and wading birds in their natural habitat. Many excursions include educational talks about this unique ecosystem. If you're looking for a taste of adventure in Fort Lauderdale, this makes a perfect half-day trip.
6. Relax at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the beach, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a peaceful retreat filled with shady trails, kayaking paths and picnic spots. Rent a bike, hike the maritime hammock or paddle through the park’s freshwater lagoon. It's a quiet, scenic pocket of nature right in the city, perfect for stretching your legs before or after a cruise.
7. Explore Art & History at NSU Art Museum
Located in the heart of downtown, the NSU Art Museum is home to rotating exhibitions of contemporary and Latin American art, plus a permanent collection featuring works by leading American modernists. The building itself is a striking piece of architecture. If you're wondering what to do in Fort Lauderdale on a rainy day or seeking a dose of culture, this museum is a hidden gem.
8. Catch a Show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
From Broadway musicals to symphony performances, the Broward Center brings world-class entertainment to Fort Lauderdale. Located on the banks of the New River, this waterfront venue offers multiple theaters and an ever-changing calendar of events. Whether you love music, theater or dance, attending a show here is one of the most memorable and fun activities in Fort Lauderdale.
9. Hop Aboard a Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
For a nostalgic tour, board the Jungle Queen Riverboat, a Fort Lauderdale staple since the 1930s. These sightseeing cruises wind through the canals while guides share local stories, celebrity trivia and architectural highlights. Some cruises include a stop on a private island with tropical animals and live entertainment. It’s a classic way to see the city from the water.
10. Discover Local Flavor at a Waterfront Eatery
Fort Lauderdale's food scene is all about fresh seafood, international influences and breezy waterfront dining. Book a table at a dockside restaurant like Coconuts or 15th Street Fisheries, where you can watch boats glide by as you enjoy conch fritters, grilled mahi or a tropical cocktail. This is always a great choice for visitors seeking Fort Lauderdale local flavors accompanied by great views.
What To Do in Fort Lauderdale
If you're wondering what to do in Fort Lauderdale, consider strolling the beachfront, cruising the canals, exploring historic estates and dining along the water. You can spend the day relaxing in a state park, taking in local art and culture or riding an airboat through the Everglades. Whether you're here for a few hours or a long weekend, Fort Lauderdale offers a mix of sunshine, scenery and coastal charm that’s hard to resist.
