Fort Lauderdale, located in sunny Florida, is a city filled with fun activities, beautiful beaches, and exciting places to explore. Known as the “Venice of America” because of its many canals, this city has something for everyone, whether you love nature, shopping, or trying new foods. Let’s learn more about Fort Lauderdale and how you can visit this amazing destination!

Where Is Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is in the southeastern part of Florida, USA. It is about 28 miles (45 kilometers) north of Miami, making it easy to visit both cities if you’re in the area. The city is famous for its waterways, marinas, and stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline.

How to Get to Fort Lauderdale

Getting to Fort Lauderdale is easy, whether you are traveling from another state in the U.S. or from another country.

1. By Plane

   • The easiest way to get to Fort Lauderdale is by flying into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). This airport is just a few miles from the city center and serves many domestic and international flights.
   • If you can’t find a flight directly to FLL, you can also fly to Miami International Airport (MIA), which is about 45 minutes away by car.

2. By Car

   • If you’re already in Florida, you can drive to Fort Lauderdale. The city is well-connected by highways like Interstate 95 (I-95), which runs along the east coast.

3. By Train

   • Amtrak trains and Brightline, a high-speed train, connect Fort Lauderdale with other cities in Florida, such as Miami, West Palm Beach, and Orlando.

4. By Cruise

   • Fort Lauderdale is a popular starting point for cruises, with Port Everglades being one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.

Amazing Beaches in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its gorgeous beaches. Here are some you’ll love to visit:

1. Fort Lauderdale Beach This beach is the heart of the city, with soft sand, clear waters, and a long promenade where you can walk, bike, or just relax. There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a perfect spot to spend the day.

2. Las Olas Beach Located near the lively Las Olas Boulevard, this beach is great for people-watching and enjoying the sunshine.

3. Hollywood Beach Just a short drive away, Hollywood Beach has a unique boardwalk called the Hollywood Broadwalk. It’s perfect for biking, rollerblading, or just strolling along the coast.

4. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park This park has a quiet beach area surrounded by nature. It’s a wonderful place for families who want to enjoy both the beach and outdoor activities like kayaking and picnicking.

Fun Activities in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer! Whether you love the outdoors or exploring the city, there’s plenty to do.

1. Explore the Canals Fort Lauderdale has over 165 miles of canals. You can take a boat tour or even ride a water taxi to see the city from the water. Some of the canals are lined with luxurious homes and yachts, making the views extra special.

2. Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens This historic home is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a peaceful place to learn about the city’s history and enjoy nature.

3. Shop on Las Olas Boulevard Las Olas Boulevard is a lively street filled with shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to find souvenirs or enjoy a delicious meal.

4. Go to the Museum of Discovery and Science This museum is perfect for kids and adults who love science. It has interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and even live animal encounters.

5. Take an Everglades Tour The Everglades is a unique natural area just outside Fort Lauderdale. You can take an airboat tour to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Delicious Food in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has a wide variety of food to try. From fresh seafood to international flavors, there’s something for everyone.

1. Seafood Being near the ocean, Fort Lauderdale has amazing seafood. Try dishes like fresh shrimp, lobster, or stone crab.

2. Cuban Food Since Florida is close to Cuba, you’ll find delicious Cuban dishes like Cuban sandwiches, black beans and rice, and plantains.

3. Key Lime Pie Don’t leave Florida without trying this famous dessert! Key lime pie is sweet, tangy, and perfect after a meal.

4. Food Trucks Fort Lauderdale has many food trucks offering everything from tacos to burgers. These are great for quick and tasty meals.

Wildlife and Nature

Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about beaches and shopping; it’s also a fantastic place for nature lovers.

1. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park This park is a peaceful oasis where you can go hiking, biking, or paddleboarding. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching.

2. Butterfly World Located a short drive from Fort Lauderdale, this is one of the largest butterfly parks in the world. It’s a magical experience for kids and adults alike.

3. Anne Kolb Nature Center This nature reserve has walking trails, kayaking opportunities, and an observation tower with stunning views of the area.

Exciting Events and Festivals

Fort Lauderdale hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some highlights:

1. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show This is one of the largest boat shows in the world, featuring yachts, boats, and marine equipment.

2. Las Olas Art Fair Held several times a year, this fair showcases local and international artists. It’s a great place to see beautiful artwork and crafts.

3. Tortuga Music Festival This music festival on the beach features country, rock, and pop music. It’s a fun event for music lovers.

Best Time to Visit Fort Lauderdale

The best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is during the winter and spring months, from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Summers can be hotter and wetter, but they’re still a great time to enjoy the beaches and indoor attractions.

Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has accommodations for every budget, from luxury resorts to cozy hotels.

1. Luxury Hotels

   • The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
   • W Fort Lauderdale

2. Mid-Range Hotels

   • Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
   • B Ocean Resort

3. Budget-Friendly Options

   • Fort Lauderdale Beach Hostel
   • La Quinta Inn & Suites

Tips for Visiting Fort Lauderdale

• Use the Water Taxi: It’s a fun and scenic way to get around the city.
• Pack Sunscreen: The Florida sun can be strong, so protect your skin.
• Stay Hydrated: Always have water with you, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
• Respect Nature: If you visit parks or the beach, make sure to leave the area clean.

Why Visit Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful place for a vacation. With its beautiful beaches, exciting activities, and friendly atmosphere, it’s a destination that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re relaxing by the ocean, exploring the canals, or learning about nature, Fort Lauderdale has something to make your trip unforgettable.

So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to create amazing memories in the “Venice of America”!

PRIVATE JET AIRPORTS in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE)

Owned and operated by the City of Fort Lauderdale, this airstrip – which is located in the center of the Uptown Business District–serves as a reliever airport for the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International (FLL) and as a general airport for all kinds of planes, including private jet charters. Open 24/7, the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport is considered as one of the busiest aviationairports in the United States, with 165,000 operations and more than 200,000 visitors every year. Aside from serving as a gateway into the city, FXE also features an air traffic control tower, aircraft rescue and firefighting facilities, a police substation, 24-hour airport security and fixed-base operators that offer aviation services like fueling and maintenance to visiting aircraft and location-based planes.