15 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale: Golden Beaches, Golden Sun, & Golden Opportunities

15. Intracoastal Waterway

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The Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale is a 3,000-mile inland waterway that stretches from Boston to the Gulf of Mexico. The waterway is a popular destination for boaters, with its calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding mansions and yachts. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding along the Intracoastal Waterway.

14. Fort Lauderdale Beach Park 

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Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is a beautiful public park located right on the beach. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists. The park offers amenities such as picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, making it a great place for families to spend a day in the sun.

13. Coral Ridge Mall 

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Coral Ridge Mall is an indoor shopping center that features a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as entertainment options like a movie theater and bowling alley. The mall is conveniently located near the beach and several other popular attractions in Fort Lauderdale. With its air-conditioned interior and ample parking, Coral Ridge Mall is a great destination for shoppers and families alike.

12. Lauderdale by the Sea

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Lauderdale by the Sea is a charming seaside town located just north of Fort Lauderdale. Its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters attract visitors looking for a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere than the bustling city. The town is also known for its great scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, with several nearby reefs accessible from shore.

11. The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale

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The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale is an upscale mall features over 100 stores, including designer brands like Neiman Marcus and Michael Kors. Visitors can also dine at one of the mall’s many restaurants or catch a movie at the theater.

10. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

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This museum features a collection of contemporary art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and Andy Warhol. Visitors can also enjoy temporary exhibitions and educational programs.

9. International Swimming Hall of Fame

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The International Swimming Hall of Fame museum honors the world’s top swimmers and divers, including Olympic champions and world record holders. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and video displays.

8. Stranahan House 

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Built in 1901, this historic home was once the residence of Frank and Ivy Stranahan, who were instrumental in the development of Fort Lauderdale. Guided tours take visitors through the restored home and provide a glimpse into the area’s past.

7. Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum

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Car enthusiasts will enjoy this museum, which features a collection of classic cars from the early 20th century. Visitors can also see vintage clothing and accessories from the same era.

6. Museum of Discovery and Science 

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This interactive museum is a great destination for families with children. Exhibits include a live animal habitat, a space exhibit, and a hands-on engineering lab. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Museum of Discovery and Science also features rotating temporary exhibits that offer new and exciting experiences for visitors to enjoy.

5. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

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This historic estate was once the winter home of artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. Visitors can explore the 35-acre property, which includes a main house, art studio, and gardens filled with native plants and wildlife.

4. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

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Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale is a scenic promenade stretches along the New River, offering stunning views of the city and access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Visitors can also take advantage of various water activities such as gondola rides, water taxi tours, and even paddleboarding along the river. Additionally, Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale hosts numerous events throughout the year including art festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations, making it a vibrant hub of activity for both locals and tourists.

3. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

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Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is an 180-acre park offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Visitors can hike through the wooded trails, kayak on the lagoon, or picnic in the shaded areas.

2. Las Olas Boulevard

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This bustling street is lined with art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular spot for shopping and dining. Visitors can also take a scenic water taxi ride along the Intracoastal Waterway.

1. Fort Lauderdale Beach

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Known for its white sand and clear waters, Fort Lauderdale Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can take part in a variety of water sports, including parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.