Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Activities, attractions and tours
Fort Lauderdale featuring a pond, a garden and tropical scenes

Fort Lauderdale Attractions

Sitting north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is to everglades tours and wildlife what Miami is to nightlife and trendy beach parties. Of course, Fort Lauderdale is no stranger to spring breakers and sun worshipers, either. Fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale range from leisurely river boat cruises to invigorating jet ski adventures, and everything in between. Even land lubbers and foodies can find plenty to do. Whether you are headed to this south Florida city as a family or in the company of friends, you will find something to satisfy your travel appetite.

Areas & Neighborhoods

Some neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale appeal to the water lover, while others will inspire those looking to try a new seafood dish or stay out late. Whether you are in southern Florida with your entire family, on a couples trip, or getting away with friends, you can find Fort Lauderdale activities right up your alley.

Riverwalk — Riverwalk is easy to navigate thanks to the pedestrian walkway here. As you work your way along the New River, stop for dinner, spend some cash at a small boutique, and cap off your day with a theater show. This is a great place to see what the cultural side of Fort Lauderdale is bringing to the table.

Pompano Beach — Just north of Fort Lauderdale proper, Pompano Beach is a good destination for anyone who is a fishing aficionado or just likes to taste a fresh catch. Aside from being a hotspot for boating and fishing and home to an impressive pier, Pompano Beach also has an off-shore coral reef that is appealing to divers and one of the best natural attractions in Fort Lauderdale.

Downtown — Much as you would expect from any downtown area, the hub of Fort Lauderdale is teeming with activity. From the nightlife along Las Olas Boulevard and in Historic Himmarshee Village to the outdoor dining, there is something new around every corner.

Things to See in Fort Lauderdale

Before you get your feet wet or even start to explore the Fort Lauderdale nightlife scene, there are several ways to sit back and be entertained. When it comes to photo opportunities, the coast is riddled with spots to snap picturesque images of the sunrise or surfers out on the waves. If you’re most entertained by the arts, stop by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and catch a bit of Broadway in Fort Lauderdale.

Things to Do & Attractions in Fort Lauderdale

Once you’re ready to strap on some tennis shoes or swim fins, you’ll be excited to learn that there is a nearly endless list of land and water activities in Fort Lauderdale. Go on a scuba diving tour, rent a kayak for the afternoon in Wilton Manors, or take advantage of paddleboard rentals from a number of local vendors. Of course, things to do in Fort Lauderdale also include land-based fun. Rent a bicycle for one of the more athletic Fort Lauderdale tours, or try your hand at 18 holes of golf.


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Explore areas of Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale featuring interior views

East Fort Lauderdale

4.5/5(429 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in East Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Boulevard are top sights worth seeing.

East Fort Lauderdale
Hollywood North Beach Park

Hollywood Beach

If you're spending some time in Hollywood Beach, Hollywood Beach and Hollywood Beach Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

Hollywood Beach
Fort Lauderdale featuring interior views

Central Beach

If you're spending some time in Central Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Central Beach
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

Downtown Fort Lauderdale

3.5/5(390 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Make a stop by Las Olas Boulevard or Historic Stranahan House Museum while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Anne Kolb Nature Center showing forest scenes and a bridge

Hollywood Lakes

4.5/5(10 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Hollywood Lakes, Hollywood Beach Golf Club and Hollywood North Beach Park are top sights worth seeing.

Hollywood Lakes
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Lauderdale Beach

Lauderdale Beach might not have many top sights, but Fort Lauderdale Beach and Coral Ridge Mall are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Lauderdale Beach

Day trip destinations from Fort Lauderdale