Fort Lauderdale is more than just a sunny South Florida escape—it’s a vibrant mix of upscale leisure, natural beauty, and cultural charm.
Located on Florida’s southeastern coast, this bustling city is a major hub for oceanfront fun and a top embarkation point for Caribbean cruises, thanks to the conveniently located Port Everglades. Think: palm-lined beaches, luxe shopping along Las Olas Boulevard, airboat rides through the Everglades, and romantic gondola tours under the stars.
- Quick tip: Arriving a day or two before your cruise? Fort Lauderdale makes for the perfect pre- or post-cruise destination with attractions that suit every pace—relax, explore, or do a bit of both.
Best Outdoor Activities in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s outdoor scene is its beating heart. Whether you're a beach lover, nature explorer, or simply seeking an open-air escape before or after your cruise, the city delivers endless sunshine, scenic backdrops, and memorable adventures. Here’s how to make the most of your time outdoors in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Just a few blocks inland from the beach, Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s cultural runway—a boulevard of sophistication, creativity, and nightlife charm.
Lined with boutique shops, art galleries, rooftop bars, and historic buildings, Las Olas feels more like a charming European street than a typical Florida avenue. In the daytime, explore indie bookstores, grab a gelato, or window-shop the latest in fashion and home décor. If you're art-inclined, don't miss the MAC Fine Art Gallery or New River Fine Art—both feature rotating exhibitions and works by regional and international artists.
Evenings here are nothing short of magical. As the lights glow and live music spills from patios, Las Olas transforms into a romantic stretch perfect for dinner dates and photo ops. Head to the rooftop bar at The Wilder for a crafted cocktail and panoramic city views, or enjoy a laid-back meal at Louie Bossi’s Italian Ristorante—loved by locals for its vibrant atmosphere and freshly made pasta.
2. Relax on Fort Lauderdale Beach
Few coastlines strike the perfect balance between city access and serene shoreline quite like Fort Lauderdale Beach. With over seven miles of sun-drenched sand and turquoise Atlantic waves, this beach caters to everyone—from solo sunbathers to families, surfers to people-watchers.
Lifeguard-supervised stretches line the shore, especially between Sunrise Boulevard and Las Olas Boulevard, making it one of the safest beaches for swimming. The sand is clean and soft, and the water is typically calm—ideal for casual dips or a bit of paddleboarding.
Along the promenade, you'll find plenty of cafés, beach bars, and rental kiosks offering chairs, umbrellas, and water sports gear. Grab a smoothie at Nanou French Bakery or a cocktail at The Elbo Room (a local institution), then stroll under the palm-lined walkway that separates the beach from the buzzing A1A strip.
- Best time to go? Early morning for peaceful vibes and gorgeous sunrise views. Or late afternoon for golden hour ambiance—especially popular with photographers and couples catching the sunset.
3. Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
A natural sanctuary tucked between the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a lush green escape right in the middle of the city. It’s a must-visit if you want to swap the buzz of Las Olas for birdsong and towering banyan trees.
This 180-acre park features kayak rentals, bike paths, and shady walking trails that wind past freshwater lagoons and through maritime hammocks. You can rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastal dune lakes or enjoy a slow afternoon picnic under the oaks.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife—turtles, raccoons, gopher tortoises, and over 200 species of birds. For families, there are plenty of open spaces for kids to roam, and if you're into photography, the sunrise over the mangroves is a quiet spectacle.
Entrance is just $6 per car, making it one of Fort Lauderdale’s most affordable outdoor gems.
4. Hop on a Water Taxi
Fort Lauderdale isn’t called the “Venice of America” for nothing. With over 165 miles of canals, waterways are as vital to the city as its roads. One of the best—and most scenic—ways to explore is by hopping aboard the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi.
The Water Taxi operates like a floating bus, cruising through the Intracoastal Waterway with 15 stops connecting top attractions, waterfront bars, hotels, and dining spots. You can hop on and off all day with a single pass, making it perfect for sightseeing without the hassle of traffic or parking.
Highlights along the route include:
- The luxurious yachts docked in Millionaire’s Row
- The shops and restaurants of Las Olas
- The 15th Street Fisheries restaurant, where you can feed massive tarpon fish right off the dock
- The Galleria Mall and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- Pro tip: Sit on the upper deck for the best views and don’t hesitate to ask your captain for local tips—they often share stories and facts about the homes and history along the way.
5. Take a Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
If you’re short on time or just want to sit back and soak up the sights, hop aboard the iconic Jungle Queen Riverboat—a staple of Fort Lauderdale tourism since 1935. This narrated cruise combines local history, live entertainment, and waterfront views for a relaxed but informative outing.
Tours run throughout the day, but the afternoon sightseeing cruise is especially popular for first-time visitors. You’ll pass extravagant waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, and hidden corners of the New River and Intracoastal, all while learning quirky facts about the city’s past and present. The narration is humorous, often full of local lore, and gives context to what you’re seeing.
They also offer an evening cruise with dinner and live variety shows at their private island location—a great option if you’re looking for an experience that combines entertainment, food, and exploration in one go.
Culture & Museums
Fort Lauderdale may be best known for its beaches and canals, but just beneath the sun-soaked surface lies a surprisingly rich cultural scene. For visitors seeking a slower pace or a deeper connection to the city’s roots, the city’s museums and historic landmarks offer a blend of art, architecture, and local legacy.
1. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a tranquil, almost dreamlike estate that transports you to another era. Originally a wedding gift in the 1920s from artist Frederic Clay Bartlett to his wife, this plantation-style home now serves as a window into the city’s Gilded Age and artistic evolution.
The house itself is eclectic—filled with colorful murals, whimsical shell motifs, and original artwork from the Bartletts. But it’s the gardens that truly captivate. Winding through the property are tropical and subtropical plant collections, including orchids, palms, and desert flora. As you walk the paths, it’s not unusual to spot swans gliding across the lily pond or wild monkeys darting among the trees—a nod to the estate’s untamed charm.
Bonnet House also regularly hosts art classes, concerts, and seasonal events, making it more than just a historic home—it’s a living, breathing cultural hub.
- Good to know: Photography is allowed (non-commercial use), and the estate is located within walking distance of Fort Lauderdale Beach, making it a perfect midday escape from the sun.
2. NSU Art Museum
Anchoring the city’s downtown arts district is the sleek and modern NSU Art Museum, a cultural cornerstone designed by famed architect Edward Larrabee Barnes. From the moment you walk through its minimalist façade, you’re immersed in a world of contemporary expression, international exhibits, and bold creative voices.
Inside, the museum houses more than 7,500 works, with strengths in Latin American, Cuban, and contemporary African diaspora art. One of its most distinctive features is the largest U.S. collection of works by American abstract expressionist William Glackens, a longtime Fort Lauderdale resident.
Rotating exhibitions bring in a steady flow of fresh perspectives—from multimedia installations and feminist art retrospectives to surrealist photography and design showcases. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply browsing on a rainy afternoon, the NSU Art Museum offers space to reflect, engage, and connect.
- Pro tip: Visit on the first Thursday of each month for free admission and extended hours, which often include talks or gallery tours.
3. Historic Stranahan House Museum
For a glimpse into the Fort Lauderdale that existed long before beachfront condos and mega-yachts, the Stranahan House Museum offers an essential piece of the puzzle. Built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan—the city’s founding father and original ferry operator—this lovingly preserved wooden structure is the oldest surviving building in Fort Lauderdale.
What makes it so special isn’t just the age, but the stories it holds. The Stranahan family helped shape the region’s early economy and were deeply involved in trading, education, and relations with the Seminole Tribe. The home, now restored to its early 20th-century condition, gives an intimate look at pioneer life along the New River.
Guided tours lead you through original furnishings, creaky floors, and wide verandas with river views—an atmosphere that feels more like a home than a museum. Costumed docents and rotating historical exhibits bring Fort Lauderdale’s past to life in surprisingly emotional ways.
- Bonus: The Stranahan House also offers ghost tours and holiday candlelight events, adding a bit of theatrical flair for those craving something a little spookier or seasonal.
Family-Friendly Things to Do
Traveling with kids? Fort Lauderdale delivers more than just beach days and poolside lounging. It’s a surprisingly kid-friendly destination, with interactive museums, wildlife encounters, and nature experiences that engage both little ones and grown-ups alike.
1. Museum of Discovery and Science
Located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is a must-visit for families. It’s the kind of place where kids can burn off energy and learn something at the same time—and where adults might find themselves just as entertained.
The museum spans two floors packed with hands-on science exhibits, from physics experiments and space simulations to live animal encounters and a recreated Florida Everglades ecosystem. Children can crawl through tunnels, step inside a life-size shark jaw, or try piloting a simulated airliner in the Everglades Airboat Adventure exhibit.
One of the biggest draws is the AutoNation IMAX Theater, Florida’s largest screen, which plays nature documentaries, educational films, and blockbuster movies in stunning 3D and surround sound. If you’re caught in an afternoon rain shower, this is a fantastic indoor option to keep the day exciting.
- Good to know: The museum is stroller-friendly, has a small café inside, and often runs weekend workshops, making it ideal for a half-day outing.
2. Butterfly World (nearby in Coconut Creek)
A short 25-minute drive north of Fort Lauderdale will bring you to one of the area’s most magical family attractions: Butterfly World, located in Coconut Creek. It’s the largest butterfly park in the world—and it absolutely lives up to its name.
Thousands of vibrant butterflies flutter freely in massive walk-through aviaries, surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers. Kids will be captivated by the bright colors, while parents can appreciate the serenity and rare photo ops.
But there’s more than just butterflies. Bug Zoo offers a fascinating (and sometimes gross-but-cool) look at beetles, spiders, and other creepy crawlies from around the world. There’s also a Lorikeet Encounter, where these playful, rainbow-colored birds will perch right on your shoulder for a snack.
- Bonus: The onsite garden shop is one of the best places in South Florida to pick up butterfly-friendly plants if you're inspired to start your own habitat at home.
3. Flamingo Gardens
Part wildlife sanctuary, part botanical wonderland, Flamingo Gardens is the perfect all-ages escape just 20 minutes west of downtown Fort Lauderdale. This nonprofit preserve spans 60 acres and is home to a wide variety of rescued and non-releasable animals native to Florida—including alligators, bobcats, black bears, panthers, and of course, the famous flamingos.
A highlight for families is the narrated tram ride that loops through the tropical grounds, including a rainforest, swamp, and citrus groves. Along the way, you’ll get up close with roaming peacocks and free-flying birds that call the park home.
You can also visit the Wray Home Museum, a restored 1930s house offering a glimpse into old Florida life. But for younger kids, the best moments come from simple pleasures: feeding the flamingos, watching river otters play, or running through the shaded gardens under hundred-year-old trees.
- Insider tip: Plan your visit in the morning to avoid heat and crowds. Bring sunscreen, and wear comfortable walking shoes—the grounds are expansive and worth exploring in full.
Nightlife & Dining
When the sun sets over Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, the city comes alive with a nightlife scene that’s as diverse as its daytime offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail with skyline views, a breezy beachfront hangout, or a chef-driven dining experience, Fort Lauderdale strikes a perfect balance between laid-back and upscale.
For cruise travelers especially, a night out in Fort Lauderdale can be the perfect way to toast to a trip well taken—or kick off the adventure ahead.
1. Rooftop Bars: Sparrow & Rooftop @1WLO
If you're looking for the best way to soak in Fort Lauderdale’s skyline and sea breeze, head to one of its premier rooftop bars.
Sparrow, perched atop The Dalmar hotel, offers a sophisticated escape high above the city. With floor-to-ceiling views, lush retro-modern interiors, and an indoor-outdoor layout, it’s ideal for a stylish night out. The cocktail menu leans creative, featuring everything from tropical-infused gin drinks to smoky mezcal concoctions, all served with a view stretching to the ocean. DJs often spin lounge sets on the weekends, giving it a lively but unpretentious vibe.
Just down the road, Rooftop @1WLO delivers a chic open-air atmosphere with panoramic views and a botanical aesthetic. This spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike—think twinkling string lights, craft cocktails, and small plates like tuna tartare and lamb lollipops. It's a particularly good choice for couples or small groups looking to unwind in style after a long day of exploring or cruising.
- When to go: Arrive around sunset for golden hour magic and snag a seat before the evening rush.
2. Las Olas Restaurants
No culinary tour of Fort Lauderdale is complete without exploring Las Olas Boulevard, the city’s iconic stretch of restaurants, bars, and cafés. Whether you’re craving Latin fusion, Italian comfort food, or inventive brunch fare, Las Olas delivers.
Start with Casa Sensei, a sleek waterfront spot that fuses Pan-Asian techniques with bold Latin flavors. Imagine sushi rolls with jalapeño ponzu, or kimchi fried rice with churrasco steak. There’s even a dock outside where you can arrive by boat—or simply enjoy dinner alongside the water.
A few blocks away, Louie Bossi’s Ristorante serves hearty Italian classics in a rustic-meets-urban setting. Wood-fired pizzas, fresh-made pastas, and house-cured meats headline the menu, and the energy is infectious—especially on weekend nights when the outdoor courtyard is buzzing.
For a more casual but equally charming experience, try The Foxy Brown, a brunch favorite known for its whimsical takes on comfort food. Think Cap’n Crunch pancakes, short rib Benedict, and crispy fried green tomatoes. It’s great for early arrivals before cruise check-in or a slow Sunday before flying home.
- Insider tip: Reservations are recommended on weekends, especially during high season (December through April).
3. Beachfront Clubs and Bars
If your idea of nightlife involves ocean air and dancing barefoot in the sand, Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront bars and clubs offer plenty of options with no need to dress up (unless you want to).
Elbo Room, at the corner of Las Olas and A1A, is the quintessential beachfront dive bar. Open since 1938, this two-story spot is famous for its live music, strong drinks, and rowdy, carefree energy. It’s not fancy—but it’s iconic. On sunny days and late nights alike, it’s packed with locals, tourists, and the occasional celebrity.
For a more curated cocktail experience, head inland just slightly to The Wilder. This upscale-but-not-stuffy cocktail lounge features velvet banquettes, vintage decor, and a rotating menu of beautifully balanced drinks. It’s a favorite among Fort Lauderdale creatives and young professionals and offers a quieter, more intimate vibe than some of the rowdier spots nearby.
If you want something in between, Rhythm & Vine offers the best of both worlds. This indoor-outdoor beer garden features food trucks, lawn games, a DJ booth inside a vintage Airstream, and communal picnic tables under string lights. It’s casual, social, and perfect for groups who want to relax with good drinks and even better vibes.
- Pro tip: Many beachfront venues host live music or DJs Thursday–Sunday, so check their weekly schedules for the best times to visit.
Shopping & Local Markets
Shopping in Fort Lauderdale is far more than a mall crawl. From luxury outlets and coastal boutiques to bustling weekend markets filled with local flavor, the city offers something for every kind of shopper—whether you’re hunting designer deals, looking for unique souvenirs, or simply exploring a new place through its markets and makers.
1. Sawgrass Mills Outlet Mall
If your idea of retail therapy includes outlet prices and brand-name treasure hunts, Sawgrass Mills is your must-visit destination. Just 25 minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale, this sprawling shopping mecca is the largest outlet mall in Florida—and one of the biggest in the U.S. With over 350 stores, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
Expect deep discounts at high-end designer outlets like Gucci, Burberry, Prada, Jimmy Choo, and Versace, along with household names like Nike, Levi’s, and Adidas. It’s also home to The Colonnade Outlets, an open-air section with more upscale brands and a more relaxed shopping experience.
Beyond shopping, there are food courts, sit-down restaurants, and even an escape room and movie theater if you're traveling with family or need a break between bags.
- Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring a large tote or wheeled bag if you plan on serious shopping, and arrive early to avoid parking hassles on weekends or during cruise season.
2. Las Olas Shops
If outlet malls aren’t your vibe and you’d rather stroll under palms with a latte in hand, Las Olas Boulevard is where Fort Lauderdale’s coastal style meets boutique sophistication. This walkable stretch between Andrews Avenue and the beach is lined with independent shops, artisan jewelers, local galleries, and fashion-forward stores you won’t find anywhere else.
Think breezy linen resort wear, handmade jewelry, chic beach bags, contemporary art, and luxury skincare brands—all with a local flair. Many of the shops are run by Fort Lauderdale residents, which gives Las Olas a personal, community-driven atmosphere.
You’ll also find quirky gift shops and artisan stationery stores, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or pre-cruise gifts for friends and family. After shopping, unwind at a nearby café or wine bar—almost every storefront has something tasty nearby.
- Bonus: Several art galleries on Las Olas host monthly open nights with wine tastings and artist meet-and-greets, offering a taste of the local creative scene.
3. Yellow Green Farmers Market (Weekends Only)
Want to feel like a local? Spend a Saturday or Sunday morning at the Yellow Green Farmers Market in nearby Hollywood, just a 20-minute drive from central Fort Lauderdale. With over 300 vendors under a shaded warehouse roof, it’s the largest farmers market in South Florida and one of the most vibrant weekend destinations around.
Inside, you’ll find a sensory overload of fresh produce, artisan food stalls, global cuisine, handcrafted goods, and live music. Sample locally made hot sauce, grab a Thai coconut smoothie, nibble on handmade empanadas, and browse rows of handmade candles, crystals, woodwork, and vintage finds.
This isn’t your average produce stand—it’s a curated community space full of flavor and personality. There's seating throughout the space, so you can hang out and enjoy a bite while soaking in the atmosphere. And with new vendors constantly rotating in, there's always something different to explore.
- Pro tip: Arrive before 11 a.m. for the best parking and shorter lines. Many locals grab brunch here and stroll the aisles with coffee in hand.
Day Trips & Excursions from Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic home base—not just for cruising, but for day-long escapes that reveal the wild, colorful diversity of South Florida. From remote swamplands to coral reefs and pastel-lined streets, these quick excursions give travelers a deeper taste of the region’s ecosystems, cultures, and coastlines. Whether you’re here before your cruise or staying after, these day trips are worth the mileage.
1. Everglades Airboat Adventure
No trip to South Florida is complete without venturing into the Everglades, a one-of-a-kind ecosystem of sawgrass prairies, slow-moving waters, and fascinating wildlife. Just a 30–40 minute drive west of Fort Lauderdale, you'll find multiple tour operators offering Everglades airboat rides—arguably the most thrilling way to explore this subtropical wilderness.
Airboats skim over the marshes at high speed, then slow down to glide quietly past alligator habitats, wading birds, and hidden tree islands. Many tours include educational commentary on the Everglades’ fragile ecosystem, its role in Florida’s water system, and the wildlife that calls it home. You’ll likely spot wild gators sunbathing on banks or peeking through lily pads—not to mention turtles, herons, and the occasional bald eagle.
- Best spots: Sawgrass Recreation Park, Everglades Holiday Park, and Gator Park are all reputable, with convenient pickup options from Fort Lauderdale hotels. Some also offer night tours for a spookier, more adventurous vibe.
- Insider tip: Bring sunglasses, bug spray, and your camera—sunlight on the swamp is breathtaking, especially early in the morning or just before dusk.
2. Miami or Key West Day Trips
If you're craving a taste of big city flavor or want to chase pastel sunsets and mojitos, day trips from Fort Lauderdale to Miami or Key West are easier than you’d expect.
Miami is just 30 miles south—a 40-minute drive or train ride via Brightline—and makes for a vibrant, energetic change of pace. Explore the bold street art of Wynwood Walls, wander the Cuban culture-rich streets of Little Havana, or catch some rays at South Beach. The city's food scene is globally inspired and well worth exploring, even if you're only in town for a few hours.
For a more adventurous and scenic trip, consider heading all the way down the Florida Keys to Key West—a quirky island paradise at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It’s a 3.5 to 4-hour drive, so many travelers opt for a guided day tour or shuttle to avoid car rental stress. Along the way, you'll drive the famous Overseas Highway, with turquoise waters on both sides and 42 bridges connecting tiny island communities. Once in Key West, enjoy Duval Street’s lively mix of shops, bars, and art galleries, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, or just bask in the laid-back tropical vibe.
- Pro tip: If time is tight, stick with Miami. But if you’re looking for a “bucket list” drive and can start early, Key West is unforgettable.
3. Snorkeling or Scuba Excursions
For travelers eager to see what’s beneath those sparkling Florida waters, snorkeling and scuba trips are among the most rewarding ways to spend a day. Fort Lauderdale’s offshore reefs are part of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S.—and it’s just a quick boat ride away.
Multiple operators run half-day and full-day trips to shallow reefs, sunken wrecks, and drift dive locations. Sites like Vista Park Reef, Hog Heaven Wreck, and the Mercedes I Shipwreck are popular with both snorkelers and divers. Marine life is abundant—expect to see parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles, rays, and possibly reef sharks (they’re harmless and majestic).
For beginners, snorkeling tours are calm, safe, and family-friendly, often including gear rental and basic instruction. Certified divers can explore deeper spots or join drift dives where you glide effortlessly with the ocean’s current.
- Pro tip: Book morning tours for calmer seas and better visibility. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, and if you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding.
Cruise-Ready Tips for Travelers
Fort Lauderdale is more than just your departure point—it's a built-in bonus destination. Thanks to its proximity to Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, the city makes transitioning from land to sea (and back again) a breeze. Whether you’re arriving early, staying a day post-cruise, or just killing time before embarkation, here are some practical and stress-saving tips to make the most of your pre- or post-cruise experience.
1. Proximity to Port Everglades
Located just 5 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and minutes from the beach, Port Everglades is one of the most conveniently placed cruise terminals in the U.S. That closeness gives you flexibility— you can land, sleep, explore, and sail all within the same 24-hour window.
For cruisers arriving a day early (highly recommended), several hotels near the port offer free or low-cost cruise shuttles, as well as early check-in for travelers with tight timelines.
Transport tips:
- Uber/Lyft is fast and reliable throughout Fort Lauderdale; rides to the port from most nearby hotels cost $10–$20.
- Shared shuttle services like GO Airport Shuttle or hotel-arranged vans can be more affordable for families or larger groups.
- Porters at the terminal are available for curbside baggage drop—have your cruise tags printed in advance to speed things up.
2. Things to Do Before Boarding
Got a few hours to kill before check-in opens at Port Everglades (usually around 10:30–11:00 AM)? Lucky you—Fort Lauderdale makes that morning fly by.
Start your day with a sunrise beach walk along Fort Lauderdale Beach. The city’s beach promenade is peaceful in the early hours, perfect for getting centered before boarding. There are cafés along A1A where you can grab breakfast or a smoothie while watching the ships roll in.
Prefer culture over cardio? Head to the Museum of Discovery and Science (especially fun if you’re traveling with kids) or stroll the serene grounds of the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, both less than 15 minutes from the cruise terminals.
Craving a final taste of Florida before you set sail? Enjoy a relaxed brunch at:
- The Foxy Brown – Comfort food with flair
- Gran Forno Las Olas – Fresh Italian pastries and strong espresso
- Java & Jam – Breakfast classics with vegan and gluten-free options
- Reminder: Always allow at least 60–90 minutes to get to the port, go through security, and board your ship—even if you're just down the street.
3. Where to Store Luggage Pre-Cruise
Early arrival but late check-in? You don't want to drag your suitcase to brunch or through a museum. Luckily, Fort Lauderdale offers convenient luggage storage options near both the port and airport.
- Bounce and LuggageHero offer storage at vetted local businesses like hotels, cafés, and convenience stores. You can book online and drop off your bags securely for a few hours or the whole day.
- Port Everglades itself does not offer lockers, so storing luggage offsite is your best bet if you arrive early or disembark with time to spare before your flight.
- Some hotels—especially those near the cruise terminal—offer luggage hold services for a small fee, even if you’re not staying there. Always call ahead to check availability.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Beyond the sun-drenched beaches and buzzing boulevards, Fort Lauderdale has a softer, quieter side—one that locals cherish and travelers often overlook. Tucked away from the usual cruise crowds and tourist traffic are hidden gems where you can catch your breath, sip something sweet, or experience Florida at its most charming.
If you’ve already hit the main attractions or simply prefer the road less traveled, these local favorites offer a more personal, authentic slice of the city.
1. Ann’s Florist Coffee & Wine Bar
A florist shop, wine bar, café, and photo op all in one? Ann’s Florist Coffee & Wine Bar is an atmospheric escape tucked into the heart of Las Olas Boulevard. With its vintage velvet chairs, chandeliers, and walls bursting with fresh flowers, it feels like you’ve walked into a romantic garden party—or a set from a European film.
By day, enjoy lavender lattes, homemade pastries, or afternoon wine flights served on delicate china. By night, the space glows with candles and conversation. It's perfect for unwinding solo with a book, catching up with friends, or sharing a final toast before heading to sea.
- Local tip: The flower shop in the back sells gorgeous arrangements if you want to surprise someone onboard—or just treat yourself.
2. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
If the main Fort Lauderdale beaches feel a bit too busy, head north 15 minutes to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a quiet beach town with old-school charm and a laid-back vibe. The beach here is peaceful and clean, ideal for swimming, snorkeling off the coast, or simply lounging with a paperback.
At the heart of the town lies Anglin’s Square, a pedestrian-friendly plaza lined with colorful Adirondack chairs, ice cream shops, and open-air seafood cafés. The iconic fishing pier adds to the postcard-perfect scene, and there’s often live music or art markets in the evenings.
- Perfect for: A low-key beach morning, picnic lunch, or romantic sunset stroll before heading back to the cruise terminal.
Why Fort Lauderdale Shouldn’t Be Skipped
Fort Lauderdale isn’t just a pit stop on the way to your cruise—it’s a destination that deserves your attention in its own right. Where else can you spend the morning kayaking through mangroves, the afternoon shopping on a palm-lined boulevard, and the evening sipping cocktails on a rooftop overlooking the Atlantic?
This city blends natural beauty, coastal charm, and modern convenience with remarkable ease. It’s perfect for families looking to explore, couples in search of romance, solo travelers who crave a laid-back pace, and cruisers who want to start (or end) their journey on the right note.
So before you set sail, take a moment to enjoy all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Trust us—you’ll be glad you did.
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