30 Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is often called the "Venice of America" for a reason! Fort Lauderdale has an extensive canal system that is imipressive! Here is a list of 30 things to do in Fort Lauderdale to make your vacation a delight! Whether your wanting to sun, sight see, dine or just people watch, this is the list for you! 

1. Relaxing at Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of my funest activities! Enjoy seven miles of white sand, swimming, sunbathing, or jet skiing. The beachfront promenade is perfect for a scenic stroll. You can spend hours in the beautiful ocean snorkling, swimming, floating, sailing, or walking along the beautiful white sand.
2. Stroll Las Olas Boulevard like so many other tourists, visitors, or locals alike. Explore this vibrant street with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants like Louie Bossi for Italian cuisine. Visit in the evening for cocktails and people-watching.
3. Tour the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens - Wander this historic estate with lush gardens and art, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century Fort Lauderdale.
4. Take a Water Taxi Ride - Cruise the city’s 300 miles of waterways, passing Millionaires’ Row and luxury yachts. Opt for an all-day hop-on-hop-off pass.
5. Visit the Everglades National Park - Take an airboat tour at Everglades Holiday Park to spot alligators and learn about Florida’s ecosystem, just west of the city. Watch out for any aligators!
6. Explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - Hike, bike, or kayak in this 180-acre urban oasis between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic. 
7. Snorkel or Scuba Dive - Dive into the Florida Reef Tract or explore shipwrecks with Sea Experience, perfect for beginners and pros.
8. Visit Flamingo Gardens - Discover 60 acres of botanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary with flamingos, alligators, and native birds.
9. Cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat - Enjoy a daytime sightseeing tour or a dinner cruise with live entertainment on the New River.
10. Shop at Sawgrass Mills - Browse over 350 stores at this massive outlet mall, the second-most-popular attraction in Florida after Disney World. Just ask a fellow shopper, Sawgrass Mills Mall is a must see and enjoy all the name brand shops that you will find great deals on everyday merchandize, clothing and shoes.
11. Visit the NSU Art Museum - Admire over 7,000 works, focusing on South Florida, Caribbean, and multicultural art, located on Las Olas Boulevard.
12. Walk the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk - Stroll this 2.5-mile trail along the New River, passing parks, restaurants, and historic sites.
13. Explore Stranahan House Museum - Tour Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure (built 1901) to learn about the city’s history.
14. Visit Lauderdale-by-the-Sea - Snorkel or dive at coral reefs just offshore in this charming beach town, a short drive from downtown. This quaint city is adjacent to Fort Lauderdale, and has great seaside dining, and a pier.
15. Enjoy Hollywood Beach - Relax on soft sands, picnic, or walk the oceanfront promenade, known for its art murals.
16. Experience Butterfly World - Marvel at over 20,000 butterflies in the world’s largest butterfly park, a family-friendly attraction.
17. Try Xtreme Action Park - Race go-karts, bowl, or tackle an indoor ropes course at this massive entertainment venue.
18. Dine at Lester’s Diner - Savor classic American food and a famous 14-ounce coffee at this iconic ‘50s diner. And the best icecream ever!
19. Visit the Museum of Discovery and Science - Explore interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and live animal habitats, great for families.
20. Kayak or Paddleboard - Rent equipment in Wilton Manors or Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to paddle the Intracoastal Waterway.
21. Fish with Just Right Florida Charters - Book a fishing trip for mahi-mahi or sailfish, tailored for all skill levels.
22. Attend the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - Visit in October to see over 1,500 boats, including superyachts, in the world’s largest in-water boat show.
23. Relax at The Diplomat Beach Resort - Lounge by epic pools, rent a cabana, or dine at Monkitail for a luxurious beach day.
24. Cycle with Broward BCycle - Rent a bike via app to explore the city’s bike lanes, a fun and active way to sightsee.
25. Visit Deerfield Island Park - Take a free shuttle to this island park for trails and wildlife spotting, like gopher tortoises.
26. Enjoy the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Try your luck at the casino, dine, or catch a concert just outside Fort Lauderdale.
27. Check Out the Fort Lauderdale Air Show - Watch the U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform over Fort Lauderdale Beach in spring.
28. Dine at Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour - Indulge in famous ice creams in Dania Beach, a local favorite since the 1950s.
29. Explore Pompano Beach Fishing Village - Shop, dine, or snorkel near this beachfront area with wide beaches and reefs.
30. Attend the Winterfest Boat Parade - Catch this December holiday event with decorated boats along a 12-mile waterway route.

These activities offer a mix of free and paid experiences, catering to families, couples, and adventure seekers. For more details or to plan your trip, check resources like Visit Lauderdale or VISIT FLORIDA. If you’d like a tailored itinerary or specific recommendations (e.g., for a weekend or budget-friendly options), let me know!