Visiting Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America
Fort Lauderdale, often called the Venice of America due to its sprawling canal system, is a coastal city in Florida that combines miles of shoreline with outdoor activities and neighborhood hangouts. Whether you are looking to spend your days lounging on the sand, getting out on the water, or checking out local museums, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to keep you busy.
Beaches and Water Sports
Fort Lauderdale Beach is known for wide stretches of fine sand and clear Atlantic water. Visitors can swim, rent jet skis, or paddleboard right off the shore. The beachfront promenade is built for walking or cycling, offering clear views of the ocean and direct access to nearby coffee shops and storefronts.
Exploring the Canals
With more than 300 miles of waterways, Fort Lauderdale takes its nickname seriously. Taking a water taxi or booking a gondola ride gets you close to the waterfront estates and yachts lining the canals, giving you a proper look at how locals live on the water while offering a completely different perspective of the city.
Culture and Heritage
The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic estate preserved right in the middle of dense coastal growth, complete with subtropical grounds. Art fans will want to check out the NSU Art Museum for its rotating contemporary and modern exhibitions. For a look at the area's earliest roots, the Stranahan House stands as the oldest surviving residence in the city, offering guided tours that detail the early days of Fort Lauderdale.
Parks and Nature
The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a protected green space tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors come here to walk the trails, paddle canoes on the lagoon, or have a picnic under the tree canopy. It functions as a quiet slice of native Florida wilderness right next to the urban core.
Seafood and Local Flavors
The food scene in Fort Lauderdale leans heavily into fresh catches and coastal staples, with strong Caribbean influences throughout. Local favorites include stone crab claws served chilled with a mustard dipping sauce, alongside conch fritters that point right back to the region's island neighbors.
Where to eat
- Coconuts (Central Beach neighborhood): A casual waterfront spot right on the water serving fresh catches with views straight across the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Kelly's Landing (17th Street Causeway neighborhood): A New England style seafood joint famous for lobster rolls and clam chowder.
- Casa Frida Mexican Cuisine (Coral Ridge neighborhood): A colorful neighborhood spot serving traditional Mexican plates made from scratch.
- Lobster Bar Sea Grille (Las Olas neighborhood): A polished choice for prime steaks and high-end seafood dishes accompanied by an extensive wine list.
Where to stay
- B Ocean Resort (Central Beach neighborhood): A beachfront hotel with direct sand access, two pools, and the historic Wreck Bar featuring live mermaid shows.
- Riverside Hotel (Las Olas neighborhood): A historic property right on the busy boulevard featuring classic rooms and an outdoor pool.
- Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach (Central Beach neighborhood): A modern high-rise offering wide ocean views and quick access to coastal spots.
- The Victoria Park Hotel (Victoria Park neighborhood): A quiet boutique option tucked away in a residential area close to the beach and dining districts.
When to go
Fort Lauderdale has a warm tropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The months from November to April bring the most comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. In late October, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show draws marine enthusiasts from all over to see massive yachts and watercraft lining the docks.
How to get there
The city is served by the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, located roughly 3 miles south of downtown. Direct flights arrive daily from airports across the US. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are readily available at the terminals to get you to your hotel.
How to get around
Fort Lauderdale has a county bus network covering major corridors. The Sun Trolley provides low-cost and free routes connecting downtown to the beach zones. For the best experience, hop on the Water Taxi to hop from dock to dock along the canals while skipping street traffic entirely.
