Thanks to its convenient location near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and cruise port. It boasts a vast canal network where opulent mansions and luxurious yachts make for a spectacular sightseeing tour by water taxi or any number of boat excursions. Meanwhile, further east, Sawgrass Recreation Park boasts airboat tours that offer sightings of thrilling Florida wildlife, including alligators.
Las Olas Beach
If you venture north from the Fort Lauderdale Beach Park or head east on the iconic Las Olas Boulevard, you’ll stumble upon the picturesque Las Olas Beach. This serene haven boasts a small yet inviting stretch of sand that lures beachgoers of all ages. The beach is well-equipped with various amenities, including a state-of-the-art amphitheater and thrilling splash pad. Visitors can also easily rent beach chairs and water sports equipment, take advantage of the restrooms, and pay for metered parking. To top it off, there are several restaurants, bars, and shops located conveniently across the street. In short, Las Olas Beach is the ultimate destination for those looking for a serene yet entertaining vacation spot in Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
If you seek a serene, picturesque Florida beach scene minus the boisterous parties, consider visiting Fort Lauderdale Beach. Its pristine sands and translucent waters offer an equally captivating experience as Miami Beach. Here, you’ll discover a calm retreat, where families can unwind and take quiet walks along the shoreline. This space is often dotted with locals and guests strolling or jogging.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
This magnificent structure situated between Fort Lauderdale Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway boasts a rich and fascinating history. Back in 1919, a prosperous landowner gifted his daughter Helen and her beloved Frederic with a sprawling 35-acre estate that featured the beautiful bonnet lily flower. The newlywed couple envisioned Bonnet House as their private winter retreat. There Frederic could create his art and Helen could work on her music and poetry.
Flamingo Gardens
The magnificent Flamingo Gardens – a botanical garden and wildlife refuge situated 17 miles west of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Within these gates is an enchanting 60-acre tropical oasis awaits. Also, with roaming peacocks, native Florida fauna is an impressive collection of over 3,000 plant species. A non-profit organization, Flamingo Gardens is dedicated to preserving endangered and injured animals in natural habitats. The sanctuary is home to diverse animals such as sea otters, a rescued black bear, alligators, and over 250 bird species – including the iconic Caribbean flamingo.
Butterfly World
Butterfly World, the world’s largest butterfly house and the first of its kind in the United States, has been captivating visitors since 1986 with its collection of over 20,000 live butterflies. The creation of thousands of new butterfly habitats and a significant increase in butterfly populations across North America.
Today, visitors to Butterfly World are treated to a unique experience that not only allows them to interact with over 50 butterfly species at any given time. Also, to admire tropical birds and hand-feed lorikeets. This Coconut Creek attraction is located approximately 15 miles north of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Is the perfect destination for families seeking an educational and engaging day-trip.