Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale is the largest city in Broward County and the center of Greater Fort Lauderdale, known for its long public beach and about 165 miles of waterways inside city limits. People come for beach days on A1A, strolls and dinners along Las Olas Boulevard, and time on the water, whether that is a canal cruise, a water taxi ride or a cruise ship out of Port Everglades.

Where is Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale sits on Florida’s southeast coast, about 25 miles north of Miami. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is on the city’s south side, roughly 15 minutes from downtown or the beach, and Port Everglades is right next door. I-95 runs north and south through the city, I-595 heads west, and A1A follows the oceanfront. Brightline has a downtown station with service to Miami and points north, and Tri-Rail serves the region’s commuter routes.

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

The beach is the main event. Fort Lauderdale Beach runs along A1A for several miles, with a promenade, lifeguard stands and plenty of metered parking, though lots near Las Olas Boulevard fill early on winter weekends. Just north, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park preserves 180 acres of coastal hammock between the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, with trails, paddling and picnic areas. Across the road, Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic waterfront estate with tropical grounds.

Downtown, Las Olas Boulevard links the city center to the beach, and the Riverwalk follows the New River past the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the historic Stranahan House and the Museum of Discovery and Science. The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale is a short walk away. The best way to see the canals and waterfront homes is from the water, on a boat tour or the water taxi.

When to visit Fort Lauderdale

Winter and spring, roughly December through April, bring the driest, most comfortable weather and the biggest crowds. March is spring break season. Summers are hot with afternoon storms, and hurricane season runs June through November. Each fall the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show draws more than 100,000 people, so book early if you are visiting that week.