An hour from Miami is the city’s smaller South Florida sibling, Fort Lauderdale. This waterfront destination is a beautiful city of its own with breathtaking beaches, culture, art, history, food, and high-spirited nightlife. Although Miami can never get old, it can be exciting to explore somewhere new. So ditch Miami for a day up north with this day-trip guide to Fort Lauderdale.
See Also: How To Spend The Perfect Fall Day In Coconut Grove
View this post on Instagram
1235 E Las Olas Blvd / Website
What better place to start your day than the beating heart of Fort Lauderdale. Located on the city’s iconic Las Olas Boulevard, Gran Forno Bakery is the go-to breakfast spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy an amazing range of Italian, European, and American favorites. With options to dine-in or take-out, Gran Forno is a great option if you want to take your dish on the road and begin the day right away. The celebrated eatery makes almost 800 ciabatta loaves every day, so you don’t have to wonder how fresh your bread is. From sandwiches to cookies, there is something to satisfy the cravings of everyone in your party.
View this post on Instagram
1 E Las Olas Blvd / Website
One of the fastest growing regions in the U.S, Fort Lauderdale’s art and entertainment district is home to the 25,000 square foot NSU Art Museum. The building itself is an architectural wonder, designed by Edward Larrabee Barnes in 1986. Must-see exhibitions include the largest 6,000-work collection of paintings and drawings by William Glackens, the ceramic works of Pablo Picasso, and an extensive selection of projects dedicated to Native American, African, and Oceanic Tribal Arts. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is another must-see venue presenting more than 700 performances each year giving patrons their pick between Broadway musicals, ballets, operas, concerts, plays, and workshops. If you want a peek behind the curtain, public tours of the center are offered on the first Sunday of every month during a Sunday Jazz Brunch beginning at 11:30 a.m.
View this post on Instagram
3109 E Sunrise Blvd / Website
Ditch the urban landscape and escape to nature at Fort Lauderdale’s own central park. Gifted by Hugh Taylor Birch with an intent to preserve Florida’s greenery, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a lush haven loved by locals. Hike or cycle the two-mile loop or relax in a hammock and watch the boats roll by. Replenish your energy for this fun-filled day and grab a nitro coffee at the park’s own Park & Ocean that overlooks the dazzling Atlantic. Guests can also tour Hugh Taylor Birch’s former home, the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a beautiful mansion with exhibits about his life and history of the region entrapped in a lush jungle that will transport you to a city once untouched by skyscrapers and highways.
View this post on Instagram
Fort Lauderdale doesn’t get enough credit for its world-class diving and snorkeling. Running parallel to the city’s shore is three tiers of coral reef that are home to some of the only coral you can find in the continental U.S. If that’s not interesting enough, there are 76 underwater shipwrecks to awe at, giving the city the nickname “Shipwreck Capital of the U.S.” On the outskirts of the main city, animal lovers can head to the quaint beach town, Lauderdale-By-the-Sea, that serves as one of the largest sea turtle nesting sites in the world.
View this post on Instagram
609 East Las Olas Boulevard / Website
All that exploring will probably have you hankering for a good meal. Try the tastes of Las Olas landmark, Big City Tavern, a consistent spot for locals that boasts steadfast lunch options and good company. Great food and spirits, the diverse menu has options for everyone. Lunch menu highlights include the Meatball Smash–a grilled meatball patty with fresh mozzarella, marina, and a side caesar salad–and Ladanna’s Jerk Chicken–a free range bone-in chicken with red beans, rice, peppers, plantains, and rum. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner with a special late-night menu for party goers looking for a bite before bed.
View this post on Instagram
After your meal, walk off the meatball sandwich as you explore Las Olas Boulevard. Lined with palm trees and charming people, the stretch is home to everything from fashion boutiques to dive bars. It is the perfect place to get to know the city and the people who live there. Explore the eclectic district by taking a stroll down the sidewalks or opt for the popular option of biking. Adorned by bike lanes, there are many options for rentals along the boulevard like Broward BCycle, a county initiative that allows anyone with a phone to unlock a bike via an app and drop it off at any of the stations throughout the town. Take the opportunity to stop into some of the city’s most celebrated boutiques. An eclectic mix, you can find something for everyone on the savvy strip. Highlights include Maus and Hoffman, South Moon Under, State and Liberty, Lilly Pulitzer, Briny Boutique, and much more.
View this post on Instagram
3291 W Sunrise Blvd / Website
If the boutiques on Las Olas didn’t scratch your shopping itch, try your bets at Fort Lauderdale’s quirky yet iconic Swap Shop. The Swap Shop’s famous bright yellow and red building is home to one of the world’s largest flea markets that serves as a fascinating collection of items from brand-name merchandise to zany souvenirs. Originally built as a drive-in theater, you don’t want to miss this Sunshine State tourist destination. Make it a challenge with your friends to see who can find the most puzzling piece.
View this post on Instagram
450 E Las Olas Blvd / Website
Another dinner option, Timpano Chophouse and Martini Bar, will bring straight to Fort Lauderdale’s roots. In the same location it was 18 years ago, Timpano Chophouse and Martini Bar is a timeless Fort Lauderdale staple that serves as a time machine. The street has changed, but this classic Italian restaurant hasn’t. Get ready for some of the best food on the boulevard from a 16 oz wagyu hanger steak to spinach-filled ravioli. After you are finished, enjoy a smoked old fashioned at their Bar & Lounge that stays open until one a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
View this post on Instagram
1 W Las Olas Blvd #700 / Website
Now it’s time to get the party started and there is no better place than above Las Olas Boulevard at Rooftop @1WLO. Known as the garden in the sky, this trendy space is the spot for some of the best cocktails and views that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. There is also a large selection of wines and seasonal small plates and shareables. This is the perfect spot to relax and drink with friends or to get your night started.
View this post on Instagram
111 SW 2nd Ave Suite #1A / Website
Located in the famous Himmarshee District, known for its renowned party scene, Sway Nightclub is the perfect place to go with friends for a night of memories you can take back home. The popular spot is a great place to meet new people as the venue is usually packed each night. Treat yourself to a night of care-free fun after a long day of becoming an expert in all things Fort Lauderdale.
Photography by: Courtesy Kruck20/Getty
