Lined with gorgeous beaches, excellent restaurants, top-notch hotels and year-round sunshine, Fort Lauderdale is a premier beach destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re escaping the cold as a snow-bird, visiting for a week or just adding a day or two before catching a Caribbean cruise, Fort Lauderdale offers something for every traveler.
So, to get the most out of your Fort Lauderdale trip, keep this AAA travel guide handy. Along with a number of AAA Diamond-designated hotels, restaurants and attractions, it also lists plenty of helpful travel tips and information.
How to Get Around Fort Lauderdale
While the city of Fort Lauderdale covers 36 square miles, its two most popular tourist areas - the ocean-front and downtown - are less than two miles apart. Los Olas Boulevard, a beautiful street, lined with canals and restaurants, connects the two. For the most part, you’ll find getting around the city fairly easy. Here’s a brief rundown of the typical options:
Walk/Bike
If you’re staying near the beach, there are plenty of shops and restaurants right on the boardwalk. The same goes for downtown, if you stay in that area. You should have no trouble finding things to do within easy walking distance. Fort Lauderdale’s growing network of bike lanes makes biking an option, as well. Las Olas Boulevard, Sunrise Boulevard and sections of A1A now have dedicated and marked bike lanes. The city also has a bike-sharing program - Broward BCycle - with pickup and drop-off locations in many areas of town.
By Car
Having a car in Fort Lauderdale might be the best overall option. Even during the busier cold weather season, traffic is usually not a problem. Most areas have free or metered on-street parking. The beach and downtown areas also have several municipal parking lots. Most hotels offer free or paid overnight parking, as well. If you plan to explore the South Florida area, a car will come in handy.
Public Transportation
Broward County Transit buses run throughout most of Fort Lauderdale’s main areas, including popular destinations like Las Olas Boulevard, the beach and downtown. Fort Lauderdale’s Sun Trolley, a free or low-cost hop-on-hop-off trolley service, runs along seven routes around the city’s popular tourist and local spots. There’s also a water taxi that offers a scenic and relaxing way to get around. It stops at over ten different locations along the New River and the Intracoastal Waterway. Traditional taxis, as well as Uber and Lyft, also operate widely in Fort Lauderdale.
Best Time to Visit Fort Lauderdale
Most people consider December through April as the optimal time to visit Fort Lauderdale. However, keep in mind that when you are visiting during that timeframe, Fort Lauderdale is still a spring break hotspot for college students during March. However, each season has its particular pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers:
Peak Season: December to April
Weather - Typically warm and dry, with average daily high and low temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
Prices - This is the high season, so expect larger crowds and possibly spring breakers. And, of course, larger crowds mean higher airfares, hotel rates and rental car prices.
Events - Popular events include the Las Olas Art Fair, the Tortuga Music Festival in April and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
Why Visit During the Peak Season - Most people come to get away from the cold weather up north. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer without the high heat and humidity typical of the summer months.
Off-Peak Season: May to September
Weather - Hot and humid, with average temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. There’s also a risk of hurricanes from early June through November. Plan outdoor activities like golf, jogging or bike riding for the early morning or evening to avoid the heat.
Prices - Considerably smaller crowds during the off-season lead to some excellent deals on everything travel-related.
Events - Notable off-season events in Fort Lauderdale include the FemAle Brew Fest in September, the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in May and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - the world’s largest in-water boat show.
Why Visit During the Off-Season - You’ll enjoy a much slower pace during the off-season. Plus, while summers in Florida can be quite warm, typical daytime temperatures aren’t much different than in many places throughout the country. Smaller off-season crowds mean much lower prices for airfares, hotels and car rentals.
Top Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
Most people think “gorgeous beach” when it comes to Fort Lauderdale. However, the city also has plenty of other outdoor activities as well as a wide range of things to do. Here are some of the city’s most popular:
The Beach
As previously stated, most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale to enjoy the beach. Thanks to year-round warm waters, swimming in the ocean is always an option during a trip to Fort Lauderdale. Their beach is seven miles long and 300 feet wide in spots and is considered one of Florida’s cleanest. Its palm-lined promenade features lots of shops, restaurants and hotels. The beach also has dedicated areas for volleyball, sunbathing and water sports.
Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard runs from the beach to Fort Lauderdale’s downtown area. The two-mile stretch boasts a little bit of everything, including art galleries, eclectic boutiques and more than 30 restaurants and cafés that offer everything from fine dining to coffee and donuts. The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale showcases contemporary art and often hosts cultural events, art fairs and live performances. A mix of pubs, lounges and music venues makes it a popular nightlife destination, as well. Several charming historical buildings and landmarks sprinkled along the boulevard offer a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s past.
Take a Sightseeing Cruise
Fort Lauderdale’s 165 miles of canals and Intracoastal waterways have earned it the title "Venice of America." Water taxis - with stops at many popular attractions, restaurants and beach access points - offer a fun and relaxing way to get around and see the city from a different viewpoint. The classic Jungle Queen Riverboat tour runs along the New River and offers views of the waterway’s many luxurious homes - most with yachts docked in the back - and a stop at a private island for a BBQ dinner and alligator show. The 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise along the Intracoastal offered by Carrie B. Cruises showcases waterfront estates, local landmarks and unique city views. Several Sunset and Dinner Cruises feature food, drinks, live music and a look at Fort Lauderdale’s cityscape at sunset.
Explore the Everglades
Just an hour's drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale, Everglades National Park features numerous species of rare wildlife, unique exotic plant life and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Park rangers lead a variety of tours and educational programs that include wildlife spotting and insights into the Everglades' delicate ecosystems. Narrated airboat rides are a quintessential way to experience the Everglades. The flat-bottomed boats glide over shallow waters and offer a thrilling way to spot alligators, manatees and roseate spoonbills among other wildlife. The Everglades also has 26 easy hiking trails throughout the park. There are bike rentals available and a 15-mile bike loop at the Shark Visitor Center. The park allows canoeing, kayaking and camping throughout most of its 7,800 square miles, as well.
Spend a Day at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Just a short walk from the beach, nestled between the ocean and the intercoastal waterway, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park encompasses 180 acres of lush natural landscapes, scenic walking paths, biking trails and fishing spots. Shaded tables throughout the park make it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic lunch. The park also has a lagoon with available canoe and kayak rentals. Fishing requires a license, which can be obtained at the park’s visitor center, for anglers over 16. The park also includes the historic Birch House, the home of Hugh Taylor Birch, a Chicago attorney who bought the land in the early 1900s as a tropical retreat.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has accommodations of all types, at all price levels. Typically, hotels along the beach tend to be a little more expensive than downtown or airport area accommodations. Here are some AAA Diamond-designated options to consider at various price levels and locations:
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa
Address: 3030 Holiday Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond, AAA Inspected Clean
Great For: Luxury at the beach
The Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa sits on its own quarter mile of private beach. Tropical foliage, cascading waterfalls and colorful cabanas surround its gorgeous pool area. Guest rooms are large and bright and include televisions with streaming. The 15-story hotel has 650 units, two restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a full-service spa with 18 treatment rooms, a hair salon and manicure and pedicure services.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Northwest
Address: 6800 NW 88th Ave, Tamarac, FL, 33321
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond, AAA Inspected Clean
Great For: Travelers with a vehicle looking to save money
Located in a mixed residential and commercial area, the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Northwest offers clean, comfortable and spacious rooms at reasonably low rates. The hotel has 120 rooms, some overlooking a man-made lake, TVs with streaming, clean and modern common areas and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale and 35 minutes by car from the ocean.
Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Downtown
Address: 721 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33304
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond, AAA Inspected Clean
Great For: Business travelers, convenient to Las Olas shops and restaurants
Notable room amenities for the Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Downtown include refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, wireless Internet and safes. The hotel also has a heated pool, valet parking and a restaurant with a full bar. Its location in the commercial downtown area makes it a good option for business travelers.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port
Address: 1150 W SR 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33315
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond, AAA Inspected Clean
Great For: Travelers with early morning airline or cruise line departures
Located just a few blocks from Fort Lauderdale International Airport, the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port hotel features spacious rooms with free or paid wireless Internet, refrigerators, microwaves and coffee makers. Reviewers noted the hotel’s exceptional cleanliness and its convenient location near Port Everglades and the airport.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Address: 2000 N Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33305
AAA Diamond-designation: Four Diamond, AAA Inspected Clean
Great For: An upscale and quieter stay
The Pelican Grand Beach Resort’s old-world Florida charm, unobstructed oceanfront views and direct access to a private beach make it one of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular resorts. The hotel has two on-site restaurants, a full bar and weekend entertainment. Its heated outdoor pool, lazy river ride and quiet location away from the downtown beach area make it popular with both couples and families.
Where to Eat in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s food scene covers all the bases with offerings for every taste and budget. Here’s a look at some of the city’s most popular places to grab a bite:
Shooters Waterfront
Address: 3033 NE 32nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33308
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Cuisine: Seafood
Located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, Shooters Waterfront serves seafood in a casual setting and relaxing atmosphere. Staples include steamed mussels, fried calamari and a variety of sushi options. The restaurant suggests reservations for its extremely popular Sunday buffet brunch.
Dal Contadino Trattoria
Address: 2775 E Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33306-1600
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Cuisine: Italian, Seafood, Mediterranean
Friendly service and excellent food make Dal Contadino Trattoria a favorite with the locals. Menu offerings include traditional Italian dishes, fresh seafood and quality cuts of beef. Their kitchen staff also makes all of the bread, pasta and sauces in-house. Stop by at happy hour, from 4-6 PM daily, for discounts on drinks and a variety of their antipasti dishes.
Sushi By Bou
Address: 500 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33301
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Cuisine: Sushi
Originally founded in New York, Sushi By Bou offers high-quality omakase dining in an intimate, speakeasy-like setting. The standard timed dining experience lasts 60 minutes and includes 12 courses. There’s an even higher tier option with 17 courses in all. Sushi By Bou delivers an unforgettable sushi experience, perfect for special occasions.
Atlantikós
Address: 9703 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, FL, 33154
AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Cuisine: Greek
Menu options like braised lamb meatballs, lobster and shrimp pasta and grilled branzino make Atlantikós one of South Florida’s most popular Greek restaurants. Its blue and white décor provides a Greek island atmosphere. Fresh fish are sourced locally, while most other ingredients come from the Greek market in Piraeus. Desserts include homemade ice cream and baklava.
Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant
Address: 128 S Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL, 33004
AAA Diamond-designation: Approved
Cuisine: American
Recognized as one of the top ice cream parlors in the country, Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor has been serving treats since 1956. Along with dessert, menu choices include burgers, deli sandwiches, salads and hot dogs made specifically for them. Freshly made ice cream flavors include Oreo, chocolate almond and cookie dough.
Fort Lauderdale’s Best Spots for a Photo Op
Between its gorgeous oceanfront, palm tree-lined streets and historic landmarks, Fort Lauderdale has endless opportunities for the perfect photo-op. Here are some that you won’t want to miss:
1. Fort Lauderdale Beach
White sand, turquoise ocean water and majestic palm trees make Fort Lauderdale a great spot for a memorable photo. Go in early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer.
2. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Thanks to its many winding trails lined with palm trees and native plants, a pristine lagoon and location along the Intracoastal Waterway, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park boasts dozens of scenic spots for a photo-op.
3. Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale’s liveliest street - Las Olas Boulevard - features a mix of colorful storefronts, outdoor cafes and high-end art galleries.
4. The Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
The Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, a waterfront promenade with palm-lined walkways that runs along the New River, has plenty of opportunities for taking amazing photos.
5. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
You’ll find plenty of beautiful photo ops at the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens - a historic yellow mansion with a whimsical artistic feel surrounded by a lush, tropical garden with colorful orchids, native fauna and a swan-populated pond.
Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
The South Florida area has so much to see and do within a few hours' drive. So, whether you’re going at it alone or taking a guided tour, it can benefit your trip to make time for at least one of these popular destinations.
1. Everglades and Miami City Tour with Experienced Guide
Total Trip Time: Seven hours
Banana Joe Tours offers this day trip to the Everglades and Miami. All guides have at least 10 years of experience and they keep the group to a small to medium size. The trip includes a 60-minute airboat ride, a wildlife show with the Gator Boys and a tour of some of Miami’s most beautiful areas.
2. South Beach
Total Trip Time: Two - Four Hours
Take the 30-minute drive to South Beach and marvel at the area’s iconic Art Deco architecture. Stroll down Ocean Drive, you’re sure to recognize the street as the backdrop for many movies and TV shows. Grab a bite or do some shopping on the popular stretch along Lincoln Road.
3. Palm Beach
Total Trip Time: Three - four hours
Palm Beach has a number of things to see and do to fill up a vacation day. The Flagler Museum offers a peek into Gilded Age opulence. The Palm Beach Zoo features 23 shaded acres of tropical landscape. Some of its more exotic inhabitants include jaguars, Malayan tigers and Mexican spider monkeys. Worth Avenue rivals Hollywood’s Rodeo Drive and New York’s Fifth Avenue for high-end shopping.
4. Key Largo
Total Trip Time: Seven - eight hours
The gateway to the Florida Keys hosts John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - the first underwater park in the U.S. Other popular activities include taking an African Queen Canal Cruise - a relaxing cruise on the actual steamboat featured in the classic 1951 Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn film of the same name - swimming with dolphins at Dolphins Plus Bayside and deep sea fishing. And, be sure to stop at Alabama Jacks, along the way, for the world’s best Conche Fritters.
5. Big Cypress National Preserve
Total Trip Time: Five - six hours
About an hour and a half to the west of Fort Lauderdale, Big Cypress National Preserve is known for its quieter, more rugged environment and wealth of cypress trees. Here you can hike, take a ranger-led tour or drive the preserve’s scenic loop to spot native wildlife such as alligators, panthers and wading birds.
Traveling to Fort Lauderdale on a Budget
Whether you're on a tight budget or just looking to get the most for your money on your trip to Fort Lauderdale, AAA is here to help. Here are several tips that can save you big.
1. Visit Fort Lauderdale in the Off-Season
Visiting Fort Lauderdale in the off-season - May through November - offers substantial savings. While South Florida summers can be extremely hot and humid, it’s often no worse than many other parts of the country. The warmer temperatures also make it the perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.
2. Use AAA Discounts for Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping and More
AAA membership includes much more than just roadside assistance, with discounts on just about everything travel-related. Your AAA membership can save you big on hotels, car rentals, attractions, tours, restaurants and more. Be sure to check for AAA discounted rates before you book.
3. Take Advantage of Fort Lauderdale’s Free Attractions
Fort Lauderdale has more than its share of free attractions. Along with public spaces like the beach, Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is also free to enter on foot. The NSU Art Museum allows free entry on the first Thursday of the month. Other attractions that are free at certain times or charge a small fee, include the Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum, the Secret Woods Nature Center and the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.
4. Use Public Transportation
Fort Lauderdale's primary public bus service, run by Broward County Transit, operates throughout Broward County. The free or low-cost Sun Trolley travels on three unique loops: the Beach and Las Olas Link runs along Las Olas Boulevard between Fort Lauderdale Beach and downtown, the Airport Link connects downtown Fort Lauderdale with the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the Riverwalk and Uptown Link serves the Riverwalk area and other downtown spots. The service also has an app that provides real-time trolley locations.
Plan Your Fort Lauderdale Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Fort Lauderdale trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.