Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

The Basics

The Riverwalk area, frequently described as the "Venice of America" by locals and visitors, consists of a park, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a movie theater, making it a popular destination for strolling, eating, and catching some outdoor entertainment. The complex also includes big attractions such as the Stranahan House, the Broward Center for Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Florida Grand Opera, and Esplanade Park.

There are several ways to explore the Riverwalk, including walking tours, Segway tours, or sightseeing cruises with operators such as Jungle Queen Riverboat. Those boat rides will cover the Riverwalk, as well as glimpses of Millionaire's Row, a stretch of luxe houses and their attendant mega yachts that runs from Tarpon Bend to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Public restrooms are stationed at regular intervals along the Riverwalk.

• In addition to a variety of local restaurants, there are also several picnic areas for those who want to pack a meal.

• The Riverwalk is ADA accessible.

• Parking is available on SW 4th Street by the pavilion.

• Dogs are allowed on the Riverwalk, but they must be leashed.

How to Get There

Two main streets run through the Riverwalk district: Las Olas Boulevard and Himmarshee Street. Bus numbers 11, 30, and 40 stop in the area. There is no dedicated parking lot, but there is parking available up and down the streets connecting to the Riverwalk.

When to Get There

The Riverwalk is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round. Paths are lighted, which can make for a delightful evening stroll—especially in summer and fall, when the weather tends to be uncomfortably hot and humid during the day. The most popular time to visit Fort Lauderdale is between December and April, when temperatures are between the mid-50s and mid-80s.

Events at the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk

The Riverwalk has a packed calendar year round, including yoga classes, musical performances, sports competitions, and popular annual events such as the Riverwalk Fall Festival, the 80s Dance Party, or the Smoke on the Water Barbecue Competition.

Ways to explore

There are plenty of ways to explore Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, from walking and Segway tours to scenic sightseeing cruises. Boat trips reveal views of the Riverwalk and Millionaire’s Row—an impressive stretch of luxury homes and mega-yachts between Tarpon Bend and the Intracoastal Waterway. Other yacht tours incorporate views of the Riverwalk with stops at a sandbar. For independent travelers, it’s also possible to explore the area on a self-guided tour using a smartphone app—a fun way to learn about local history and check off key city landmarks.

Accessibility

The promenades are paved and wheelchair accessible, and there are accessible restrooms.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, refillable water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Flat, comfortable shoes and light layers

Not allowed

Taking cuttings from plants, littering, disruptive behavior

Amenities

Public restrooms, cafés, restaurants, picnic areas

Address 

From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, take US-1 North toward downtown and follow signs for Las Olas Boulevard, which leads directly to Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale. Parking garages and metered street parking are available but fill quickly on weekends.

Public transportation

If traveling by bus, take bus #11, which stops at multiple locations along Las Olas Boulevard. You can also take the LauderGo! Water Trolley service to stops along Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, including Riverwalk Laura Ward Park.

Best times to visit

Mornings offer cooler temperatures and quieter paths, whereas sunset is a photogenic time to visit.

Best days to visit

Mondays through Thursdays are generally quieter than the busy weekends, which draw in the crowds.

Best months to visit

Fort Lauderdale weather is usually best between December and April. Summer months are hotter and attract bigger crowds.

Special events

The Annual Riverwalk Stone Crab & Seafood Festival is typically in January, and the Annual Riverwalk Tacos & Tequila Festival is in July.