Known for its scenic waterways, white-sand beaches, and sophisticated culture, Fort Lauderdale offers a rich blend of recreation, relaxation, and cosmopolitan charm. Whether you're a new resident, a prospective homebuyer, or someone exploring the area for the first time, discovering the many things to do in Fort Lauderdale reveals why this city continues to attract those seeking both a high-quality lifestyle and investment-worthy real estate opportunities.
From morning walks along the Intracoastal Waterway to afternoons at world-class museums and evenings dining along Las Olas Boulevard, the lifestyle in Fort Lauderdale is anything but ordinary. Its unique combination of natural beauty and urban amenities provides something for everyone—whether your interests lean toward boating, the arts, fine dining, or family-friendly recreation.
Explore the Waterways and Beaches
One of the most iconic features of Fort Lauderdale is its nickname: the “Venice of America.” With more than 165 miles of navigable waterways, the city is a paradise for boaters and water lovers. Water taxis and private boat charters offer a relaxed way to explore neighborhoods like Rio Vista, Las Olas Isles, and Coral Ridge from the water, showcasing impressive waterfront estates and hidden canal-side restaurants.
Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque places to visit, offering soft sand, gentle surf, and a lively promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree, playing beach volleyball, or enjoying paddleboarding at sunrise, the beach remains central to the city’s lifestyle and ranks high on the list of essential things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, located between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, is another outdoor gem. The park offers hiking trails, kayak rentals, and picnic areas, all within minutes of the city’s downtown. For residents and visitors alike, this natural oasis provides a peaceful escape and a glimpse into South Florida’s native ecosystems.
Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque places to visit, offering soft sand, gentle surf, and a lively promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree, playing beach volleyball, or enjoying paddleboarding at sunrise, the beach remains central to the city’s lifestyle and ranks high on the list of essential things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, located between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, is another outdoor gem. The park offers hiking trails, kayak rentals, and picnic areas, all within minutes of the city’s downtown. For residents and visitors alike, this natural oasis provides a peaceful escape and a glimpse into South Florida’s native ecosystems.
Discover Arts, Culture, and History
Cultural experiences are an integral part of life in Fort Lauderdale. The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale anchors the city’s arts district, offering rotating exhibitions and a renowned permanent collection. Located on Las Olas Boulevard, the museum contributes to the city’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.
Just a short drive away, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts Broadway tours, concerts, and community events throughout the year. The venue overlooks the New River and is part of the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, an area filled with theaters, galleries, and waterfront cafés.
For those interested in local history, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers a fascinating look into early 20th-century life in South Florida. This preserved estate blends art, architecture, and natural beauty, providing one of the more unique things to do in Fort Lauderdale for both residents and visitors.
Just a short drive away, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts Broadway tours, concerts, and community events throughout the year. The venue overlooks the New River and is part of the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, an area filled with theaters, galleries, and waterfront cafés.
For those interested in local history, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers a fascinating look into early 20th-century life in South Florida. This preserved estate blends art, architecture, and natural beauty, providing one of the more unique things to do in Fort Lauderdale for both residents and visitors.
Experience the Best of Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is the cultural and social heartbeat of Fort Lauderdale. Stretching from downtown to the beach, it’s lined with high-end boutiques, art galleries, international restaurants, and vibrant sidewalk cafés. It's the perfect place for an afternoon of shopping, an evening dinner with friends, or simply enjoying a coffee while people-watching.
Frequent festivals and street fairs bring even more life to the area, from the Las Olas Art Fair to wine and food events that attract locals and tourists alike. For those considering a move to Fort Lauderdale, proximity to Las Olas Boulevard often plays a major role in neighborhood selection due to its walkability and central location.
Dining in Fort Lauderdale reflects its coastal heritage and multicultural influences. Local seafood is a staple, with establishments like 15th Street Fisheries and Casablanca Café offering oceanfront or dockside views alongside freshly prepared dishes. Many of the city’s best restaurants are pet-friendly and offer outdoor seating, making dining out one of the most popular things to do in Fort Lauderdale for all ages and lifestyles.
Frequent festivals and street fairs bring even more life to the area, from the Las Olas Art Fair to wine and food events that attract locals and tourists alike. For those considering a move to Fort Lauderdale, proximity to Las Olas Boulevard often plays a major role in neighborhood selection due to its walkability and central location.
Dining in Fort Lauderdale reflects its coastal heritage and multicultural influences. Local seafood is a staple, with establishments like 15th Street Fisheries and Casablanca Café offering oceanfront or dockside views alongside freshly prepared dishes. Many of the city’s best restaurants are pet-friendly and offer outdoor seating, making dining out one of the most popular things to do in Fort Lauderdale for all ages and lifestyles.
Enjoy Family-Friendly and Recreational Activities
Fort Lauderdale isn’t just for adults—families will find a variety of kid-friendly activities that make the city ideal for all generations. The Museum of Discovery and Science is a favorite for families, offering interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and educational programs that spark curiosity in children of all ages.
Quiet Waters Park and Tree Tops Park in neighboring areas provide expansive outdoor spaces with biking trails, splash zones, and nature observation areas. These regional parks are just a short drive from central Fort Lauderdale and contribute to the area's appeal for active families.
Fitness is also central to the Fort Lauderdale lifestyle. The city’s extensive network of bike lanes and waterfront paths supports cycling, running, and walking throughout the year. Residents often take advantage of yoga classes in the park, group paddleboarding sessions, and fitness clubs with views of the Intracoastal or Atlantic Ocean. Staying active while surrounded by natural beauty is one of the more subtle yet powerful things to do in Fort Lauderdale that contributes to overall quality of life.
Quiet Waters Park and Tree Tops Park in neighboring areas provide expansive outdoor spaces with biking trails, splash zones, and nature observation areas. These regional parks are just a short drive from central Fort Lauderdale and contribute to the area's appeal for active families.
Fitness is also central to the Fort Lauderdale lifestyle. The city’s extensive network of bike lanes and waterfront paths supports cycling, running, and walking throughout the year. Residents often take advantage of yoga classes in the park, group paddleboarding sessions, and fitness clubs with views of the Intracoastal or Atlantic Ocean. Staying active while surrounded by natural beauty is one of the more subtle yet powerful things to do in Fort Lauderdale that contributes to overall quality of life.
Embrace the Boating and Marina Culture
For many residents, boating is not just a weekend hobby—it’s part of daily life. With deepwater canals, yacht-friendly marinas, and easy ocean access, Fort Lauderdale has become one of the premier boating capitals of the world. The city also hosts the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the largest in-water boat show globally, attracting boating enthusiasts and industry professionals every fall.
Whether you own a boat or simply enjoy the lifestyle, being part of this marine-centric culture adds a dynamic layer to living in Fort Lauderdale. Waterfront dining, dock-and-dine options, and sunrise cruises are all part of what makes the area special. For real estate buyers, access to private docks or proximity to marinas is often a priority, especially in neighborhoods like Harbor Beach, Seven Isles, and Lauderdale Harbors.
Whether you own a boat or simply enjoy the lifestyle, being part of this marine-centric culture adds a dynamic layer to living in Fort Lauderdale. Waterfront dining, dock-and-dine options, and sunrise cruises are all part of what makes the area special. For real estate buyers, access to private docks or proximity to marinas is often a priority, especially in neighborhoods like Harbor Beach, Seven Isles, and Lauderdale Harbors.
A Lifestyle That Balances Leisure and Sophistication
At its core, Fort Lauderdale offers a lifestyle that seamlessly blends relaxation with sophistication. Residents enjoy access to luxury amenities, top-tier schools, and world-class services, all set against the backdrop of one of Florida’s most scenic coastal landscapes. The city is home to a diverse population—from professionals and retirees to creatives and entrepreneurs—all drawn by the high quality of life and endless opportunities for leisure and engagement.
Understanding the full range of things to do in Fort Lauderdale is essential for anyone considering a move or investment in the area. From the beach to the boardroom, and the gallery to the golf course, this city is as versatile as it is beautiful.
Understanding the full range of things to do in Fort Lauderdale is essential for anyone considering a move or investment in the area. From the beach to the boardroom, and the gallery to the golf course, this city is as versatile as it is beautiful.
Discover Fort Lauderdale Living with Local Experts
If you're exploring a move or investment in South Florida, learning about the many things to do in Fort Lauderdale is just the beginning. Finding the right neighborhood and property to fit your lifestyle starts with the right guidance. Contact We Can Help Network to connect with local professionals who understand the market, lifestyle, and opportunities available in Fort Lauderdale. Let their expertise help you make the most informed and rewarding real estate decision.
