Nestled along South Florida’s Atlantic coast, Fort Lauderdale exudes an air of upscale relaxation with its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant boating culture. This city is not just about soaking in over 300 days of sunshine; it’s a haven for delightful discoveries and gastronomic adventures. Here are my distilled favorite things to love about Fort Lauderdale that could soon be yours.
Gastronomy with a View
Begin your culinary voyage at the Boatyard, where refined flavors meet the beauty of yacht-filled vistas. Their Bimini Bread and grilled treasures from the sea are a perfect start, but make room for their PB&J dessert – a sweet marvel. Over at GG’s Waterfront in Hollywood, succumb to the allure of their lobster rolls, a memory that lingers long after the last bite.
A local darling, 15th Street Fisheries, delights with its seafood spread – think peel-and-eat shrimp and sumptuous blackened fish tacos, all savored to live tunes and scenic dockside views. Here, don’t miss out on the iconic Florida Fish Dip – it’s the essence of the ocean in a bite.
For something heartfelt and homey, The Chimney House serves Spanish and South American dishes in a 1924 historic abode. Their empanadas and sangria? Simply unmatched.
Meanwhile, El Camino‘s chic fajitas and buzzworthy watermelon jalapeño margaritas offer a people-watching paradise on Las Olas Boulevard. And if Mexican eats call your name, Rocco’s Tacos dishes out divine guacamole and a robust mole that’ll have your tastebuds dancing.
Shopping Spree Splendor
Retail therapy in Fort Lauderdale comes in all styles. The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale offers a luxe selection from Neiman Marcus to Apple. For a shopper’s utopia with a side of al fresco ambiance, visit Sawgrass Mills, Florida’s mammoth outdoor shopping center that’s only surpassed by Disney in fame. If you prefer a more relaxed spree, Coral Ridge Mall’s familiar stores will cater to your needs.
Las Olas Boulevard epitomizes charm with unique boutiques, Yeti and Bluemercury treasures, and antique gems. While there, sip Champagne from a vending machine at Ann’s Florist Coffee & Wine Bar for an indulgent pause.
Unrivaled Aquatic Views
The tranquility of Fort Lauderdale screams for attention at spots like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. It’s a realm of calm where one can gaze upon the tranquil waters from shaded trails or picnic spots for a mere $6 vehicle entry fee.
Anne Kolb Nature Center offers a hike through captivating mangroves, with hands-on exhibits and panoramic views from an observation tower.
For an adventurous twist, explore Fort Lauderdale’s scenic beauty on a Segway tour with Segway Fort Lauderdale. Glide along 4.5 miles of glistening beachfront, discover quaint backstreets and the Intracoastal’s majestic docks, and maybe even indulge in an ice cream treat along Hollywood’s Broadwalk.
Whether it’s paddleboarding, scuba dives, or jet-ski adventures, Fort Lauderdale’s waters are brimming with opportunities to witness awe-inspiring yachts and unlock a new favorite marine pastime.
Entertainment with Substance
The Museum of Discovery and Science invites you with open arms – from science parks to dinosaur digs and even an airboat tour through the Everglades. Its otter exhibit steals hearts one playful swim at a time.
Step into yesteryear at Bonnet House Museum, where Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett’s legacy blossoms among exquisite flower gardens, historical art, and storied walls – a peaceful, hallowed ground of artistic reverence on the National Register since ’84.
Looking for a dash of drama? The Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center stages off-Broadway talent in an intimate setting, setting the scene for evenings where narratives come alive.
The 2024-25 schedule features Anastasia, The Bodyguard, the SpongeBob Musical, and Moulin Rouge. Watch for your favorite musical acts in nearby Sunrise at the fabulous Amerant Bank Arena (formerly BB&T Center), also home of the Florida Panthers.
Discover the Pulse of Fort Lauderdale’s F.A.T. Village
Stroll through the dynamic streets of F.A.T. Village Art District and witness the city’s mural masterpieces that give Fort Lauderdale its artistic edge. Each piece is an explosion of color, embodying the spirit of innovation akin to Wynwood Walls’ iconic street art. This corner of the city, once thirsting for new life, now bursts with vitality.
Beyond the captivating murals, F.A.T. Village buzzes with creative shops, cozy eateries, and avant-garde galleries. It’s the newly minted cultural heart in an old warehouse district, waiting for you to unwrap its trendy urban charms.
Impossible Not to Fall in Love With
Fort Lauderdale is not merely a place; it’s a collage of exquisite encounters, flavors, and moments dipped in sunlight. Each visit is a brushstroke on a canvas, painting experiences that invite you back, again and again, to explore the depths of its sandy shores and beyond.
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