Fort Lauderdale, FL

Best time to visit Fort Lauderdale

• Winter (December to February): Enjoy the festive season in the sun. Idyllic sunny days and warm temperatures make winter one of the best times to visit Fort Lauderdale.
• Spring (March to May): The great weather continues as the festival season heats up, with Tortuga Music Festival in April. Spring marks the start of the peak season, so booking ahead is advised.
• Summer (June to August): Come prepared for high summer temperatures and some afternoon thunderstorms. The peak season tapers off in August.
• Fall (September to November): Locals will tell you that fall’s perfect weather and refreshing water temperatures make it the best season to visit Fort Lauderdale.

How many days to spend in Fort Lauderdale

For a quick dose of Florida sunshine, three days are perfect for enjoying the beach, Las Olas Boulevard and a canal tour. For a deeper dive, spend five to seven days exploring the city’s neighborhoods, attractions like the Museum of Discovery and Science and taking day trips to the Everglades or Bimini (don’t forget your passport).

The vibe of Fort Lauderdale

With tourism running deep in its DNA, Fort Lauderdale has the gift of making everyone feel welcome and at home, wherever they are from. Both young professionals and retirees are drawn here by the active lifestyle, cultural energy and warm weather, creating a vibe that’s social and outdoors-oriented. The city’s sizable Hispanic and Caribbean communities contribute much to its cuisine, cultural events and festivals, while its LGBTQ+ community prides itself on inclusiveness. By day, Fort Lauderdale is all about jogging, cycling, sunbathing and cruising the galleries and boutiques; by night, the city celebrates the end of another perfect day in its bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

What is Fort Lauderdale famous for?

Once renowned as a Spring Break hot spot, Fort Lauderdale has matured into a sophisticated getaway offering relaxation, culture and dining for all tastes and budgets. Famous for its year-round mild to warm climate and 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, it’s little wonder that boat lovers choose to drop anchor here – often permanently. Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” thanks to its 165 miles (266 kilometers) of inland waterways and canals, 100 marinas and 50,000 registered yachts. You don’t need to own a boat to set sail on your own adventure, though. The city offers a range of watery escapes, like Canal Sightseeing Cruises, Everglade Airboat Adventures, and day trips to nearby Key West and The Bahamas.

Events in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s events calendar is a non-stop celebration of culture and community. In January, the city chows down at the Visit Lauderdale International Food and Wine Festival, while February reminisces with the Florida Renaissance Festival. March dazzles with the Las Olas Art Fair Part II, and April rocks out at the Tortuga Music Festival. October sets sail with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and the aroma of popcorn fills the air in November with the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival before the year wraps up with holiday festivities like the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade in December.

Food in Fort Lauderdale

Flavored with Caribbean, Latin American, Mediterranean, Asian and Southern influences, Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene serves up everything under the sun. Dive into towers of fresh seafood at beachfront and riverside restaurants. Families will love the funky food trucks dishing out everything from lobster rolls to gourmet burgers. For plant-based foodies, vegan hot spots offer creative twists on classic dishes that get even meat-eaters salivating. Whether you’re snacking by the beach or indulging in fine dining along Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene serves up a feast that’s as diverse as it is mouthwatering. Not sure where to start? Book a guided food tour and let a local expert lead the way.

Nightlife in Fort Lauderdale

When you visit Fort Lauderdale, prepare to stay up late; the city has nightlife options to keep you going till sunrise. Sample some of the city’s best bars on a beer bike bar crawl. If cocktails or mocktails are more your speed, cruise the trendy bars and clubs that line Las Olas Boulevard. Looking for laughs? Check the city’s comedy clubs or book a front-row seat at one of the fabulous drag shows in Wilton Manors, the city’s much-loved LGBTQ+ neighborhood. From beachfront dance clubs to rooftop bars and intimate speakeasies to live music venues hosting artists of every genre, Fort Lauderdale promises great nights out for everyone.

Shopping in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a retail-lover’s paradise bursting with style and variety. Stroll down Las Olas Boulevard for chic boutiques and designer stores that cater to every fashionista’s whim. Hunt for unique finds and trendy treasures at the upscale Galleria Mall. For a more laid-back vibe, explore the charming shops and artisan markets along the beach. Not to be missed is the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop. This 180,000-square-foot complex has a farmers market, flea market, food court, drive-in theater and even a Ferrari Museum.

Best beaches in Fort Lauderdale