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Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States

Sun, Sand, and Cityscapes: Discover Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida, beckons travelers with its sun-drenched beaches, sparkling waterways, and vibrant city life. This alluring destination, nicknamed the "Venice …

#Beach destination#Tropical climate#Waterfront city#Boating and yachting#Cruise port

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Fort Lauderdale.

Top Hotels in Fort Lauderdale

Top Flights to Fort Lauderdale

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Fort Lauderdale.

Tours

Tour the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

A historic estate featuring a house museum and picturesque gardens reflecting Floridian history and culture.

Explore the Museum of Discovery and Science

A family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and seasonal science demonstrations.

Shopping

Explore Las Olas Boulevard

A charming street filled with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés, offering a unique shopping and dining experience.

Shopping at Galleria Fort Lauderdale

A premier shopping destination featuring upscale fashion, dining, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Visit Fort Lauderdale Beach

Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports at the iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Outdoor Adventure at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Discover hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and kayak rentals in a lush natural setting by the beach.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Fort Lauderdale.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is around 182,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Fort Lauderdale

Jan

24°15°

Feb

25°16°

Mar

26°18°

Apr

28°20°

May

30°22°

Jun

31°24°

Jul

32°25°

Aug

32°25°

Sep

31°24°

Oct

29°22°

Nov

27°19°

Dec

25°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Fort Lauderdale.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Fort Lauderdale, Florida:

Beautiful Beaches: Fort Lauderdale is famous for its stunning sandy beaches with clear blue waters. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and relaxing by the ocean.
Water Activities: Fort Lauderdale is known as the "Venice of America" due to its intricate system of canals. Travelers can take boat tours, go yachting, fishing, or even paddleboarding in the waterways.
Shopping and Dining: The city offers a wide range of shopping options, from luxury boutiques to unique local shops. Fort Lauderdale also boasts a vibrant culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and international cuisine.
Cultural Attractions: Fort Lauderdale has several museums, galleries, and cultural centers to explore. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts various shows and events throughout the year.
Outdoor Recreation: In addition to the beaches, Fort Lauderdale has numerous parks and nature reserves where visitors can hike, bike, bird watch, or go on eco-tours to explore the local flora and fauna.
Nearby Attractions: Fort Lauderdale is located close to other popular destinations in Florida such as Miami, the Everglades, and the Florida Keys, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

Overall, Fort Lauderdale offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enjoyable vacation experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, could include:

High Tourist Traffic: Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons like spring break and winter. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, making it less enjoyable for those seeking a more relaxed vacation experience.
Hurricane Season: Florida is prone to hurricanes, and Fort Lauderdale is no exception. Hurricane season typically runs from June to November, with the highest risk of storms occurring in August and September. While the city is well-prepared for hurricanes, travelers should be aware of the potential risks and plan accordingly.
High Cost of Living: Fort Lauderdale is known for its upscale lifestyle, which can result in higher prices for accommodations, dining, and activities compared to other destinations. Budget-conscious travelers may find it challenging to stick to their financial plans while visiting the city.
Traffic Congestion: Like many cities in Florida, Fort Lauderdale can experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hours and peak tourist seasons. Navigating the city by car may be frustrating, and finding parking can also be a challenge in popular areas.
Humidity and Heat: Fort Lauderdale has a tropical climate, which means high humidity and temperatures, particularly during the summer months. This type of weather may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who are sensitive to heat or prefer milder climates.
Limited Public Transportation: While Fort Lauderdale does have some public transportation options like buses and trolleys, the system may not be as extensive or convenient as in other major cities. Renting a car or using rideshare services may be necessary for getting around efficiently.
Potential for Crime: As with any tourist destination, travelers should be mindful of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety. While Fort Lauderdale is generally considered safe, incidents of petty crime like theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Overall, while Fort Lauderdale offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning their visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a city with a rich history marked by significant events and developments. Here's a detailed overview:

Early History:

Indigenous Peoples: The area that is now Fort Lauderdale was originally inhabited by the Tequesta Indians, who lived in the region for over a thousand years before European contact.
European Contact: The first European to reach the area was Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León in 1513. However, it remained largely uncolonized by Europeans for several centuries.

19th Century:

Second Seminole War: During the 1830s, the Second Seminole War led to the establishment of a series of forts in the area. Major William Lauderdale led a detachment of Tennessee Volunteers to build a stockade, named "Fort Lauderdale" in his honor, in 1838. This fort was one of many in the region aimed at controlling the Seminole population.

Early 20th Century:

Incorporation: Fort Lauderdale was incorporated as a town in 1911 and later as a city in 1915.
Henry Flagler's Railroad: The arrival of Henry Flagler's Florida East Coast Railway in the late 19th century spurred development, facilitating trade and the movement of people, and setting the stage for future growth.

Mid 20th Century:

World War II: During World War II, the area played a significant role as a base for naval operations. The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale trained torpedo bomber pilots, including future President George H.W. Bush.
Post-War Boom: After the war, Fort Lauderdale experienced rapid growth, becoming a popular tourist destination, particularly for college students on spring break.

Late 20th Century to Present:

Development and Urbanization: The latter half of the 20th century saw Fort Lauderdale transform into a major yachting center and a hub for tourism and real estate. The city invested in infrastructure, including the development of its downtown area.

Significant Events and Figures:

Spring Break Destination: In the 1960s and 1970s, Fort Lauderdale became known as the "Spring Break Capital of the World," attracting thousands of college students annually.
Hurricane Impact: Like much of Florida, Fort Lauderdale has been periodically affected by hurricanes, which have shaped its development and infrastructure planning.

Important Landmarks:

Stranahan House: Built in 1901, this is the oldest surviving structure in Broward County and now serves as a museum. It was originally a trading post and later became the home of Frank Stranahan, considered the founding father of Fort Lauderdale.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale: A scenic promenade along the New River, it features parks, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: A historic estate and museum that showcases art, history, and nature.
Las Olas Boulevard: Known for its vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping, it is a central part of Fort Lauderdale's cultural life.
Port Everglades: One of the busiest cruise ports in the world, it significantly contributes to the local economy.

Fort Lauderdale today is known for its boating canals, arts scene, and as a major hub for tourism and business in South Florida.