Looking for exciting activities to do in Fort Lauderdale in 3 days? You’re in the right place.
Known as the “Venice of America”, this city will captivate you with unique experiences that you can’t miss in your vacation plans.
Up next, we’ll reveal a guide to the essential places and experiences for 3 days in Fort Lauderdale. Get ready to make the most of it, prepare your adventurous spirit, and get ready to experience unforgettable moments. Make every second count! Discover how to make the most of your stay in the “Venice of America”.
Let’s plan the trip
Before we share the exciting itinerary we’ve prepared for your stay in Fort Lauderdale, it’s crucial to consider some important aspects for your vacation. This includes where you’ll stay and how you’ll get around the city. Let us provide you with tips to help you make well-informed decisions, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in the “Venice of America”.
How to get around?
Ever wondered about getting around in Fort Lauderdale? The city offers several options for ground and water transportation to help people get around. Still, the best option is to rent a car, which allows you to travel around with freedom and comfort.
Public transportation in the “Venice of America” often has long wait times and may not always drop you off close to your desired destination. That’s why we suggest booking a car through viajemos.com. This way, you won’t have any difficulties getting around and you won’t waste time traveling between places.
Where to stay?
In Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find the perfect accommodation for your stay, as the city offers a wide variety of options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy family residences, the ‘Venice of America’ has something for every traveler.
Next, we’ll introduce you to the best lodging areas in Fort Lauderdale. Choose one and embark on your 72-hour adventure.
- Central Beach: located near the city’s most famous beach area, Fort Lauderdale Beach.
- Lauderdale By-The-Sea: is a northern area, ideal for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: the downtown area is close to the city’s most important cultural attractions in the “Venice of America”.
- Wilton Manors: nightlife is of particular importance here, so if you enjoy fun at any hour, this is the right place.
Day 1: Have fun and learn – All in one day
If you’re planning to visit a coastal city, the beach is likely one of the destinations you’re most eager to enjoy. Start your first day by having fun by the seaside before embarking on a fascinating journey filled with history and culture by visiting one of the best museums. Finally, explore Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife offerings.
Have a great time at the beach and take a swim
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot away from the crowds, you’ve chosen the perfect destination. Unlike Miami, Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the sun and sea without hassle.
When it comes to dining options, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants along the coast where you can enjoy delicious co*cktails or lunches without straying far from the area. By the way, remember to wait a while after eating before going back into the water.
Fort Lauderdale offers a diversity of beaches to suit every taste. Some are quite tranquil, perfect for family trips, while others offer opportunities for water activities.
Here are some of the best beaches in Fort Lauderdale and its surroundings:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach.
- Las Olas Beach.
- Dania Beach.
- Deerfield Beach.
- Hollywood Beach.
- Pompano Beach.
Explore the museums and delve into history
Exploring museums is a fundamental experience for discovering new cultures. These fascinating places offer history, activities, and opportunities for learning, captivating curious and adventurous spirits alike, does that sound like you? Are you ready to quench your thirst for knowledge by visiting Fort Lauderdale’s top museums?
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a former residence that belonged to the renowned artist Frederic Clay Bartlett from 1919 until his passing in 1953. This enchanting house boasts impressive spaces adorned with murals painted by Bartlett himself, along with a notable collection of paintings curated by him and his wife, Helen Louis Birch.
But that’s not all—the museum also features abundant natural areas, including lush gardens, stunning dunes, and a private beach that is part of the property. Amidst the plantations, you’ll find various orchid species and majestic trees where dozens of monkeys freely swing about, along with hares, herons, iguanas, and swans who have made this their home. Immerse yourself in a magical setting where nature and art intertwine, creating a truly unique experience.
- Admission: Tickets range from USD $22 to USD $27.
- Visiting Hours: Open tuesday to friday from 11 am to 3 pm, and weekends from 11 am to 4 pm.
- Location: 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.
Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science is a must-visit attraction for tourists in Fort Lauderdale, especially families with children. This interactive museum blends the wonder of nature with the excitement of technology. Immerse yourself in a virtual simulator that takes you aboard an airboat in the Everglades National Park or makes you feel like you’re traveling to Mars.
In addition to its fascination with technology, the museum provides wonderful chances to encounter a variety of animal species that have found their home here. Here, you’ll encounter mammals, reptiles, fish, and even insects typical of the Florida region. Explore and learn about the diversity of local wildlife.
The museum regularly hosts exhibitions and special encounters with the animals on site, so be sure to check their event schedule to make the most of your visit. Get ready for an unforgettable experience where science, nature, and fun come together in one place.
- Activity prices: Range from USD $8 to USD $30.
- Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm.
- Location: 401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312.
Gastronomic tour
Wrap up your day in Fort Lauderdale with an unforgettable nightlife experience and delicious dining. The city offers excellent options for eating and entertainment, especially as the sun sets. Discover the best spots to savor exquisite dishes while soaking in the captivating nightlife of the “Venice of America”.
- Las Olas Boulevard: this vibrant area boasts a diverse array of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants serving international cuisine, gourmet delights, seafood, and more.
- Riverwalk: perfect for a culinary stroll, explore restaurants with spectacular canal views, lively bars with live music, and more. You’re sure to have a fantastic evening!
- Wilton Manors: embraced by the LGBTQ+ community, this destination radiates a joyful atmosphere with clubs celebrating diversity and inclusion. When it comes to dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering diverse culinary styles to enjoy.
Day 2: Embrace nature
On your second day, we recommend dedicating it entirely to exploring the outskirts of Fort Lauderdale. Get ready for an exciting journey ahead. Begin your day at Flamingo Gardens Botanical Garden, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Next, head south to wander through the charming Tropical Park and soak in its paradisiacal atmosphere. Continue your adventure at Everglades National Park, where you’ll have the chance to observe fascinating creatures. Enjoy a day filled with captivating landscapes and unforgettable adventures!
Flamingo Gardens Botanical Garden
Flamingo Gardens Botanical Garden is just 26 kilometers from Fort Lauderdale, offering an immersive experience in a natural habitat home to thousands of flora and fauna species. Here, you can marvel at the majesty of flamingos and a fascinating variety of birds including macaws, owls, toucans, bald eagles, and more.
This conservation area features three unique spaces that offer distinct experiences:
| Miami Beach Botanical Garden | With over 3,000 types of plants, creating a sensory spectacle that will captivate you. |
| Wildlife Sanctuary | Encounter an incredible diversity of native animals from the region. |
| Wray Home Museum | A historic house built by its first owners, Floyd L. and Jane Wray, who founded this wonderful destination. |
Prepare for an enriching experience as you explore Flamingo Gardens and discover a sanctuary where nature intertwines with history. Explore this captivating corner amidst the beauty of Florida!
- Admission Fee: approximately USD $22.
- Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Location: 3750 S. Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330-1614.
Tropical Park
Located south via I-75 and FL-826, Tropical Park offers a blend of urban life and natural spaces. Here, you can participate in sports events, stroll along trails, and enjoy fishing at its four lakes while observing the beautiful wildlife that calls this place home.
The park is open to the public at all times, and entry is completely free; however, some activities may have an additional cost. Immerse yourself in this experience where city life intertwines with the natural environment.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is just a few hours from Fort Lauderdale and is renowned as one of the world’s most famous destinations. This vast tropical wetland, spanning over 2,000 mi², is a paradise of marshes and swamps of unparalleled beauty. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to observe species typical of its ecosystem, including pelicans, otters, turtles, herons, and manatees. Moreover, it’s the only place in the country with a population of crocodiles that you can see by booking an airboat tour.
To enter Everglades National Park, a fee is required, which varies based on the capacity of your vehicle. The price includes parking fees, and you can conveniently purchase your pass online.
The area has three entrances allowing access from different cities:
- Homestead Entrance: 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, Florida 33034.
- Miami Entrance: 36000 SW 8th Street, Miami, Florida 33194.
- Everglades City Entrance: 815 Oyster Bar Lane, Everglades City, Florida 34139.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Everglades National Park and explore the grandeur of this magnificent wetland!
Day 3: Explore the Canals and shop
On the final day of your short journey, treat yourself to exploring the city from its beautiful waterways and enjoy an unparalleled stroll. Visit the best shopping spots in Fort Lauderdale as well—these places offer a wide variety of options to take unforgettable souvenirs home. Make this day an unforgettable experience by combining the beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway with the excitement of shopping!
Cruise through the “Venice of America”
Fort Lauderdale, known as the “Venice of America,” offers a unique experience as you navigate its beautiful Intracoastal Waterway spanning 165.343 miles. To explore this beautiful aquatic destination, choose from various maritime options: gondolas, water taxis, or the Jungle Queen boat.
Along the canals, you’ll find a variety of interesting spots, including Riverwalk—a pathway lined with bars, nightclubs, restaurants, cafes, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to do some shopping in nearby commercial areas to continue your day’s itinerary. Experience a unique journey on the Intracoastal Waterway of the “Venice of America”!
Shop before you depart
In Fort Lauderdale and its surroundings, you’ll find a wide variety of places offering unforgettable shopping experiences. Discover the best malls or shopping destinations within and near the city before concluding your trip.
Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s most famous shopping area—a captivating zone you won’t want to miss. Here, you’ll find not only restaurants and art galleries but also fashion boutiques where you can shop before leaving the city. Explore every corner and uncover the best mementos to take home to your loved ones. Explore every corner and uncover the best mementos to take home to your loved ones.
Swap Shop
Swap Shop is another place that will make your shopping experience unique. It’s a flea market with a wide variety of items to buy, along with restaurants that will delight you with their culinary offerings. What’s most impressive about the place is the drive-in theater, the largest in the United States. With a total of 14 screens, you can enjoy a movie under the stars—a truly unforgettable experience.
Sawgrass Mills
Just 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale lies Sawgrass Mills, considered the best outlet in Florida. This mall features over 300 stores with discounts available every day of the year. You’ll find major brands as well as lesser-known ones, offering plenty of options to choose from.
Don’t waste any time—visit Fort Lauderdale and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful city that awaits you with open arms!
Map of the best places to visit in Fort Lauderdale in three days
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Fort Lauderdale special?
Fort Lauderdale offers many attractions suitable for family trips, couples, tourists, and more. Here are some of the best:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach
- Las Olas Boulevard
- Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
- Stranahan House
- Intracoastal Waterway
How to explore Fort Lauderdale?
There are numerous ways to navigate Fort Lauderdale, from water transport to discover its Intracoastal Waterway canals, to tourist buses. However, the best way to explore the city is by renting a car. Reserve yours on the official Viajemos website for convenience.
What to see in Fort Lauderdale for free?
Fort Lauderdale offers a wide variety of activities at no cost, so you don’t have to worry about your budget. Here are some places you can visit in Fort Lauderdale without spending any money:
- Fort Lauderdale’s beaches, most of which are open to the public.
- Shopping areas like Las Olas Boulevard or The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, easily accessible and great for photo opportunities.
- Museums such as the Fort Lauderdale Fire & Safety Museum or the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
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