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Looking for the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale? You’re in the right place!
We’ve spent plenty of time in this sun-soaked city, and no matter how often we visit, there’s always something new to discover. Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about stunning beaches, it’s a city of scenic waterways, vibrant culture, and unique outdoor adventures. Whether you want to cruise past mega-mansions, dive into the Everglades, or savor some of the best food in town, this guide has you covered.
From laid-back sunset sails to thrilling airboat rides, we’ve rounded up the top experiences that make Fort Lauderdale a must-visit. Ready to explore? Here are the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this sunset catamaran cruise! We couldn’t think of a more perfect ending to a fantastic day, full of so many ‘take a photo!’ moments and fun all around.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- 1. Ride around Fort Lauderdale on a Segway tour
- 2. Relax on a sunset cruise past “Millionaires Row”
- 3. Taste your way around Fort Lauderdale
- 4. Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- 5. Sightsee and sail on a historic paddlewheeler boat
- 6. Hit Las Olas Beach and Boulevard
- 7. Drive your own mini powerboat
- 8. Visit Everglades National Park with a biologist and an airboat
- 9. Explore the underwater reefs with a SEABOB
- 10. Check out the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
- 11. Enjoy a gondola ride through the canals
- 12. Enjoy a private sailing trip
- 13. Go fishing with a local guide
- 14. Get your adrenaline pumping and go parasailing
- 15. Enjoy dinner with a view at Shooters Waterfront
- Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
1. Ride around Fort Lauderdale on a Segway tour
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 8 pm
- Highlights: Segway tour of the Riverwalk, downtown Fort Lauderdale, and residential areas, hear stories about the celebrities who visit, and pass the arts district
- Inclusions: Local guide, 1–2 hour Segway tour (depending on option selected), helmet and other safety equipment, 30-minute training session, local sales tax
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 940+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Walking tours are great, but when you want to cover serious ground without breaking a sweat, this small-group Segway tour is the best way to do it. With a quick 30-minute training session, even first-timers can glide through Fort Lauderdale’s best sights in no time.
After the tutorial, we were off, cruising along the Riverwalk, past mega yachts, luxury condos, and some of the most expensive real estate in the city. Gliding effortlessly along the path, we felt like we were in a movie scene, zooming past waterfront mansions and boats so massive they looked more like floating palaces.
Our guide, John, was fantastic! His enthusiasm for Fort Lauderdale was contagious, and his local knowledge made every stop more interesting. From fun facts about the Broward Center for the Performing Arts to behind-the-scenes stories about the celebrities who live and vacation here, he had plenty of entertaining tidbits to share.
Since we did the longer tour, we crossed the 17th Street Causeway bridge, taking in the best panoramic view in town. From up there, we could see Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, and the sparkling Atlantic in the distance.
Whether you choose the 1.5-hour tour or go all in with the 2.5-hour adventure, this Segway tour is a fun, effortless way to explore the city. Still not sure? Check out hundreds of 5-star reviews here to see why travelers rave about this experience!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
2. Relax on a sunset cruise past “Millionaires Row”
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 6 pm
- Highlights: Relax on the Atlantic Ocean with this sunset cruise, take in views of the mansions on “Millionaires Row,” the Florida coastline, and the sunset
- Inclusions: Captain and crew, sunset cruise, complimentary drink
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Finding the perfect way to end a day in Fort Lauderdale can be tricky. Walks and restaurants are fun, but they don’t exactly capture the beauty of the city’s waterways. This sunset catamaran cruise is the perfect solution, whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, nothing beats sailing past luxury mansions, gliding out into the Atlantic, and watching the sky explode into color.
Heading out from a central waterfront location, we set off along the Intracoastal Waterway, passing the lavish estates of “Millionaires Row.” Watching the golden light reflecting off the water as we cruised past Fort Lauderdale’s famous mega yachts made for a picture-perfect start to the evening.
Once we reached the Atlantic Ocean, the real show began as the sky transformed into shades of deep orange and crimson as the sun dipped below the horizon. The catamaran swayed gently as the salty breeze and rhythmic waves made it feel like we had front-row seats to nature’s grand finale.
On the way back, we sailed past Port Everglades, where towering cruise ships lined the docks, preparing for their next voyage. The glowing cruise ships against the night sky were a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, just like Fort Lauderdale itself!
With the breeze in our hair and a drink in hand, it was the kind of moment that made us stop and appreciate the simple pleasures. For a laid-back evening on the water, this sunset cruise is one you won’t want to miss!
Experience Fort Lauderdale’s raw beauty, and book this sunset cruise here!
3. Taste your way around Fort Lauderdale
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10:45 am and 11 am (dates can vary)
- Highlights: Small-group guided local food tasting tour, try eight food tastings and two drinks, discover interesting eateries, pass by top sights, such as Stranahan House and Las Olas Boulevard
- Inclusions: Local guide, food tasting, beverages, breakfast
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Choosing where to eat in a new city can be hit or miss, there are so many options, and you might end up in an overpriced tourist trap. This small-group food tour allowed us to skip the guesswork and dive straight into Fort Lauderdale’s best local eats, all while learning about the city’s history.
Led by our guide, Howie, who made us feel like old friends right from the start, we ate and drank our way through five top restaurants. Along the way, we sampled eight different tastings and two drinks, each stop offering something unique.
One moment, we were savoring a rich and creamy seafood dish, and the next, we were enjoying a perfectly balanced drink that complemented the flavors. Every bite was a carefully chosen highlight of the city’s best cuisine!
As we strolled down Las Olas Boulevard, Howie sprinkled in fun historical facts about the area, stopping at the Stranahan House to share the story of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure. From a trading post to a family home and even a boarding house, hearing about its history made us realize just how much this city has transformed over the years.
This tour wasn’t just about great food and drinks, it was a deep dive into Fort Lauderdale’s culture, history, and culinary scene, all wrapped up into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, this tour is a must for food lovers!
Reserve this food tour here and taste the best of Fort Lauderdale!
4. Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
We love visiting new cities, but honestly, we are outdoors people! So we are always looking for unique nature-filled adventures close by. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to find that in Fort Lauderdale, as Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is right in the city.
This state park is teeming with wildlife because it sits right between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s pretty common to see tortoises, ducks, herons, and manatees (watch out for snakes, though)!
We took off on a short hike and enjoyed the sights, the ocean breeze, and saw some of those famous tortoises along the way. I recommend the Park Perimeter Loop trail, as this one covers the most ground and still only takes about 30 minutes. You can reach the beach from the park, or find a shady tree to string up a hammock and enjoy the sunny afternoon.
Entrance to the park is $6 USD, and it’s only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale, so it makes for a cheap and convenient activity!
5. Sightsee and sail on a historic paddlewheeler boat
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Board the Carrie B paddlewheeler and cruise the “Venice of America,” including the New River, Intracoastal Waterway, and Port Everglades, spend time on the open sun deck, sit outside under a canopy or in air-conditioned comfort on the main deck
- Inclusions: Captain, narrated cruise, light snacks, and beverages are available to purchase
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A trip to Fort Lauderdale isn’t complete without getting out on the water, but navigating the canals on your own can be complicated. This paddlewheeler tour on the Carrie B takes all the stress out of sightseeing, offering a relaxed way to soak up the city’s famous waterfront estates, mega yachts, and bustling port.
Cruising along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway is like stepping into a postcard of the “Venice of America.” The vibe was laid-back but lively from the moment we boarded, with plenty of seating options—whether you wanted sunshine on the open deck or air-conditioned comfort below.
As we glided past the Stranahan House, the city’s oldest structure, it was wild to imagine the days when this area was just a trading post in the middle of the wilderness. Later, we passed Colee Hammock Park, a local favorite with shady trees, quiet green spaces, and stunning waterfront views.
Still, what really made this cruise stand out was the lively commentary. Our captain was a mix of historian and comedian, pointing out multi-million-dollar homes and Fort Lauderdale landmarks with stories that made us feel like we were in on some local secrets.
For the easiest way to soak up Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront in style, bring a few bucks to grab a drink and just kick back and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re here for the views, the history, or just an excuse to be on the water, this cruise is the best way to relax and take it all in!
Book this popular tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
6. Hit Las Olas Beach and Boulevard
When I think of Florida, I think of white sand beaches, magnificent turquoise water, and plenty of palm trees. So I was eager to have a beach day! There are plenty of beach options in the city, but we spent an afternoon at Las Olas Beach for that iconic Florida beach vibe.
The beach is busy enough that it feels lively, but not overcrowded. There are beach chairs and cabanas available to rent, so you can protect yourself from the strong Florida sun!
And when you’re all sunned out, you can make your way to Las Olas Boulevard (also called the Riverwalk). This boulevard is famously known for connecting downtown Fort Lauderdale to the beach, making it easy for people to walk there.
You’ll find this stretch lined with amazing restaurants, boutiques, spas, and more. It takes over an hour to walk the entire length at a leisurely pace, but we ended up there a few times during our visit, so don’t rush it!
7. Drive your own mini powerboat
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10:15 am to 5:45 pm
- Highlights: Explore the waterways of Fort Lauderdale on a two-person mini powerboat, easily navigate this canal-ridden area lined with yachts, mansions, and mangrove forests
- Inclusions: All necessary equipment and instructions, gas
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Big sightseeing boats are great, but nothing beats the freedom of cruising Fort Lauderdale’s waterways on this mini powerboat tour! With room for two, this small but mighty boat let us set the pace—zipping past mega yachts and mansions or slowing down to explore peaceful mangroves.
No prior experience? No problem! Just complete a quick online boater’s license before arrival, and you’re ready to captain your own adventure.
After a short briefing, we hopped into our boat and took off down the canals, weaving past luxury waterfront homes and soaking in the city’s “Venice of America” vibe. The craft was surprisingly easy to handle, and within minutes, we were cruising with total confidence, feeling the warm breeze and watching the reflections of million-dollar yachts ripple in the water around us.
One of our favorite parts was that we were in total control of where we wanted to go and how fast we wanted to take it. Whether we wanted to speed through open waters, carving across the waves with a rush of excitement, or slow things down to soak in the peaceful mangroves, this was all about making the most of Fort Lauderdale’s stunning coastal scenery.
For an adventure that’s equal parts fun and relaxing, this mini powerboat tour is a must! Don’t just take our word for it—read the hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews here and see why this is one of the best ways to explore Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.
For an unforgettable adventure, book this powerboat tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Visit Everglades National Park with a biologist and an airboat
- Duration: 9.5–10 hours
- Time: 7:30 am
- Highlights: Enjoy a full-day Ten Thousand Islands boat tour to spot wildlife, a dry nature hike in Big Cypress National Preserve, a 1-hour airboat ride into the River of Grass, a visit to a Native tree island village, time at a historic trading post, and lunch
- Inclusions: Master naturalist guide, pickup and drop-off at select locations, local lunch,
- snacks, soft drinks, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, use of ponchos, national park maps to keep, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 590+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring the Everglades can be overwhelming with so many tour options, but this small-group boat tour goes beyond the typical tourist experience. Led by expert naturalists, it combines airboat thrills, scenic hikes, and a peaceful boat ride through Ten Thousand Islands—all while diving into the region’s ecosystems and history.
Our day started with a 1-hour airboat ride into the River of Grass, where we spotted alligators sunbathing right in front of us. Next was a visit to a remote Miccosukee tree island village only accessible by boat. Hearing how the Miccosukee lived in these secluded areas, completely in sync with nature, was so fascinating!
After that, our guide, Armando, led us on a hike through Big Cypress National Preserve, pointing out rare plants and hidden wildlife. We had no idea this ecosystem provides shelter and hunting grounds for the endangered Florida panther!
After a break for lunch at a quirky local café, we headed out on an unforgettable boat tour through the Ten Thousand Islands. Dolphins leaped alongside our boat, manatees surfaced, and birds soared overhead. We even saw a baby dolphin swim alongside its mom. It was an incredible moment!
We loved how much we experienced, how knowledgeable our guides were, and how every part of the day felt like a true adventure. From spotting wildlife up close to learning about Florida’s rich history and indigenous cultures, this tour was our favorite way to experience the Everglades!
Check out the 500+ 5-star reviews and book our favorite tour here!
9. Explore the underwater reefs with a SEABOB
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 9:45 am and 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Small-group snorkeling tour on a SEABOB, explore local reefs where you can dive up to 8 feet (2.5 meters) and see a variety of aquatic sea life
- Inclusions: Guide/instructor, use of a SEABOB, mask, safety harness, 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) underwater reef tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Snorkeling is fun, but what if you could glide effortlessly through the water without even swimming? That’s exactly what makes this SEABOB tour such a game-changer! This experience lets you explore Fort Lauderdale’s stunning reefs using an underwater scooter that combines the best parts of snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing into one incredible adventure.
Our instructor, Chris, was excellent from the start! He gave us a quick and easy rundown of how to use the SEABOB and made sure everyone in our small group felt comfortable. Before we knew it, we were cruising through the water like pros, weaving through schools of colorful fish and even spotting a sea turtle!
The best part? There’s no swimming required—just hold on, control your speed, and let the SEABOB do all the work. At one point, we dove 8 feet (2.5 meters) below the surface and felt like we were flying underwater. Getting an up-close look at vibrant coral formations and tropical fish darting past was like being in a real-life nature documentary!
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a total beginner, this tour offers a thrilling, effortless, and unique way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s underwater world. Spots fill up fast—grab your spot early so you don’t miss out!
Book this thrilling SEABOB here for flexible payment and cancellation options!
10. Check out the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
If you like historic houses with eclectic decor, located right off the beach, a visit to the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a must! This is a unique gem in Fort Lauderdale’s landscape, perfectly preserved in the 30s and 40s style. You truly feel like you’re stepping into a movie when you visit.
The house is significant because it was given to a Chicago-based artist, Frederic Clay Bartlett, by Hugh Taylor Birch, and you probably recognize the name from the state park. Both Bartlett and Birch were prominent members of Fort Lauderdale’s conservation, preservation, and arts communities, in which the house still goes to support today!
We loved exploring the house, and I definitely recommend a guided tour if you’re especially interested in design and history. This plantation style house sits on 35 acres (14 hectares) and is surrounded by lush gardens. After you’re done wandering through the halls, spend some time enjoying the garden too – they are just as beautiful as the house!
The Bonnet House is open from 11 am to 3 pm on weekdays and until 4 pm on weekends. Check out all the hours and tour times here! It’s located right next to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, so you can easily check out the two in one day.
11. Enjoy a gondola ride through the canals
As we mentioned earlier, Fort Lauderdale is called the “Venice of America” because of all of its stunning waterways. So what better way to enjoy them than taking a gondola ride through the canals?
While you won’t have a man singing an Italian ballad as you float (this is Florida, not Italy after all!), we were 100% swooned by this experience! Mostly because of our amazing experience with Riverfront Gondola Tours, who truly made our 90-minute gondola ride feel like an evening of luxury!
The gondolas can hold up to 6 people, so it’s perfect if you’re traveling as a small group or want to splash out for a date night. You can book the tour for any time of the day, but we chose to do it in the evening, and it was oh so charming. They let you bring your own food and drinks, so we enjoyed a little aperitivo on the water! They also offer a dinner cruise, which we will definitely try next time we are in Fort Lauderdale.
Be sure to book your gondola in advance, as this is a popular experience and you don’t want to miss out!
12. Enjoy a private sailing trip
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 10 am and 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Private sailing tour down the historic Fort Lauderdale New River through the city’s Downtown section, take in incredible ocean and city views, bring your own food and drinks
- Inclusions: Captain, child life jackets, flotation devices, bottled water, ice, cups, plates, cutlery
- Rating: 5 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Most boat tours pack in as many people as possible, leaving you fighting for views and barely able to hear the captain. This private sailing tour gives you VIP access to Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. With Captain Dan at the helm, you’ll have space to stretch out, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the water without the distractions of a crowded tour.
As soon as Captain Dan welcomed us aboard, we knew we were in for an unforgettable day—his passion for sailing and deep knowledge of the area made us feel like we were out on the water with a good friend.
Since it was just us onboard, we had complete control over how we spent our time. We sailed a few miles into the Atlantic, felt the ocean breeze from the bow while lounging in bean bag chairs, and cruised through scenic canals, admiring some of the most impressive homes in town.
Another perk is you can bring your own food and drinks, and they’ll have everything else—ice, cups, plates, and even a cooler to keep things chilled. Want to swim or snorkel? Go for it! Prefer to stay on deck and take in the views? It’s up to you!
Whether you want to sip drinks, take a dip, or even try your hand at sailing, this private charter is the perfect way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s waters. Read the incredible 5-star reviews here and see why this is a must-do experience!
This private tour frequently sells out, so grab your spot here before it’s too late!
13. Go fishing with a local guide
- Duration: 4–6 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 7:30 pm
- Highlights: Half-day fishing trip from Fort Lauderdale, use a provided tackle to reel in grouper, porgies, snapper, and more, catch is cleaned by the crew
- Inclusions: Experienced and friendly crew, bait, tackle, fishing license, fish cleaning, coolers, ice, parking fees
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you love fishing, Fort Lauderdale is one of the best places to do it! However, it’s pretty unlikely you packed all your gear with you on vacation, and you don’t know the best spots to get a bite. That’s why this half-day guided fishing trip is a great idea! Rods, bait, reels, and even a fishing license are included, so all you have to do is show up and start reeling in the catch of the day.
We set off just a mile offshore, where the water gets deep fast—the perfect place for hooking snapper, grouper, porgies, and other reef fish. Even if you’ve never fished before, the crew will make sure you have a great time. And if you’re not casting a line, you can just sit back and enjoy the ocean breeze and the fantastic views.
Our crew was super helpful, showing us how to bait our hooks and giving us tips to increase our chances of landing a fish. Some bites were instant, while others kept us guessing—but the thrill of feeling that tug on the line never got old!
And when we finally pulled in our catch, the crew took care of everything, cleaning and filleting it right on board. Later, we had our snapper cooked up at a local restaurant, and let’s just say nothing beats eating seafood that was swimming just hours earlier!
Every trip is different, and that’s what makes it so exciting. You never know what will be biting, but one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an awesome time!
Book this tour with HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews here!
14. Get your adrenaline pumping and go parasailing
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 8 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Parasailing adventure in Fort Lauderdale, enjoy panoramic views over the crystal blue waters of the Gold Coast
- Inclusions: USCG licensed captain, all equipment, 8–10 minutes of parasailing
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 380+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
A beach day is great, but just lounging in the sand can feel a bit routine after a while. If you’re craving a thrill, this parasailing adventure lets you soar high above Fort Lauderdale’s crystal-clear waters—no experience needed!
From the moment we stepped on the boat, the crew’s warm welcome put us at ease. Our captain gave a quick yet thorough rundown of what to expect, and before we knew it, we were harnessed in and lifting off—feet dangling as we soared higher and higher over the ocean.
The views were unreal once we were in the air! We could see the golden coastline stretching for miles, boats zipping across the water below, and on a clear day, you might even spot the Bahamas in the distance. The 8-10 minutes of flight time was incredible—an adrenaline rush and total serenity all at once!
As we descended, the captain even gave us a playful toe-dip in the water before lifting us back up for one final glide. The splash cooled our feet, making us laugh as we soared for one last thrill!
We loved the rush of soaring high above the water, the unbeatable views, and the sheer thrill of it all. If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to see Fort Lauderdale from a whole new perspective, this parasailing tour is the perfect mix of excitement and stunning ocean views!
Check availability and reserve this incredible parasailing adventure here!
15. Enjoy dinner with a view at Shooters Waterfront
One of our favorite ways to wrap up the day in Fort Lauderdale was with a nice dinner overlooking the water. It’s hard to beat those views! Luckily, with all of the canals and shoreline, there are ample restaurant options. We personally loved the vibes of Shooters Waterfront, and the food was just as good!
This restaurant is relaxed and casual, while still classy. It gives incredible views of the Intracoastal Highway, and when the breeze hits the water, it makes for the perfect night out.
Best of all, it’s well priced for the quality and display of the food! We loved the coconut shrimp for starters, as well as a few sushi rolls and the Cajun shrimp pasta to split. It was all amazing, and now we see why this is one of the most popular restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.
You can get here by the water taxi, which is always a fun experience. It can get pretty busy, so if you want to secure your spot, reserve a table in advance.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Obviously, you want to be as close to the beach as possible! I was able to round up three excellent hotel options, all within walking distance to the sandy shores and at various price points.
Luxury – $$$
The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club is a popular choice for luxurious travelers. This resort has a private beach and two swimming pools, as well as tennis and volleyball courts, a spa, and four restaurants. The rooms range from standard queen or king hotel rooms, or you can upgrade to suite-style rooms or a room with a view.
Prices fluctuate by season but range from $275 to $700 USD. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Tides Inn Hotel is a lovely and quaint hotel, overlooking the beach and offering light, airy rooms. The private beach is just steps from the hotel, and this area is great for snorkeling or diving. There’s also a pool and garden to enjoy. You can book double, single, or studio hotel rooms with a balcony and ocean views.
Rooms are $240 USD on average and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Blue Strawberry by the Sea is a charming, budget-friendly hotel just one block from the ocean. It’s also a 5-minute walk to the town square, so you’re close to Fort Lauderdale’s top sights. The rooms are clean and simple, offering double, king, or apartment-style rooms. There are also two swimming pools onsite!
Rooms are available for around $115 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all the hotels in Fort Lauderdale here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
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Florida is full of vacation destinations, but Fort Lauderdale is one of our favorites! We love its laid-back vibe and plethora of outdoor activities. I mean, who can say no to the beach, the Everglades, and sunset cruises?
Before you pack your bags, be sure to check out our other USA travel blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers and have guides on destinations all over the world. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next adventure!
10 BEST Things to do in Miami, Florida
7 Best Things to do in Atlanta, Georgia
10 Best Things to do in Orlando, Florida
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Nashville, Tennessee: 3-Day Itinerary