Fort Lauderdale City Guide

Fort Lauderdale is a city on the southeastern coast of Florida, known for its white sandy beaches, beautiful weather and laid back lifestyle. In the northwestern part of Fort Lauderdale lies the Cypress Creek Canal where anglers enjoy their sport, and sail boats glide along the river. Fort Lauderdale became a US territory in 1821, and it was incorporated as a town in 1911. It is one of Florida’s bigger cities with a population a little over 172,000.

Fort Lauderdale took its name from a series of four forts built during the second Seminole War to fight off Indian warriors. Today you can find the forts along the banks of the St John’s River, or take a tour on the boat that travels along the waterway to hear a more detailed history and enjoy some local entertainment.

With warm temperatures year round this is a great vacation area, and the city itself has cultural attractions, good restaurants, and many bars and clubs. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale attracts many artists and talent from a variety of art forms. If you have time, explore the city to see the Native-American statue, the 100-year landmark along Fort Lauderdale’s beach, and the unique architecture in front of Central Broward Regional Park.  

Explore Fort Lauderdale

With beaches, shopping, great eating and drinking, there’s much to experience; all of these things make it easy for vacationers to relax and enjoy the tranquility of this Caribbean-style city. Visitors can take the water taxi across Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood making several stops along the way at restaurants and shops, all while viewing the modern architecture and lovely scenery. 

Located in downtown Fort Lauderdale is an excellent otter exhibit at the Museum of Discovery. Here you can also enjoy a 3D IMAX dome, a simulator ride, and there is a space hall to explore; there’s something to see for the whole family. One of Fort Lauderdale’s hidden gems is the Bonnet House Gardens and Tropical Center where there are palm trees, orchids, and a beautiful hibiscus garden.

Take a tour

Tourists come from all over the world to see the wonderful sights that Fort Lauderdale has to offer, and there is no better way to enjoy the uniqueness of the city than by taking a tour with knowledgeable and friendly local guides. There are several tours for a fantastic sightseeing experience with family and friends. Popular tours include the swamp safari tour, riverboat tour, and a wildlife tour, with impressive wetland scenery, and nature’s beautiful wildlife habitats to see along the way.

Where to shop

With great beaches, excellent shopping and a huge choice of eating and drinking, there’s much to experience and all of these things entice visitors to stay longer in the city. For a shopping trip visit E Las Olas Blvd as it is brimming with places to shop. There is a huge range of interesting products on offer and shopping doesn’t have to involve spending a whole lot of money. Try the Festival Flea Market Mall and the Galleria Mall, and the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop; there is such a wide variety of places to shop.

What to eat

If you like live entertainment and Polynesian cuisine – which is very popular amongst locals and tourists – try dining at the Mai Kai Restaurant located between Oakland Park Blvd and Commercial Blvd. They serve tropical drinks; curry chicken, seafood, beef, and a variety of desserts.

There are numerous restaurants along E Las Olas where residents and visitors have the option to dine inside or outdoors. There is a wide variety of restaurant food available - steak, seafood and pasta, and rich chocolates and pastries from the shops and bakeries. 

Being near the river and the sea there is always fresh seafood to enjoy. Seafood restaurants are plentiful around the city. Along the beach, there are fine dining restaurants with a variety of seafood, American, and Italian foods from which to choose. 

Where to Stay

Searching for the perfect location in Fort Lauderdale is simple as there are many accommodations at the resorts, and beautifully designed architectural rental properties. Looking to find the best vacation rental or apartment near your destination? Let World Escape help you get you the perfect place. 

Whether you are coming for business, vacation, or to visit family, there are budget-friendly hotels and resorts, along with high-end resorts with private golf courses, riverfront views, and quality service. Planning to extend your stay here? World Escape can help you locate apartment rentals, luxury apartments or short-term leases with amenities right in the best locations for you.