Looking for the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale? Known for its beaches and canals — the “Venice of America” — Fort Lauderdale pairs a classic beachfront with a lively dining scene on Las Olas. Locals point to the beach and promenade, Las Olas Boulevard, the Riverwalk and water taxi, and the tropical grounds of Bonnet House and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
The Beach & Promenade
Miles of sand and the wave-wall promenade along A1A — swimming, strolling, and beachfront dining.
Las Olas Boulevard
The city’s dining-and-shopping heart, connecting downtown to the beach, with restaurants, galleries and bars.
Riverwalk & Water Taxi
The Riverwalk along the New River, the arts district (Broward Center), and the fun water taxi that cruises the canals past mega-yachts and waterfront mansions.
Parks & Gardens
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for a tropical break from the beach.
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale at night
Las Olas and the beach strip lead for restaurants and bars, plus shows at the Broward Center and waterfront spots best reached by water taxi.
Free things to do in Fort Lauderdale
- The beach and promenade
- Strolling Las Olas and the Riverwalk
- Canal and beach sunsets
What Fort Lauderdale locals actually recommend
Which beach spots and Las Olas restaurants are worth it, the best canal cruises, what’s on locally — that comes from people who live here. On Neighborhood Nurturers’ Fort Lauderdale community, real neighbors answer “what should I actually do this weekend?” Join your Fort Lauderdale neighbors free →
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Fort Lauderdale?
Enjoy the beach and promenade, dine and shop on Las Olas Boulevard, ride the water taxi through the canals, walk the Riverwalk, and visit Bonnet House or Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
What is Fort Lauderdale known for?
Its beaches and its canals — nicknamed the ‘Venice of America’ — along with Las Olas Boulevard’s dining and the water-taxi network.
What are free things to do in Fort Lauderdale?
The beach and promenade, strolling Las Olas and the Riverwalk, and canal and beach sunsets are all free.
Is Fort Lauderdale worth visiting?
Yes — for its classic beach, the canals and water taxi, and the Las Olas dining scene, it’s a favorite South Florida destination.