Top Rated Attractions in Fort Lauderdale

The Fort Lauderdale Beach is surrounded by hotels, shops, restaurants and residential areas. Other than sun-bathing, tanning and swimming, the Fort Lauderdale Beach is also known for hosting various open-air events, cultural festivals and boat shows aplenty. The sunny beach has seen tourists from all over the world flock here to enjoy the smooth blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are in the mood for some cocktails, lounging under umbrellas, shopping and acquiring a beautiful tan, you won’t find a better place to be than the famous Fort Lauderdale Beach.

The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) in Fort Lauderdale is dedicated to the history of the African-American community of the United States. The beautiful library is adorned with sculptures and is stocked with resources that aid the study of African-American and Caribbean legacy and culture. The AARLCC is also a cultural center with an ultra-modern auditorium, meeting room and a special art gallery, which exhibits artworks of renowned artists. The place often hosts cultural and recreational programs.

This massive park was Hugh Taylor Birch's donation to the state of Florida. Birch came to Florida in the latter part of the 19th Century and promptly fell in love with the area. He eventually purchased more than three miles of oceanfront property in the little town of Fort Lauderdale. More than a century later, Fort Lauderdale is now a busy metropolis, and Birch's land thrives as a wildlife preserve and botanical wonderland. Several animal and plant species have found a safe home here. Visitors are free to hike or bike the designated trails, canoe around the lagoon, take a dip in the ocean and visit Birch's home. Excellent camping facilities can also be availed here.

On the chic Las Olas Boulevard, in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, you'll encounter boutiques, narrow alleyways, brick walkways, tiny white lights twinkling in windows, and dozens of trendy restaurants. Among the several shopping and dining options, you might also come across dessert cafes and live jazz bars that are always packed. Clothing boutiques, gift shops, hair salons, and art galleries round out the list. The wide variety of shops and services available ensures you'll be able to find exactly what you need.

Those looking to unwind and spend some quality time alone or with their family and friends can pay a visit to Colee Hammock Park. A natural haven with waterfront features, this picturesque park is perfect for a small picnic. One can either take a walk along the luscious grasslands barefoot, admire the scenic views of the river, sit under the shade of a large tree and meditate, or simply indulge in people watching. The spectacular waterside location also makes for an ideal outdoor event venue for hosting weddings or other gatherings.

The Riverwalk area in downtown Ft. Lauderdale is known for its entertainment and performance options. Catch performances by local and national musicians like The Fabulous Thunderbirds and Mary Washington-Brooks, among many others. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, and Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale are a few attractions in the vicinity.