Top Rated Attractions in Fort Lauderdale

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.

A 1920s construction, this historic two-story, 35.4-acre (14.32-hectare) waterfront house was once the winter home of artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Evelyn. The Bonnet House is serenely elegant and preserved amidst the urban expansion of Fort Lauderdale Beach, making the land all the more special. Mrs. Bartlett, who died in 1997, gave the estate to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in 1983 to keep the property unchanged. Several concerts and events are held here throughout the year, and the house is available for private events such as weddings. Named after a waterlily, that once inhabited the property, the Bonnet House is open year-round for guided tours.

The Fort Lauderdale History Center, managed by the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society, is a museum complex that comprises three buildings: the 1905 New River Inn, the 1907 King-Cromartie House, and the 1915 Schoolhouse. The 1905 New River Inn is the main history museum with period artifacts, dioramas and photos. The 1907 King-Cromartie House gives visitors a glimpse of an early 20th-century home. The center offers programs for children, including hands-on re-enactments, schoolhouse classes, guided tours of exhibits in the history museum, guided walking tours of the grounds and lectures throughout the year.

One of the largest parks in Florida, The Anne Kolb Nature Center was named after a dedicated environmentalist from the region. Part of the 1500-acre (607.02-hectare) West Lake Park, you can find a variety of birds here, like the white ibis, osprey, and peregrine falcon. Tour the mangrove wetlands by foot on raised boardwalks, by bike, or by canoe. The nature center rents bicycles, while the park's marina rents canoes and runs guided trips. Visitors can also experience a 40-minute environmental boat tour.

A treat for nature lovers, this 56-acre (22.6-hectare) park contains lush vegetation, oak trees, and boardwalks built over dunes. The Hollywood North Beach Park is also a haven for sea turtles, which often surface to the delight of visitors. Enjoy more than two miles of walking paths, picnic tables (some picnic areas are even apt for large groups), a beach with lifeguards, and a 60-foot (18.28-meter) observation tower. Park amenities include restrooms and snack shops. Superb for families and large groups, come here to walk and cycle on pretty pathways while soaking in the sights and spending time outdoors.

One of the most intriguing attractions in the region, this diversion focuses on things that fly. Butterflies take center stage. Learn how they grow, what they eat and how to lure them into your garden. Part of Tradewinds Park, the Butterfly World includes a breeding laboratory, butterfly museum, and insectarium with displays of unusual insects and butterflies from all around the world. Additionally, Tropical Rain Forest Aviary, Grace Gardens, and Jewels of the Sky Aviary are a few other unmissable attractions within the botanical park to learn more about birds, butterflies, and the local flora and fauna. With vibrant surroundings, Butterfly World is the perfect place to lose oneself in nature's lush beauty.