Top Rated Attractions in Miami

A laid back variation on Miami's sun-soaked beach culture, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with an engaging spirit. It wasn't until 1838 that the United States established the eponymous fort in the area, though the fort was abandoned after the Second Seminole War, leaving the area relatively undeveloped until 1890. It wasn't until Fort Lauderdale was established as an air force training center and military base that population surged. Today, Fort Lauderdale is a popular yachting center just outside the busy waters of Miami with a harbor dotted with swanky yachts, offering a range of water activities and scenic white-sand beaches to visitors. Among its many attractions, Las Olas Boulevard with its chic bars and trendy boutiques and the paved brick roads of the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk stand out.

Although there are plenty of gators to see here, this attraction also includes several other wild animals. During the 30-minute wildlife show, visitors can see panthers and other exotic inhabitants of the Everglades. The bravest souls can also have themselves photographed with an alligator. But the high point of a trip to Gator Park is likely to be the airboat tour; unlike other tour companies, this park guarantees at least one alligator sighting.

One of the cleanest beaches in the area, Las Olas is also one of the best for a fun day out. Whether it is to watch the sunrise, go for a run, indulge in water sports, enjoy a family picnic or just get a tan, Las Olas Beach is an excellent spot to pick. The fact that parking is easily available and many restaurants and bars are located close by makes the beach even more appealing.

No matter if you're a first timer or a seasoned fisherman, you can enjoy great fishing on a 45' sport fishing charter boat off the coast of Ft. Lauderdale. Catch kingfish, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, sharks and sailfish in the best year round fishing grounds located only a few miles offshore on the Florida coast. On this 4 hour cruise, trade fishing stories and jokes with fellow fishermen and crew while waiting for that big fish to bite. Morning and afternoon fishing trips every day. Fishing license, tackle included. Call for reservations.

This cultural and educational museum was built in 1924 and originally served as the first school in Fort Lauderdale for African-Americans. The Old Dillard Museum has now been restored as a community historic landmark. Today, it contains African-related artifacts including art, jewelry and tribal masks. The museum also features a live storyteller, who shares his tales of Africa from inside a thatched hut. It not only preserves the African culture but also provides an insight to the visitors about the rich history and culture. The museum hosts varied activities throughout the year and that includes lectures, workshops and classes.