4-Day Adventure Guide to Fort Lauderdale, FL

Experience the ultimate beachside getaway in Fort Lauderdale.

22 April 2023

Fort Lauderdale, located in southeastern Florida, offers a variety of natural attractions, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class dining and shopping experiences. From snorkeling with tropical fish at the coral reefs to exploring the Everglades National Park, visitors can soak up the sunshine and experience the best of South Florida's natural wonders. With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and endless opportunities for recreation, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect destination for any tourist seeking an enjoyable and adventurous vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach Day

  • Check into Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel, located right on the ocean
  • Spend the morning lounging on the beach and soaking up the Florida sun
  • Rent a paddleboard or jet ski to explore the turquoise waters
  • Enjoy lunch at Beach House Pompano, a colorful beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood and fruity cocktails
  • Take a stroll down Fort Lauderdale Beach's famous boardwalk, lined with shops, bars, and street performers
  • Witness the famous sunset over the ocean before heading back to the hotel
Day 2

Nature Adventure

  • Start the day with breakfast at The Floridian, a classic diner serving up all-American favorites
  • Head to Everglades Holiday Park for an airboat ride through the mangroves and swamps, spotting alligators and manatees along the way
  • Visit Anne Kolb Nature Center for a hike through the coastal mangrove wetlands, home to a variety of rare birds and wildlife
  • Grab lunch at Coconuts, a waterfront seafood restaurant with a tropical vibe and stunning views of the Intracoastal
  • Take a sunset kayak tour through the canals and waterways of Fort Lauderdale, spotting dolphins and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere
  • Finish the day with a nightcap at The Wilder, a hip rooftop bar with city skyline views
Day 3

Art & Culture

  • Indulge in brunch at The Foxy Brown, a trendy spot serving up Southern-style comfort food with a modern twist
  • Visit the NSU Art Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art from around the world
  • Stroll through the colorful and quirky FAT Village Arts District, home to galleries, shops, and cafes
  • Enjoy lunch at Rhythm & Vine, a garden bar with live music and street food-inspired bites
  • Take a water taxi tour through the canals and waterways of Fort Lauderdale, getting a unique perspective of the city's luxurious waterfront homes and yachts
  • End the night with a show at the historic Parker Playhouse, showcasing theater, music, and comedy performances
Day 4

Shopping & Foodie Finds

  • Fuel up with breakfast at The Alchemist, a popular coffee and brunch spot with a laid-back atmosphere
  • Shop 'til you drop at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, featuring high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Macy's, as well as unique boutiques and specialty shops
  • Indulge in a foodie tour of Las Olas Boulevard, stopping at the best restaurants and bars for a taste of diverse international cuisine
  • Visit Riverside Market South, a craft beer haven with over 550 beers and a unique self-serve system
  • Take a sunset sail on the Intracoastal on the Floridian Princess, a luxurious yacht with live music, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres
  • Enjoy a final dinner at Casa Sensei, a fusion restaurant with Asian and Latin flavors and stunning waterfront views
  • No summary paragraph needed! Enjoy your stay in Fort Lauderdale.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Fort Lauderdale by plane is to fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport which serves both domestic and international flights.

Car

Driving to Fort Lauderdale is easy and convenient as it is located near several major highways including I-95 and the Florida Turnpike. Parking is also readily available at most hotels and attractions.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Fort Lauderdale. The closest Amtrak station is the Fort Lauderdale Station and from there you would need to take a bus, taxi or ride-share to your final destination.

Boat

If you are cruising to Fort Lauderdale, you will arrive at Port Everglades. The port is one of the busiest in the world and serves major cruise lines such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Bus

Greyhound is the largest bus company in the United States and provides service to Fort Lauderdale through its terminal located on W Broward Boulevard.

Destination

Fort Lauderdale

Welcome to a beach town that's so sunny, even the palm trees have a permanent tan. Fort Lauderdale is where you go to get your fill of sand, surf, and retirees playing shuffleboard.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Funky Fort Lauderdale: A 5-Day Budget Trip

A trip to Fort Lauderdale, United States on a limited budget can still be enjoyable. Take advantage of the free beaches and outdoor activities such as the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Eat at local cafes and food trucks for cheap, delicious meals and explore the neighboring towns via bike or public transport.

4-Day Adventure Guide to Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, located in southeastern Florida, offers a variety of natural attractions, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class dining and shopping experiences. From snorkeling with tropical fish at the coral reefs to exploring the Everglades National Park, visitors can soak up the sunshine and experience the best of South Florida's natural wonders. With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and endless opportunities for recreation, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect destination for any tourist seeking an enjoyable and adventurous vacation.

Fort Lauderdale in 3: Budget-Friendly Fun

A trip to Fort Lauderdale, United States on a limited budget can be an affordable and enjoyable vacation. Visitors can enjoy free attractions such as the beach and Riverwalk, explore the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens for a small fee, and dine at budget-friendly restaurants like LauderAle Brewery and Shuck N Dive. Accommodations like hostels, budget hotels, and vacation rentals can also help keep costs low.

5 Days of Sun, Sand, and Sea in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a popular destination for a family-friendly trip in the United States. Known for its beautiful beaches, this city offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles on the shores, as well as explore attractions like the Museum of Discovery and Science or take a thrilling airboat tour in the nearby Everglades.