4 Days of Fun in Fort Lauderdale

Sun-soaked beaches on a shoestring: Fort Lauderdale on a budget.

21 June 2023

A trip to Fort Lauderdale on a limited budget is possible with careful planning. Visitors can enjoy affordable accommodations at hostels or budget hotels, dine at local eateries offering delicious yet reasonably priced cuisine, and explore the city's attractions and beaches that are free or have a nominal fee. With its warm climate, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Sun, sand, and sea

  • Check into the Seaside Motel, right across the street from Fort Lauderdale Beach
  • Take a stroll along the boardwalk and soak up the sun
  • Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the waterways
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the iconic Aruba Beach Café
  • Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for a taste of old Florida charm
Day 2

Art, culture, and cuisine

  • Start the day with a Cuban coffee and breakfast sandwich at Gran Forno Bakery
  • Visit the NSU Art Museum and marvel at the contemporary art collection
  • Take a short drive to the historic Stranahan House for a guided tour
  • Savor the flavors of Italy at Mazzola's Italian Restaurant
  • Catch a live performance at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Day 3

Wildlife and adventure

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at the Floridian
  • Kayak through the mangroves at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
  • Explore the trails and wildlife at the Everglades Holiday Park
  • Satisfy your cravings with a burger and shake from Le Tub Saloon
  • Join a sunset sail and watch as the sky turns into a myriad of colors
Day 4

Shopping and relaxation

  • Start with a healthy breakfast at The Whole Enchilada
  • Shop for souvenirs and local goods at the vibrant Las Olas Boulevard
  • Get pampered with a massage or facial at the Heavenly Spa by Westin
  • Relax by the pool at the Seaside Motel
  • Indulge in a flavorful meal at the world-famous Mai-Kai Restaurant
  • Fort Lauderdale is a tropical paradise that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, culture, and cuisine. Stay at the one-of-a-kind Seaside Motel, immerse yourself in the local scene, and create lasting memories that will stay with you long after you've left this sun-drenched paradise.

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.

More travel plans

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