Funky Fort Lauderdale: A 5-Day Budget Trip

Experience the sun-kissed beaches of Fort Lauderdale without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sunny Beaches and Art Deco

  • Check into the Hollywood Beach Resort on a budget
  • Walk along Fort Lauderdale Beach and enjoy the sun and sand
  • Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for a glimpse of Art Deco architecture
  • Head to Las Olas Boulevard for art galleries, boutiques, and café hopping
  • Have a seafood dinner at Kelly's Landing Restaurant & Pub
Day 2

Swampy Adventure

  • Take an airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park for a thrilling ride through the Everglades
  • Spot alligators, turtles, and exotic birds on the tour
  • Visit the Flamingo Gardens to see a botanical garden, wildlife sanctuary and butterfly exhibit
  • Check out the unique glass sculptures at the Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts
  • Grab a meal at Coconuts for waterfront dining with a view of the yachts
Day 3

Museums and Shopping

  • Visit the Museum of Discovery and Science for interactive exhibits and IMAX movies
  • Stroll around the Historic Stranahan House Museum to see the oldest standing structure in Broward County
  • Head to Galleria Mall for upscale shopping and dining
  • Check out the funky boutiques and vintage shops in the FATVillage Arts District
  • Enjoy Cuban food at Old Fort Lauderdale Cuban Cuisine for a flavorful dinner
Day 4

Boat and Beach Day

  • Rent a boat or take a water taxi for a tour of the canals and waterways of Fort Lauderdale
  • Stop by the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach for snorkeling, diving, or just lounging around
  • Get a drink at the beachfront Aruba Beach Café
  • Visit the International Swimming Hall of Fame Museum to learn about legendary swimmers
  • Go to the Mai-Kai Restaurant for a tiki-themed dinner and a Polynesian show
Day 5

Park Hopping and Street Art

  • Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for trails, kayaking, and scenic views of the water
  • Check out the street art at the FATVillage Art Walk
  • Spend the afternoon at Park & Ocean, a charming café in Birch State Park serving light bites and beer
  • Take a sunset paddleboard tour at Lauderdale Beach
  • End the trip with a cheesy slice at the NY-style pizza joint, Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza
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Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

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Type of trip

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