A firsthand look at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, known for its Michelin-starred dining, stylish hotels, and stunning shorelines.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Vast, pristine, and gleaming, Fort Lauderdale’s shores are essential to any trip.
- Numerous local eateries, art galleries, and thoughtfully selected stores can be discovered on the walkable Las Olas Boulevard.
- The city features upscale, five-star hotels such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, where you’ll instantly feel welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine or cold water served in an eco-friendly aluminum bottle. This welcoming atmosphere is present in all shared spaces and in the private guest rooms.
- The first Michelin-starred restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Maas, provides chef’s tasting menus accompanied by carefully selected wine pairings as well as a la carte choices.
- Rides on a water taxi along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway offer an enjoyable way to explore the area.
When I began dating my current husband, Steve, more than ten years ago, I never imagined that Fort Lauderdale would play such a significant role in my life. However, Steve’s family was based in the area, and when he asked me to join him for Thanksgiving to meet his family, I eagerly accepted.
Besides being excited about the relationship milestone, I was also very happy to leave New York City just as the weather began to get colder. Although Steve’s family lived inland, he assured me we could stay at one of the hotels along Fort Lauderdale’s A1A, the beautiful coastal road that stretches along most of the area.FloridaThe Atlantic coastline. That first hotel has since shut down, and in many ways, the city has changed. After the initial excitement of warm-weather vacations and the anxiety of meeting the family faded—and once I had spent plenty of time with my feet in the sand—I started to recognize a more complex destination. The beachfront developed, featuring modernfive-star hotelsand high-end restaurants emerging. The arts district transformed into its own distinct neighborhood. And surprisingly, some old dive bars and beach shops remained. Gradually, I began to look forward to what a long weekend in Fort Lauderdale might offer.
Perhaps the most significant aspect for me, as a New Yorker who views discovering her next amazing meal as a form of art, was returning home and enthusiastically sharing with friends and family about the incredible cuisine we enjoyed during our latest visit to Fort Lauderdale. However, don’t simply rely on my perspective. Local specialist Jenni Morejon, president and CEO of the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority, holds strong views on this rising city in Florida. Step aside, Miami: A new bright spot is making its mark in the area.
Best Hotels & Resorts
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach
For a luxurious suite experience, theConradis a highlight, where you’ll wish you could extend your stay. “You won’t find softer hotel sheets in any other luxury hotel,”writesTravel + Leisurecontributor Lydia Mansel—and likely not a better ocean-view ping-pong table either.
Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in Fort Lauderdale
Opened in 2023, this stylish yet subtle establishmentsoon emerged as one of the most popular accommodations in the area. Anticipate friendly, five-star hospitality, generous rooms, and bathrooms with marble finishes, along with a trendy entrance hall.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
This central beach propertyprovides the outstanding service that Ritz-Carlton fans have grown accustomed to. Settle into one of the hotel’s beach chairs if you’re in the mood for a day with your toes in the sand, and be sure to ask about the free water taxi service.
W Fort Lauderdale
Fans of the WThey know they’re in for a great experience when they stay at one of the trendy brand’s locations, and those fortunate enough to spend the night at the Fort Lauderdale property rush to the WET Deck pool, where you can unwind on a lounge chair with a chilled drink in your hand.
Pier Sixty-Six
Following a $1 billion renovation earlier this year, thisiconic propertyreopened its doors once more—with a refreshed version of the iconic rotating rooftop lounge, the Pier Top.
Best Things to Do
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
This ‘excellent example of old Fort Lauderdale that has been well-maintained is a top destination for visitors who enjoy culture and history,’ says Morejon about thehistoric 1920s home, playful art estate, and tropical garden retreat situated just beyond the beachfront. You might even catch a glimpse of a monkey among the mangroves —.
Historic Stranahan House Museum
The city’s ‘oldest remaining building acts as a portal to our origins,” says Morejon. The house, which dates to 1901, was owned by Frank Stranahan—regarded as the founder of Fort Lauderdale—and guests can discover more about it today through aguided visit of the house, which includes numerous original decorations.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts
“Anyone who enjoys live shows should definitely look at the schedule,” Morejon says about theBroward Center for the Performing ArtsThe Fort Lauderdale downtown location offers a wide range of Broadway tours, ballet performances, operas, comedy acts, concerts, and community events in its two primary theaters.
Beaches
“The clean, golden sands continue to attract the city,” Morejon acknowledges. Although the beaches are only a portion of the South Florida city’s character, spending a few hours on the sand is always a good choice, whether it’s taking a long walk, swimming in the ocean, or getting a sun tan.
Best Restaurants
Maass
Worth its Michelin star,Maass, situated at the Four Seasons, is perhaps most famous for its chef’s counter tasting experience, where guests can select their chopstick holders and steak knife. The cocktail selection is great, but the wine pairing is truly the highlight.
Heritage
As a New Yorker, I’m very particular about my pizza, so when I came acrossHeritageLast year, I tried their pizza (along with stuffed peppers, pasta, chopped salad, and olive oil cake) and realized I had discovered something unique. I have returned to this Bib Gourmand place on every visit since, and I can’t wait to go back.
Daniel’s: A Florida Steakhouse
Morejon says Daniel’s”helped elevate the dining scene in downtown.” The complete dinner experience is worthwhile, but if you only have time to come during happy hour, you absolutely should order the wagyu smash burger and maybe a paloma.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal period to explore Fort Lauderdale is between October and May, when the weather is at its finest: clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and (compared to other times) reduced humidity. The summer months are seen as off-peak because of the high temperatures (and the beginning of hurricane season), yet this also results in smaller crowds and more favorable hotel rates.
With that in mind, Fort Lauderdale is designed to cope with the heat. Many restaurants, bars, and stores are equipped with effective air conditioning, and by taking breaks in the ocean (or your hotel’s pool) and spending time discovering the city’s attractions outside of the beach, you may find the summer climate quite tolerable.
If you’re in the area during Thanksgiving, think about registering for the Fort Lauderdale Turkey Trot, a beautiful 5K race that follows A1A with ocean vistas throughout. No matter if you run, jog, or stroll, the benefit is the same—a seaside breakfast or a refreshing beverage once you finish.
How to Get There
Fort Lauderdale is easily accessible, offering numerous direct flights from major cities throughout the United States. While driving is an option, consider that Florida is a large state, so if you’re traveling from out of state, particularly from the north, be prepared for a lengthy drive to reach South Florida.
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) offers the best convenience; it’s small, simple to move around in, and located just a brief drive from the beach and downtown. Miami International (MIA) and Palm Beach International (PBI) are other choices, but they are located further from the city center and typically not as favorable, unless you come across a much better price or flight duration from your starting point.
Neighborhoods to Visit
Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Las Olas Blvd
“Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Las Olas continue to be the heart of the activity, continuously changing with the addition of new residential buildings, office facilities, and communal spaces that encourage real human interaction,” says Morejon.
Sailboat Bend
A historic area located west of downtown, close to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the New River, Sailboat Bend “features tree-covered streets, old-fashioned buildings, and a more laid-back atmosphere,” according to Morejon. Its easy access “just outside the city center” makes it a simple addition to any Fort Lauderdale travel plan.
FAT Village
Morejon refers to the Flagler Arts and Technology district as the “heart of the city’s creative community, filled with murals, art galleries, and ongoing art walks that showcase the city’s rising status as a cultural hub.”
How to Get Around
Ride-sharing and taxi services such as Uber and Lyft are available across the Fort Lauderdale region. Both options are abundant and cost-effective.
You don’t require a car if you’re arriving by air from another area, but if you’d rather drive, you’re welcome to rent one. Keep in mind that finding parking close to the beach can be challenging, and many of the hotels on the main street impose relatively high daily valet charges.
There’s also a water taxithat transports travelers across three connected routes in Pompano Beach, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale. It’s an enjoyable tourist experience and a great way to explore some of South Florida’s top attractions, but it also serves as a practical mode of transportation, “linking numerous well-known neighborhoods, dining spots, and hotels,” according to Morejon.
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