A Full Day in Fort Lauderdale Before a Cruise
Beautiful Fort Lauderdale, once dubbed a Spring Break hotspot, may not be as famous as Miami, its neighbor to the south, but it is a chic and sophisticated city you will want to explore before sailing off on your next cruise.
I’ve explored Fort Lauderdale before a holiday cruise and again before a spring trip to Aruba.
Each visit confirmed the same thing. The palm-lined streets and boats gliding along the Intracoastal make it easy to turn one day in Fort Lauderdale into something that actually feels like a vacation.
After several visits, I’ve learned what works when time is limited and what’s not worth the effort. I know where to stay near the port, how to get around, and which stops fit naturally into a pre-cruise schedule.
This Fort Lauderdale itinerary gives you a realistic, one-day plan so you can enjoy the city and still board your ship relaxed and ready.
I think you’ll find that a single day is enough to fall in love with this enchanting destination.
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Getting Around Fort Lauderdale
Exploring the greater Fort Lauderdale area is quite easy, thanks to the close proximity of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to popular attractions such as Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk.
Rental cars make sense for longer stays. For one day, they’re unnecessary.
Make sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Fort Lauderdale before a cruise if you are staying overnight and don’t have a car.
Alternatively, if you take an Uber ride from the airport to the Fort Lauderdale Beach park area, many transportation options are available, including the Riverwalk water shuttle and the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood water taxi.
The Water Taxi is both transportation and sightseeing. It runs along the Intracoastal Waterway with multiple stops. I’ve used it as a relaxed way to see the city without planning.
Morning: Ease Into Your Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
Breakfast With a View
Start the day near the water. Oceanfront cafés and casual breakfast spots line Fort Lauderdale Beach.
A simple breakfast sets the tone. Think coffee, fresh fruit, and something warm. Heavy meals slow you down early.
I prefer eating outdoors when the weather cooperates. It immediately puts you in vacation mode.
Walk Fort Lauderdale Beach
After breakfast, take a walk along the beach promenade.
The stretch of Highway A1A between Las Olas and Sunrise Boulevard is known as the Fort Lauderdale Beachfront Promenade. The path is wide and flat. It’s easy to stroll without effort.
Morning is quieter. The air feels cooler. You’ll see joggers, dog walkers, and locals starting their day.
This walk helps reset after travel. It also gives you a feel for the city without committing to an activity.
Late Morning: Explore Fort Lauderdale Attractions
Ride the Water Taxi
The water taxi is one of the best ways to experience Fort Lauderdale before a cruise. The city is known as the Venice of America for a reason.
This scenic trip connects Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, offering glimpses of lavish mansions, yachts, and landmarks.
The water taxi allows you to purchase a day pass to hop on and off at various stops.
Taxi Stop #4 is the nearest water taxi stop to the cruise port. It will be quite a walk, but you can ask the auto taxi to drop you here.
You can hop off at Stop #7 for Bonnet House and Stop #8 for Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
I recommend you purchase your Water Taxi tickets in advance.
You can also purchase a ticket at the Water Taxi stops using a QR code and your phone.
It’s sightseeing without effort. You sit, relax, and watch the city go by.
Plan about ninety minutes. That allows time to enjoy the ride and hop off once or twice.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
One must-visit spot along the water taxi route is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a lush oasis in Fort Lauderdale. It is named after the philanthropist who owned the nearby Bonnet House.
The park is steps away from the ocean and offers various activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
The admission fee for vehicles entering the park is around $6 per vehicle or $2 per person for pedestrians.
Once inside, there’s an array of activities to enjoy.
You can rent bicycles, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards from the on-site Marina Building to explore the park’s scenic trails and waterways.
Go birdwatching, picnic amidst the serene surroundings, or spot wildlife like this giant turtle that was creeping under the car.
The on-site restaurant, The Grill at the Grove, serves everything from burgers to pizzas, sandwiches to salads, all of which you can enjoy on its patios under the canopy of trees.
Lunch: Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is one place I love to visit in Fort Lauderdale and would definitely add to a Fort Lauderdale itinerary.
This main thoroughfare has quaint cafes and eateries. Lunch options range from casual cafés to polished bistros. Many have shaded patios, which matter in Florida.
Visit one of the local gems in the area, like The Floridian, The Alchemist, or one of my favorites, the Gran Forno Bakery.
I gravitate toward lighter lunches here. Salads, seafood, and sandwiches feel right before a cruise.
After eating, take a short walk. Shops and galleries line the street. Browsing is half the fun.
Marvel at the artistic murals adorning the walls, browse through charming boutiques, and enjoy the artistic vibes of this chic district.
If time permits, consider visiting the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale to explore captivating art exhibitions. Additionally, nearby attractions like the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale and the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the city’s oldest surviving home, offer enriching experiences worth exploring during your stay in Fort Lauderdale.
Travel Tip: Las Olas Boulevard is a 15-minute drive from Port Everglades. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available for a convenient commute.
Afternoon: Choose Your Pace
This part of your Fort Lauderdale itinerary depends on energy levels.
Option One: Relax by the Pool or Beach
Sometimes the best plan is no plan. Heading back to your hotel for downtime keeps the day balanced.
You can also indulge in various beach activities, from sunbathing and swimming to beach volleyball or simply unwinding with a captivating book.
You’ll want to watch for the beach warning flags, which are stationed all along the beach, before heading into the water.
A few hours by the pool or ocean helps you recharge. This matters before an early embarkation day.
I’ve chosen this option before holiday cruises. It kept the trip stress-free.
Option Two: Visit Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
For a quieter cultural stop, Bonnet House offers history and nature in one place.
The estate sits near the beach but feels removed from the bustle.
The gardens are shaded and peaceful. It’s an easy visit that doesn’t feel rushed.
You have several ticket choices for entrance.
- A grounds ticket is around $10.
- Grounds and self-guided house tour tickets are around $25.
- Grounds and guided house tour tickets are around $30.
Option 3: Paddleboard or Kayak
For an incredible addition to your one-day Fort Lauderdale itinerary, consider a paddleboard or kayak adventure. Here, you’ll be able to explore the stunning ecosystem near the Bonnet House.
Paddleboarding or kayaking offers a unique perspective of Fort Lauderdale’s coastal beauty. Add this exciting outdoor activity to your itinerary that perfectly complements the cultural exploration of the city.
This exhilarating experience allows you to explore the serene Coconut Cove while soaking in breathtaking beach views.
Glide along the tranquil waters, discovering the area’s natural wonders and spotting diverse wildlife.
You don’t even need to leave the Bonnet House parking lot. Fort Lauderdale Adventures launches near a small path by the entrance gate.
Travel Tip: You can access these attractions using the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi.
Pre-Dinner: Sunset by the Water
Fort Lauderdale sunsets deserve attention. Timing this right adds a memorable moment to your day.
Head back toward the beach or Intracoastal Waterway. Many spots offer benches or casual bars.
This is a good time for a drink or sparkling water. No rush. Just enjoy the view.
Treat yourself to fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Casablanca Café or Burlock Coast at the Ritz-Carlton while you admire the breathtaking ocean views.
Evening: Sunset Cruise
End your Fort Lauderdale itinerary on the water with a Riverfront Gondola sunset cruise or paddlewheel boat tour.
You’ll enjoy a breathtaking sunset while you leisurely cruise along the picturesque New River of Fort Lauderdale, soaking in the stunning views and learning about the city’s million dollar homes and history.
We enjoyed the Carrie B Paddlewheeler tour which we picked up right next to the Stranahan House on the Riverwalk. The friendly staff made this 90 minute tour even more enjoyable with their lively commentary and funny jokes.
You can also take a similar tour using the Jungle Queen Riverboat tour which meets at the Bahia Mar resort.
Final Travel Tip: Sunset cruises depart from various points near Fort Lauderdale Beach and downtown. Consider pre-booking to secure your spot.
Is One Day Enough in Fort Lauderdale?
One day works well before a cruise. You’ll see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Longer stays allow deeper exploration, but they aren’t required.
I’ve enjoyed Fort Lauderdale in short bursts multiple times. Each visit felt complete.
Enjoy This Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
Fort Lauderdale offers exactly what pre-cruise travelers need. Easy logistics. Warm weather. Water views everywhere.
This Fort Lauderdale itinerary balances activity with rest. It respects travel fatigue while still feeling special.
After several visits, I keep coming back to the same conclusion. This city knows how to welcome cruise travelers.
Start your trip here, and you’ll board your ship relaxed, organized, and already in vacation mode.
