A Full One Day Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
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 not want to miss when visiting Florida’s southeastern coast.
With its scenic canals, unspoiled beaches, and multitude of dining and shopping selections, visiting Fort Lauderdale is a captivating experience for any traveler. It offers a perfect indulgence either as a pre-cruise stopover or as a stepping stone to the breathtaking Caribbean.
While a week-long itinerary could easily be filled with Fort Lauderdale’s activities and sights, I’ll guide you through the perfect one-day Fort Lauderdale itinerary.
I think you’ll find that a single day is enough to fall in love with this enchanting destination.
He Works So I Travel content may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For full details, please read my full affiliate disclosure here.
Visiting the Fort Lauderdale Area
For many, like myself, Fort Lauderdale is a gateway to the Caribbean, usually through a cruise departure.
Whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale for a short stay before or after a cruise or a quick weekend trip, there are many fun things to discover in Fort Lauderdale.
Exploring the greater Fort Lauderdale area is quite easy due to the close proximity of Fort Lauderdale’s Hollywood International Airport to popular attractions.
The Port Everglades cruise port, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk are all close by. Renting a car is a simple process, and finding parking is easy.
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.
Morning: Fuel Up and Explore 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.
There are many restaurants here to get energized with a hearty breakfast making it the perfect place to start your day.
Las Olas Boulevard is a main thoroughfare with quaint cafes and eateries. Sink your teeth into a scrumptious breakfast at one of the local gems like The Floridian, The Alchemist, or one of my favorites, the Gran Forno Bakery.
With your energy levels soaring, take a leisurely stroll down Las Olas Boulevard.
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.
Late Morning to Afternoon: Explore Fort Lauderdale Attractions
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
After soaking in the culture of Las Olas, it’s time to explore some of Fort Lauderdale’s captivating attractions.
One must-visit spot 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 or kayaks from the on-site restaurant Park & Ocean 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.
Park & Ocean also features live music and serves a mix of Caribbean and Southern-inspired dishes you can enjoy on its patios under the canopy of trees.
If you are eager to access the beach, there is access through the back of the park.
This beach access allows visitors to walk from the tranquil park to the sandy shores of the coastline within minutes.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
The historic and enchanting Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is another must-see attraction for anyone exploring the city.
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.
Whichever ticket you choose, you will enjoy learning about the estate’s fascinating history, the captivating legacy of its original occupants, and observing its unique architecture.
You’ll almost forget you are in the middle of Fort Lauderdale!
Bonnet House’s serene ambiance, fascinating family history, and captivating beauty make it an ideal stop for a one-day Fort Lauderdale itinerary.
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 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.
Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi lets you explore Fort Lauderdale’s beauty along the Intracoastal Waterway.
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.
Afternoon: Bask in the Sunshine at Fort Lauderdale Beach
After a day of sightseeing, you will undoubtedly want to eat lunch and then venture out to enjoy Fort Lauderdale Beach. The golden sands and crystal-clear waters almost beg for your arrival.
The stretch of Highway A1A between Las Olas and Sunrise Blvd is known as the Fort Lauderdale Beachfront Promenade. You will find fantastic dining options and amazing outdoor patios overlooking the beach.
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.
After lunch, you can 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.
Luckily on our visit, it was a great day to sink my toes into the warm sand while Kevin went for a for a refreshing swim.
Evening: Sunset Cruise
With its many canals and waterways, there’s a reason Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America.” 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.
Staying a Weekend in Fort Lauderdale?
From embracing the sun-kissed beaches to exploring captivating landmarks, I hope you’ve had incredible experiences in Fort Lauderdale.
If you’re not quite ready to leave or find yourself with more time, you’re in luck!
I can easily fill a weekend vacation for you in Fort Lauderdale. Here are some other great options for you to enjoy this coastal paradise.
The Florida Everglades
First, picture yourself zooming through the Florida Everglades on an Airboat Adventure Tour.
Feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the water, spotting incredible wildlife like alligators and exotic birds. It’s a nature lover’s dream come true!
Bike Fort Lauderdale
Feeling active? Explore Fort Lauderdale on a bike!
You can rent B-Cyles all along the Fort Lauderdale Promenade or take a Fort Lauderdale Bike Tour.
Either way, pedal your way through charming neighborhoods along the beachfront promenade and discover hidden gems only accessible by bike.
It’s a fun and healthy way to see the city up close.
Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale serves as the perfect base for several outstanding day trips due to its strategic location along South Florida’s sun-soaked coast.
Experience the irresistible allure of Miami’s vibrant nightlife, visit a giant man made coral reef, or indulge in the laid-back island vibes of Key West, all of which make great day trips from Fort Lauderdale.
Snorkel at Pompano Beach
Just a short trip away from Fort Lauderdale, discover the artsy town of Pompano Beach.
This coastal gem is home to Shipwreck Park, an underwater park that lures snorkeling and deep-sea fishing enthusiasts with its sunken ships creating man made coral reefs for ocean wildlife.
Gamblers will enjoy spending time at Harrah’s Pompano Beach with its over 1200 slot machines.
With its unique blend of charming seaside relaxation and captivating undersea exploration, a day trip to Pompano Beach promises an enriching coastal adventure from Fort Lauderdale.
Visit Nearby Miami
If you’re up for a day trip, why not visit nearby Miami?
Just a stone’s throw away, Miami offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and delicious food.
This small-group Miami day tour whisks you away from Fort Lauderdale to Miami. With pick-up directly from your Fort Lauderdale hotel, you’ll visit lively South Beach, renowned for its golden sands and Art Deco architecture.
Next, you’ll explore the famed street art of Wynwood Walls, and immerse in the cultural vibrancy of Little Havana.
The trip ends in a serene cruise along Biscayne Bay with stunning views of Miami’s skyline.
Offering both excitement and relaxation, this complete tour perfectly enriches your Fort Lauderdale stay.
A Key West Excursion
But wait, the adventure doesn’t end there! How about a thrilling excursion to Key West?
Imagine driving along the stunning 7 mile bridge, surrounded by breathtaking ocean views. Don’t have a car? You can still experience a day trip to Key West on a day tour from Fort Lauderdale.
On this tour, you will travel by motor coach to Key West, where you will have six hours of independent exploration time. Meet at the departure point for return to Fort Lauderdale.
Once in Key West, soak in the laid-back island vibes, visit the Southernmost point in the U.S. . visit historic sites, and witness mesmerizing sunsets—it’s an unforgettable journey.
Enjoy This Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
And there you have it! A single day filled to the brim in fabulous Fort Lauderdale is proof that visiting this chic city is the perfect way to appreciate the allure of Florida’s southeastern coast.
You’ll see that it’s more than just pretty beaches; it’s gazing at the impressive million-dollar homes along New River, feeling the excitement of Las Olas Boulevard, and enjoying the bountiful shopping and dining experiences.
When you visit Fort Lauderdale, you’re stepping into a world of sun-soaked luxury that can’t be missed.
So when planning your Florida adventure, remember to spare a day for this delightful city. It’s worth every sand-filled, sun-drenched moment.
