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Explore the Area

Family-Friendly Activities


Fort Lauderdale Beach

Description: Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a wide expanse of beautiful sandy shores and clear waters, perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles.


Family Tips: Bring a picnic and enjoy the beachfront parks, or rent bikes and explore the scenic oceanfront paths.


Museum of Discovery and Science

Description: This interactive museum is perfect for families with children. It features hands-on exhibits, a flight simulator, an IMAX theater, and live animal displays.


Highlights: Don’t miss the EcoDiscovery Center, where you can experience Florida’s ecosystems and encounter animals like otters and turtles.


Butterfly World

Description: Located in nearby Coconut Creek, Butterfly World is the largest butterfly park in the world. It’s home to thousands of butterflies, tropical birds, and stunning botanical gardens.


Family Tips: Take a guided tour to learn more about the lifecycle of butterflies and enjoy feeding the colorful lorikeets.


Xtreme Action Park

Description: Florida's largest indoor entertainment complex, offering go-kart racing, bowling, arcade games, and a ropes course.


Family Tips: Check out the indoor roller skating rink and the escape rooms for fun family challenges.


John U. Lloyd Beach State Park (now Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park)

Description: A serene state park with unspoiled beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.


Family Tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a barbecue at one of the park's picnic areas.
Unique Experiences


Water Taxi

Description: Explore Fort Lauderdale's scenic waterways on a water taxi, with hop-on, hop-off service to popular attractions and restaurants.


Highlights: Enjoy guided tours and learn about the area’s history while traveling between stops.


Panthers Hockey Arena (FLA Live Arena)

Description: Home to the Florida Panthers, this arena offers exciting NHL games and concerts throughout the year.


Tips: Check the schedule for family-friendly events and special promotions.


Hard Rock Stadium

Description: A premier sports and entertainment venue, home to the Miami Dolphins and host to major concerts and events.


Highlights: Enjoy the lively atmosphere and consider booking a tour of the stadium.


Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Description: A destination for entertainment, dining, and gaming, featuring a casino, restaurants, and the iconic Guitar Hotel.


Tips: Ideal for adults looking for nightlife, dining, and live entertainment.

 


Shopping


Galleria Mall


Description: A premier shopping destination with a wide range of retailers, dining options, and luxury brands.


Highlights: Enjoy a mix of shopping and dining with restaurants like Seasons 52 and The Capital Grille.

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Dining Options


Coconuts

Cuisine: Seafood


Description: A relaxed, waterfront dining spot offering fresh seafood with stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway.


Must-Try: The conch fritters and “Scoobies” (garlic crab claws) are local favorites.


15th Street Fisheries

Cuisine: Seafood


Description: A landmark seafood restaurant located on the Intracoastal Waterway, known for its fresh catch and waterfront views.


Must-Try: Try the dolphin sandwich or indulge in the raw bar offerings.


Padrino's Cuban Cuisine

Cuisine: Cuban


Description: Family-owned and offering traditional Cuban dishes in a warm and inviting setting.


Must-Try: Enjoy classics like ropa vieja and the signature mojitos.

 


Transportation


Port Everglades Ship Terminal


Description: One of the busiest cruise ports in the world, offering access to cruise adventures in the Caribbean and beyond.


Tips: Explore pre- or post-cruise activities in the Fort Lauderdale area to extend your vacation experience.


These activities and dining options offer something for everyone, whether you're traveling with family or seeking a unique experience in the Fort Lauderdale area.

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