Find cheap flights to Fort Lauderdale

If you’re seeking sandy beaches, palm tree-lined streets, extravagant shopping, dining and entertainment, Fort Lauderdale is the place for you. Often dubbed the “Venice of America,” the city’s navigable waterways and canals attract thousands of yachting enthusiasts from across the globe. You’ll enjoy the typical Florida sunshine and average temperatures of 60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit for over 6 months straight, from December – April. This is also the peak tourist season and rates for flights and hotels tend to be on the higher side. From May, the city experiences frequent, heavy rainfall and average temperatures climb steadily to 90 degrees Fahrenheit by peak summer. From June – November, the city is prone to hurricanes. If you’re planning to visit during this time, try to book refundable flights and hotels.

One of the easiest ways to get around in Fort Lauderdale and visit the surrounding towns is to hire a vehicle and drive yourself. Driving in the city is easy as the streets are laid out in a grid-based pattern with “avenues” running north-south and “streets” running east-west. However, if you don’t wish to be stuck behind the wheel, and are going to spend most of your time within the city, here are some of the other modes of transportation to get around in Fort Lauderdale.

Trolleys and buses

Sun Trolley operates along the beach and downtown, as well as to Las Olas Boulevard. The downtown link service is free while fares for the Beach and La Olas links is $1.00 USD for a single ride or $3.00 USD for a day pass. Broward County Transit (BCT) offers buses throughout the city. Regular one-way fare is $2.00 USD or you can purchase an all day pass for $5.00 USD.

Water taxis

The water taxis that use the city’s waterways are a fun and interesting way to visit the major attractions. Taxis travel along the Intracoastal and New River stopping at 12 popular sights. You can hop on and off the boats all day for $26.00 USD (for adults) and $12.00 USD (for children ages 5 – 11).

Taxis

Taxis are easily available throughout the city, but rides tend to be far more expensive than public transport, unless you’re travelling in a group. Ride-share options such as Uber and Lyft are also available.

Bikes

Cycling is an excellent way to explore some parts of the city. Check out the city’s bike-share program, Broward County B-cycle. You can access bikes at several bike stations around downtown and pay $5.00 USD per 30 minute ride up to a maximum of 10 rides per day.

Things to do and places of interest in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s numerous activities and sights, and opportunities for waterfront relaxation, make it an excellent short-stay destination. You can decide whether to spend your days within your beachfront resort, feasting your eyes on gorgeous beaches and crystal blue waters, or venture out and explore the city. Here are a few suggestions on what to see and do in Fort Lauderdale.

• Sunbathe on the wide, sandy Fort Lauderdale Beach, swim in the clear blue water, or stroll along the scenic beachside promenade.
• Sign up for a sightseeing cruise and enjoy popular city sights from the water.
• Go canoeing and kayaking, or hiking and biking in the Coastal Hammock Trail park.
• Explore a range of museums such as NSU Art Museum (for art lovers), Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (for nature and history lovers), the Museum of Discovery and Science (for kids and families), and Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum (for vintage car lovers).
• Book an airboat tour of the Florida Everglades at the Sawgrass Recreation Park.
• Check out historic buildings converted into fun restaurants and bars at the Himmarshee Village.
• Head to Las Olas Boulevard to shop at high-end boutiques and quirky specialty stores, and sample cuisines from a wide range of restaurants. Enjoy live daily performances in the area and go pub-hopping at several cool bars and nightspots.

Tips and tricks for visiting Fort Lauderdale

Watch out for spring break partiers

Fort Lauderdale attracts large crowds of college students looking for beach fun, alcohol, and excitement during their spring break. At this time the beaches are flooded with boisterous crowds, wild parties, and loud music. If you don’t like this sort of thing, you should avoid visiting Fort Lauderdale during the spring break season.

Be beach ready

Respect the beach warnings, especially during hurricane season. Watch out for needlefish and jellyfish that sometimes make an appearance, even in shallow waters. Cover yourself with plenty of sunscreen, stay hydrated, and try to rent umbrellas while sitting on the beach. The Florida sun is warm and welcoming, but you may be surprised at how quickly it can give you a sunburn or heat stroke.