Ultimate 3-Day Fort Lauderdale Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and sparkling waterways make Fort Lauderdale the ultimate South Florida escape.

Main view of Fort Lauderdale

Day 1: Beaches, Canals & Las Olas

Morning

Start your trip with a relaxing stroll and swim at Fort Lauderdale Beach, known for its golden sands, palm-lined promenade, and lively beachfront cafés.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Afternoon

Hop aboard the iconic Water Taxi for a scenic cruise along the "Venice of America" canals, learning about mega-mansions and luxury yachts.

Water Taxi

Water Taxi

Enjoy lunch at Coconuts, a beloved waterfront spot serving up fresh seafood and unbeatable views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Coconuts

Coconuts

Evening

Stroll along the vibrant Las Olas Boulevard, browsing boutique shops, art galleries, and stopping for a gelato or evening cocktail on a lively terrace.

Las Olas Boulevard

Las Olas Boulevard

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Culture, Gardens & Local Eats

Morning

Begin at the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, where whimsical art, lush grounds, and a glimpse into old Florida await.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Afternoon

For a local lunch, visit The Foxy Brown, a cozy eatery with creative comfort food and a beloved brunch menu.

The Foxy Brown

The Foxy Brown

After lunch, immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art at the acclaimed NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, set in a stunning modern building downtown.

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

Evening

End the day with dinner at Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria, a lively Italian hot spot on Las Olas serving wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas.

Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Nature, History & Craft Brews

Morning

Explore the wild side of Fort Lauderdale at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, where you can kayak the lagoon, hike scenic trails, or rent a bike through the shady maritime forest.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Afternoon

Discover local history at the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the oldest surviving structure in Broward County, beautifully preserved along the river.

Historic Stranahan House Museum

Historic Stranahan House Museum

For lunch, head to Riverside Market South, a hidden gem frequented by locals for its relaxed atmosphere, vast craft beer selection, and tasty sandwiches.

Riverside Market South

Riverside Market South

Evening

Wrap up your adventure with a craft beer tasting and brewery tour at Lauderdale Brewing Company, a friendly neighborhood brewery featuring unique rotating taps and a welcoming taproom.

Lauderdale Brewing Company

Lauderdale Brewing Company

📍 Directions for Day 3

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