Welcome to Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, known as the “Venice of America,” is a premier destination in South Florida, famous for its stunning beaches, extensive canal system, and vibrant cultural scene. With year-round sunshine, a bustling cruise port, and world-class dining and shopping, Fort Lauderdale is a favorite stop for cruise passengers. Whether exploring the city’s waterfront attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in fresh seafood, visitors will find plenty to do within their 6-10 hours ashore.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. The port is just a short drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale and the city's famous beaches. Port Everglades features multiple terminals with efficient disembarkation procedures, making it easy for passengers to begin their exploration. The port is well-connected to local transportation options, including taxis, shuttles, and rental car services.

View of Fort Lauderdale Port - Acknowledgement: Image courtesy of [https://www.porteverglades.net/cruise/terminals/]

Transportation Options

Fort Lauderdale offers convenient transportation options for visitors:

• Shuttle Services: Many hotels and tour companies offer shuttles from the port to popular attractions.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Readily available for travel to beaches, shopping districts, and downtown.
• Sun Trolley: A fun and affordable way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s key areas.
• Water Taxi: A scenic way to travel through the city’s waterways, stopping at major points of interest.
• Car Rentals: Available for those wanting to explore beyond the city.

Top Attractions and Nearby Destinations

Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks. Here are the top attractions:

• Fort Lauderdale Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and beachside dining.
• Las Olas Boulevard: A lively area filled with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife.
• Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District: A scenic area along the New River featuring museums, theaters, and waterfront dining.
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: A peaceful park with walking trails, kayaking, and picnic areas.
• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: A historic estate showcasing art, history, and lush tropical gardens.
• Everglades Airboat Tours: Experience the Florida Everglades and see alligators up close on an airboat ride.
• Flamingo Gardens: A botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring Florida’s native species.
• Museum of Discovery and Science: An interactive science museum, great for families and kids.
• Hollywood Beach (10 miles): A laid-back beach town with a scenic boardwalk, restaurants, and shops.
• Miami (30 miles): Explore South Beach, Wynwood, and Little Havana for a taste of Miami’s vibrant culture.

Local Foods

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to sample fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. Be sure to try:

• Stone Crab: A Florida delicacy, available seasonally.
• Conch Fritters: A Bahamian-style seafood treat.
• Grouper Sandwich: Fresh local fish served fried or grilled.
• Cuban Sandwich: A Miami-inspired classic with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
• Key Lime Pie: A tangy, sweet dessert that originated in the Florida Keys.

Interesting Facts

Fort Lauderdale has a fascinating history and unique charm. Here are some interesting facts:

• The city has over 300 miles of canals, earning it the nickname “Venice of America.”
• Fort Lauderdale is home to Port Everglades, one of the world’s busiest cruise ports.
• The area was originally inhabited by the Tequesta Native American tribe before European settlers arrived.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Fort Lauderdale is located in **South Florida**, along the Atlantic Ocean, between Miami and Palm Beach. The region enjoys a **tropical climate**, with warm temperatures year-round and occasional afternoon showers. The city is known for its expansive waterways, which connect the Intracoastal Waterway, the Everglades, and the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby barrier islands and state parks provide excellent opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Local Customs and Culture

Fort Lauderdale embraces a mix of beach culture, Latin American influences, and a laid-back Floridian lifestyle. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but some upscale restaurants and venues may require smart casual wear. Tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20%) and for services like taxis and hotel staff. Visitors should be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak travel seasons.

Family-Friendly Activities

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit Flamingo Gardens or enjoy a splash pad at the beach.
• Children 7-12 years old: Explore the Museum of Discovery and Science or take a boat ride on the canals.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Try paddleboarding, go on an Everglades airboat ride, or shop at Las Olas Boulevard.

Google Maps

Fort Lauderdale

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.*