Family-Friendly Adventures in Fort Lauderdale, FL!

Fort Lauderdale Beachfront

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore Fort Lauderdale Beach

Morning: Start your family adventure with a sun-soaked morning at Fort Lauderdale Beach. Park at the public parking lot near Las Olas Boulevard for easy access. Spend the morning building sandcastles and swimming in the gentle waves. Enjoy a family beach picnic or grab a bite at one of the beachfront cafes.

Afternoon: After lunch, take a short walk to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Located just north of Las Olas Boulevard on Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, this museum showcases Olympic memorabilia and offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids. Learn about swimming legends and even try a few virtual reality swim races!

Evening: As the day cools down, stroll along the scenic Wave Wall and Promenade. Grab dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants along the beachfront, offering fresh seafood and kid-approved menus. End your day with a leisurely sunset walk or a fun ride on the Fort Lauderdale Beach Park"s playground.

Day 2: Discover Nearby Attractions

Morning: Drive or take a bus from the beach area to the Museum of Discovery and Science, located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. This hands-on museum offers engaging science exhibits, including a space exhibit, live animal shows, and an IMAX theater.

Afternoon: After grabbing lunch at the museum"s cafe, head over to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. You can bike, drive, or take the Sun Trolley from downtown to the park. Rent a canoe or paddle board to explore the freshwater lagoon, or hike along the nature trails spotting wildlife and tropical plants.

Evening: Return to Fort Lauderdale Beach for dinner, perhaps trying a different seafront restaurant. If energy permits, enjoy one of the nightly live music performances typically held at the outdoor beachfront bars or the nearby Las Olas Oceanside Park.

This family-friendly itinerary blends relaxation with adventure, ensuring a memorable visit to Fort Lauderdale"s beachfront attractions!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Intracoastal Waterway Fort Lauderdale

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family adventure along the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, an enchanting journey filled with scenic beauty, engaging activities, and plenty of opportunities to learn and relax.

Morning: Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise

Start your day at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center where you’ll board the iconic Jungle Queen Riverboat. This fun-filled cruise departs at 10 AM, offering a fascinating 90-minute tour. Glide past opulent mansions and yachts while learning about the rich history of the area. The riverboat is fully equipped with refreshments and provides insightful commentary ideal for keeping both kids and adults entertained.

Afternoon: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

After your cruise, head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, just a 10-minute drive from the Yachting Center. You can grab a quick lunch at the park’s concession stand before exploring. Rent a canoe or paddleboard to navigate the park’s freshwater lagoon, an excellent way for the family to connect with nature. Don’t miss walking some of the short trails; they offer great bird watching and the chance to spot other wildlife.

Evening: Dinner and Stroll at Las Olas Boulevard

Conclude your day with a drive to Las Olas Boulevard, about 5 minutes from the state park. This vibrant area is lined with a variety of family-friendly restaurants catering to every taste. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the boulevard; enjoy browsing through unique shops and galleries, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of street performers and bustling cafes.

Each destination offers convenient parking and is easily accessible by car, making it an effortless day out for the family. This itinerary not only delights with its scenic waterway views but also enriches with a touch of Fort Lauderdale’s cultural charm and natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family adventure at the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, a vibrant hub along the historic New River. Here’s a carefully designed itinerary to ensure a fun-filled day for all:

Morning Start: Breakfast at Esplanade Park

Begin your day at Esplanade Park, easily accessible via the Brightline train station or by parking at one of the nearby lots. Enjoy a casual breakfast at one of the charming cafes overlooking the river. Kids can expend some energy in the park, home to interactive water features and play areas.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Museum of Discovery and Science

Just a short walk from Esplanade Park, the Museum of Discovery and Science offers engaging exhibits perfect for curious minds. From live animal shows to simulated airboat rides, the museum provides an exciting learning environment that"s both educational and entertaining. Don’t miss the AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater for a stunning cinematic experience.

Lunch: Picnic at Riverwalk Linear Park

Grab lunch to go from one of the Riverwalk restaurants and head to the Riverwalk Linear Park for a picnic. Enjoy the tranquil views and watch boats glide by. The park frequently hosts free events, so you might catch a live performance or a festival.

Afternoon: Water Taxi Tour

Post-lunch, hop on the Water Taxi—a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can catch it at any of the stops along the Riverwalk. The captains often share fascinating anecdotes about the city"s history and the luxurious yachts and mansions lining the canals.

Late Afternoon: Browse the Shops at Las Olas Boulevard

Conclude your day with a stroll through the nearby Las Olas Boulevard. It’s a paradise for shoppers and offers a variety of boutiques that appeal to all ages. Enjoy an ice cream or a coffee as you soak in the local atmosphere before heading home.

Each of these spots provides a glimpse into the heart of Fort Lauderdale, making your family trip both memorable and enjoyable!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sawgrass Recreation Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to your thrilling family adventure at Sawgrass Recreation Park in the heart of the Florida Everglades! Here"s a detailed itinerary to make the most out of your visit:

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at the park around 9 AM to beat the crowds and the heat. Sawgrass Recreation Park is easily accessible by car, located off US Highway 27. Parking is ample and free.

Airboat Adventure (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM)

Kick off with an exciting Airboat Tour. Check-in at the main entrance, and you’ll be guided to your airboat. These tours are perfect for all ages and provide a thrilling ride over the beautiful Everglades. Listen closely as your guide shares fascinating facts about the local ecosystem and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators!

Exhibit Areas (10:45 AM - 12:00 PM)

After your airboat tour, explore the various wildlife exhibit areas. Visit the Reptile Exhibit to see different species of alligators, turtles, and even some snakes. Learn about the conservation efforts and the importance of each species to the Everglade"s ecosystem.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)

Pack a picnic or enjoy snacks from the onsite concession. There are picnic areas where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty.

Swamp Yard Island (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

Next, head over to Swamp Yard Island, a unique interactive experience where you can learn about and even feed some of the park"s more approachable animals. It"s a hit with the kids!

Educational Talk and Animal Encounters (2:15 PM - 3:00 PM)

Conclude your visit with a ranger-led educational talk at the Panther Exhibit. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Florida"s endangered wildlife and even meet some animals up close.

Departure

After a fun-filled day, plan to head out around 3:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your Everglades adventure during the drive back.

Enjoy your family-friendly exploration at Sawgrass Recreation Park, where education meets excitement in a natural setting!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Historic Stranahan House Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through time at the Historic Stranahan House Museum in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the oldest surviving structure in Broward County. Built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, the city"s founding father, and his wife Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, this house offers a glimpse into early 20th-century pioneer life.

Getting There

The museum is conveniently located at 335 SE 6th Avenue, easily accessible by car or public transport. If driving, parking is available nearby. Alternatively, take the bus which stops right in front of the house.

Start Your Tour

Plan to arrive when the museum opens at 10:00 AM. Tours are guided and start at the top of the hour from 1 PM to 3 PM on weekdays, ensuring a structured and educational experience. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

Explore the Museum

As you step inside, you"ll be transported back in time. The house is meticulously preserved and furnished with original artifacts that tell the story of the Stranahan family and their influence on the area"s development. The living room, converted into a trading post, reflects Frank Stranahan"s business interactions with the Seminole Indians, making for fascinating stories.

Engaging Activities

Engage with interactive displays that are especially intriguing for younger visitors. Children can learn about early Floridian commerce, culture, and community life through hands-on exhibits.

Wrap Up at the Riverwalk

After your tour, take a leisureful stroll along the adjacent Riverwalk, a lush waterfront park that stretches along the New River. It"s a perfect spot for a family picnic to recap the day"s discoveries.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The house was originally built as a trading post before being converted into a residence, which makes it a unique example of adaptive reuse in historical architecture.

Remember to check the museum"s website for any special events or seasonal activities that could enhance your visit. Enjoy delving into the past at this charming and informative landmark!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.