Fort Lauderdale….known as the “Venice of America”. The city is famous for its beaches, arts, culture and the 3rd largest cruise port in Florida. You can shop on Las Olas Boulevard, ride the water taxi on the canals, wonderful cuisine and visit the historic riverfront, all while enjoying bountiful sunshine…over 300 days each year!
Located just two miles north of Port Everglades, the strip of sand that is Fort Lauderdale beach hosts many sophisticated hotels, delicious restaurants and lively bars. If you want to see and be seen, take a stroll down the Beachfront Promenade. During your walk, feel free to pop into any of the Fort Lauderdale beach hotels for a drink or a meal.
There are many hotels to choose from, both luxury and moderate. Vacation rentals are also very popular here. Why not rent a waterfront home on a canal? Or an apartment in one of the high rise buildings? Many hotels along the beach have added amenities such as beach chair rental, salt water pools and bike rentals. No matter where to choose to stay, you will have a great time.
There are so many hotels to choose from in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area. Do you only need one night pre or post cruise? Or are you planning a longer visit? Booking.com has all the hotels available for you to choose from.
Another great option is to rent an entire apartment or house from VRBO. Why not enjoy more private space and truly relax.
Visit Las Olas Boulevard to enjoy Fort Lauderdale shopping and dining. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, it is at the forefront of everything from fashion boutiques and art galleries to outstanding restaurants, sidewalk cafes and bars. Stroll the boulevard during the day, where you can duck in and out of cool breezeways and be surprised by what you discover. And if you are looking for a great evening atmosphere, this is the place!
Don’t miss taking a trip aboard the water taxi. You will have a prime view of the mansions and yachts dotting Millionaires Row. The captains and crew are well versed on the city and the many attractions that can be viewed from the water. The crew has seen it all and will have many stories on the area’s rich history, happenings and “who lives there?” Be sure to keep your pass handy when you depart your vessel…it’s your ticket to discounts and deals on food, drinks, merchandise and attractions at over 60 “Cruise & Save” partners. Water Taxi
Curious about the history of the area? Stop at the Stranahan House, a preserved 1900s home furnished with antiques of the era. The house was built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, who is credited as Fort Lauderdale’s founding father, and his wife Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, the area’s first school teacher. It is the oldest surviving structure in Broward County.
Each October, Fort Lauderdale hosts as the largest in-water boat show in the world. Located steps from the beach, the show spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracts over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display. Products available to purchase range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. Tickets must be purchased in advance to attend. If you want to see mega yachts up close, this is a great opportunity. http://www.flibs.com
If you are boarding a cruise ship after you visit Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades is only a few minutes away. From your hotel, you can take a taxi, shuttle or use ride-share. If driving your own car, there are plenty of options for parking. Each pier has a parking structure available. You can also park off-site. A quick google search will provide you with many options. Many hotels also offer extended parking for cruises. Be mindful of using a hotel parking lot though. Fort Lauderdale police have recommended not using them due to an increase in car thefts, as they are not secure parking sites.
Pier information can be found here: Port Everglades Scroll down to find ship schedules, port maps and parking information. If you are boarding at Terminal 29, there will be a free shuttle just outside the Palm parking garage. Do not attempt to walk, this is a working port and very busy. Below is a map of the port.
If you need to pick up wine, soft drinks or other supplies prior to boarding, there is a Publix, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits and a Total Wine on 17th Street close to the port by the back entrance. There are several hotels within walking distance of all three.
Enjoy your visit to Fort Lauderdale. Relax in the sun, enjoy delicious cuisine, explore the canals and feel yourself starting to relax and unwind.
You can book all your excursions and experiences on Viator. Don’t miss out on the things you really want to do.
Let’s connect:
Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum,
A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum,
A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum
You can also follow me at:
YouTube at Travels With Mickey
Pinterest at Travels with Mickey
Instagram at Travels with Mickey
Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable!
P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!
*Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.