Fort Lauderdale combines a distinctive waterscape with cultural history and nature. Beaches and navigable inland waterways are just as defining as museums, a historic house and a tropical refuge. If you’re looking for a hotel, first consider which experiences you actually plan to include.

Coast, Rivers and the Riverwalk

Fort Lauderdale has many beaches along a 24-mile coastline. Numerous interconnected rivers and canals form more than 300 miles of navigable inland waterways. At the heart of the city is the waterfront Riverwalk Park, which stretches along both banks of the New River. The Riverwalk includes Esplanade Park, with interactive exhibits on navigation and meteorology. Exhibit topics may change; check what’s currently on display before your visit.

History and Exhibits

The New River Inn houses a history museum, with exhibits covering archaeology, Seminole culture, fashion and military history. The Historic Stranahan House Museum focuses on something different: it is Fort Lauderdale’s oldest and most historically significant surviving structure. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace while experienced museum guides answer questions. The ways to visit differ, too: the New River Inn features a range of exhibit topics, while the Stranahan House offers the freedom to explore a significant historic structure at your own pace.

Nature at Bonnet House

Bonnet House is a 35-acre tropical refuge and one of the last remaining habitats on a barrier island in South Florida. It encompasses five distinct ecosystems. Visitors can explore nature trails, visit four themed gardens and see an orchid collection of more than 3,000 specimens. The ecosystems describe the natural setting; the trails, gardens and orchids offer several specific highlights for your visit.

Interactive Experiences and Rides

The Museum of Discovery and Science offers more than 20 immersive, interactive permanent and changing exhibits. This adds an exhibit format that explicitly emphasizes interaction to the city’s historic museums.

The Water Taxi also offers narrated sightseeing cruises. It provides all-day access, drinks on board and more than 30 scheduled stops in Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach and Hollywood. A narrated cruise can be a standalone activity in your plans. Check the schedule in advance, as schedules may change.

Choose a Hotel That Suits Your Plans

Then organize your visits around your interests and personal travel plans. Considering different themes lets you decide which experiences to focus on and how broad you want your stay to be.

Explore more destinations: Lauderhill, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Wilton Manors, Southwest Ranches, Coconut Creek, Sunrise, Hallandale Beach

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