Fort Lauderdale FL

Did you know we have a “Venice” of America? 

Embraced by the Atlantic Ocean, New River and a host of scenic inland waterways, Fort Lauderdale truly lives up to its designation as the “Venice of America”.

Centrally located on 33 square miles between Palm Beach and Miami, Fort Lauderdale is the seventh largest city in Florida (est. 167,000 pop.).

With over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, and pleasant year round ocean breezes, Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful tourist destination.  Its semi-tropical climate, rich natural beauty, and array of cultural, entertainment and education opportunities make it perfect  for singles, couples, and families alike.

The Riverwalk is the cornerstone of the City’s arts, science, cultural and historic district which features the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Museum of Discovery and Science, Museum of Art and Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum.

The Museum of Discovery and Science is enjoyable for children of all ages.  It is known for its interactive, hand-on displays, and features some of the best science exhibits in the United States.  The museum also allows its guests to touch live animals that are native to Florida and to view the world’s largest captive Atlantic coral reef.  

Las Olas Boulevard has gained international recognition as a center of fashion, fine dining, and entertainment.  Take an afternoon to explore the many boutiques narrow alleyways, and brick walkways.  There are hundreds of shopping and dining options.  Don’t miss out on Tommy Bahamas tropical clothing shop, and the stained glass shop.  There’s also a fantastic needlework shop.  There’s a live jazz bar that’s always packed, and a homemade ice cream store to cool you off and delight your taste buds.

Don’t miss out on the Riverboat tours.  These tours have been operating in the area for over 50 years.  Your captain will guide the Riverboat down the beautiful scenic river, and with an entertaining monologue point out the homes of the rich, famous, and infamous.  There are also diner cruises where you sail to an island and enjoy a dinner of shrimp and barbeque amid the tropical foliage.

The city is also sometimes referred to “Fort Liquordale” because of its beaches, many bars, nightclubs, strip clubs, and overall “party hardy” atmosphere.  For 40 years it has been “college spring break central”.  Senior Frogs is reputedly the place where the first wet T-shirt contest was held.  Fort Lauderdale is also known as “America’s top gay resort area”.

Having said that, several of my travel agent magazines have recently featured stories about the “reemergence” of Fort Lauderdale as an upscale tourist destination.