Exploring Fort Lauderdale
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Once a legendary wild child, Fort Lauderdale has matured since her 1980s spring break party heyday. Today the city on the Atlantic Coast between Miami to the south and Palm Beach to the north is known for its stunning sun kissed beach, canals reminiscent of Venice, swank hotels and food and craft beer scene. But it is also a city that knows how to have fun with plenty of beach bars and clubs to dance late in the night at.
What to See
Undoubtedly the star attraction, the Fort Lauderdale Beach & Promenade is a wide, palm-lined brick walkway along the magnificent china white beach stretching 7-miles north. With 300 miles of navigable inland waterways, Fort Lauderdale is called “America’s Venice.” Arrange a Gondola Tour and explore the canals with an authentically dressed gondolier. The top quality collection at the Museum of Art is one of Florida’s best, including works by Picasso, Matisse, Dali and Warhol.
Where to Sleep
Lago Mar Resort, not to be confused with President Donald Trump’s social club Mar-a-Lago to the north in Palm Beach, is a popular family-owned hotel right on the beach. The island-themed rooms are quite large and many have ocean views. There are also two swimming pools, four tennis courts, a spa and a few dining options on the 10-acre property. The Key West stylish Pillars Hotel is another excellent choice. Right on the Intracoastal Waterway it has lavish rooms and the best sunset views in town.
Where to Eat
Locals crack crabs with wood mallets the Rustic Inn, which has been serving the community since 1955. The revered and rowdy crab-house serves Dungeness, golden or blue grab, all drenched in a secret family sauce (hint: garlic and butter are key). At the other end of the scale, Shula’s, owned by the former Miami Dolphins coach, is an elegant restaurant that does perfectly cooked, thick cut steaks. At the romantic, hibiscus scented Casablanca Café, a Mediterranean menu is served along with ocean views from the balcony and live piano music at night.
Where to Party
Right downtown on 3rd Ave, locals love to party at The Poor House , which attracts a boisterous crowd. They come to listen to live music from rock to funk to blues and dine on American bar food. Open since 1938, The Elbo Room is another choice. It is the ultimate dive bar on the beach. It originally gained notoriety thanks to the ’60s classic, ‘Where the Boys Are.’ Today its dance floor attracts a young, thirsty crowd. The Ft Lauderdale area is also home to a lively craft beer scene with a few different breweries in town. Check out 26 Degree Brewery in nearby Pompano Beach for an interesting selection of craft beers, including many that have been barrel aged. Funky Buddha Brewery is another popular watering hole for craft beer.
