1 day
24 Hours in Fort Lauderdale
Start by the Atlantic, explore a historic estate, then spend the afternoon around Las Olas Boulevard and the New River. This route combines the beach and downtown without pretending they are all within walking distance.
Day 1
Beach morning, riverfront evening
- MorningFree to walk; parking extra
Fort Lauderdale Beach promenade
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Walk along A1A before the heat builds. The ocean faces east, making this a sunrise stop rather than a sun-setting-over-the-water destination.
Next: Travel north toward Bonnet House
- Late morningTicket required
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Explore the historic estate and tropical grounds. Check the official tour schedule and ticket requirements before planning your arrival.
Next: Travel to the Las Olas shopping and dining district
- LunchVaries
Lunch on Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas
Choose a café or restaurant along the downtown stretch of Las Olas. Check menus before sitting down; prices vary considerably.
Next: Walk toward the New River
- AfternoonRiverwalk free; museum admission extra
Riverwalk and Stranahan House
Downtown
Follow the New River promenade and look for available guided tours at Historic Stranahan House Museum. House admission and tour times are separate from the public Riverwalk.
Next: Stay downtown for dinner
- EveningVaries
Dinner beside the New River
Downtown / Las Olas
Finish downtown, or book a Water Taxi outing if its current schedule fits. Drawbridges, boat traffic and weather can affect travel plans.
Local tips
- •Allow time to travel between downtown and the beach; they are separate districts.
- •Carry water and sunscreen, and move indoors when thunder is audible.
- •For a flight or cruise departure, follow airline or cruise-line reporting times rather than squeezing in another stop.