2 days
A Weekend in Fort Lauderdale
Divide the weekend between the beach district and downtown. You will have time for the Atlantic, a state park, local history and the New River without spending the whole visit in the car.
Saturday
Beach and gardens
- MorningFree to walk; parking extra
Beach promenade walk
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Start along A1A and check posted swimming conditions before entering the water.
Next: Travel to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- Late morningPark admission
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Explore trails between the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. Confirm park hours, admission and activity availability with Florida State Parks.
Next: Lunch nearby
- AfternoonTicket required
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Visit the historic house and grounds if a scheduled tour fits your day. Reserve ahead when required.
Next: Return to your accommodation before dinner
- EveningVaries
Dinner in the beach district
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Choose a restaurant near your hotel or arrange a ride. Oceanfront dining can carry a premium, so review the menu first.
Sunday
Downtown and the New River
- MorningVaries
Coffee and Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas
Browse the downtown shopping and dining district on foot, checking individual opening hours.
Next: Walk to the river
- Late morningFree
Riverwalk
Downtown
Follow the public promenade along the New River. Allow for bridge openings if your route crosses the river.
Next: Walk or take a short ride to your next stop
- AfternoonTicket required
Museum of Discovery and Science
Downtown
Spend the warmest part of the day indoors with science exhibits. Check current hours, tickets and separate IMAX offerings.
Next: Travel to Flagler Village
- EveningVaries
Flagler Village dinner
Flagler Village
Finish with a neighborhood restaurant or café. Check the events calendar rather than assuming an art walk or market is happening.
Local tips
- •Reserve popular weekend tours and dinner tables ahead.
- •Paid parking is common downtown and at the beach; read signs and use the posted payment method.
- •Water Taxi can be part of the outing, but verify stops, tickets and the last departure.