Fort Lauderdale Hotels

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Promising a beautiful holiday experience on the East Coast, Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the ‘Venice of America’ thanks to its expansive canal system. With over 4,000 restaurants and more than 120 nightclubs, this tiny town has transformed into one of the most desirable vacation destinations in Florida.

Local and Cultural Highlights

Fort Lauderdale was named for its origins in the Second Seminole War, when a series of fortifications were built on New River in 1838. Since then, the historical riverfront has been transformed into a modern, urban playground. Gondola rides can be taken on the canals, or visitors can stroll down the red-brick road of Riverwalk to the Arts and Entertainment District. This is a partnership of cultural institutions offering a unique selection of shops, cafes and boutique galleries.

American history buffs can swing by the Bonnet House, also known as the Bartlett Estate. Named after the Bonnet Lily, the property was acquired in 1885 by a successful lawyer named Hugh Taylor Birch, who then gave the home to his daughter as a wedding gift. Now the property is a museum - part of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation - where people can come for a glimpse into life in the early 1900s. On the theme of preserved 1900s homes, there is also Stranahan House, a perfectly preserved pioneer home filled with furnishings and antiques from the era.

Outdoor Fun

Fort Lauderdale has over 42,000 resident yachts and 100 marinas, making it a key draw for sailors and aquatic enthusiasts. Part of the ethos of the town is based around the promotion of the excellent boating opportunities provided by southern Florida, and there are plenty of possibilities for getting involved; even with minimal experience, tourists and visitors can hop on a tour or rent a boat themselves. Port Everglades is South Florida’s ‘powerhouse port’ and one of the top three cruise ports in the world.

For those who prefer to have two feet planted firmly on the ground, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is located near the Bonnet House. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, this spot allows adventure seekers to rent a canoe and paddle the mile-long route down the freshwater lagoon, or fish from the seawall. There are also walking trails and paved roads for bicyclists and skaters. What’s more, there is access to a gorgeous public beach.

Shopping

Near Port Everglades seaport are a variety of excellent shopping options. The Harbor Shops and South Harbor Plaza offer a broad mix of famous brands and family restaurants, while The Galleria Mall is the place to head to for classic American fashion.

Of course, the famous Las Olas Boulevard is home to some of the best retail in Florida, with 65 boutiques, educational centers like the Museum of Discovery & Science, and over ten major art galleries including the Bellagio International Gallery and the Wentworth Gallery.

If you’re ready to escape to Fort Lauderdale or other nearby places, check out some of our hotel options!