The easiest Miami day trip, Fort Lauderdale offers a sophisticated beach experience with a distinctly different character from South Beach. Known as the Venice of America for its 165 miles of navigable waterways, Fort Lauderdale combines excellent beaches with a thriving arts scene, luxury yacht marina, and upscale Las Olas dining.
Suggested itinerary
- 9 AM: Depart Miami on I-95 north; 45-60 min to Fort Lauderdale
- 10 AM: Fort Lauderdale Beach — morning swim and beach time
- 12 PM: Lunch on Las Olas Boulevard
- 1:30 PM: Water taxi cruise along Fort Lauderdale's canals ($30 day pass)
- 3 PM: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (optional)
- 4 PM: Sawgrass Mills outlet mall (if shopping desired — 20 min west of Fort Lauderdale)
- 6 PM: Return to Miami
Location
26.1224, -80.1034 View on map
Highlights
- Fort Lauderdale Beach
- Las Olas Boulevard dining and shopping
- Water taxi canal cruise
- Sawgrass Mills (largest outlet mall in US)