Source: Aniesia Williams / Shooters
Florida is a hugely popular vacation destination, especially South Florida, and Miami in particular. But venture just outside city limits and see how Fort Lauderdale can provide the South Florida experience you’ve been dreaming of without as much crowding or cost. Here are five reasons to visit Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami this summer.
Enjoy an upscale shopping experience in a more relaxed way at Las Olas which offers all of the on-trend and eclectic boutique shopping you could want, with smaller crowds and an ocean view. Shop men’s and women’s shoes, clothing, and accessories, plus jewelry and watches, gifts, and home decor treasures. Take your time strolling up and down the boulevard, and be sure to visit Louie Bossi‘s for an authentic Italian meal with tomato sauce made from scratch and hand-tossed pizza pies.
Source: Aniesia Williams / W Fort Lauderdale
Not every municipality has its own state park within its borders, but in Fort Lauderdale you can get back to nature without leaving the city. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a respite to anyone seeking a little nature. Walk the trails, visit the beach, canoe along the shores studded with mangroves, or simply enjoy a picnic lunch here.
See the best of old Florida through historic home tours. The expansive homes and gardens of some of Fort Lauderdale’s founding families are open for tours. Among the best are the Stranahan House, Deerfield Beach Historical Society-Butler House, Richardson Historic Park, and Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.
Source: Aniesia Williams / Aniesia Williams
It goes without saying that the seven miles of beaches are unforgettable. Fort Lauderdale beaches are legendary for their beauty, soft white sands, and blue water. Lay on the beach and soak up the sun, or join in boating, snorkeling, diving, fishing, windsurfing, and more. Make your Fort Lauderdale vacation even better by booking a beachside hotel like the W Fort Lauderdale, known for its AWAY Spa, rooftop pools, and complimentary fitness and yoga classes on the beach.
Source: Aniesia Williams / W Fort Lauderdale
Getting to Fort Lauderdale is easy too because it has its own airport. You can fly directly to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and skip the hassle of the Miami airport. In fact, getting just about anywhere in Fort Lauderdale is easy, from dining at Shooters on the Intracoastal Waterway to airboat rides in the Everglades. Have we convinced you yet?
