Top 5 things to do in Greater Fort Lauderdale

Greater Fort Lauderdale is one of Florida’s best LGBTQ+ destinations for many reasons, from Sebastian Street Beach to the iconic gayborhood Wilton Manors.

Here’s a look at the wide variety of the area’s activities suitable for everyone under the sun.

Nature Lovers

From airboat rides in the world-famous Everglades to exploring Flamingo Gardens and Butterfly World, nature encounters await in Greater Fort Lauderdale. More than 24 miles of golden beaches and dozens of parks and preserves provide stunning natural settings perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. You can even try mastering the art of flyboarding with Aqua Flight.

Fashionistas

Find something fabulous at Sawgrass Mills, the country’s largest luxury outlet destination, or at one of the other shopping centers in town. Places like Las Olas Boulevard and Gulfstream Park, or the retailers at Galleria Fort Lauderdale and The Shoppes at The Guitar Hotel make Greater Fort Lauderdale a shopper’s paradise.

Captains and First Mates

With the Atlantic coastline and 300 miles of scenic waterways, Greater Fort Lauderdale is nicknamed the “Venice of America.” Whether you charter a boat or embark on one of the area’s boat tours, there’s no better place to enjoy boating. You can reel in the big fish, dock and dine at numerous waterside eateries and bars, or take a tour aboard the Water Taxi to see the sights and enjoy the sunshine. 

Culture Connoisseurs

Greater Fort Lauderdale boasts a diverse arts and culture scene. With great museums, world-class performing arts, and attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, there’s inspiration around every corner. Greater Fort Lauderdale also plays host to family-friendly art festivals and other special events worth traveling for.

Culinary Explorers

Indulge in one of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s many stellar dining experiences. You can enjoy sushi while cruising through the canals on a gondola or taste the rarest caviar in the world at Marky’s Caviar Lounge. Choose from every cuisine imaginable and hundreds of restaurants, many helmed by award-winning chefs. 

Thrill-Seekers

Ready for a queer night out on the town? In Greater Fort Lauderdale, you’ll discover a cosmopolitan nightlife scene, from the strip of popular bars in Wilton Manors such as Hunters Nightclub and DrYnk Bar & Lounge to rooftop bars at Rooftop @1WLO, Sparrow, Sunset Club Rooftop Bar, and The Easton. Reserve your private party at the speakeasy 901 (it only seats six guests at a time), featuring pop-up bartenders and themes, complete with a secret entrance. Put on your poker face at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, or catch a Florida Panthers hockey game at FLA Live Arena.  

Chill-Seekers

There’s nothing quite as revitalizing as a beautiful stretch of beach. Greater Fort Lauderdale has 24 miles of blue water and golden sand in eight different beach communities. Revel in the warm sun and fresh sea breeze or enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. For those that prefer indoor R&R, the area also offers many world-class spas. 

Learn more about the possibilities for your next vacation at VisitLauderdale.com/lgbt.