If you’re planning a weekend in Fort Lauderdale, you’re in for a treat because this sunny Florida city has way more to offer than beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees!
Think scenic boat rides past million-dollar mansions, fascinating historic homes, lush tropical gardens, and waterfront spots where you can watch luxury yachts cruise by.
With so many amazing places to explore and fun activities to enjoy, fitting everything into a two-day trip can feel a little overwhelming.
That’s where this Fort Lauderdale weekend itinerary comes in, bringing together must-see attractions, hidden gems, and plenty of beach time for an unforgettable getaway.
So grab your sunglasses, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for an incredible weekend in the Venice of America!
1. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
Located at One East Las Olas Boulevard, the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic first stop for your weekend itinerary, especially if you love eye-catching modern art.
This 83,000-square-foot museum features over 7,500 artworks, including one of America’s largest collections of paintings by American realist William Glackens.
You’ll also find works by artists from the post-war European CoBrA art movement, along with impressive pieces of Latin American and Cuban modern and contemporary art.
Explore rotating exhibitions, admire cool photography, and check out creative installations inside the building, designed by architect Edward Larrabee Barnes.
2. Historic Stranahan House Museum
Just a 10-minute walk from the NSU Art Museum, the Historic Stranahan House Museum lets you see what life was like in Fort Lauderdale more than a century ago.
Built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, this two-story wooden house is the city’s oldest surviving structure and originally served as a community hall, trading post, and post office.
Today, you can take a self-guided audio tour at your own pace, admiring antique furniture, vintage photos, and personal items while learning about the Stranahan family.
Don’t miss the upstairs wraparound porch, where you can relax in a wicker chair and watch yachts, water taxis, and boats cruise along the New River.
3. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
After touring the Stranahan House, drive five minutes to Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, a scenic 2.5-mile promenade that follows the New River through downtown.
Take a relaxing walk along the palm-lined paths, where impressive high-rise buildings overlook the river and beautiful yachts sit docked along the waterfront.
Along the way, you’ll come across interesting sculptures and public art while runners, cyclists, and passing boats keep the area buzzing throughout the day.
For extra fun, check the Riverwalk’s event calendar before your visit, as you might catch a free jazz performance, a tasty food festival, or another exciting community event.
4. Jungle Queen Riverboat
Now swap your walking shoes for a seat aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat, a classic paddlewheel-style boat that has been taking passengers along the city’s waterways since 1935.
The highlight is the 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise, which takes you past Millionaire’s Row, where you’ll see stunning waterfront mansions and luxury yachts.
For a longer adventure, choose the evening cruise and enjoy a BBQ dinner on a private island, followed by a lively Polynesian show featuring hula dancers.
There’s also a special group package if you’re visiting with family and friends, making it easier to plan a fun and memorable outing together.
5. Las Olas Oceanside Park
Once you’ve finished your Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise, head to Las Olas Oceanside Park, a beautiful beachfront spot at 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard.
This park is part of The LOOP and features a spacious lawn, shady palm trees, colorful seating areas, and easy access to the sandy beach across A1A.
On weekends, you can browse The MKT, where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and vintage treasures.
If you’re looking for more things to do, check the website for outdoor concerts, movie nights, and yoga sessions, or let the kids play at the free splash pad and playground.
6. Fort Lauderdale Beach
Just across from Las Olas Oceanside Park, Fort Lauderdale Beach is calling with sparkling Atlantic waters and a palm-lined promenade perfect for soaking up the sun.
Spread your towel on the soft golden sand, rent a beach chair and umbrella, or cool off with a refreshing swim while watching colorful parasails floating above the ocean.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a jet ski from a nearby watersports operator, then explore the promenade, where you’ll find restaurants and ice cream shops.
Don’t miss the famous two-mile-long wave wall, where you can snap unforgettable photos with stunning coastal views in the background.
7. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Next, take a 5-minute drive from the beach to Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a historic estate surrounded by 35 acres of tropical gardens and coastal forest.
Built in 1920 as a winter retreat for artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Helen, it features antique furniture, original artwork, and a courtyard filled with tropical plants.
Take a self-guided audio tour to learn about the Bartlett family’s history, then explore the nature trails and admire an impressive collection of more than 3,000 orchids.
Before you leave, stop by the museum shop to browse handmade crafts, unique jewelry, antiques, and blooming orchids, or grab a quick bite at The Little Cafe.
8. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
End your weekend at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, just a 5-minute walk from Bonnet House, offering coastal forest, mangroves, and shady trails near the ocean.
Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle along the park’s peaceful freshwater lagoon, where you might spot turtles, wading birds, and other Florida wildlife along the shoreline.
If you prefer exploring on foot, follow the 0.3-mile Coastal Hammock Trail through towering trees.
You can also cruise along the scenic paved road on a rented bicycle.
Wrap up your visit with a relaxing picnic at one of the shaded areas, complete with barbecue grills, playground equipment, and pavilions for larger gatherings.
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