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Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination that's also a great place to call home thanks to its sunny subtropical climate, pristine beaches, and scenic canals. If you're craving ice cream or any other type of cool and creamy dessert, you should know that this coastal South Florida city is the ideal place to grab a delicious frozen treat. Drop by one, two, or all three of these scrumptious locations to access irresistible fare and warm, friendly service. Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream This exciting and ultra-modern ice cream shop is situated at 2422 N. Federal Highway. The shop is unique because it provides ice cream that's flash-frozen with liquid nitrogen. When you visit Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream, you'll get ice cream that's remarkably fresh, tasty, and smooth because your ice cream will be made right after you order it. You'll love the novelty of seeing science in action as your ice cream is prepared. You'll have tons of enticing flavors to choose from, from tried-and-true classics like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate to more innovative flavors, such as Pop Tarts, Coconut Milk, and Pumpkin. Yo Mama's Ice Cream If you're exploring Fort Lauderdale Beach and you want ice cream that helps you to beat the heat, be sure to visit Yo Mama's Ice Cream. This frozen treat shop is a favorite with the beach crowd and you'll find it at 901 Sunrise Lane. Ice cream at Yo Mama's is made from scratch each day right in front of customers. This shop is renowned for its homemade waffle cones, milkshakes, frozen lemonade, and ice cream sundaes. Sundae fans may select their preferred sundae toppings, which are sold by the ounce, including coconut shavings and gummy bears. There are lots of wonderful ice cream flavors to choose from, such as Orange Creamsicle, Buttered Rum, and Cotton Candy. Yo Mama's offers tons of fun and delectable ice cream flavors and menu choices, so there's truly something for everyone. Stefano Versace Gelato If you're into upscale shopping and also appreciate Italian gelato, head to Fort Lauderdale's elegant Galleria Mall located at 2414 E. Sunrise Blvd. You'll find amazing boutiques, plus a very special frozen treat emporium called Stefano Versace Gelato. In Italy, gelato is part of the culture and the gelato specialists at this shop use traditional ingredients and processes to create authentic Italian gelato recipes. Many styles of gelato are available, including dazzling Gold Gelato, which features an outer layer of edible gold leaf, and Vegan Gelato. Along with its plethora of frozen treats, Stefano Versace Gelato now offers breakfast, lunch, and happy hour menus. You may want to grab an appetizer or entree from one of the new menus and then enjoy some cool and flavorful gelato for dessert. Creamy smoothies and fresh juices are also available. Now that you have a taste of the thriving frozen treat scene in Fort Lauderdale, why not sample your favorite frozen desserts today? This city is home to some stellar ice cream shops and gelato emporiums. Image via Flickr by thebittenword.com used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its vast and unique network of canals as well as its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, so it's really a paradise for boating fans. When you sign on for a Fort Lauderdale boat tour, you'll be able to kick back and relax as you drink in the beauty of this coastal city's scenic waterways. There are amazing boat tours of the area available, one of which will suit your preferences and schedule to perfection. Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise If you're a parent and you're looking for a shorter boat tour that's family-friendly, you'll love what the Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise has to offer. This lighthearted family boat cruise lasts for one hour and 30 minutes and it has a variety of departure times, so you'll have no trouble fitting it into your vacation itinerary. When you choose this cruise, you and your family will board the Bluefoot pirate ship at Fort Lauderdale's Bahia Mar Beach Resort and Yachting Center. The Bluefoot is a safe vessel that's been inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. Your kids will love the ship's pirate flags as well as the fun activities that they access onboard, including face painting, a treasure hunt, and pirate lessons. Each child will get a pirate certificate and a treasure bag. Parents will appreciate the dazzling views of the city's gorgeous Intracoastal Waterway. Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour Did you know that Fort Lauderdale is often compared to Venice, Italy, thanks to its array of picturesque canals? When you take the Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour, you'll be able to board a well-appointed, shipshape, and spacious vessel at 301 SW 3rd Ave. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The cruise will last for 90 minutes and you may enjoy splendid views of the city's famous waterways from the upper observation deck or the comfortable dining room. This popular cruise will be a perfect way to get the inside scoop on Fort Lauderdale's coastal way of life. You'll see a lot of gorgeous yachts and fancy homes along the way. more Coastal Yacht Tours Private Yacht Cruise If you prefer an exclusive luxury vibe, you'll be pleased to know that Coastal Yacht Tours offers a Private Yacht Cruise experience that is decidedly upscale. When you opt for this experience, you'll cruise on a Marquis 690 yacht and spend two hours out on the water enjoying the sights and getting some sun. This cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale's Pier 66 Marina. Ideal for families or other groups, this private yachting adventure will make it so easy to see the most impressive waterfront eateries, large yachts, and mansions. A captain will ensure that you and your group are comfortable and happy. Bottled water, snacks, and soda will be provided. Now that you know about three fun Fort Lauderdale boat tours, all of which return to their starting points when they are finished, you'll be ready to enjoy a cruise that stimulates your senses and helps you to learn more about Fort Lauderdale's beautiful waterways. Image via Flickr by blueprnt12 used under CC By

Some days, a good drink is exactly what you need. Fortunately, there are plenty of good breweries in every state. Florida, especially around Ft. Lauderdale, has some of the best breweries in the state. If you are looking for something new and delicious, check out some of the best breweries that you can find in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. LauderAle LauderAle is a 1,500 square-foot craft beer brewery near the Fort Lauderdale International Airport. The tasting room has 30 craft beers on tap including several seasonal favorites. Plus, they also have several guest brews regularly available. If that is not enough, the brewery hosts live music events, and it is a regular hangout for food trucks. Invasive Species Brewing Another great option is Invasive Species Brewing. It is owned and operated by four well-known brewers and bar owners in the area. It has 10 beers in its rotation, one of which is made in collaboration with 26-degrees Brewing Company, another well-known brewery. Invasive Species Brewing is another example of a brewery focusing on its own craft option using the combined expertise of local brewers. You can enjoy the beer, and the taproom is a fun place to hang out. more Funky Buddha Brewery Funky Buddha Brewery is one of the largest craft breweries in the state and continues to grow in popularity. It has a massive 3,000 square-foot taproom that you can check out. There are 30 beers on tap too. One of the best options that they have is the Maple Bacon Coffee Porter, which won the company several awards. However, there are plenty of other great options to try. It is a place that you will want to visit often. 26 Degree Brewing Company 26 Degree Brewing Company is located at 2600 E Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach. It is consistently rated as one of the top breweries in Florida and works with other breweries to make unique craft beers. It is also Florida's largest microbrewery. You can tour the facility on a guided tour. Plus, it hosts pairing events to help you find the best foods to go along with its beers. It hosts an event every month, so there are always new things to try. American Icon Brewery American Icon Brewery is located at 911 NE 4TH Ave. It is on the smaller side but makes great brews. The list of available beers rotates based on seasons and holidays. That way, you always have something fresh and different to try. You can stop in for a meal any day of the week and there is also a Sunday brunch. There are many more breweries in the area worth checking out that make their own beer in unique and interesting flavors. It could be fun to keep a list of all of the beers that you have tried. That way, you can always point others toward your favorites and support your local breweries. Wherever you decide to go, make sure that you drink responsibly. Image via Flickr by Dark Dwarf used under CC By

If you are craving something sweet, you are in luck. Fort Lauderdale, Florida, might be known for its abundance of sunshine and sandy beaches, but it is also a great destination for sweets. Check out a few of the top bakeries in the area. Paris Morning Bakery The Paris Morning Bakery offers a Korean-French menu with fresh pastries and doughnuts. The dining area is comfortable and inviting, which is perfect for catching up with a friend over a hot Danish or a piece of the Red Bean Bread. Other great items at the bakery include the Cream Puff, the Mocha Cream Bun, or the Twisted Doughnut. In addition to the bakery items, visitors may also enjoy the coffee, fresh juice, green tea, and bubble tea available at the Paris Morning Bakery. more La Bonne Adresse This family-owned-and-operated bakery combines the culinary talents of a brother and sister team. The brother focuses on the French Pastries while the sister whips up the chocolates. You will also find unique bakery items on the menu like the Choux — small, bite-sized puffs which come in a variety of flavors including caramel, mango, lemon, and passion. Popular items on the bakery menu include the croissants, the chouquettes, and the tartlets. You can also order a slice of the cake of the day or order your favorite flavor of cake, freshly baked for your next special event. Joseph's Italian Pastry Shop What began as a home-run cake shop, Joseph's Italian Pastry Shop has turned into one of the most popular bakeries in the Fort Lauderdale area. The menu loosely follows Italian tradition, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Italian bakery items with a unique twist. Joseph's serves a large menu; watch out though, you won't be able to choose just one item from their offerings. Must-try items in the bakery include the mini pastry cakes and the Oreo cheesecake. Each of the desserts at this bakery is also affordable and you can get regular pizzas and sandwiches. You can also order your favorite bakery items online and have them shipped to you. 2000 Bakery If you prefer to pair your favorite bakery treats with a strong cup of coffee, then you will definitely want to check out 2000 Bakery. This bakery houses a cafe which serves authentic Brazilian coffee in addition to bakery items like cheese bread, flan, and dark chocolate cake. The cafe itself is welcoming and you will often find customers sitting around chatting, all while enjoying the delicious items that come out of the kitchen. 2000 Bakery is also known for its freshly baked bread. Many locals will come by the cafe to stock up on their bread needs for the week. Whether you are looking for a dessert doughnut or a pastry that you can pair with a good cup of coffee, you will find it at one of these local bakeries. Try each one out and see which one is truly the best bakery in the area. Some rights reserved by Theo Crazzol

Are you looking for a new place work on your golf game? Perhaps a course that challenges you as you hone your skills or a new course to play with friends? Fort Lauderdale has many options for the golf enthusiast to explore. Bonaventure Golf Club Bonaventure Golf Club is a public, par 72, 18-hole course located just minutes from Fort Lauderdale in Weston. Designed by Joe Lee, this course runs along the edge of the Florida Everglades. One of the favorite holes on this is number three, where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the waterfall on the left. You can sharpen your skills on one of the two practice greens before hitting the course. If you are a new golfer looking for lessons, the course offers them at the Bonaventure Golf Learning Center. You can rent a set of Nike golf clubs from the pro shop, which is open daily from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. For comfort, there are bathrooms located at holes 5 and 13, and there is a snack bar by the driving range to fuel up before your tee time. Grande Oaks Golf Club Grande Oaks is a private golf club in Fort Lauderdale. It is an 18-hole, par 71 championship course designed by Raymond Floyd, measuring 6,680 yards from tip to tip. The playing surface is a mix of celebration grass on the tees and fairways, with TFT Eagle grass on the greens. A recent renovation makes the course more challenging with the addition of more trees and a reshaping of the bunkers. more The club also has a 40-acre practice area as well as a golf academy which offers multi-day group programs as well as private instruction. If you choose private lessons, they offer three packages: one hour, half-hour, and a series of five lessons that are one hour each. Coral Ridge Country Club Coral Ridge is a private country club in Fort Lauderdale that offers two courses. The first is an 18-hole, par 72 championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Opened in 1954, the course measures 7,095 yards. It is a challenging course because of its undiluted greens. There are different tee lengths, so members of differing skill levels can enjoy the course together. If you don't have enough time for a full 18-hole game,  check out the Rees 9 course. Rees Jones designed this shorter, par three course that opened in 2015. The design is entirely different from the main course and allows for a more social game — the hole lengths range from 70 yards to 200 yards. Before the game begins, catch up with your friends at the driving range. A large putting green, a chipping green, and two bunkers that allow you to focus on specific skills before you tee off. Bring your friends with you as you check out each course. Explore each on a different weekend until you find a new favorite to add to your regular rotation. Image source via Flickr by Chris Urbanowicz used under CC By

Do you feel more relaxed on the water? Does the sun reflecting off the water make you smile? Explore the waterways around Fort Lauderdale while enjoying these fun activities. OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Rent A Boat If you enjoy fishing, grab your gear and head for one of the many different fishing areas in the city. Due to its location, there are many deep water opportunities just off the coast of Fort Lauderdale. Bring your gear and a few strong friends to help you with your haul while you enjoy the open water. If you are looking for a boat without the fish, consider renting one to call home for the weekend. Before renting figure out who is sharing the space with you to determine the perfect vessel for your party. There are options for full-size boats as well as sailboats with a professional crew meaning you get to relax while they work. You can also rent a boat for a few hours to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary, birthday, or proposal. Learn to Surf Do the waves call to you? Grab your towel and your bathing suit or a rash guard and a pair of shorts and head for surf school. These lessons start on the sand as you learn how to pick out your equipment and balance on the board. You'll also learn about water safety and how to protect yourself in the waves. Once the class is ready, you'll progress from the sand into the water. more Whether you are brand new to surfing or want to hone specific skills, the classes give you a chance to learn under watchful eyes. Bring your kids along for the lessons. This is one class they will not want to skip as you make family memories. Go Scuba Diving Have you ever wondered what life looked like under the sea? Take advantage of the clear water and go scuba diving. Whether you are a new diver or an experienced one, there are a variety of dive sites just off the coast. Some of the more popular dive locations include an area known as the "Hall of Fame." This site ranges from 15 to 30 feet deep and isn't far from the shoreline. Another intriguing site is the Lady Luck shipwreck located off of Pompano Beach. A 324-foot tanker sank on purpose and now houses an underwater casino scene for divers to explore. If you are new to diving, take advantage of the clear water and warm temperatures to learn how to dive safely. Scuba classes start in the pool so you can get comfortable seeing and breathing underwater. Once you are satisfied with the equipment and techniques, you can move to open water diving off the coast. Enjoy your time with friends and family while you disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. As always, don't forget to wear sunscreen. Nothing ruins a good day on the water like a bad sunburn! Image via Flickr by Daquella manera used under CC By

The summer season in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is coming to a close, which means shoppers can score some great deals at the end of the season. If you're looking to pick up some of the hottest swimwear at bargain prices, check out these Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Perhaps you'll save enough to be able to get two or three swimwear styles for variety in your beach fashions. Splish Splash Bikini Splish Splash Bikini at 929 Sunrise Lane has been in business since 1984 and specializes in women's bikinis. The swim shop offers tops and bottoms in some of the best swimwear brands, such as Guria Beachwear, Swim Systems, Eldon, and Trina Turk. Shoppers report excellent service from friendly staff members who will recommend selections without pushing for sales. Splish Splash Bikini opens at 10 a.m. daily and closes at 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Montce Swim Montce Swim, whose flagship store is in St. Lauderdale, sells a large variety of quality upscale swimwear styles, featuring both bikini tops and bottoms and one-piece suits in many patterns. The store stocks brands such as Tommi Floral and Palmilla Blanco and sells bikinis to celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Kendall Jenner. Beach apparel and accessories are available as well. Shoppers say it's hard to choose a swimsuit because of the number of options. Montce is at 731 NE Second Ave. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. more Swimland Head to Swimland at 812 E. Las Olas Blvd. for designer suits by Lauren by Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Anne Cole, and more. The shop offers trendy bikinis as well as attractive one-piece suits in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including some patterns that are used for more than one style. Swimland is open Monday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jypsea Local Jypsea Local features handcrafted bikinis made at the store, featuring fabrics that are unique to the company. Styles can also be customized by the owner, a Floridian woman. The store also features unique jewelry collections that are designed and made by local artists. Jypsea Local is located at 2711 E. Commercial Blvd. The store is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Heart of the City Heart of the City at 3120 E. Sunrise Blvd. sells boutique swimwear and is known for its striking handmade bikinis with available matching coverups. The shop also sells designer sunglasses, unique women's designer clothing from around the world, and men's clothing featuring jeans, shirts, blazers, and more. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Look online for the best deals at each of these trendy Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Even if the regular prices are outside your budget, a great sale could put a fantastic bikini or one-piece within your reach. Image via Flickr by pasa47 used under CC By

We all lead busy lives, but it's important to make time for fun, family, and friends. We've selected a few fall events happening here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for you to consider putting on your calendar. We hope you find something you'll enjoy. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival Say goodbye to summer and usher in fall Sept. 21 at the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival. The event will be held at Esplanade Park, located at 400 SW Second St. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The free family-friendly festival, which runs from noon to 4 p.m., will feature carnival-style games and activities in a fall theme, live entertainment, and fall-themed foods from food vendors and food trucks. The 2.46-acre Esplanade Park meanders along the Riverwalk, offering scenic views and numerous events throughout the year. Old School Latin Block Party The Old School Latin Block Party will bring you the best in Latin music on Oct. 19, with entertainment by Nuevolution Dance Studios, a well-known Latin dance and fitness school. The free outdoor event will take place at the Fountain Plaza at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens in nearby Pembroke Pines. The party starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. more Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show More than 110,000 boat enthusiasts from around the world are expected to attend the 60th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Oct. 30 through Nov. 3. More than 1,500 of the latest boats and yachts in all sizes will be on display, and 1,200 exhibitors will be on hand. The event represents 52 countries and features 6 miles of floating docks and 3 million square feet of exhibition space in seven locations.  Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 21 and Nov. 1 and 2, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 3. The main location is the Bahia Mar Yachting Center at 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Other locations are Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center/Sailfish Pavilion, SuperYacht Village at Pier South, The Sails Marina, and Fort Lauderdale Hilton Marina. Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival The 34th annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival will give you ample opportunities to experience the joys of independent films. Put on by the Broward County Film Society since 1986, the award-winning festival is the longest-running film festival in the world. This year's event runs from Nov. 1-17. Accompanying activities include an opening-night party at the Museum of Discovery & Science IMAX, a dinner cruise Nov. 11 from Savor Cinema on the New River, and a FLIFF Woodstock Street Party Nov. 16 on the street in front of Savor Cinema. These are just a few of the many events in and around Fort Lauderdale. You'll never run out of things to do here in this boating and beaches paradise. Be sure to spend some time at The Strip and its restaurants, bars, boutiques, and upscale hotels, and check out the International Swimming Hall of Fame and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Image via Flickr by daspader used under CC By

Bring out the pumpkin spice lattes and jack-o'-lanterns. Fall may be a few months away, but it's never too early to get yourself pumped for the upcoming season. In Fort Lauderdale, that means marking your calendar with fun fairs and festivals guaranteed to help you ring in autumn in the best ways possible. Here are some of the coolest events to jot down for fall. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival For the past four years, the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival has welcomed families to a day of fun activities, food tastings, and live entertainment. It returns once again on Sept. 21 at Esplanade Park from noon to 4 p.m., with these hours dedicated to you having a great time. Here you can browse the arts and crafts stalls, grab a snack from your local food truck, and let the kids enjoy fall-inspired activities like face painting and pumpkin decorating. Esplanade Park is also set to host a special trick-or-treat event right before Halloween. Make sure you bring the kids along for this one, and don't forget to check out other autumn-themed festivals happening this October. Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes The Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes is an annual 5K walk that brings in thousands of participants each year. Its mission is to raise money for the American Diabetes Association and bring awareness to the disease. This year the walk will take place on Oct. 19 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Huizenga Plaza/Bubier Park. more Along the route you'll see fully stocked rest stops and markers to guide you to the finish line. There are also different fundraising prizes to give out and a fun kids zone with inflatables and face painting. Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join. Las Olas Art Fair Art aficionados flock to Fort Lauderdale every fall for the annual Las Olas Art Fair. And 2019 marks the 32nd anniversary of this nationally recognized event. This year's festivities will take place between Oct. 19 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free public event promises hours of art gazing, with pieces designed by 300-plus artists across a handful of different mediums, including painting, sculpture, and wearable art. You'll also have a chance to interact with the artists, commission a piece, and find out more about how each idea came to life. Plus, there are several art galleries, boutiques, and cafes lining the boulevard. Be sure to check them out before you go. Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival Returning to Savor Cinema this fall, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) celebrates its 34th year with a new round of brilliant big screen productions. From Nov. 1 to 17, the theater will host evening film screenings featuring award-winning documentaries, short motion pictures, captivating foreign films, and more. Support local and nationally recognized filmmakers looking to promote their latest artistic vision. Cheer on actors and supporting cast members as they compete for top awards. And meet some legendary greats while you're at it. Former FLIFF guests include Bryan Cranston (AMC's "Breaking Bad"), Christopher Plummer ("The Sound of Music"), and Hollywood sweetheart Audrey Hepburn ("Breakfast at Tiffany's"). Autumn isn't here yet, but our excitement for these Fort Lauderdale festivities can be felt from miles away. Image via Flickr by Doubbt used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has always been known for its beautiful beaches and oceanside activities. But did you know that Fort Lauderdale has an amazing art culture? Here are a few of the finest museums and galleries Fort Lauderdale has to offer. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale Founded in 1958, the NSU Art Museum has been exhibiting visual art encompassing all facets of civilization's history. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale's vibrant Las Olas Boulevard art district, the museum is steps away from shops and restaurants and the popular Riverwalk scene. With over 25,000 square feet of exhibition space, the NSU Art Museum is packed with art work from around the globe. The museum's collection began with African, Native American, and Oceanic works of art. It now includes the largest collection of Post World War II art, an array of Latin American and Cuban art, and the largest collection from William J. Glackens, an early American modernist and leader of the famous Ashcan School. The museum is also proud of its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from women and multicultural artists. The NSU Art Museum is located at the corner of Las Olas Boulevard and Andrews Avenue, across from Huizenga Plaza. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., Sundays from Noon until 5 p.m., and is closed Mondays. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors and military personnel, and is free for children under 12. more Mockingbird Trail If it's art adventure you are seeking, the Mockingbird Trail is the perfect afternoon activity. The Mockingbird Trail is an 8-mile urban art trail over verdant walkways through parks where you can see dozens of outdoor art exhibits. What's more, you must follow the trail of the Mockingbird through clues left in the form of concrete and steel artwork left throughout the neighborhood. Follow the clues and track the bird to connect with Florida's flora and fauna and learn all about the neighborhood's rich art history. F.A.T. Village If it's local art you're after, visiting F.A.T. (Flagler + Arts + Technology) Village is a must. Three warehouses are chock-full of exhibits from local artist and artisans. Known as Fort Lauderdale's creative enclave, you can come here to view some of the most creative works the country has to offer and buy whatever catches your eye. In addition to the galleries, they host an art walk on the last Saturday of every month from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. at Northwest First Avenue between Andrews Avenue and Fifth and Sixth Streets. Galleries close at 10:00 p.m., so be sure to visit your favorites early. F.A.T. Village is located at 521 Northwest First Ave. in Fort Lauderdale and the gallery is open Wednesday through Friday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. There are numerous exhibitions on display during normal business hours. Whether you are visiting Fort Lauderdale or if you live there, if you have a passion for art and a sense of adventure, you should check out these great destinations to see the best art Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Image via Flickr by Elvert Barnes used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is such a great place to be. With a lively beach community that features so many food, music and arts festivals, the only question is which ones to attend. And there is so much to see and do you might find yourself wishing for more free time. Here are some must-see festivals that take place in Fort Lauderdale every year that are sure to make the time well spent. Tortuga Beach Music Festival If live music is your jam you'll want to check out the Tortuga Beach Music Festival. It happens every April at the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. This gorgeous white sand paradise is host to some of the best country, rock, and roots bands in the country. What's more, the festival is partnered with Rock the Ocean Foundation which helps to raise awareness about issues impacting the world's oceans. With over $1 million given to conservation efforts through ticket sales and donations, this festival is truly unique. Last year's festival featured performances from superstars Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Flo Rida, Sheryl Crow, and many more. The lineup for the next festival hasn't been released yet, but you can check out the Tortuga Music Festival website for dates and details as they become available. more Las Olas Wine and Food Festival The Las Olas Wine and Food Festival has been delighting epicureans of South Florida for over twenty years. Held every spring, the festival hosts thousands of food and wine enthusiasts while raising money for a good cause, the American Lung Association. While there, you absolutely must partake in the tasting pavilion which features over 50 restaurants from the greater Fort Lauderdale area showing off their finest food creations. The event also features tastings of over 200 wines, spirits, and brews, so there's something to satisfy everyone's palate. When you're done tasting you can check out some of the great entertainment like last year's Silent Disco Party or Rythm & Viines' ever-popular music shows. Las Olas Art Fair For over 30 years the Las Olas Art Fair has been showing off some of the finest works by local artists and artisans. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard is already well known for its sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. This year the fair takes place on Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Best of all, admission is free. Come down and browse the handcrafted work from local artisans. Admire the artwork from hundreds of local artists. You can talk with the artists and artisans about their techniques and inspiration and purchase items at reasonable prices. Ranked one of the top 100 art festivals in the country, the Las Olas Art Fair is a great way to spend the day. Fort Lauderdale has so much to see and do. Whether your taste is music, food and wine, or arts and crafts, there is an event that is sure to excite you. Image via Flickr by Steve's stills used under CC By

Whether you live in Ft. Lauderdale or are just visiting, you don't want to miss an opportunity to visit Las Olas Blvd. Winding its way along the beautiful New River, there's plenty to see and do on this exciting thoroughfare. Let's take a look at some of the main attractions. NSU Art Museum NSU Art Museum, part of Nova Southeastern University, is home to the country's largest collection of paintings and drawings by American artist William Glackens, as well as several pieces by the world's leading Latin American artists. This Las Olas gem also plays host to several special exhibits, events, lectures, and films throughout the year. If exploring the museum's 25,000 square feet of exhibition space makes you work up an appetite, grab a salad or sandwich at the museum cafe. Before you leave stop by the museum store, where you'll find unique gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Riverwalk Recreation The Riverwalk Linear Park, in conjunction with the Riverwalk Recreation program, offers visitors a chance to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities in a beautiful waterfront setting. Paddleboards, kayaks, bicycles, and segways are all available to rent or you can bring your own. Other activities include dog training, photography, and yoga classes. The Riverwalk hosts several events throughout the year including the Burger Battle, jazz concerts, and fun runs. more Las Olas Wine & Food Festival The Las Olas Wine & Food Festival, held every April, gives attendees the opportunity to sample dishes from more than 50 of South Florida's finest restaurants and enjoy a variety of beer, wine, and spirits. You can also dance the night away at a silent disco party or chill out in a 1920s-style speakeasy while enjoying the sounds of a three-piece jazz band. Diehard foodies will especially enjoy the festival's meet and greet sessions with participating chefs. Las Olas Art Fair The Las Olas Art Fair, held every October, is ranked one of the top 100 art festivals in the country. Attendees have the opportunity to view and purchase a diverse selection of sculptures, paintings, jewelry, photography, ceramics, and so much more. You can also meet the artists, discuss their techniques, and even commission specific pieces. In addition to the eclectic mix of art, the fair also features musicians and food and beverage vendors. Riverfront Gondola Tours One of the best ways to explore Ft. Lauderdale is by boat. Riverfront Gondola Tours offers several different routes to choose from, each offering unique sights. Tour highlights include one of the oldest swing bridges in Florida, the mega yachts docked in Bahia Del Mar Marina, and an airline jetliner that has been converted into a house. You'll also see tropical birds, iguanas, and manatees. All of Riverfront Gondola Tours' captains are very knowledgeable about the area's history, architecture, and waterways and are happy to answer any questions you might have during the tour. These are just some of the awesome activities you'll find along Las Olas Blvd. Consider planning a trip so you can see for yourself just what makes it so special. Image via Flickr by osseous used under CC By