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If there's one thing that Ft. Lauderdale is known for, it's an exciting nightlife scene. Whether you live in the area or are just visiting, you don't want to miss out on a visit to one of the city's many clubs. Let's take a look at some and what they have to offer. Blue Martini As the name suggests, Blue Martini serves up a variety of specialty martinis including pomegranate, strawberry basil, and cucumber. The drink menu also features a fabulous selection of red wine, white wine, and champagne. If you're hungry, be sure to try the spinach & artichoke dip, baked brie, or lobster taco. Those are just some of the items on Blue Martini's extensive kitchen menu. In addition to the delicious food and drink, Blue Martini also provides its guests with the best in live entertainment from some of South Florida's hottest music acts. more Blue Martini features happy hour specials Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Other specials include hospitality night and ladies night. 33rd Street Wine Bar The warm and inviting atmosphere of the 33rd Street Wine Bar makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind with friends. If you're not sure which wine to choose, the knowledgeable staff is happy to help you decide which wine is right for you. You'll also enjoy the great selection of cheese plates and tapas. To enhance your experience, 33rd Street Wine Bar features live music nightly. On Wednesdays, select bottles of wine, cheese plates, and antipasto plates are half off. 33rd Street Wine Bar is the perfect place to host birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations. Stache Stache Drinking Den + Coffee Bar is reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy with a mysterious, relaxed, yet upbeat atmosphere. On the drink menu you'll find classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Sidecar. Stache also serves seasonal cocktails made with the freshest high-quality ingredients, as well as a selection of wine and beer. Happy hour, every Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., features two-for-one drinks. When happy hour ends, you'll want to stick around for one of Stache's late night live performances. In addition to live music, the DJs at Stache spin all of your favorite tunes, from classic funk to modern house. Rock Bar Whether you're in the mood for lunch with friends on a patio overlooking the beach or a night of dancing, the Rock Bar is a perfect destination. Enjoy delicious appetizers like calamari, spinach dip, and dynamite shrimp. Entrees include seafood fajitas, baby back ribs, and fish tacos. Rock bar serves up a great selection of specialty cocktails, wine, and beer. Be sure to order bottle service when you hit the dance floor to enjoy music spun by South Florida's top DJs. Happy hour is all day every day, with select drinks two-for-one. These are just some of the awesome nightlife spots in Fort Lauderdale. No matter which one you choose, stay safe and enjoy your night out. Image “ Blue Martini Menu” by nan palmero, used under CC BY 2.0

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, may not get the snow and cold like other parts of the country during the holiday season, but that doesn't mean the city can't celebrate in style. When you're looking for something festive and cheery to enjoy this year, make sure you check out a few of these exciting events. Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is one of the most popular holiday events in the area. On December 15 starting at 6:30 p.m., decorated boats will take to the water in a spectacular holiday boat parade. You'll see everything from giant showboats to private sailboats adorned with thousands of lights and other decorations. The parade will start on the Tarpon River in Fort Lauderdale before traveling 12 miles north to Pompano Beach. more Holiday Fantasy of Lights From November 21 to January 1, come to Tradewinds Park & Stables to enjoy the awe and beauty of the Holiday Fantasy of Lights. This dazzling drive-through holiday lighting event features 3 miles of illuminated trees and large animated holiday displays that the entire family will love. You can also purchase 3D glasses at the entrance to make the experience even more magical. The event is open every night from 6 to 10 p.m. Symphony of Lights Open every night from 6 to 11 p.m. from November 14 to December 31, the Symphony of Lights at Gulfstream Park always has something exciting happening. On the holiday movie night, bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a movie under the stars. During the Donuts with Santa event, you and your kids can have breakfast while he reads one of his favorite holiday stories. Also, make sure to stop by for photos with Santa so you have a great memento to keep for years to come. Garden of Lights From December 14 to 30, the lush and tropical Flamingo Gardens transforms into a stunning holiday wonderland called the Garden of Lights. When you stop by on the weekends between 5 and 8 p.m., you'll be able to see thousands of lights adorning the trees and garden pathways. The garden will also have a musical light show on the Wray Home, life-sized snow globes, Santa's Snow Mound, and holiday craft areas. While you're there, don't forget to stop by the Flamingo Cafe to enjoy some of the special holiday treats and beverages being served. Margate Winter Festival Anyone who says you can't play in the snow in Fort Lauderdale has never attended the Margate Winter Festival at the intersection of Margate Boulevard and U.S. Route 441. This exciting event brings in snow for kids and adults to enjoy — even if it's only for an evening. The festival also has rides for the children, food, local group performances, arts and crafts, and pictures with Santa. The Margate Winter Festival occurs on December 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. This holiday season, you can enjoy everything from boat parades to stunning displays of lights when you check out these excellent events around the Fort Lauderdale area.

Whether you're searching for something for yourself or looking for that perfect gift for someone else, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has plenty of excellent shopping opportunities to help you get what you need. No matter what you're trying to find, you're sure to discover it and more when you check out these top shopping destinations around Fort Lauderdale. Harbor Shops The Harbor Shops in Fort Lauderdale is a beautiful shopping center that offers views of Port Everglades and the downtown area. If you're looking for a place that lets you do some one-stop shopping, this is where you want to go. You can pick up your groceries, grab a bottle of wine for dinner, shop for a new outfit, and get some yachting supplies. You can even get in a quick workout, unwind with a massage, or grab a bite to eat while you're there. more The Fountains Located just west of Fort Lauderdale in Plantation, The Fountains is another one of the top all-in-one shopping destinations in the area. Stop by the Publix grocery store to pick up what you need for dinner and then head over to the White Apron cooking school to learn how to prepare it. If you're looking for some new clothing, you'll find popular shops that include Marshalls, Kohl's, and Jos. A. Bank. When you need to recharge from a full day of shopping, you'll discover a variety of excellent dining options in the complex. Swap Shop The Swap Shop in Fort Lauderdale calls itself the largest indoor/outdoor flea market in the country. If you're looking for a place that offers great deals and those hard-to-find items, this is the spot to go. The complex covers around 75 acres and has 2,000 vendors selling their wares, so everyone is sure to find something to please them. Plus, when your day of shopping is over, you don't have to go home. In the evening, the Swap Shop transforms into a 14-screen drive-in movie theater showing some of the latest films. Las Olas Boulevard Las Olas Boulevard is one of the most popular streets in Fort Lauderdale and an amazing spot for shopping. Here you'll find an impressive selection of stores for art, jewelry, apparel, shoes, books, gifts, and more. Once you're done shopping, be sure to check out some of the special events the city hosts on Las Olas Boulevard throughout the year. For example, the Las Olas Food and Wine Festival brings some of the best local celebrity chefs together for a celebration of food. Bass Pro Shops If you're searching for the gear you need to enjoy some outdoor adventures, you're sure to find it at Bass Pro Shops. Located next to the headquarters for the International Game Fish Association, this massive facility has everything you need for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, golfing, boating, outdoor sports, and more. Whether you need a one-stop destination for all of your shopping needs or a specialty store that can outfit you for your favorite hobby, you know you can find what you're searching for when you explore these excellent shopping places in Fort Lauderdale.

When the craving strikes for a delicious cup of coffee, you can find what you're looking for at several top coffee shops in the Fort Lauderdale area. Whether you're after a comfortable, cozy atmosphere where you can catch up with your friends, or a spot with good coffee and plenty of charging stations, it's easy to find a place that will serve your needs and a tasty cup of joe. BREW Urban Café BREW Urban Café is part of a local collaboration called Next Door at C&I. By day, the shop serves expertly crafted coffee and tea drinks, and by night, the spot transforms into a place where you can sip a cocktail and enjoy open mic night, live music, happy hour, or an oddball movie night. The coffee at BREW Urban Café comes from Wells Coffee Company, a local roaster with a shop just down the road. As you drink your latte, mocha, or other favorite drink, you can watch a photo shoot, listen to live music or walk along the street to the nearby community art galleries and small businesses. This coffee shop has a laid-back atmosphere with soft, cozy chairs and a library of books. Some of the top menu options include espresso, vanilla lavender lattes, and chai tea lattes sprinkled with nutmeg. more Warsaw Coffee Company Warsaw Coffee Company is a new American coffee shop where you can enjoy delicious beverages served alongside a variety of tasty menu options. The shop is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the drink menu, you'll find the traditional options, as well as loose-leaf teas, salted hot chocolate, homemade Thai iced tea prepared with a splash of cream and a shot of espresso, and a vanilla ice cream espresso float. In addition to the coffee menu, this spot serves more than 20 fine wines and 25 craft beers all day, every day. If you're looking for something to pair with your beverage, try a fresh blueberry or banana nut muffin, a ham and cheese Danish, or a butter croissant. The menu is always being updated and refreshed with seasonal favorites. Press and Grind Juicery & Coffee Bar At Press and Grind Juicery & Coffee Bar, the menu includes something for everyone. It opens daily at 7 a.m. with a wide selection of fresh-pressed juices, shots, smoothies, coffees, and teas. One of the local favorites is the iron man, prepared with pineapple, kiwi, apple, and strawberries. You can also sample the house blend signature drip or order a specialty drink, such as a cortado, cappuccino, mocha latte, French press, dead eye, red eye, matcha latte, or nitro brew. Tea options include black, oolong, white, and green. On the food menu, you'll find acai and pitaya bowls, avocado toast, pastries, and grab-and-go parfaits, salad cups, and packaged dishes. Instead of brewing the same cup of coffee at home every morning, stop by one of these Fort Lauderdale coffee shops to try something new. With a variety of styles and tastes to choose from and locations throughout the area, it's easy to find a shop that will brew a cup of coffee that is perfect for you.

Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and friends, and it is a time for giving. While many families get together and enjoy a big turkey dinner at home, there are many other ways to celebrate this holiday. You can find local restaurants that serve special Thanksgiving dinners so you don't have to cook, or you can find a place to go where you can serve others who are less fortunate. There are also road races if you want to burn off some calories before or after you eat. Here is your guide to Thanksgiving in Ft. Lauderdale. Thanksgiving to Go Do you want a turkey dinner with all the fixings without all the work? Check out Thanksgiving to Go. This service provides a chef-prepared Thanksgiving Day meal for the entire family, including a 15-pound slow-roasted turkey, traditional stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potato casserole, and green beans almandine. You can also get macaroni and cheese, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls along with two different pies for dessert. All you need to do is call the Grateful Palate and put in your order. They will contact you before Thanksgiving and arrange a time for you to pick up your meal on Thanksgiving Day. more Gobble Til You Wobble Gobble Til You Wobble is a virtual road race. The second annual event will include a 5 and a 10K, with 15 percent of each registration fee going to Feeding America. You can complete your race any time in November or run on Thanksgiving Day. Bibs, along with medals, will ship starting the end of October, and if you sign up in November, they will ship within two to five days of signing up. The entry fee for the race is $18, which includes your bib, a medal, and shipping. The Thanksgiving Buffet at Ria at Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa Each year, Riva restaurant at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa puts out a traditional Thanksgiving buffet. The food has a Floribbean flair, and the restaurant offers two different seating times, so you can go early in the day or in the evening. In the past, the price was $79 for each adult and $39 for kids 12 and under, but this could change from year to year. Make sure to call ahead and make a reservation. Dinner at Ocean2000 at Pelican Grand Beach Resort Ocean2000 at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort is another great place to go for your Thanksgiving dinner. This is also a buffet with seating times at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., and they offer bottomless apple cider sangria for the adults. You should call ahead to make a reservation to make sure you don't miss out. Spend your Thanksgiving holiday the way you want to, whether it is sitting down at home for a big dinner, going to a restaurant with family and friends, or even running a road race. You can do it all right in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Any library is a great place to spend time, whether you want to borrow books to bring home, use the research materials, or just sit and relax and enjoy the reading materials at the facility. Fort Lauderdale has several different libraries, each with its own atmosphere and types of available materials. Here are some of the best and what they have to offer. The Broward County Library - Main Library The main branch of the Broward County Library sits on S. Andrews Avenue right in Fort Lauderdale. It offers all kinds of resources, several floors filled with books, computers, and labs for learning. There is a 3D printer for public use and several sections for teens who want to explore different media such as music, video creation, and photography. This library even offers several classes for adults who want to learn new things, such as photography; there is a college prep and SAT/ACT workshop for high school students and a life skills workshop series. more Alvin Sherman Library The Alvin Sherman Library on the Nova Southeastern University Campus is one of the largest libraries in South Florida. Even though it is part of the university, the public is welcome to use it as long as they sign up for a library card. There are several floors of books, a children's area, public computers and printers, and many study rooms. The children's area is a great place for the kids and has small tables and chairs, computers with programs for the little ones, rocking chairs, and paper and colored pencils for the kids to use. Your library card allows you to book study rooms, use laptops and phone charging cables, and get free coffee and snacks during finals weeks. Stonewall National Museum & Archives Stop into the Stonewall National Museum & Archives to use the educational resources or borrow some of the books. The mission of this museum and library is to educate and promote understanding of the culture of the LGBTQ community and to share their significant role in our society. The library is the largest LGBTQ library in the U.S. and features thousands of books, DVDs, and periodicals. You can become a member to access the wide variety of information, with annual fees ranging from $35 for a single membership, $50 for family memberships, and $25 for student memberships. Broward County Libraries - Imperial Point Branch The Imperial Point Branch of the Broward County Library is on North Federal Highway. This is a small branch compared to the main location, but it still has everything you need. There are plenty of books, DVDs, computers, and even some study rooms. This location has a self-checkout so you can bypass the line, and if you use the BCL app, there are many e-books available too. These are just a few of the libraries in the Fort Lauderdale area. Visit one or more to check out books, use the computers or printers, or even take a class to learn something new.

After a day of fun at the beach or boating through the canals in Fort Lauderdale, you've probably worked up quite the appetite. Thankfully, the area isn't only known for its oceanfront lifestyle. In fact, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to grab a bite to eat before catching some rays or capping the night off with a nice dinner. Here are some must-try restaurants in Fort Lauderdale. Dolce Salato Pizza & Gelato Maybe seafood isn't your thing. No problem, since Dolce Salato Pizza on Wilton Drive offers up some genuinely delicious pies as an alternative for those who don't enjoy the ocean's bounty. The establishment is run by an Italian family, and they stick to their roots, serving up some truly authentic pizza. Do not miss the La Margherita Classica, or "The Italian Way." This pizza is topped with cheese, flakes of basil, sliced tomato on each portion, fresh mozzarella, and a fresh basil leaf. If you haven't had fresh basil on pizza, you are missing out. It has an almost fruity herbal character that sends your taste buds into the stratosphere. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating that is great for people-watching. more Shooters Waterfront This restaurant is likely more in line with what you expect from a Fort Lauderdale restaurant. Shooters Waterfront has spectacular views of the harbor and offers upscale dishes, including seafood specialties such as cashew-crusted Mahi and a catch of the day item. If you don't like seafood but still want the stunning views and sophisticated atmosphere, Shooters also serves some top-notch steaks and a tasty cheeseburger. Coconuts Get ready to take your taste buds for a ride. Coconuts has been dialing up the flavor on some seafood favorites for anyone who comes through the front door. Not only is it a local favorite for mouthwatering dishes such as the generously seasoned conch fritters and tasty Mahi tacos, but it has also been named the best restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, according to New York Times reader's choice awards. Don't take their word for it, though. Head on down to their location on Seabreeze Boulevard and try out the jambalaya or coconut shrimp platter for yourself. Don't forget the conch fritters, either. Pelican Landing The last on our list, but certainly not least, is Pelican Landing on South East 17th Street. You should visit for the breathtaking views of the water and watch the yachts and other watercraft go by, but stay for the excellent food. The Mahi tacos are very popular among regular patrons. The restaurant also has an extensive cocktail menu, making it an excellent option for a night out on the town. No matter what kind of outdoor dining experience you're looking for, Fort Lauderdale has many excellent options. Everything from great food to the awe-inspiring views of the ocean is in store when you visit for lunch or dinner.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a popular destination for its warm weather, top-rated cuisine, and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Combine each of these things with these exceptional restaurants with a view. Lona Cocina Tequileria Lona Cocina Tequileria is a popular, casual Mexican cantina that overlooks the ocean. In addition to some of the best views of the water, the establishment itself also features bold, eclectic, and modern decor. Chef Pablo Salas has created a one-of-a-kind menu which includes items like the pork carnitas, chicken fajitas, and the salmon mole. Lona has a full brunch menu and discounted specials every day of the week. Be sure to also check out the full tequila bar with tequila-infused fresh sangrias, margaritas, and agave flights. more Kaluz Kaluz of Fort Lauderdale features a waterfront dining experience with the ability to park your boat out front. The outdoor dining spot is adorned with large, comfortable loungers for the ultimate relaxing dining experience. The dinner menu has something for everyone with items like barbeque chicken flatbreads, truffled lobster mac, and Hatfield farm pork chops. Make sure you leave room for one of the delicious desserts, like the French bread pudding or the traditional key lime pie. Shooters Waterfront Shooters Waterfront has a laid-back space that overlooks the ocean while serving some of the freshest seafood in the area. Grab a table at the dock on one of the cozy lounge chairs or pull up a chair at one of the three bars. On the menu, you will find shrimp po'boys, Szechuan shrimp salad, and a New England lobster roll. Shooters is also family friendly with a kid-approved menu with grilled cheese and pepperoni flatbreads. Be sure to check out the live music schedule for a night filled with delicious food and entertaining music. Coconuts Coconuts is a local favorite because of its authentic southern Florida menu and warm, friendly atmosphere. Coconuts was founded with the mission to be nice to every person, ensuring that you have a pleasant experience every time you visit. The menu includes Jambalaya, steak salad, and the grilled or blackened fish of the day. Come by on Sunday for brunch with items like the seafood quiche and shrimp and grits. You can also order brunch items a la carte, like the plate of donuts or the cheese grits. Ocean2000 Ocean2000 is a great vegetarian-friendly option that also boasts breathtaking waterfront views. This dining choice is located in the Pelican Grand Beach Resort and offers an American-inspired menu with unique twists from all over the world. Be sure to try out the jumbo shrimp or the maple and guava barbecue-glazed salmon. Visit Ocean2000 for An Evening Under the Moon, a special romantic dining experience by moonlight with outdoor seating, telescopes for stargazing, and table visits from local astrologers and intuitive readers. There are many waterfront dining spots worth checking out in the Fort Lauderdale area. Make a reservation, order your favorite seafood dish, and sit back and relax for a truly memorable experience.   Image via Flickr by Dawn Ashley

Floridians love the outdoors, and what's not to like with 246 days of sunshine and some of the best parks and wilderness areas in the country to explore. Grab the whole family, slather on some sunscreen, and discover these three scenic parks with that wow-factor you've been looking for in and around Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway and just a short stroll from local shops is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Named after the benefactor who bestowed the 180-acre oasis to residents, the park is a welcome respite from city life. Enjoy a picnic, drop your fishing line off the seawall, or rent a canoe and tour the freshwater Long Lake. Discover a variety of native trees and plants as you wander through nature along two short trails. Stop and watch an animal show and learn about local history at the Terramar Visitor Center. Access the beach about one-quarter of a mile away, or bike along the 2.5-mile unpaved trail. Explore the Intercoastal Waterway on a water taxi right from the park, showcasing the area's natural beauty. more Volunteer Park Right near Sawgrass Mall, and easy to get to, you'll find lovely Volunteer Park. Nature lovers report time and again that this park's facilities are wonderfully clean and the expertly maintained grounds are lush and inviting. It's rumored to be one of the best parks in West Plantation. The park features a peaceful raised walking path and a diverse array of friendly visitors, ranging from families to couples with dogs. Check out the year-round farmer's market featuring fresh produce, honey, and more. Mature trees provide tons of shade while you observe a variety of wildlife, from ducks to frogs. There's a large open grassy area for a family game of soccer or kite-flying on a breezy afternoon. If you get the munchies after getting your nature fix, keep a lookout for gourmet food trucks that park in the area. From horseback riding to geocaching, bike riding to fishing, get in touch with nature at Volunteer Park. Richardson Historic Park Take a break from the bustle of Wilton and explore this small gem located near downtown Ft. Lauderdale. Just 5.4 acres, Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve boasts a river, a boardwalk, and boat dock, complete with wildlife observation pier and nature trails. Bordered at the end by the historic Richardson House, the park is often the setting for countryside weddings. A large picnic pavilion behind the house is a great place to spread out a blanket and feast. Later, take a quick, tranquil walk by Middle River, past some of the tallest royal palms in the State, and over the mangrove swamp. Spot hundreds of species of birds, lizards, and squirrels that call the preserve home, and read up on the wildlife with enlightening signs along the way. Florida's natural attractions always charm our visitors. Get in touch with your wild side at one of all of these great Ft. Lauderdale area parks today.

Located just outside of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is a city that has a lot to do. With pristine beaches, proximity to the Everglades, and plenty of rich history, you'll never be bored on a visit here. If you're looking for some fun activities during your time in Fort Lauderdale, consider booking one of these tours for a unique look at the city's offerings. Jungle Queen Riverboats Tour As one of the leading tour companies in Fort Lauderdale, Jungle Queen has plenty of tour options to fill your day. One of the most popular is the Afternoon Tropical Isle Sightseeing Cruise, during which your tour guide will narrate the history and sights beyond the boat. The cruise starts at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center and takes you through Millionaire's Row to catch glimpses of mansions and yachts. You'll eventually make port on a tropical island featuring alligators and other exotic animals. If you get hungry, grab some snacks from the concession stand on the island. These cruises run daily at 1:30 p.m. and return to the dock at 4:30 p.m., making them a great choice for a fun afternoon in the sun. more Ghosts and Gangsters Tour of Ft. Lauderdale Skip the sun and descend into darkness with this spooky tour of the city. It provides you with a darker look at the city's history, taking you through some of the area's most haunted destinations. As you stroll through the city's streets, you'll hear tales of death and mayhem from a certified historical expert. Some of the stories you'll hear include the Cooley Landing Massacre, the shenanigans of Al Capone, and the more modern Cocaine Cowboys. These tours take place on a daily basis at 7 p.m. They start at Briny's Riverfront Pub and last for approximately two hours. Be sure to book in advance — the fee is $25 per person. Bass Fishing on Lake Okeechobee from Ft. Lauderdale Why just sit around on the beach all day when you could be making the biggest catch of your life. Abandon the sand and waves for tamer waters on a bass fishing tour on Lake Okeechobee. Just under an hour and a half away from Fort Lauderdale, Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in the entire state, meaning it has plenty of fish for you to catch. In this tour from Tour Beaver, you'll go on a fish-catching journey with some of Florida's best fishing guides. Choose from a half-day, three-quarters-day, or full-day tour, which are four hours, six hours, and eight hours respectively. Everything you need to score a big fish comes as a part of the tour, such as a boat, guide, fishing fear, and bottled drinks. Tours leave at 6 a.m., 6:30 a.m., and 7 a.m. daily and vary in price depending on the options you select. Sitting on the beach at Fort Lauderdale is a lot of fun, but it certainly isn't an educational experience. Try one of these unique Fort Lauderdale tours to learn more about the area and experience something new.

With miles of sandy beaches, a vibrant cultural center, and close proximity to natural attractions like the Everglades, Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic destination. Foodies will be particularly excited to learn about the city's toothsome riverfront restaurants. Briny Irish Pub Visit the riverfront in downtown Fort Lauderdale to get some of the best Irish food in town. Staples of the menu include classic dishes like shepherd's pie, beer-battered fish and chips, beef stew, and corned beef and cabbage. The restaurant also takes advantage of its location to provide some of the freshest seafood you will find. You can order crab cakes, clam strips, scallops, mussels, or the catch of the day. Naturally, a meal at Briny's wouldn't be complete without an Irish beer. Sip on one of several on-tap selections while enjoying a live band at this memorable restaurant and pub. more Pirate Republic Seafood and Grill Seafood is the name of the game at this enchanting riverside restaurant. A multitude of pirate flags, lending character to every meal decorates the elegant open-air dining room. The menu itself is one of the more unique and adventurous in the Fort Lauderdale area. Must-try dishes include grilled octopus served with fingerling potatoes, paprika, and green onions, as well as fish ceviche marinated in lime juice and seasoned with onions, cilantro, habanero peppers, and serrano peppers. Pirate Republic also specializes in clams, offering them with flavors like spicy chorizo, coconut curry, or a creamy dijon sauce. The DownTowner Stop by The DownTowner if you are in the mood for some classic American food prepared by a restaurant that really knows what it's doing. The DownTowner has been a staple of the Fort Lauderdale scene since the 1920s, and the modern incarnation of the restaurant specializes in serving light dishes bursting with flavor. Hand-crafted burgers, spicy grilled tacos, and homemade clam chowders are always great choices. The restaurant's seafood menu is another highlight, with choices like grilled salmon, fresh cod fillet, and blackened red snapper. You can also quench your thirst with one of more than 20 craft beers, not to mention an extensive cocktail list. Sushi Song If you are in the mood for the freshest seafood in the city, you can't beat Sushi Song. This is one of the area's best sushi bars, renowned for its house special rolls. These include the Hamachi Jalapeno (yellowtail with avocado, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeno) and the Japanese Bagel (salmon, cream cheese, scallions, and sesame seeds). Choose from a wide menu of sushi and sashimi selections, and the restaurant's website even facilitates online orders. One of our favorite things about Sushi Song is that it's open late — you can get sushi as late as 4 a.m. on any night of the week. Visitors to the Fort Lauderdale area will quickly discover what its residents have known all along: namely, that it's one of the most scenic parts of the country with some of the best restaurants, to boot.

Experience Fort Lauderdale's vibrant cultural scene with an exploration of the city's world-class museums, historical sites, and heritage venues. From a cruise on a famous river to a stroll in a tranquil garden filled with history, check out these four area museums, and get ready for an educational and happening summer. African-American Cultural Center Visit Fort Lauderdale's African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, a 60,000 square foot building featuring literary collections of African-American authors. Permanent exhibits feature artifacts from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas, as well as a 5,000-square-foot art gallery. A unique children's library and auditorium provide opportunities to exchange ideas. The center offers classes in technology and education and has displayed almost 40 major exhibits to over 895,000 guests. A thriving part of the community, the library, and cultural center promotes an appreciation of people with an African heritage. more Bonnet House and Gardens Take a trip down memory lane and explore 20th-century southern living with a tour of the charming 1920s Bonnet House estate — the historic home of Chicago-born artist Frederic Clay Bartlett. Dedicated to Mr. Bartlett's prolific and prosperous career, the house museum showcases his easel art, murals, and faux paintings, and still delights visitors today. In addition to Mr. Bartlett's magical works of art, the Bonnet House's garden is an example of a rare, South Florida barrier island habitat. More than 35 acres of a varied ecosystem — from the beach to a freshwater slough, mangrove wetlands, and a maritime forest — offers guests an opportunity to experience tropical tranquility and one of Fort Lauderdale's finest orchid collections. Antique Car Museum Founded by Arthur O. Stone, the 18,000-square-foot Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum ensures the preservation of history with its reproduction of a 1920s Packard Motor Car Company showroom. The exhibit showcases a collection of 22 pre-war Packard cars from the 1900s to the 1940s. All the Packard automobiles on display are in working order, and this great American automotive history is home to thousands of pieces of memorabilia. The museum also features a building and gallery dedicated to former President Franklin D. Roosevelt. New River Historic Boat Tour Every Saturday morning you can set sail on a two-hour historic riverfront cruise and museum tour. The first part of the voyage starts at the iconic Bryan Homes dock and features a fully narrated 60-minute boat tour along the New River. Like the Venice of America, New River was the first “roadway” and the easiest way for pioneers to travel the area. Following the New River ferry cruise, guests will come ashore and finish the tour at historic New River Inn, now Fort Lauderdale's Historic Museum, and an 1899 replica schoolhouse guided by a volunteer in period dress. Don't forget to explore the reportedly haunted 1907 King-Cromartie House where you might spot the translucent apparition of Louise, once the lady of the house. Make your summer in Fort Lauderdale memorable with a glimpse into yesteryear at each of our four favorite museums. Find your inspiration with an exploration of art, culture, and the beauty of the South.