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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. 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

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. 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. 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

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. 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. 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

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. 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. 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, 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. 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. 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

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. 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. 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

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. 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