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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. 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.

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. 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. 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

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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

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. 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.