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Ft. Lauderdale is well-known for its great weather, beautiful beaches, and interesting attractions. But did you know that it was also home to a handful of excellent diners? From South Florida icons to small neighborhood hideaways, here are six diners in Ft. Lauderdale whose food, service, and atmosphere are done just right. Lester's Diner Lester's Diner is a legendary eatery with four locations and 40 years of history in the South Florida area. Well known among locals, Lester's most popular orders include the Belgian waffles, "LEO" (lox, eggs, and onion), and famous 14-ounce coffee. Getting there: Lester's Diner has locations in Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Margate, and Sunrise. To reach the Ft. Lauderdale location, take I-595 to US-1 North or I-95 to FL-84 East. To reach more the Pompano Beach location, take I-95 to FL-814/Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Margate location, take I-95 to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd or I-595 to Florida's Turnpike to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Sunrise location, take I-595 to FL-84 West. Mom's Kitchen Mom's Kitchen is a small, family-style eatery with everything you'd expect from a neighborhood diner – delicious food, friendly locals, and friendlier service. The most popular dishes include the Crunchy French Toast, blueberry pancakes, biscuits and gravy, Super Farmer's Special, and Mom's Country Breakfast. Getting there: Mom's Kitchen is located in the Coral Ridge neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-870 East or US-1. 84 Diner Known as the largest diner in South Florida, 84 Diner blends traditional American breakfast choices with a range of Greek and Italian dishes. In addition to pancakes and French toast, other popular dishes include the jalapeño omelet, meatloaf, beef kabob, and gyro. Getting there: 84 Diner is located in Davie, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-595 to FL-84 West. Andrew's Diner Andrew's Diner is a much-loved eatery with 20 years of history in South Florida and an unshakeable reputation for excellent food. For those who love breakfast, the most popular dishes include eggs Benedict, pancakes, and biscuits.  For those who prefer lunch or dinner options, the most popular dishes include the turkey club and beef stew special. Getting there: Andrew's Diner is located in Wilton Manors, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. The Floridian The Floridian is a South Florida dining icon with hearty food, a lovable atmosphere, and a long list of celebrity patrons. Popular dishes include diner favorites like pancakes and French toast, as well as unique Floridian offerings like the buffalo burger, crab omelet, and smoked salmon Benedict. Getting there: The Floridian is located on the famed Las Olas Boulevard in Ft. Lauderdale and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-842 East/West Broward Blvd. or by taking US-1 to Las Olas Blvd. Peter Pan Diner True to its name, Peter Pan Diner is magical for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. As one of the most popular restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale, the diner offers a wide selection of favorites that include the Gyro Omelet and Feta Cheeseburger. Getting there: Peter Pan Diner is located in the Oakland Park neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. Whether you're in need of a delicious breakfast to start your day or a hearty dinner to close your evening, these six Ft. Lauderdale diners won't disappoint.

In preparation for spring, it's important that you have many of your Kia's interior features inspected. Not sure which ones to have checked? Here's a list of six that you won't want to forget. The Fluids Don't wait until a warning light comes on to check your fluids – especially your engine oil, power steering fluid, brake and transmission fluids, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze/coolant. Make it a point to have the levels inspected before spring and topped off, if necessary. The professional should also ensure that the radiator and gas caps are sealed properly and that the inside more gaskets are secure. If they're not, have them replaced. Follow up a fluid check by changing the oil and air filters. You can opt for a recommended warm weather oil to keep your Kia operating at peak efficiency. The Battery Car batteries work harder during the winter, especially if temperatures drop very low. For this reason, be sure to have the battery connections inspected as springtime rolls around. Keep in mind: The connections should be tight and corrosion-free. The battery's charge should also be checked. If you've had the same car battery for many years, you may need a replacement. If you're unsure, consult with your automotive professional. The Brakes Brakes are a critical part of safe vehicle operation and should definitely be examined for spring. As part of this examination, listen for any strange brake noises like grinding or squealing. A professional should also check the amount of wear on the pads, drums, and rotors. If any of these are especially worn, a replacement will likely be necessary. The Air Conditioner If air conditioning is important to you during the warmer months, be sure to have your AC system inspected for spring. This inspection should include checking the compressor belt for cracks, frays, and other damage, ensuring that the compressor turns on, and ensuring that it produces cool air. It's also crucial that refrigerant levels be checked and topped off, if necessary. The Hoses and Belts Hoses and belts are important parts of your vehicle's electrical, cooling, and climate control systems, and changing temperatures cause them to wear. Because of this, you'll want to have these components checked in preparation for spring. To inspect the hoses, a professional will squeeze them while the engine is warm. If they're soft, they'll need replacing. To inspect the belts, a professional will turn off the engine and pull on them to test tightness. If the belts are loose, they'll need replacing. The Seats and Carpets Inspect and clean the seats, vacuum dirt and debris from carpets, remove and clean floor mats, wipe down the steering wheel and dashboard, and remove empty bottles and other trash from the vehicle. If you have leather seats and furnishings, treat them with cleaner to keep them looking and feeling their best. While you're tidying up, you can also remove any unnecessary junk from your trunk to lighten your load and improve fuel efficiency. Keep your Kia running smoothly by having the fluids, battery, air conditioner, hoses, and belts inspected for spring. Photo by Kia

With plenty of waterways, nightlife, restaurants, and wildlife in Fort Lauderdale, it's not hard to find something unique to share with your Valentine's date. If you're tired of the same-old activities you repeat year after year, take a look at these four options that can help spark some ideas for a more inspiring Valentine's Day. Lovers Rock Affair Yes, a quiet dinner with relaxing piano music playing in the background is romantic, but for those who'd rather spice things up, there's the Lovers Rock Affair hosted by Chef TY Catering & Patisserie. After a successful first event in 2016, it's back a second time in 2017. more The event takes place from 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 to noon on Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Club. Disc jockey Neil Diamond will have you rocking through the night into the wee hours of the morning. Admission is $100 for two and includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise What's more romantic than a gentle cruise aboard a stately riverboat? The Jungle Queen Riverboat will roll along Fort Lauderdale's rivers and canals, which are often dubbed the Venice of America. There are a few cruises to choose from. The Dinner and Show Cruise treats you to an all-you-can-eat dinner with live entertainment and a variety show. If you're a couple who loves nature and wildlife, opt for the Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise and Tropical Isle Tour. You'll get to explore the lush Tropical Isle, where you can watch an alligator show; see exotic birds, lemurs, and monkeys; and even hold a baby alligator. Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Show If you're looking for a change to boring, run-of-the-mill dinner dates, add some Polynesian flair to your night out. At Mai-Kai Polynesian restaurant, the music and dancing that epitomizes South Pacific culture come alive in spectacular fashion with brightly colored costumes, fire dancers, and spirited drumming. The entertainment is captivating – you'll find yourself engrossed in the story of the Hawaiian Wedding song, in which two young lovers are separated and then reunited in marriage. There are two shows every evening Monday through Friday and three on Saturdays, with dinner served before the show. Use this as an excuse to dress up, as no hats, T-shirts, tank tops, beach shorts, or flip-flops are allowed. Run the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K Couples who run together have fun together. If you and your partner are always on the lookout for things that get you moving, then enter the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K run, which takes place on Saturday, Feb. 18. Last year, the 5K took place on Feb. 14 and was called the Valentine's 5K Race, and saw 800 runners pound the streets of Las Olas Boulevard. If a 5K is not challenging enough, there's also the 13.1-mile half marathon and 26.2-mile full marathon. If you'd rather get your heart pumping with a run instead of chocolates and roses, don't miss this one! Ban the boring Valentine's activities and find some exciting things to do with your loved one. If you're going to celebrate the day of love, make it a memorable one.

The Kia Rio Sedan is a simple subcompact sedan with a sleek design and surprisingly roomy backseat for a small sedan. It comes with peace of mind too — Kia is so confident in the durability of its cars that it offers an industry-leading extended powertrain warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. For 2017, Kia has dropped the SX model from the sedan lineup, leaving you with two trim levels to choose from. Rio LX Both trims come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. It may not be the most powerful engine out there, but it does have remarkably more quick acceleration compared to others in its class. The LX comes with a six-speed manual transmission, although you have the option of an automatic transmission. The entry-level LX features 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, variable intermittent wipers, heated power mirrors, and locking fuel-filler door. Solar control glass on the windshield and front passenger windows help keep the interior cooler in summer, and heated rear glass with a timer defrost ice and melt snow in winter. Expect simplicity in the interior — materials are understated, and gauges and controls are uncomplicated. The interior features air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-only steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio buttons, glove box illumination, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Onboard technology includes a trip computer, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, and a four-speaker sound system. Standard safety features on both models include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, and tire pressure monitoring system. Want to take things up a notch? An available Power Package adds keyless entry and power windows and door locks, automatic transmission, and Bluetooth connectivity. Rio EX There are only four color choices on the LX, but you get eight on the EX. You also get automatic transmission, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome grille surround, premium cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, map lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, a soft-touch dash, padded armrests on the front doors, a sliding center console armrest with storage, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker audio system. Choosing the optional Eco Package means you lose a few of the above features in favor of the fuel-saving automatic engine stop-start system, automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and Kia's UVO 7-inch digital touch-screen infotainment system. Fuel economy is average on the Rio Sedan, and the Eco Package gets you a little extra mileage — 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Prefer a snazzier interior? The EX's Designer Package features attractive seating with two-tone black cloth teamed with gray leather inserts and gray accent stitching. The Rio is a conservative sedan, but it offers enough basic features, a good quality interior, and excellent value at an unbeatable price. It's built to last, too, so you can keep driving your Rio long after you've paid the final installment. Photo by Kia

The fourth-generation Kia Rio five-door hatchback is a fun-to-drive sassy little subcompact car. The new 2017 model has grown up – it's swapped its cutesy look for slicker, sportier styling. It's slightly longer, wider, and lower with sculpted aerodynamic body lines and a redesigned front with Kia's distinctive tiger-nose grille. The Kia Rio is available in three trims: LX, EX, and SX. Rio LX All three models feature the same mechanical specs: front-wheel drive with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-wheel anti-lock disc braking system. Also standard across all three models is Kia's Sportmatic six-speed automatic transmission, which gives drivers the option of easily switching to manual if desired. more The interior of the 2017 Rio has undergone significant changes. It's done away with the cheap-looking plastic dashboard. In its place is a more modern-looking panel that's angled toward the driver and features a floating touch-screen display in the center. In terms of safety, the Rio hatchback received a four-star rating for overall crash protection in government tests. All three models come standard with electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, and hill-start assist. The LX trim features black mesh radiator grille, 15-inch steel wheels, tilt steering column, woven cloth upholstery, and four-way speaker audio system. Rio EX Moving up to the EX, you'll find the black mesh grille is now surrounded with chrome. Additional external features include projector beam fog lights and 15-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, premium cloth trim, center console with sliding arm rest, and a six-speaker audio system with A-Pillar-Mounted tweeters. The EX ups the convenience with steering-wheel-mounted cruise control buttons, power windows with convenient driver's one-touch auto-up/down, and power door locks with keyless remote. Extra refinements in the EX include a hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with matching gearshift knob, LED map lights, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, and soft-touch dash. The cargo under-floor tray with net is a handy feature – hidden beneath the floor, it helps you store items neatly and out of sight. Fuel efficiency is similar on all three trims at 30 mpg combined, but the EX model features Kia's eco-friendly Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system, bringing the fuel efficiency rating up to 31 mpg. Rio SX Giving the SX a design edge is 17-inch alloy wheels, LED positioning lights that shimmer below the headlights, and LED rear combination lamps. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, aluminum pedals, and a supervision meter cluster add to the sportiness. If you're looking for more responsive handling, the SX model with sport-tuned suspension is the one to go for. Extra features on the SX trim include a rear-view camera, outside power-folding mirrors with turn-signal indicators, power sunroof, projector beam headlights, and auto light control. Seating is more upscale, with leather upholstery and heated front seats, and technology upgrades include a 7-inch touch screen with voice-command navigation, satellite and HD radio, and UVO infotainment system. As an entry-level car and with a starting price of $15,495 for the LX and up to $20,905 for the SX, the Kia Rio is a nicely designed vehicle at an affordable price.   Photo by Kia

In an effort to encourage motorists to buy eco-friendly electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, the United States government implemented tax credits and rebates for owners of green cars. It helps offset the initial purchase, as buying electric vehicles usually costs more than gasoline cars, plus requires the installation of home charging units. If you're the new proud owner of a Kia Soul EV, congratulations – you've just bought one of the best electric vehicles on the market. In addition, you now qualify for some awesome benefits that come with owning an electric car. more Federal Tax Credit In 2010, federal tax credits came into effect for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles that were purchased in or after 2010. The credit amount varies from $2,500 to $7,500 based on the car's battery size. The Kia Soul EV qualifies for the maximum credit of $7,500. This could be in the form of a tax refund at the end of the year or, alternatively, deducted off the purchase price at the time of buying the car. So with a starting price of $33,950 for the 2016 standard model, you'll end up paying $26,450 once you deduct the $7,500. Important to bear in mind, though, is that depending on what your tax bill is at the end of the year, you may not receive the full $7,500. If your tax bill is less than $7,500, you will only be paid that amount. For instance, if you owe Uncle Sam $5,000, that's all Uncle Sam will refund you. You will not receive the extra $2,500, nor will it be carried over to the following tax year. State Incentives In addition to the federal program, there are also dozens of state and regional incentives on electric and plug-in vehicles. Incentive programs vary, so you will have to find out what applies to your state. Credits can come in the form of exemption from inspections, reduced registration fees, lower vehicle tax, or nonmonetary incentives such as access to the carpool (HOV) lane and free parking. In California, for example, people who buy or lease certain electric cars can get a cash rebate up front in addition to the annual federal tax credit. Manufacturer Rebates Kia offers several manufacturer-to-customer rebates and incentive programs. When buying your vehicle, be sure to inquire about these. You could benefit from cash rebates directly at the point of sale, low-interest financing, and special leases. Cash rebates can either be given directly to the customer or be used as part of the vehicle's down payment. Either way, it helps lower the net price of the vehicle. If you find it all a little confusing, consult an accountant who can help you claim the correct tax credit you qualify for and assist in filing the Qualified Electric Vehicle Credit form. Note that the federal tax incentive program will eventually be phased out as sales of EVs and PHEVs reach the specified cap – which is around 200,000 vehicles sold per manufacturer. So if you haven't taken the leap to electric yet, visit your Kia dealer now and take advantage of these benefits while they're still in place.   Photo by Kia

It's never been easier to customize your driving experience than with the new Kia Cadenza. The 2017 model offers unparalleled driving technology with distinct modes. Just below the shifter, you'll find the Drive Mode button, which allows you to switch between four options: Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Here's your guide to using each mode to its full potential. Comfort Mode Comfort Mode is all about making your trip from point A to point B feel seamless. It minimizes the jostling that often complements shifting, even in an automatic transmission. Flip the drive mode to Comfort and you'll experience smoother acceleration on straight roads and through turns. You'll also feel virtually no change in movement when the transmission shifts up or down. Comfort Mode is ideal for transporting precious cargo, such as napping children after a long day of fun. more Eco Mode As its name suggests, Eco Mode is all about maximizing the efficiency of your fuel supply. It works by adjusting the parameters between the Cadenza's transaxle and engine operation while also maximizing the energy resources given to other functions of the vehicle, like the air conditioner and shifting patterns. In exchange for a slightly lower power output under the hood, you'll notice a significant increase in your gas mileage. Sport Mode If you prefer to feel more connected to and in control of your vehicle, opt for Sport Mode. When you switch over to this feature, you'll notice several changes. First, the throttle becomes more responsive. Sensitive to every slight change in pressure, the throttle is a perfect conduit between you and the engine. Next, you'll notice that the steering becomes more firm and deliberate. In Sport Mode, you'll feel like your hands are guiding your tires with precision. While the steering is sensitive, it's also more controlled and offers better handling. Overall, Sport Mode makes every function of your engine more sensitive and puts you in touch with the road on a whole new level. Every action translates into a more intimate driving experience. Smart Mode Every driver has a unique style. That's why Kia has equipped each 2017 Cadenza with the Smart driving mode. With this feature, the Cadenza's internal computer begins learning your driving habits. From the way you use the throttle to the shift response you need given the road conditions, speed, and turning behaviors, Smart Mode records and analyzes your driving patterns. If you're an eager driver who enjoys the feel of a manual transmission with the ease of the automatic, Smart Mode will give you quicker response times when you engage the throttle. If you prefer a smoother ride, it will learn your preferences and adapt accordingly. The 2017 Kia Cadenza may be configured to factory settings when you drive it off the lot. But flip through these four specialized driving modes and the Cadenza quickly becomes optimized to your unique style. The more you drive, the more you and the Cadenza get to know each other, melding into the perfect driving team. Enjoy! Photo by Kia

When you think of Fort Lauderdale, you likely think of warm sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and relaxing afternoons by the water. What better way to make that luxurious dream come true than by booking a stay at a spa resort while you're there. To help you have the most relaxing trip possible, here's a guide to the best spa resorts in Fort Lauderdale. more Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club If you're looking for a secluded getaway, Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club is the place for you. It is snuggled into a beautiful 10-acre property in the Harbor Beach neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale. With a picturesque 500-foot private beach, this exclusive destination will have you forgetting the worries and troubles of home, work, school, and anything else that ails you. Lago Mar is an oasis with everything you could ever need, including six different bars and restaurants, swimming pools, four tennis courts, a putting course, shuffleboard, oversized outdoor chess, a playground for children, and access to Fort Lauderdale's myriad shopping, recreation, and entertainment locations. The Spa at Lago Mar offers facials, hand and feet exfoliation, body exfoliation, Swedish massage, manicures, pedicures, reflexology, and more. The Atlantic Hotel & Spa If you prefer to stay fit in between your relaxation sessions, stay at the Atlantic Hotel & Spa. Dedicated to personal health, it offers a 24-hour fitness center with treadmills, elliptical machines, stride machines, free weights, and more. Yoga classes are available for hotel guests as well. After an endorphin-boosting workout in the fitness center, stop by Spa Atlantic where you can enjoy a wide variety of amenities. With seven private rooms including two rooms for couples, it can accommodate your entire party. Here you'll find sauna and steam rooms, a full service hair and nail salon, spray tanning, bridal packages, wellness membership programs, and customized spa treatments. You'll leave Spa Atlantic feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the world. The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale The Ritz-Carlton is the epitome of luxury. As soon as you step inside, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning restaurant, Burlock Coast Seafare and Spirits. Step outside and enjoy the poolside café along with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The Ritz-Carlton's ocean-inspired spa treatments will leave you in a state of tranquility. Choose from lavish options, such as the cleansing ceremony, ocean sea salt glow, rebalancing citrus spring, sapphire seat treatment, intuitive ocean treatment, and seasonal specials. With in-room pampering and a world of adventure just outside, you'll never want to leave Fort Lauderdale. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort You can always count on the affordability and high quality of Hilton hotels. The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers rooms and suites for any occasion. Additionally, Spa Q is a peaceful getaway with a luxurious setting and refreshing services. Enjoy indoor or outdoor treatments, including massages, skin care remedies, nail treatments, body exfoliation, and package deals to save you money while you're pampered in style. What are you waiting for? Come relax and unwind at one of Fort Lauderdale's heavenly spa resorts.

When it comes to finding the perfect vehicle, it can be difficult to pick between two winners. If you're struggling between the 2017 Kia Forte and 2016 Kia Forte Koup, this guide will help you decide. more Trim Levels and Exterior There are some significant differences between the Kia Forte and Forte Koup trim styles. The Forte comes in the LX, S, and EX models, each of which are available in a wide range of colors. It comes with four doors, body-color and chrome accents, heated outside mirrors, projector beam headlights, and a rear trunk lid spoiler. The Forte Koup comes in two trim levels: the EX and SX. Both are available in White, Silky Silver, Graphite Steel, and Black, but the SX also comes in Racing Red. The two-door Koup comes with either body-color or high-gloss black accents, solar control glass, projector beam headlights, front fog lights, and an optional power sunroof. Interior Features Both the Forte and Forte Koup come with optional features, like the 7-inch touchscreen with voice-command navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and radio, push button start with smart key immobilizer, and an auto dimming rearview mirror. However, the Forte comes standard with remote keyless entry with trunk opener and woven cloth seating trim. It has an extra inch of head and shoulder room all the way around, about four cubic feet more of interior volume than the Koup, and a slightly larger cargo area. On the other hand, the Forte Koup comes standard with a 4.3-inch touchscreen audio display, FlexSteer driver-selectable steering assist, supervision meter cluster with a 4.2-inch thin film transistor color LCD display, HomeLink in the rearview mirror, and optional steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Engine and Power Both Kias include a 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine under the hood. However, the 2017 Forte LX and S engines come standard with an Atkinson cycle engine adjustment, which sacrifices a small amount of power in exchange for better gas mileage and efficiency. Both the LX and S get 147 horsepower and generate 132 pound-feet of torque. The Forte EX gets 164 horsepower and generates 151 pound-feet of torque. With a slightly lighter body and the same powerful engine, the Forte Koup EX gets 173 horsepower and generates 154 pound-feet of torque. If you're looking for a vehicle with some rumble under the hood, opt for the Forte Koup SX with its turbocharged 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine. It gets 201 horsepower and puts out 195 pound-feet of torque. Safety The main quality the Forte and Forte Koup have in common is safety. Both vehicle lines come fully equipped with Kia's suite of fantastic safety features, including an impact-absorbing steering column, front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, dual front advanced airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and front seat belt pretensioners. With both models, you'll also get advanced technology systems, like vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, a traction control system, electronic brake-force distribution, a brake assist system, hill start assist control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. Now that you know the 2017 Forte and 2016 Forte Koup down to the last detail, which will you choose?

While most people think of Fort Lauderdale as a summer-only destination, smart travelers know otherwise. Florida is the perfect place for escaping colder northern climates while avoiding the large crowds. If you're planning a trip this winter, consider visiting these prime destinations around Fort Lauderdale. more The Museum of Discovery and Science Rain or shine, the Museum of Discovery and Science is fun for the whole family. It offers exciting activities at every turn. Check out the lifelike exhibits, such as "To Fly," "Living in the Everglades," "Powerful You," and the EcoDiscovery Center. Take in an IMAX film before heading over to the Explore Store to pick up a fun and educational souvenir of your trip. For an extra special visit, check out the museum's calendar of events to catch special engagements and limited-time exhibits. The Flamingo Gardens Located just 20 minutes east of Fort Lauderdale is the Flamingo Gardens. This stunning wildlife sanctuary is home to more than 90 native species of animals and more than 3,000 tropical and subtropical botanical species. Honored as a Florida Historical Landmark, the Flamingo Gardens was founded in 1927. The rich history and engaging wildlife will have you and your family entertained for hours. Be sure to catch one of the thrice-daily wildlife encounter shows, narrated tram tours, and amazing artifacts in the Wray Home Museum. Sawgrass Recreation Park For more of Florida's surreal wildlife, stop by the Sawgrass Recreation Park within the Florida Everglades Wildlife area. If you're in the mood for some excitement this winter, plan a daytime or nighttime airboat ride and experience nature up close. Special adventures are a great way to experience the Everglades with a private party and see some of the most special hidden corners for spotting wildlife. After your ride, take a stroll through the reptile, glades, and exotic wildlife exhibits in the park museum. Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District If you enjoy getting to know the culture at the heart of a city, you'll love the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District. Live performances include Broadway-esque theater, ballet, and classical opera. As you meander through the historic quarter, you'll see remarkable homes and museums with jawdropping appeal. Restaurants in the Riverwalk District are of the highest quality and constantly aim to top themselves as they create masterpieces for the palate. Broward Center for the Performing Arts Dedicated to sophistication and precision, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a leader in music and theater. From ballet performances to features from global names like Bob Dylan and Disney, the Broward Center is constantly wowing audiences. Musical genres span all cultures and bring attendees together in a celebration of human talent. Don't let your stay in Fort Lauderdale pass by without taking in one of the countless inspiring shows this center has to offer. If you hail from a city that sees winter temperatures drop below 30 degrees, you'll love Fort Lauderdale's weather. With mild temperatures ranging from the high 50s to the low 80s, December through May is the ideal time to visit. With so many great sights to see, we're sure you'll return year after year.

While Fort Lauderdale is best known as a summer destination, there is plenty to do in and around this gorgeous Florida city year round. Here is just a taste of all Fort Lauderdale has to offer in the offseason. more Pedal in Style Winter is the perfect time to enjoy a scenic bike tour of the historic Fort Lauderdale area. There are many companies that offer bike rental services, and the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society offers one of the best tours you can sign up for. You can take a guided tour of the historic district, or arrange your own schedule and enjoy biking through smaller crowds in milder temperatures during the off season. Stop in the 1899 Ivy Cromartie Schoolhouse Replica to see what life was like for early Florida settlers, or view the remnants of the three forts for which Fort Lauderdale was named along the New River. With so much history packed in a few square miles, Fort Lauderdale is a history buff's dream destination. Party Responsibly Located a few miles north of Fort Lauderdale, you'll find the deceptively quiet town of Coral Springs. During the day, this town is suburbia at its best, but come back and visit when the sun goes down and you'll see why many consider Coral Springs one of the best locations for Florida night life. The Brass Tap Craft Beer Bar should be stop number one on your list. You can enjoy one of over 40 unique brews at this upscale bar and lounge. Amble down to The Walk of Coral Springs on University Drive afterward. The Walk is an outdoor promenade with a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues at your fingertips. You can finish up your night with a late-night snack at Cherry Smash, a 1920s-inspired ice cream parlor specializing in classic combinations like banana split sundaes and floats. Cherry Smash is open until 11 p.m. on weekends and is sure to charm you with its quirky interior and unique menu options. Experience Butterfly World About 15 miles north of Fort Lauderdale you'll find Coconut Creek, a small Florida town whose claim to fame is Butterfly World, the world's largest butterfly park with over 20,000 live butterflies, set amid a stunning botanical backdrop. The park is also home to hummingbirds, lorikeets, and other bird species native to Florida. Butterfly World began as a hobby for the founder and owner, Ronald Boender, but quickly became an international destination and world-class migratory research center. Butterfly World is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are a bit pricey but worth the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Ticket sales help support Boender's efforts to protect endangered butterfly species around the world and to further research on many migratory species at the University of Florida laboratory founded in his name. No matter what winter activities you choose to enjoy, the southern charm, ideal size, and proximity to other Florida jewels makes Fort Lauderdale the perfect winter retreat.

If you want a beautiful place to spend the holidays without the snow and cold, then South Florida is the ideal location for you. You can still celebrate the season and get in the proper spirit by checking out some truly spectacular holiday light displays. more Pompano Beach The Holiday Fantasy of Lights returns to Coconut Creek for 2016. Located at Tradewinds Park, 3600 West Sample Road, Coconut Creek ( Map), this holiday event is scheduled for Friday, November 18, through Monday, January 2, 2017. This spectacular holiday celebration is open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. The events include Drive-Thru the Lights from November 18th through January 2nd, a 5K Run & Fitness Walk ($50 runners, $25 walkers) on November 12th, and Family Bike Night ($8 per person) on November 13th. Admission is $15 per car, $40 for a bus, with a 3D experience for $3 that includes three pairs of custom holiday 3D glasses with which to enjoy this drive-thru holiday lighting event. This is the 22nd year for this local tradition. The display includes three miles of animated large holiday displays with illuminated trees. Crowds are expected at capacity with a total of more than 150,000 visitors. Bring your family to see this exciting blend of the past with the present, plus new creations to help you create the Christmas spirit with your loved ones. Santa's Enchanted Forest Located at 7900 Bird Road, Miami, Fla., (305-893-0090) Santa's Enchanted Forest is considered the World's Largest Christmas Theme Park. This holiday spectacular includes a free carnival with the admission price. The centerpiece of the park is a 92-foot tall Christmas tree. The park features a petting zoo, 100-plus rides, and shows. There are also pony rides, and you can visit the workshop to see Santa. There are over 3 million lights in the trees above, twinkling over all the holiday sounds and sights you'll see. This park sets the right mood for festive holiday fun. The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade The Winterfest Boat Parade started in 1971 and has become so popular that more than a million people line up to watch it every year.  Located on the Intracoastal Waterway of Fort Lauderdale, this holiday celebration, to be held this year on Dec. 10, consists of a parade of boats and yachts that are festively decorated. The boats' owners dedicate months of their time to getting everything perfect for this event in order to please and amaze the huge crowds that attend. Contact information: 512 Northeast 3rd Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla., 954-767-0686, www.winterfestparade.com. Zoo Lights This holiday event happens at Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St., Miami, Fla. 305-251-0400, www.miamimetrozoo.com. Zoo Miami also has special holiday events at night for the holiday season. The zoo will be decorated with bright animal-shaped lights. You can look forward to having some hot chocolate, getting free 3D glasses and hearing holiday songs.