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Winterizing your car is akin to protecting your investment. With proper care and maintenance, your vehicle can make it through another winter unscathed. more Check the Engine Oil While you most often think about having enough oil, the question to ask as winter approaches is whether you have the correct type of oil. 5W-30 motor oil has a lower viscosity than 20W-50 motor oil and will flow more freely in cold weather. If you've been using 20W-50 motor oil throughout the rest of the year, it's time to make a change. If the engine oil is too thick, it will make it difficult for the engine to turn over in cold weather. The good news is that 5W-30 oil is recommended for year-round use in most vehicles, so there's no need to alternate between the two once you've made the switch to the lower viscosity variety. Be cautious about choosing anything with a viscosity that's lower than recommended in the owner's manual for your vehicle, though. Oil that runs too thin may not provide sufficient lubrication and protection for your car's engine. Change the Oil Filter The motor oil is not the only factor that weighs heavily on winter performance. Having the correct type of oil filter in the winter is crucial. Lower temperatures mean thicker motor oil, and thicker motor oil means greater pressure on the oil filter, especially at start up. If a filter is not high-quality, it may not be able to sustain the large increases in pressure that occur in the winter and fail at the weakest spot. Filters with too fine of a filtering screen do not allow oil to pass through as easily as it should in cold weather, resulting in limited lubrication. Check the owner's manual that came with your vehicle or speak with a qualified mechanic to determine the best type of filter for your make and model. Consider the Age of Your Battery Most car batteries don't last much longer than two to five years, depending on use and the model. Cold temperatures can affect battery performance. If your battery is nearing the four-year or five-year mark, it might be wise to replace it now. Always inspect the battery cables, hold-down brackets, and trays. Signs of erosion could spell a dead battery in the near future. Inspect the Timing Belt A broken timing belt presents a greater challenge in the winter, when being stranded does not just mean a minor inconvenience, but a potentially life-threatening situation in some parts of the United States. Cold weather can cause timing belts to stretch and wear sooner than expected due to the expansion and contraction caused by extreme temperatures. Inspect the timing belt on your vehicle and replace it if it's nearing the manufacturer recommended interval or showing signs of wear. These are just a few of the components you can check when getting your vehicle in top shape for winter. With careful maintenance and the help of an experienced mechanic, you'll be able to keep your vehicle running in sun and snow for years to come.

The holidays are a time of heightened emotions and frenetic activity and with that comes distraction on the road. To keep you and your family safe this winter, consider these safe driving tips for holiday travel. more Expect the Best, Prepare for the Worst Before you even set out on your trip, take time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the long haul. Visually inspect your vehicle and tires, and take any concerns to your preferred mechanic. If your car is due for an oil change or another routine service soon, it's better to get it done before hitting the road. Plan your preferred route in advance but have one or two alternate routes in mind, especially if you'll be driving during peak travel hours. You might also want to consider leaving a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member who will not be traveling with you. Be sure to charge your cell phone and pack an extra charger in case you end up staying the night somewhere. If you carry a roadside assistance plan through your auto insurance company, make sure you understand how to contact them in the event of an emergency. Get Your Rest Last-minute shopping, non-stop baking and cooking, and stress from minor family feuds can all zap your energy during the holiday season. Make sure you are well-rested and ready to tackle the drive if you get behind the wheel.  Don't feel as though you've failed if you find yourself nodding off or needing to take more breaks than usual to stay alert. Do the safe thing and pull over to a spot away from traffic, or find a hotel to stay in for the evening. Keep Distractions to a Minimum Rowdy children, cell phones, and even singing along to your favorite tune on the radio can spell disaster under the wrong circumstances. You have an obligation to make sure you stay as focused as possible when driving. Put your phone out of arm's reach in a suitcase or the glove box. If you must make a phone call or pick up an incoming call, pull over to a traffic-free zone. Drive Defensively in Winter Weather In most parts of the United States, winter weather can create an icy obstacle course that drivers must contend with during the holiday season. The danger is compounded when roads are busier and other drivers' patience is at a minimum. Stash winter driving essentials in your vehicle to avoid getting stuck or running into a situation where you are without heat. Stow the following items in your trunk or cargo area: Ice scraper Bag of salt, cat litter, or sand for traction control Flashlights and spare batteries Jumper cables Non-perishable snack foods Water or a cup for holding and melting snow Blankets and warm mittens; extra clothes First-aid kit Emergency flares or pop-up triangles With a little preparation and proactive vehicle maintenance, traveling during the holiday season can be a pleasurable experience and a time to create memories. Take advantage of this safe driving advice and you'll arrive safely to your holiday destination.

The Kia brand is making a name for itself with top-selling models like the Forte, Sorento, and Soul. Reliable performance, easy handling, smart safety, and technology are the signature of these standout models. more Forte The Kia Forte is the perfect starter car for anyone looking for a comfortable compact sedan. It's available in 4-door and 5-door hatchback options and offers built-in Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto capabilities for safe, hands-free calling and messaging. The Kia Forte also comes in a "Koup" edition for those who crave a sportier drive. Parents of teen drivers and families looking for a reliable second commuter car should consider how a Forte might fit their budget and their focus on safety. Soul The Kia Soul is the perfect size for the parent who wants something a bit more robust than your standard economy sedan for a new teen driver. It also appeals to adults who require some cargo capacity, but aren't interested in a standard SUV. The way the front seats are positioned in the vehicle allows for ample legroom for taller drivers. The Soul is a fun, comfortable drive with decent gas mileage at 31 mpg for highway driving. Optima Like the Soul, the Optima is known for its legroom for taller drivers. It's also considered Kia's luxury model. The higher-end trims include leather seating with heated front seats, an optional ten-speaker sound system, power folding and heated outside mirrors, and a sleek Smart Welcome package that detects your Smart Key and unfolds the outside mirrors automatically while turning on the door pocket lights. Those who enjoy a first-class driving experience should opt for a test drive in a new Optima. The Optima is also available as a hybrid that offers up to 40 mpg for highway driving. Sorento The Kia Sorento is your standard family SUV, but with a whole lot more to offer. If family travel is a must for you, check out the Kia Sorento. Dual-zone vents and ventilated seating keep everyone comfortable during long drives. Another key feature of the Sorento is its adaptability. The standard model comes equipped with seating for five, but you can opt to add a third row of seating to accommodate up to seven passengers. When not needed, the third row can be folded down for convenience, giving you a full 73 cubic feet of cargo space. Sportage The Kia Sportage is Kia's answer to the crossover market. It's more compact than the Sorento and suited to small families or adventurous adults who need room for a lot of gear. The base model comes with plenty of technology, including a rear-camera display, Bluetooth wireless hands-free connectivity, and steering-wheel mounted audio phone controls. As with the Sorento, the rear seats fold down for easy changes to the cargo area. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, consider a test drive at Gunther Kia today. You're bound to find the right model to fit your needs and preferences, and with Kia's standard 5 year, 60,000 mile warranty, you know you are getting the dependability of a major international brand.   Photo by Kia

The 2017 Kia Sorento is an SUV designed with family in mind. Roomy cargo space, flexible seating options, and a host of safety features make the Kia Sorento the go-to vehicle for your next purchase. Check out this vehicle before your next annual holiday road trip or summer getaway. more Safety in Mind The 2017 Kia Sorento earned the highest distinction among vehicles for its safe design, winning an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ award. With the front crash prevention package, the vehicle earned a superior rating for crash avoidance and mitigation, in addition to high marks in a host of crash testing scenarios. If family safety is paramount to you when choosing your next car or SUV, the Kia Sorrento is a top contender. A lane departing warning system and advanced smart cruise control keep you safely in control of the vehicle during long drives, while the hill-start assist control (HAC) and vehicle stability management system (VSM) make for safe winter driving on uneven or icy surfaces. The all-wheel drive option allows for safe driving in snow or on the beach. Comfort and Adaptability Buying a Kia Sorento means flexibility to choose from one of two seating configurations. The Sorento comes standard with two rows of seating for five, but with an optional third row of seats you can accommodate up to seven passengers. With an additional row, you'll get the convenience of sliding second-row seats to make room for your third-row passengers as they get in and out of the vehicle. Third-row seats also fold down if it's just you and the immediate family and you need more cargo space on a long drive. Fitting in all your essentials alongside your family is doable, with a full-size stroller, foldable crib, and multiple pieces of luggage fitting into 73 cubic feet of cargo space. And with 41 to 39 inches of spacious leg room for front and second-row passengers, comfortably seating the whole family for the long haul is now a reality. Heating and ventilation are available in first and second-row seating, and targeted vents throughout the vehicle help keep everyone comfortable during summer excursions and holiday drives. Reliability for the Long Road With Kia's track record of reliable performance and quality manufacturing, as well as its 60,000-mile, 5-year warranty, you can rest assured that you won't need to worry about roadside assistance on your next family vacation. Smart features like built-in pull-down shades and multiple USB ports in the second row show that Kia had family in mind when designing this vehicle. An electrical outlet in the back cargo space also allows you to charge essentials like a laptop or camp stove when traveling. It's clear that Kia has given a lot of thought to the design of the Kia Sorento. If you need a vehicle that can accommodate your growing family and keep everyone comfortable during your next big road trip, consider the Sorento for its adaptability and smart comfort features like ventilated seating and adjustable cargo space.   Photo by Kia

With all the scheduled maintenance that goes in to keeping your car in top shape, it's easy to overlook some of the simpler and less costly maintenance routines you should consider to keep your car on the road for as long as possible. If you've never had a coolant flush done and want to know why it's important, read on. more Cooling System Basics Your car's cooling system is what keeps your car engine from running too hot and overheating. If you've ever seen a car on the side of the road, hood up with smoke billowing, a neglected cooling system could have been to blame. Low coolant levels or a clogged cooling system can lead to the check engine light turning on and unnecessary worry and repair. Staying on top of routine cooling system maintenance can save you from more costly engine repairs in the future. Certain types of damage from an overheated engine are irreversible, so keeping your car's engine adequately cooled with proper care is a must. How It Works The cooling system works by circulating a mixture of coolant and water through the engine. After enough miles, though, and even after sitting dormant in a garage, the coolant mixture absorbs scale and rust from engine parts and can eventually clog or circulate less freely. A coolant system flush consists of emptying and cleaning the entire system so it is free of contaminants and replacing the mixture with fresh coolant and water. Essentially, a coolant flush consists of draining, cleaning, rinsing and refilling the coolant chamber. First your mechanic will add a flush chemical to the existing fluid to begin the descaling process. Next, he or she will drain and safely dispose of the old fluid after it is run through the entire system at operating temperature. The system is then flushed with a coolant cleaner, and rinsed thoroughly with water. Your mechanic will add fresh fluid back and check for leaks. You'll be set to get your car back on the road in less than an hour in most cases. How Often Is a Coolant Flush Needed? How often your vehicle will require a coolant flush depends on the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle, but a general rule of thumb is every three years, regardless of mileage, or 30,000 to 50,000 miles. A coolant flush performed by a trustworthy mechanic will typically run you between $100 to $150. Some factors that can affect the final price are the amount and type of coolant needed, the age of the vehicle, and whether a flush has been performed routinely or if there is minor damage and build-up from lack of care. For those who are brave enough and have some mechanical experience, a flush can be done in your home garage. Taking care of your car with routine maintenance like a coolant flush doesn't have to be inconvenient or costly. A visit to your local dealer will have you in and out the door quickly and with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you avoided more costly repairs down the road.

Fall in Florida is what locals live for. The temps have cooled off, the school-aged tourist crowd has gone home, while the snowbirds have yet to arrive. It's the ideal time to get out and enjoy some fun. While the Sunshine State might be missing the fall strolls through chilly apple orchards, what it does have makes up for it, like wearing Halloween costumes without a heavy coat. But there's a lot more to Florida falls than that. Check out these ideas for things to do in Fort Lauderdale: more Catch an Event Ft. Lauderdale hosts a number of events in October including its Pride Festival, the Los Olas Art Fair, and the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is held in the beginning of November and it's a must-see. Fort Lauderdale is known as the "Yachting Capital of the World" and this event has been held every year for over half a century. The admission is almost as steep as the yachts at $28 per day for adults. There are multi-day passes available. Stroll Los Olas Boulevard As the temps dip into the low 80s and the humidity declines, people enjoy strolling along Los Olas Boulevard, which is home to plenty of dining and shopping amidst its old-world charm of Mediterranean-inspired architecture. For something different, take a food and cruise tour. Enjoy the local history on foot, taking some time to sample food from several restaurants along the New River, and then drink mojitos from the deck of the boat as you drift past Millionaire's Row and wonder what it's like to live among those beautiful properties. Visit the Everglades Fall is also the ideal time to visit the Everglades because the temps begin to drop. If you're there to see alligators, in fall you'll see more basking on the sunny banks instead of taking to the waters. For more fun, catch an air boat tour over the "River of Grass" and watch a gator show. In addition to alligators, you may see turtles, manatees, snakes, raccoons, and a number of beautiful birds including the majestic bald eagle. You can also try the nighttime gator tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park. Catch a Taxi Nowhere else on the globe is catching a taxi more enjoyable than boarding one of Fort Lauderdale's water taxis. Cruise by expensive homes and hop on and off at 20 points of interest around the city. If you're looking for something a little more private, try one of Fort Lauderdale's romantic gondolas. Nicknamed "Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale's many canals make it an enjoyable way to explore this beautiful city. Fall is a spectacular time to visit Fort Lauderdale and enjoy the outdoors. The crowds are smaller and the humidity is more bearable. You'll also find the temperature delightful. Even though hurricane season extends through the end of November, most of the activity in the late fall is on the Gulf side of Florida so your chances for running into a big storm are reduced but it's something to keep in mind when planning.

Tourists are important to a city's economy. However, when you're trying to enjoy a nice day out with your friends and family, you may not want to be surrounded by a bunch of out-of-towners with their cameras pointed here and there. Instead, you may want to go somewhere only the locals know about and enjoy a simple, quiet excursion without all the crowds. Here are four tourist-free locations in Fort Lauderdale that you'll love. more Hut Lounge Most tourists aren't yet awake and buzzing around town before 10 a.m., so this is one of the best times to go out and enjoy Ft. Lauderdale without the commotion of hundreds of visiting looky-loos. Head on over to the Hut Lounge, which opens at 7 a.m. Located at 1021 Seminole Drive, the Hut Lounge is easy to miss, which keeps the tourists at bay. Just look for the small sign that simply reads "HUT," and you'll find amazing drinks, arcade games, pool, and a wealth of knick-knacks collected from the owner's travels adorning the walls. Kim's Alley Bar The best places to hide from tourists are the places no tourist would ever think to look. Kim's Alley Bar is just such a place, tucked safely away in Gateway Shopping Plaza at 1920 E. Sunrise Boulevard. Founded more than sixty years ago, Kim's is a place only the locals frequent. Step inside for inexpensive drinks, great music, pool tables, and fun company. Pirate Republic Seafood Grill & Bar What's better than dinner and a show? At the Pirate Republic Seafood Grill and Bar, you'll get an amazing, low-key atmosphere and great food. As a special treat, stop by on a Sunday, and you'll get to indulge in the Caribbean Poolside all-you-can-eat barbecue and live music. The Pirate Republic Seafood Grill and Bar is smartly situated on the New River, which offers gorgeous views and a natural barrier between you and the tourists who flock to the riverwalk across the way. Village Well Love happy hour but hate having to squeeze all the fun into a short amount of time? Then head on over to the Village Well, where happy hour lasts from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every single day. No need to worry about missing your window of happiness when you get eight hours of cheap drinks and great bar food. Come during the day and get some work done with the free Wi-Fi or stop by in the evening to watch the game on several big screen TVs. If you're feeling brave, come on a Sunday when liquid courage turns into an unbelievable night of karaoke. Don't worry — hidden at 1023 SE 17 th Street Causeway, the Village Well is unknown to tourists and spring breakers. Ft. Lauderdale is a haven for spring breakers, tourists, and inland Floridians. Don't let rowdy tourists ruin your good times, though. Appreciate everything your lovely city has to offer and check out these amazing local gems. You'll get to meet new locals and forget about the visitors for a while.

We've all heard about hybrid cars and how they're going to save the environment. But now, after hybrids have evolved over the automotive generations, there are far more incentives to choose a hybrid over a gas-powered car. Here are four reasons you should be driving a hybrid. Equal To or Better Than Gas The first concern most people have when they consider switching to a hybrid vehicle is that they may lose the power and performance that gas-powered engines deliver. This is far from true, however. Hybrid vehicles perform just as well as the leading gas-powered family vehicles. What's more, hybrid vehicles are just as safe, if not safer, than gas-powered vehicles. Not only are hybrid vehicles designed with the highest safety ratings in mind, but they carry around far less flammable fuel than a gas-powered vehicle. So don't worry about compromising on performance or safety when you switch to a hybrid. more The Sound of Silence Do you ever get frustrated about how loud you have to turn your stereo or your Bluetooth phone call to hear it over your engine? This won't be a problem if you drive a hybrid. Choose a hybrid vehicle, and you will no longer have to battle the noise of your engine as you accelerate or simply drive along at freeway speeds. Hybrid motors are almost silent and won't drown out your favorite music or that important (hands-free) phone call. A Fatter Wallet Perhaps the most compelling reason to buy a hybrid vehicle is the countless dollars you will save on gas. Sure, gas prices have been relatively low in 2016, but history has shown that low gas prices are never around for very long. If you commute to work or take the kids to school and various activities, you know the pain of watching your fuel tank gage slowly drop. Switch to a hybrid vehicle, and you'll get to stretch every penny to get the most out of your hard-earned dollars. Lower Secondary Costs Not only do hybrid vehicles save you money at the pump, but there are other financial benefits, too. First, if you purchase a hybrid vehicle that was manufactured in or after 2010, you could get a major tax break on your federal tax returns. In fact, the federal government is offering people up to $7,500 (the final benefit amount depends on the capacity of your hybrid's battery). Check with your state government to see if you can double dip for even more savings. Second, most hybrid vehicles are less expensive to insure. Depending on your automotive insurance provider, you could save between $1,500 and $2,400 for insuring a hybrid vehicle instead of a gas-powered vehicle. So if saving money appeals to you, hybrids deliver in more ways than one. Hybrid vehicles are relatively new to the world of car-buying options. It seems like every year there's a new and improved hybrid model out on the market. While hybrid vehicles continue to gain in popularity, efficiency, and affordability, there's never a better time to switch to a hybrid than now. Start cashing in on all of these compelling reasons to drive a hybrid today.

When you think of Ft. Lauderdale, you inevitably think of water. Crisp, cool breezes coming off the magnificent Atlantic Ocean beckon you to splash around and have some fun. While you may be content simply basking in the warm sun on one of Ft. Lauderdale's stunning beaches, your wild side may want something involving a bit more adrenaline. There's certainly no shortage of water activities in Ft. Lauderdale, so it can be hard to decide which ones to do first. To make it easier for you, here are our top four favorite water activities in Ft. Lauderdale. more Take a Cruise With such beautiful, sweeping views of the ocean, you can't help but crave the water. For around $20 per adult, you and your loved ones can get a marvelous hour-long tour of Ft. Lauderdale from the sea. If you're looking for something a little more luxurious, make reservations aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat. On this dinner and sightseeing tour, you will enjoy unbelievable barbecue meals, fantastic entertainment, and all the majesty the ocean has to offer. Go Fishing Ft. Lauderdale is a popular destination for people interested in fishing. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman who loves to explore new locations or you're an adventurous newbie looking to feel your way around the sport, Ft. Lauderdale has just the thing. Head to the Florida Everglades for incredible bass fishing or step aboard the Lady Pamela II for some deep sea sport fishing. Adopt a catch and release motto or bring home some choice filets for dinner and make your trip truly memorable. Encounter Florida Wildlife In Ft. Lauderdale, mankind meets the animal kingdom up close and personal. If you're daring enough to venture into the wild, check out the Everglades Airboat Tour and Alligator Show. You'll speed through the crystal blue waters before hopping across the "River of Grass." Next, you'll get to see one of nature's most ferocious species, the American alligator. Watch Animal Planet's Gator Boys demonstrate stunts and teach you all there is to know about this powerful creature. Go Amphibious Imagine driving a tour bus right into Ft. Lauderdale harbor. Impossible, right? Not for the Duck Boat. Ft. Lauderdale's Duck Boat City Tours are famous for mesmerizing locals and tourists alike. Take a tour around the gorgeous Ft. Lauderdale city streets in the bus version of the Duck Boat, followed by a dip in the ocean as the Duck Boat morphs into a water vessel. For less than $35 per person, you can be a passenger on this amphibious tour bus and see all the best parts of Ft. Lauderdale on land and water. The entire tour lasts an hour and a half and is a thrill for adults and children alike. Ft. Lauderdale is synonymous with excitement. Add in the myriad water activities available in Ft. Lauderdale and you have an action-packed vacation ahead of you. Whether you love to take a relaxing cruise and enjoy fine dining or you prefer action packed fishing and wildlife encounters, you'll find just the thing to tickle your fancy in Ft. Lauderdale.

Whether you are into smart infotainment technologies, advanced driver assistance systems, efficiency, or are just an aficionado of stylish automotive design, you will be dying to test drive one of the new Kias, as this automaker's lineup delivers across the board. more Sportage The 2017 Sportage manages to achieve the rare feat of looking good while not sacrificing the utility portion of its mission. The Sportage has gone through a complete redesign for the 2017 model year, making it one of the most competitive and sharp-looking vehicles in its segment. With seating for five, it is available in three trim levels, with both traditional four-cylinder and turbo power available. In base LX form, it boasts split folding rear seats, allowing this small crossover room to do serious cargo hauling duty. A standard touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and rear seat climate vents make even the entry level Sportage a well-equipped vehicle. Opt for the EX to get 18-inch wheels, fog lights, leather seating, leather steering wheel, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Kia's Uvo Infotainment system. The SX Turbo rides on 19-inch wheels, boasts LED lighting, and is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that cranks out 240 horsepower. Sorento The Sorento is a Kia success story, one that drivers are dying to take for a test drive due to its wide range of trims, numerous technology options, and turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 engines. With available seating for up to seven adults, this is a midsize sport utility vehicle that does not fail to deliver. The base L model has a comfortable, quiet cabin replete with folding reclining second-row seating, Bluetooth connectivity, and an audio system with multiple inputs and satellite radio capability. The LX features roof rails for additional cargo capacity, and a windshield that actively reduces road and wind noise. The EX features sound-reducing glass on the front sides as well and rides on 18-inch wheels. Blind spot monitoring, turbo power, and a panoramic sunroof are available. The SX rides on unique 19-inch wheels, sports LED lighting, and keeps the music pumping by way of a premium 10-speaker sound system, while the SX Limited sees the addition of a truly upscale interior. Forte Drivers on a budget, but with a long list of desired options in their next ride, are excited to take a drive in the Forte, which is available as a coupe, sedan, or hatchback, and features a long list of available equipment. The 2.0-liter engine gives the compact Forte brisk acceleration, while an available 1.6-liter turbo makes it truly fast. Even in base trim, the Forte is well-equipped, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, and an attractive design. Take advantage of available options and drivers can equip this value priced vehicle with such high-end options as ventilated seating, xenon headlights, and keyless ignition. From an unexpectedly upscale sedan to a stylish urban commuter or a cutting edge crossover, these Kia models give those who love to drive something to get excited about by bringing together attractive looks and capable engines with technology traditionally reserved for luxury marques.

Everyone knows that the beaches at Ft. Lauderdale are great, but visiting a pool instead can mean a much more laid-back experience on crowded beach days. Also, going to the pool offers a lot more opportunities to stay safe, cool, and shaded on oppressively hot days. So tell Mr. Sun to take a hike for the day and get your swim on at one of these refreshing and fun pools in Ft. Lauderdale. more Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium Central Broward Regional Park is about 7.5 miles east of the Ft. Lauderdale Beach in Lauderhill, but the short trip is well worth it for anyone with water-loving kids. In addition to a lifeguard-monitored family pool and an instructional pool equipped with swimming lanes, children can enjoy the sprawling Tropical Splash water playgrounds. These two colorful facilities — one for younger children and one for older — are a blast for kids as well as their parents. They boast features like water slides, fountains, playhouses, and a massive water-dumping bucket. Website Address: 3700 N.W. 11th Place, Lauderhill, FL 33311 Cost: $5.25/person per session or day, $40 season pass Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex is a gorgeous, competition-style swimming pool facility located in the midst of the Las Olas Marina. Anyone who loves swimming laps would have a blast there enjoying their facilities. They include an 18-foot diving well, large locker rooms, showers, 50-meter swimming lanes and professional time keeping devices. Website Address: 501 Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 Cost: $5/person per session, $24 seven-day pass Pelican Grand Beach Resort The Pelican Grand Beach Resort lives up to its luxurious name by offering one of the nicest beachside pool experiences in the city. Enjoy the zero-entry pool, or sunbathe on the deck chairs with your exclusive view of a private beach. Take your relaxation to the next level at the lazy river, or cool off with drinks at the OCEAN2000 lounge nearby. Website Address: 2000 North Ocean Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33305 Cost: Guests only, Rooms from $296/night Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club If you are looking for true pampering, you could do far worse than the Lago Mar. This exclusive seaside resort and club offers 2,000 feet of picturesque private beach and a breathtaking seaside pool. Its location in the secluded harbor Beach neighborhood also means dealing with less crowds. Lago Mar also offers a second lap pool for those that want to exercise before wading around the palm-tree-shaded resort pool. feeling like royalty. Tiki bars, a playground, and beachside activities like a giant chess set also ensure that you will never have the same experience twice. Website Address: 1700 S Ocean Ln Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 Cost: Rooms from $255/night, Yearly membership from $1,800 Enjoy the Best Pools in Ft. Lauderdale to Stay Cool This Summer! Whether you opt for a day pass at one of the amazing public access pools or go for the full-service treatment at the opulent resorts, these four pools offer an enticing alternative to just another day at the beach.

Ft. Lauderdale may boast some incredibly hip and modern facilities these days, but the city also happens to be steeped in history. The Tequesta Native American tribe lived there for over 2,000 years before the first European explorers arrived, for example. After that point, settlers have continually occupied the area to this day, including the builders of the original fort the city was named after. Visitors and residents of Ft. Lauderdale can enjoy this history by taking a look at one of the following beautiful and fascinating historical sites in the city: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens The Bonnet House was the first Ft. Lauderdale site listed on the National Register of Historic Places when it was added in 1984. Originally purchased by wealthy Chicago lawyer Hugh Taylor Birch in 1895, the property was gifted to his daughter Helen and her husband, Frederic Clay Bartlett. An artist by trade, Bartlett decided to use the property to construct a winter home in 1920 for his spouse. He ensured that the home was rife with unique architecture and stately grounds that could provide a picturesque habitat for native plants and animals. Bartlett's second wife, Evelyn, donated the property to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in 1983. It is now open to the public as a museum, art gallery, and scenic garden. It also serves as a rental venue and a host for Ft. Lauderdale events, like the annual Orchid Festival. more Los Olas Boulevard With its vibrant night clubs, restaurants, art galleries, and boutique stores, Los Olas Boulevard provides enough interest to be a popular attraction for locals and tourists on its own. Yet, its rich history and period architecture lend even more character to the area. First built in 1917, the boulevard was originally a dirt road that cut through swampy wetlands. Developers then dredged the area in 1920, quickly turning it into valuable property and making way for a gorgeous waterfront residential district. Following WWII and continuing to this day, many of the properties were converted into mixed-use developments with high-end shops on the ground floor and valuable homes atop. Famous former residents include singer Connie Francis, Sonny and Cher, Lucille Ball, and her husband Desi Arnaz. Visitors now can enjoy a host of upscale establishments, including the famous Elbo Room Bar, as well as yearly events like the Los Olas Art Fair. Stranahan House Frank and Ivy Stranahan arguably helped make Ft. Lauderdale the bustling economic area it is today when they first built their trading post in 1901. At the time, few people lived in the region, enabling the Stranahans to enjoy a monopoly on trade with Seminole Indians and passers-by. The trading post was converted into a home in 1906, and it remains faithfully preserved to this day. This preservation makes the Stranahan House the oldest standing structure in Broward County. Visitors can enjoy a guided home tour led by knowledgeable docents. They can also participate in the famous River Ghost boat tour on Sunday nights for an eventful jaunt through Ft. Lauderdale's nearby riverways. Enjoy These and Other Incredible Historic Locations to Visit in Ft. Lauderdale Alongside these three amazing places, you can visit the Ft. Lauderdale Historical Society & Museum, the elegant Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, the Ft. Lauderdale Antique Car Museum and many more nearby attractions to immerse yourself in history for a fun, memorable afternoon.