Discovering the perfect day trips from Fort Lauderdale opens up a world of extraordinary adventures in Southern Florida. The Venice of America serves as an ideal launching point for unforgettable experiences, from thrilling airboat rides through the Everglades to quick getaways to pristine beaches along the coast. The area’s strategic location makes it perfect for exploring natural wonders, cultural hotspots, and tropical escapes, all within a comfortable drive.
๐ Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
- ๐ Luxury Hotel: The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale
- โจ 5-Star: Atlantic Resort Spa
- ๐จ 4-Star: Sonesta Fort Lauderdale
- ๐๏ธ 3-Star: Angela S Beach Resort
- ๐ธ Cheap: Ocean Drive Villas
- ๐ข Apartament: Bayview Regency
- ๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ For Families: Flbr By Vacatia
- ๐ฉ For Couples: Riverside
๐ Best Guided Tours from Fort Lauderdale
- Everglades VIP Tour with Transportation Included from โฌ60 (โญ4.6/5)
- Fort Lauderdale to Key West Tour from โฌ110 (โญ4.2/5)
- Everglades Adventure from โฌ280 (โญ4.9/5)
- Small-Group Tour: Everglades Adventure Day Trip from Ft Lauderdale from โฌ220 (โญ4.8/5)
Fort Lauderdale’s surrounding attractions offer everything from budget-friendly nature excursions to luxurious coastal experiences. The nearby destinations include the vibrant marine life of Biscayne National Park, the unique wildlife of Big Cypress National Preserve, and the picturesque beaches of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. These easy day trips provide endless opportunities for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and creating memorable experiences in the beautiful Florida sunshine.
Best Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
1. ๐ Sawgrass Recreation Park & Everglades Holiday Park
Visit duration: 4-6 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (28 miles/45 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Wild Encounters: I can’t imagine a better introduction to Florida’s wild side than these two remarkable Everglades destinations. Sawgrass Recreation Park houses an intimate wildlife sanctuary where visitors can observe rescued Florida natives, from gentle tortoises to magnificent panthers. Everglades Holiday Park brings extra excitement with its world-famous Gator Boys team demonstrations, showcasing these prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat.
Adventure Options: Your exploration begins with adrenaline-pumping airboat rides, skimming across sawgrass marshes while expert captains share fascinating ecosystem insights. The parks’ live alligator shows demonstrate these prehistoric creatures’ power and agility, while professional handlers explain their crucial role in the wetlands’ balance. Night tours reveal a completely different Everglades, where red-eyed alligators and nocturnal birds create an ethereal atmosphere.
Visitor Essentials: Combined park passes cost โฌ45 ($50), including airboat tours and wildlife shows. The Gator Grill serves local specialties like gator bites and key lime pie.
โญ Best Activities
- Everglades Adventure: Experience the Everglades Adventure, a thrilling tour that takes you deep into Florida’s unique wetlands. This unforgettable experience includes an exhilarating airboat ride where visitors can spot alligators and vibrant wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Weston Sawgrass Recreation Park Adventure Package Ticket: Experience the Weston Sawgrass Recreation Park Adventure Package, which offers an exciting day filled with outdoor activities in Florida’s stunning wetlands. This package includes thrilling airboat rides through the Everglades, where visitors can spot alligators and diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
โญ 40-Minute Everglades Airboat Rideย – Check availability of tickets
2. ๐๏ธ Bimini
Visit duration: 8-10 hours / Travel duration: 2 hours (50 miles/80 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Tropical Paradise: Bimini is a stunning Bahamian destination just a short ferry ride from Fort Lauderdale. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, this tropical escape offers an unforgettable experience for day-trippers looking to soak up the sun. The island’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, allowing visitors to explore colorful coral reefs teeming with unique wildlife.
Island Adventures: The Bimini Fast Ferry provides convenient transportation, whisking travelers away in just two hours. Once on the island, opportunities abound for relaxation on beautiful white sand beaches or indulging in delicious local cuisine at charming beachfront restaurants. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy deep sea fishing, kayaking, and thrilling jet ski rides, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.
Visitor Essentials: Round-trip ferry tickets cost approximately โฌ70 ($80), with various tour packages available for snorkeling and diving experiences. Local eateries serve fresh seafood and Bahamian specialties, ensuring a delightful culinary experience during the visit.
โญ Best Activities
Day Trip to Bimini: Experience the Day Trip to Bimini, a fantastic getaway that transports travelers from Fort Lauderdale to this beautiful Bahamian island in just two hours. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, relaxing on stunning white sand beaches, and indulging in delicious local cuisine.
3. ๐๏ธ Biscayne National Park Islands
Visit duration: 6-8 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (40 miles/64 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Island Paradise: Let me tell you about these incredible islands that feel worlds away from mainland Florida. Elliott and Adams Keys stand as pristine sanctuaries within Biscayne’s aquatic wonderland, where ancient coral reefs tell stories of prehistoric seas. These former coconut plantations have transformed into natural preserves, serving as crucial nesting grounds for sea turtles and countless migratory birds.
Water Adventures: The park’s water trails wind through secluded coves and mangrove tunnels teeming with juvenile fish. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal the Maritime Heritage Trail’s shipwrecks, while guided snorkeling excursions showcase parrotfish, butterflyfish, and occasional nurse sharks around the coral reefs.
Essential Information: Island ferry service costs โฌ35 ($40) round-trip, with snorkeling gear rentals at โฌ20 ($25). The Biscayne Underwater visitor center provides detailed marine life guides and tide charts.
4. ๐ฟ Big Cypress Swamp Trails
Visit duration: 5-7 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (70 miles/112 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Natural Sanctuary: I’d describe Big Cypress as Florida’s true wild heart, where nature rules undisturbed. The Turner River Road corridor offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities, where river otters play in crystal-clear waters and rare ghost orchids bloom in summer months. This vast wilderness protects the largest stand of old-growth cypress trees in North America, creating an atmosphere of prehistoric Florida.
Trail Discoveries: The preserve’s raised boardwalks provide perfect vantage points for watching wood storks and roseate spoonbills feed in shallow prairies. The Florida Trail section challenges hikers with its remote beauty, while shorter nature trails like Kirby Storter Boardwalk provide accessible wilderness experiences with interpretive displays about the ecosystem.
Planning Tips: Trail access is free, but swamp buggy tours cost โฌ55 ($60) per person. The Big Cypress Welcome Center offers updated trail conditions and wildlife spotting reports.
Beach Day Trips Near Fort Lauderdale
1. ๐ John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park & Key Largo
Visit duration: 6-8 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (60 miles/97 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Underwater Paradise: I must tell you about America’s first underwater park, where an extraordinary marine world unfolds beneath the waves. The park protects 70 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove swamps, creating a vibrant underwater ecosystem. The famous Christ of the Abyss statue stands as a silent sentinel 25 feet below the surface, surrounded by schools of tropical fish.
Marine Adventures: The crystal-clear waters showcase living coral reefs where parrotfish, angelfish, and barracuda glide through elaborate formations of elkhorn and brain coral. Glass-bottom boat tours provide spectacular views of the reef system, while kayaking trails wind through mangrove-fringed coastlines where manatees often gather in cooler months.
Essential Details: Park entry costs โฌ8 ($10) per vehicle, with snorkeling trips starting at โฌ35 ($40) including gear. The Visitor Center Cafรฉ offers fresh seafood and waterfront views.
2. ๐๏ธ Pompano Beach
Visit duration: 4-6 hours / Travel duration: 15 minutes (8 miles/13 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Coastal Charm: This is the hidden gem of the Gold Coast, where the historic fishing pier stretches 1,000 feet into crystal-clear Atlantic waters. The beach’s pristine shoreline features warm, shallow waters and three miles of uninterrupted golden sand. Multiple artificial reefs lie just offshore, creating a unique ecosystem that attracts both fish and divers.
Beach Activities: The recently renovated beachfront promenade buzzes with life, offering everything from beach volleyball courts to interactive water fountains. The calm waters provide perfect conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking, while the pier attracts fishing enthusiasts hoping to catch snapper, mackerel, or kingfish.
Visitor Information: Beach parking costs โฌ15 ($18) per day, fishing pier access is โฌ6 ($7). The Beach House restaurant serves fresh catches with spectacular ocean views.
โญ Best Activities
Helicopter Tour: Ocean and City Views (20 minutes): Experience breathtaking views of Fort Lauderdale and its stunning coastline on this 20-minute helicopter tour. Soar above the ocean and city, capturing panoramic sights of the vibrant marine life and iconic landmarks below. This unforgettable adventure offers a unique perspective of the “Venice of America,” making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.
3. ๐ด West Palm Beach
Visit duration: 5-7 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (46 miles/74 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Urban Oasis: I’d describe West Palm Beach as where sophisticated city life meets tropical paradise. Historic Clematis Street pulses with energy, featuring Mediterranean Revival architecture housing artisan shops and farm-to-table restaurants. McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary provides intimate encounters with rescued Florida wildlife in a professional rehabilitation setting.
Cultural Experience: The Norton Museum of Art showcases world-class exhibitions in a stunning architectural setting surrounded by subtropical gardens. The Green Market (operating October through April) transforms the waterfront into a festive gathering of local artisans, fresh produce vendors, and live music.
Planning Tips: Downtown parking garages charge โฌ10 ($12) daily, while Wildlife Sanctuary tours cost โฌ35 ($40) per person. CityPlace offers covered parking and numerous dining options.
Cultural and Urban Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
1. โ๏ธ Little Havana & Miami Arts Districts
Visit duration: 5-6 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (30 miles/48 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Cuban Culture: Little Havana pulses with authentic Latin energy, where the aroma of Cuban coffee mingles with hand-rolled cigars. The neighborhood comes alive with small groups of locals playing dominoes, street art murals telling stories of immigration, and the constant rhythm of salsa music floating through the air.
Cultural Experience: The 2-hour walking tours immerse visitors in Cuban traditions, with stops for authentic pastries and fresh-pressed juice. Watch master craftsmen roll cigars by hand in traditional factories, while local art galleries showcase works that blend Caribbean and contemporary influences. Small Cuban-owned shops offer traditional fashion and authentic souvenirs.
Essential Details: Walking tours cost โฌ30 ($35) per person, including Cuban coffee and pastries. Local cafes and restaurants along Calle Ocho serve authentic Cuban cuisine at reasonable prices.
2. ๐จ Delray Beach Arts District
Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 45 minutes (32 miles/51 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Artistic Haven: Let me introduce you to Pineapple Grove, where creativity flows through every corner of this charming arts district. The area features an impressive collection of outdoor murals and sculptures that transform city walls into open-air galleries. The district houses numerous working artists’ studios, contemporary galleries, and the dynamic Arts Garage performance venue.
Urban Experience: The district’s heart beats along Atlantic Avenue, where art galleries neighbor farm-to-table restaurants and boutique shops. The Chamber of Commerce and various cultural centers contribute to the area’s sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Visitor Information: Most galleries are free to visit, with the Arts Garage performances starting at โฌ25 ($30). The area offers plenty of street parking and local dining options.
3. ๐ Historic Key West
Visit duration: 12-14 hours / Travel duration: 4 hours (180 miles/290 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Island Heritage: The southernmost city in continental USA offers a unique blend of history and laid-back island culture. The Ernest Hemingway House stands as a literary landmark, where six-toed cats roam the grounds just as they did in the author’s time. The home offers fascinating 30-minute guided tours that bring the writer’s legacy to life.
Downtown Culture: Duval Street runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, creating the backbone of Key West’s famous atmosphere. The street features historic buildings housing everything from upscale bistros to legendary bars like Sloppy Joe’s, opened in 1933. The nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square showcases street performers and local artisans.
Travel Tips: Entry to Hemingway House costs โฌ16 ($20) for adults, cash only. Consider joining organized tours from Fort Lauderdale, which typically cost โฌ169 ($199) including transportation and activities.
โญ Best Activities
Fort Lauderdale to Key West Tour: Embark on an unforgettable journey from Fort Lauderdale to Key West with this scenic tour. Experience breathtaking views as the tour passes iconic landmarks, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge and Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Family-Friendly Day Trips
1. ๐ฆฉ Flamingo Gardens
Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: 30 minutes (15 miles/24 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Natural Wonder: This stunning 60-acre botanical garden stands as a living testament to Florida’s natural heritage. The sanctuary houses one of the largest collections of native wildlife in the state, including flamingos, bobcats, and Florida panthers. The century-old live oak trees and tropical flowering plants create an enchanting environment that transports visitors to old Florida.
Garden Experience: The narrated tram tour winds through 42 acres of native wilderness, showcasing diverse ecosystems from hardwood hammocks to wetlands. The Everglades aviary houses one of the largest collections of wading birds in the country, while the wildlife sanctuary provides up-close encounters with rescued native animals.
Visitor Essentials: Entry costs โฌ22 ($25) for adults, โฌ15 ($17) for children, including tram tours. The Tropical Marketplace Cafรฉ offers family-friendly meals and refreshments.
โญย Flamingo Gardens – Check availability of tickets
1. ๐ฆ Zoo Miami
Visit duration: 4-6 hours / Travel duration: 45 minutes (25 miles/40 km from Fort Lauderdale)
Wildlife Wonderland: Zoo Miami stands as the largest zoo in Florida and a top destination for animal lovers visiting Southern Florida. Spanning 750 acres, this subtropical zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 500 species from around the world. Visitors can stroll along four miles of winding walkways, experiencing diverse habitats that recreate environments from the Amazon to Africa.
Interactive Experiences: The zoo offers a variety of engaging activities, including animal feedings and educational presentations throughout the day. Unique attractions like the Safari Tram Tours provide guided insights into the exhibits, while children can enjoy rides on the Wildlife Carousel or explore the interactive Critter Connection. This family-friendly environment ensures a memorable trip for visitors of all ages.
Visitor Essentials: Admission to Zoo Miami costs approximately โฌ22 ($25) for adults and โฌ18 ($20) for children. The zoo features several dining options, including Nourish 305 for fresh salads and flatbreads, ensuring that guests can refuel during their adventure.
โญ Zoo Miami – Check availability of tickets
Planning Your Day Trip from Fort Lauderdale
๐ Getting Around South Florida
Transportation Choices: South Florida’s extensive highway network makes driving the most flexible option for day trips, with I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike connecting all major destinations. Guided tours offer stress-free alternatives with expert commentary and convenient pickup locations, while the Tri-Rail system provides reliable public transportation between Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and West Palm Beach for budget-conscious travelers.
Travel Tips: Rental cars average โฌ45 ($50) daily with better rates for weekly rentals, while guided tours range from โฌ75-150 ($85-175) per person. Public transport day passes cost โฌ12 ($15), offering unlimited rides on trains and connecting buses.
๐ Optimal Visiting Times
Seasonal Considerations: Florida’s prime visiting season runs from November through April, offering pleasant temperatures and lower humidity perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months bring afternoon thunderstorms and larger crowds at indoor attractions, while shoulder seasons (October and May) provide an ideal balance of good weather and smaller crowds.
Planning Strategy: Early morning visits (8-10 AM) to outdoor attractions avoid both crowds and afternoon heat, while indoor venues are best enjoyed during peak afternoon hours. Holiday periods, especially Christmas through Spring Break, require advance reservations for most guided tours and popular attractions.
๐ฆ Essential Packing Guide
Weather Protection: Florida’s subtropical climate demands strategic packing with moisture-wicking clothing, water-resistant sunscreen (minimum SPF 30), and polarized sunglasses. A light rain jacket or umbrella proves invaluable during summer afternoon showers, while comfortable walking shoes are essential for any destination.
Day Trip Necessities: A refillable water bottle, insect repellent, and a small cooler for snacks help maintain comfort throughout the day. Photography enthusiasts should pack extra batteries and memory cards, while beach destinations require towels, change of clothes, and waterproof bags for electronics.
โ FAQ
What are the best nature-focused day trips from Fort Lauderdale?
The perfect day trip for nature lovers includes the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park, both a short drive away from Fort Lauderdale. These unforgettable experiences offer thrilling airboat rides, unique wildlife viewing, and natural splendor. Biscayne Bay National Park, just south of the coastal city, provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, showcasing vibrant marine life and nearby islands.
What are the closest beach destinations for a quick getaway?
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and Deerfield Beach offer pristine beaches and oceanfront activities just north of Fort Lauderdale. These beautiful beaches are ideal spots for a tropical escape, complete with white sand beaches and breathtaking views. The area is also home to excellent snorkeling sites and deep sea fishing opportunities.
How can I experience the “Venice of America” in one day?
The New River and Fort Lauderdale’s waterways offer memorable trips through the city’s iconic landmarks. The Water Taxi provides a welcoming atmosphere and allows visitors to explore the area’s picturesque canals, with stops at various attractions. This budget-friendly option is a must-see attraction for day exploring the city’s unique character.
What are the options for international day trips from Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas makes for an amazing day trip, with high-speed ferry services offering a quick getaway to Bimini. The Bahamian adventure includes opportunities to swim with stingrays, kayak in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a delicious meal on the island. The journey takes about 2 hours each way.
Which cultural destinations make great day trips?
Southern Florida offers several breath-taking cultural destinations within a short drive. Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods, including Little Havana and the Art Deco District, provide an unforgettable experience just a quick drive away. West Palm Beach, with its thrilling attractions and iconic landmarks, makes for the perfect day trip destination north of Fort Lauderdale.
