Fort Lauderdale is a South Florida city known for its many beautiful beaches and the 300 miles of canal ways that garnered it the "Venice of America." And whether you're into nightlife, arts and culture, the beach, or the food scene, there are things in Fort Lauderdale to do for everyone. From attractions to restaurants to activities, here is a list of things to do the next time you find yourself in Fort Lauderdale.
Water Taxi
Fort Lauderdale got its nickname as the "Venice of America" due to the 300 miles of beautiful Intracoastal Waterway running inland through the city. The Water Taxi is a perfect way to take the scenic route of exploring the city. You can experience the main attractions and even bar and/or restaurant hop while spending all day on the waterways. An all-day pass ($35) allows you to hop on and off of Water Taxis all day, allowing you to visit the different shops and restaurants that make up the city's Hollywood Broadwalk with ease.
In addition to the Water Taxi, you can opt to experience the different waterways, as well as the iconic Millionaires' Row, via yacht, paddleboard, or even by gondola for an authentically Venice-esque type vibe as you sightsee.
Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar
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Get a taste of the spirit of Mexico with the help of a Fort Lauderdale dining staple, Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar. Happy hour starts at 4 and lasts until 7 daily, but Rocco's also hosts lively fiestas by way of Bottomless Brunch weekends and Taco & Tequila Tuesdays. The latter allows you to sample different tequilas through their collection of more than 300 tequilas. Taco Tuesdays also allow you to take advantage of their all-you-can-eat tacos special. Aside from stellar tacos, their menu boasts authentic Mexican cuisine like tableside guacamole, elotes, molcajetes, enchiladas, birria tacos, and more.
Archibald's Village Bakery
o have one of the best cinnamon rolls you've ever tasted, stop by the local and tourist favorite Archibald's Village Bakery. The award-winning bakery also has a full coffee menu and was recently crowned #3 in Yelp's Top 100 US Restaurants 2023. You can eat your coffee and food on their patio or go and enjoy them on the Fort Lauderdale Beach, which is conveniently steps away from the cafe.
From their Morning Glory Loaf to breakfast wraps to their lemon-glazed blueberry scones and a chocolate chip cookie that could rival your favorites, a visit here, while you're in Fort Lauderdale is a must.
NSU Art Museum
"Hooray for Hollywood" in the "Picturing Fame" exhibition at NSU Art Museum
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One thing about me is I will find an excuse to go to an art museum, and the NSU Art Museum just so happens to be the one in Fort Lauderdale. It feels like a great way to get a bit of art and culture into what sometimes feels like a food-heavy vacation (I'm not complaining, though!). With over 6,000 art pieces, the works I zeroed in on were from the "Picturing Fame" exhibition and from the Haitian artists that were featured, whose stories of struggle, freedom, and revolution could be felt in the artwork they crafted. This included artists Gérard Fortuné, Roland Dorcely, and Robert Saint-Brice and their collective exhibition titled "Cosmic Mirrors."
I was also partial to the works of Kathia St. Claire featured in the exhibition "Immaterial Being." I loved her use of using linoleum panels to create quilt-like backgrounds that would act as the textured canvas for her paintings. It's a signature technique of the artist that you fall for just as you do her work.
Kathia St. Hilaire, "Our Only Guide to Justice"
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Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale has at least ten wonderful beaches to choose from when deciding to embark on a beach day. The turquoise waters, tall palm trees, and white sand are just three of the reasons to indulge in Fort Lauderdale beaches. Fort Lauderdale Beach has that in the form of four miles of magnificent coastline and is considered one of Florida's best beaches. It's everything that is beautiful, and because of its shallow waters, water activities like swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and diving are popping there.
With the pulse of the city as the beach's backdrop, you can take a break from the sun and heat by getting lost in shopping, cafes, and other forms of entertainment that are conveniently located near the beach.
Pompano Beach
Possibly even more visually breathtaking is Pompano Beach, a beach that has steadily topped best beaches of Fort Lauderdale to visit lists. Named for the prominence of pompano tropical game fish found there, the Pompano Beach has golden shores and is located between the Hillsboro and Fort Lauderdale beaches. The water is warm, and the ocean looks clear, making it a perfect location for water activities like scuba diving, fishing charters, snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and more. If you want to take a break from the water, you can also get lost in a discovery of a series of art installations at Shipwreck Park.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Located across 180 acres along Fort Lauderdale Beach is the city's central park, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. The forest acts as a lush oasis where nature lovers can get their hike on through nature trails. They can also rent pedal boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes. There, people can fish and enjoy other recreational endeavors through biking, jet skis, and more.
Rivertail
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The Wahoo Crudo at Rivertail
Breakwater Hospitality Group
Voted Miami New Times' "Best Restaurant Fort Lauderdale 2020," Rivertail is a chic casual seafood restaurant that offers bold and spectacular flavors through creative dishes. Located on the waterfront, Rivertail serves dishes that are inspired by oyster bars, fish houses, and fine dining restaurants across the globe. Passionfruit Ceviche, Crab Donuts, Mussels Maria, the Seafood Roll, the Snapper, and Wahoo Crudo are just some of the restaurant's mouthwatering creations that stand out and keep diners coming back for more. When looking for the best seafood in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Rivertail.
Glitch Bar
Any excuse to tap into your inner child and play games while you drink is an excuse with my name on it. The Glitch Bar in Fort Lauderdale is a popular arcade bar located in the MASS District of the city. With an entry fee that is the cost of a drink, Glitch Bar offers free play on pinball and old-school arcade games like the beloved Donkey Kong and Pac-Man. They also have weekend DJs and host trivia nights.
Tufting House
Color outside of the lines with a rug tufting experience to remember. Rug tufting has been rising in popularity thanks to the wonderful world of TikTok, and at Tufting House, I was able to learn a new skill and expand my creativity in a major way. Among other services and private classes, Tufting House also offers a custom rug tufting opportunity where you can create your own mini rug to sketch, tuft, and take home. You can go as a group or even make a date or solo date for yourself. I would have never thought to spend a few hours firmly tufting my rug creation, but it's a therapeutic creative outlet I'll never forget.
Sistrunk Marketplace
With diverse cuisine options that would pique any foodie's interest, Sistrunk Marketplace is a culinary hub that can satisfy any palette. Sistrunk Marketplace is a one-part food hall, one-part brewery, one-part marketplace, and all parts a spot you must hit up if you're in Fort Lauderdale. Among the wide array of different food options the food dining hall offers, the restaurants include authentic Italian food by way of Mari's Kitchen Italian Market, vegan and Hawaiian poke by way of Poke OG, southern food by way of Nellie's Southern Table, and even Korean food by way of Perillas Korean Kitchen.
The Sistrunk Marketplace is also home to the brewery Dream State and the on-site microbrewery provides craft ales, and beers that are imported as well as local.
W Fort Lauderdale
The entrance to the AWAY Spa at the W Fort Lauderdale
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With the tranquil respite of their AWAY Spa, the sparkling pool with its transparent walls, and an overall nod to luxury, the W Fort Lauderdale hotel has to be a stop on your list while in Fort Lauderdale one way or another. Spend a day or two getting acquainted with their amenities, book that 50-minute Go Deep massage, lay out in the sun or shade while lounging by the pool, and bask in the oceanfront views of Fort Lauderdale Beach.
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The Fall Staples It Girls From Coast To Coast Are Already Wearing
When it comes to trends, It girls lead, they don’t follow. Keeping one finger on the pulse of fashion and the other on their instincts, it’s their innate ability to dress to the beat of their own heart that makes them stand out amongst everyone else around them.
These women are ahead of their time, forecasting what will eventually be adopted by the masses often years in advance. In most cases, buying into trending items is just a by-product of their love of fashion, however, it's never the key ingredient of a memorable outfit.
As we transition from summer to fall, there’s no need to spend too many coins curating a brand new seasonal wardrobe, especially in this economy. Instead of shopping targeted ads, we interviewed fashion-forward influencers to spark our imagination and gather insight on what they’re already wearing leading into the upcoming season. Keep scrolling to get the scoop on essential items these fashion-forward women are looking forward to wearing this fall.
Helecia Williams, Houston
Comfort
Helecia’s style in three words: “Structured, bold, and explorative.”
Helecia’s outfit inspiration: “I am most interested in comfort as a trend. I am truly enjoying the mix of flats with elevated outfits and the incorporation of street-style elements into the looks. I have seen so much juxtaposition that makes the outfits interesting and intriguing. I love the pairing of fitted caps with [suits] and ballet flats. That mashup is impeccable, and we saw some of that peeking through last fall, and now it's taken on a life of its own.
"As a sneaker lover and comfort sneakers, bringing back flats is just a reimagination of past trends with a fresh twist.”
What color(s) is on Helecia’s fall mood board: “Hands down, red! It's such a bold and bossy color. Now, we see it becoming much more accessible in fashion and realize how easy it is to style and incorporate into a look for that extra pop. It also pairs well with so many other shades and tones. Some of my favorite combos are red and burgundy, red and yellow, and red and brown. Even if you aren't fully convinced that it's the color of the season and still have reservations about it, you can go classic and incorporate it in an accessory or makeup like a red lip.”
Are you bringing anything back from your 2023 fall wardrobe? “I will be returning and recycling all of my 2023 fall wardrobe and just styling it differently or giving it new life. Despite my love for trends, I've curated a wardrobe that I love so I will mix the old in with the new. And not to toot my own horn but a lot of my fashion moments are ahead of the times and still very relevant for this upcoming fall. Expect to see tons of texture, juxtaposition, unexpected color combos, and street style.”
How Helecia is accessorizing this season: “I hate to admit it, but the one trend that has me in a chokehold this fall is bold jewelry, particularly in gold. I've realized that accessories can do wonders, and the Schiaparelli era has me shook. I am a ‘Stan’ of Shop Khoi, a Black-owned jewelry brand that creates some of the most amazing, high-quality fashion jewelry. It just sets off any outfit no matter how simple it may be and easily becomes a conversation piece.”
Courtney Blackwell, New York City
Courtney’s style in three words: “Vintage, oversize, and sexy.”
Courtney’s most anticipated fall fashion items: “The fashion item I am anticipating wearing is vintage leather in all colors!”
Courtney's color picks for fall: “Cherry reds, forest greens, and different shades of gray.”
The trend that has Courtney in a chokehold this season: “Skirts! I’ve never been a skirt girly, well mini skirts girly, but I think I’m going to step it up with the minis this fall.”
Shaniqua Jordan, New York City
Timeless
Shaniqua’s personal styling tip for fall: “I hate to admit it, but the one trend that has me in a chokehold this fall is any oversized outerwear piece, especially oversized blazers. And as basic as it may sound, I can't get enough of them. They instantly elevate any look, and they're so versatile, whether I'm going for a polished vibe or something more casual. Plus, they are perfect for layering as the weather cools down.
"I know most people wouldn't typically opt for suede, but if you've been following my style, you know I'm all about my outerwear. I love adding texture to my looks, even if it's subtle, and a good suede jacket does that for me. The soft texture and rich hues of suede add that cherry on top for any fall look. Whether I'm rocking a bomber style in a jewel tone or a tailored trench in a neutral shade, a suede jacket is one piece I'm looking forward to wearing to elevate my fall wardrobe.”
These colors are all over Shaniqua’s fall mood board: “The colors on my fall mood board are rich earth tones like deep browns and olive greens paired with classic neutrals like camel and cream. I'd like to throw in a pop of butter yellow. I know it might seem more spring-like, but I love how it pairs with deep browns, oxblood, and even grays. It's the perfect way to brighten up those cozy, moody fall vibes. I'm also loving pops of bold jewel tones like emerald and burgundy to add a bit of luxe to the season. These shades give that cozy yet elevated feel I'm always aiming for in my fall wardrobe.”
Shaniqua describes her fall wardrobe in three words: “If I describe my fall wardrobe in three words, they would be chic, layered, and timeless. I love combining unique pieces with a classic touch, creating looks that stand out without trying too hard. It's all about finding that perfect balance between staying true to timeless fashion and adding my own signature flair.”
Are you bringing anything back from your 2023 fall wardrobe? "I am definitely an outfit repeater, so not only will I bring back pieces from my 2023 fall wardrobe, but I also have so many oldies but goodies that I’ll be incorporating into my fall 2024 looks. I think that's what really helps convey my personal style; buying pieces I genuinely love and being able to work them into my style season after season. It's all about longevity and staying true to what I love."
Alasia Allen, Los Angeles
Provocative
Alasia describes her style in three words: “Opulent, sleek, provocative.”
The fashion item Alasia anticipates wearing the most this fall: “I’m really into gloves this season. Whether it’s biker style or long, sleek, leather gloves, they add an interesting take to a fall look.”
The fall colors catching Alasia’s eye: “I’m loving navy or a super deep purple this season so I’ll be adding those into my wardrobe. They’re both so sophisticated and a good alternative to black.”
The fall staple Alaisa plans to bring back from her 2023 wardrobe: “Every year, I wear a shearling coat. It’s timeless, it’s warm, it’s my thing. There’s something very elevating about shearlings that have drawn to me year after year, and that’s what makes them my favorite style of outwear.”
The accessory that has Alasia in a chokehold this season: “Boots. I love a good boot as my go-to accessory for the fall/winter season. My favorites are boots that have a little flair to them and an interesting shape.”
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Here's Why Taylor Russell's Red Carpet Style Is Unmatched
Taylor Russell is an actor-model-director-baddie who has quickly become a favorite of fashion enthusiasts. With her unique style and edgy attitude, Russell is making waves on both the red carpet and the streets.
Beginning her professional acting career in 2012, Taylor Russell made her debut in a minor role on the CW medical drama series Emily Owens, M.D. She further showcased her talent in the 2014 Lifetime television film The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story and the Disney XD television film Pants on Fire.
Russell's acting repertoire extends beyond these roles, as she has notably portrayed characters in critically acclaimed films such as Bones and All (2022), Waves (2019), and The Heart Still Hums (2020). Her background in dance has influenced her acting style, and she began acting professionally as a teenager after taking an acting class. With her diverse experiences and impressive performances, Taylor Russell has established herself as a versatile and talented actress and director in the entertainment industry.
Best of all, the Canadian-born actress' red carpet looks are often daring and experimental. She is not afraid to take risks, and she often wears pieces that are unexpected and unconventional.
In her street style, Taylor is more relaxed and casual, but she still manages to look effortlessly chic. She often wears oversized clothing, such as baggy jeans and hoodies, but she always adds a touch of glamour with her accessories. For example, she might pair a simple T-shirt and jeans with a designer handbag and a pair of statement earrings.
Taylor's unique style has made her a muse for fashion designers and stylists. She has been featured in numerous magazines, and she has walked the runway for some of the biggest names in fashion. It is clear that Taylor is a star on the rise, and her fashion journey is sure to be one to watch.
Let’s run back some of our favorite looks that solidify the actress as a fashion icon.
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