Did you know Broward County is home to the world’s largest butterfly park and boasts over 23 miles of pristine Blue Wave-certified beaches? This sun-soaked paradise between Miami and Palm Beach offers far more than just sandy shores. From airboat adventures through the Everglades to world-class shopping and dining on Las Olas Boulevard, Broward County delivers an incredible mix of natural wonders and urban excitement. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or solo adventure, our comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best things to do in this vibrant Florida destination.
Getting to Broward County
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport serves as the main gateway to Broward County
Broward County is easily accessible by air, land, and sea, making it a convenient destination for travelers from around the world. The primary gateway is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which offers hundreds of daily flights from major carriers. Located just minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale and the beaches, this modern airport provides a hassle-free arrival experience.
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If you prefer driving, Broward County is conveniently located along Interstate 95, making it easily accessible from Miami (30 minutes south) or Palm Beach (45 minutes north). Many visitors also arrive via Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, which welcomes over 3.5 million passengers annually.
Planning Your Broward County Journey
Creating the perfect Broward County itinerary depends on your interests and the length of your stay. For a well-rounded experience, we recommend at least 3-5 days to explore the diverse attractions. First-time visitors should balance beach time with cultural experiences and natural adventures.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Explore Fort Lauderdale’s beaches and Las Olas Boulevard
- Day 2: Take an Everglades airboat tour and visit Flamingo Gardens
- Day 3: Discover museums and shopping at Sawgrass Mills
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Beach day and water activities
- Day 2: Las Olas Boulevard and Riverwalk Arts District
- Day 3: Everglades adventure and wildlife viewing
- Day 4: Museum hopping and cultural experiences
- Day 5: Shopping and relaxation day
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Best Time to Visit Broward County
Broward County enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages. The peak tourist season runs from December to April, when northern visitors (affectionately called “snowbirds”) flock to the region to escape cold weather. During these months, you’ll enjoy perfect beach weather with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and minimal rainfall.
| Season | Months | Temperature | Crowds | Benefits |
| Winter | Dec-Feb | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | High | Perfect weather, festivals, events |
| Spring | Mar-May | 70-85°F (21-29°C) | Moderate | Warm weather, fewer crowds after spring break |
| Summer | Jun-Aug | 80-90°F (27-32°C) | Low | Best hotel rates, less crowded attractions |
| Fall | Sep-Nov | 75-85°F (24-29°C) | Very Low | Hurricane season, but great deals |
For budget-conscious travelers, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May or October-November) when you’ll find fewer crowds and better rates while still enjoying pleasant weather. Summer brings higher humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms, but also the lowest prices and smallest crowds.
Getting Around Broward County
Water taxis provide a scenic way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s waterways
Navigating Broward County is easiest with a car, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas. The county’s grid-like street system makes it relatively straightforward to find your way around, with major highways including I-95, I-595, and the Florida Turnpike connecting key destinations.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all that Broward County has to offer, from beaches to the Everglades.
If you prefer public transportation, Broward County Transit operates bus routes throughout the region. In downtown Fort Lauderdale, the free Sun Trolley connects popular areas like Las Olas Boulevard and the beach. For a unique perspective, water taxis cruise the Intracoastal Waterway, offering hop-on-hop-off service to waterfront attractions, restaurants, and shops.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and provide a convenient option for shorter trips. Biking is also popular, especially along the beachfront and in downtown areas, with bike rental stations available throughout Fort Lauderdale.
Where to Stay in Broward County
Broward County offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from luxury beachfront resorts to family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. The most popular areas to stay include:
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Perfect for beach lovers, this area offers oceanfront resorts with stunning views. You’ll be steps from the sand and within walking distance of restaurants and shops along A1A.
Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, beach enthusiasts
Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Stay near Las Olas Boulevard for a mix of culture, dining, and shopping. This central location provides easy access to museums, galleries, and the Riverwalk Arts District.
Best for: Urban explorers, foodies, nightlife seekers
Hollywood Beach
Known for its charming Broadwalk, Hollywood offers a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with mid-range hotels and vacation rentals.
Best for: Families, budget travelers, longer stays
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Top Attractions in Broward County
Experience the thrill of an airboat ride through the Everglades
Everglades Holiday Park
No visit to Broward County is complete without experiencing the magnificent Everglades, and Everglades Holiday Park offers one of the best introductions to this unique ecosystem. Hop aboard an exhilarating airboat tour that glides through the “River of Grass,” where you’ll spot alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The park also features live alligator presentations and educational exhibits that provide fascinating insights into this delicate ecosystem.
Las Olas Boulevard
Often called the heart and soul of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard is a picturesque thoroughfare lined with royal palm trees, boutique shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants. Spend an afternoon browsing unique stores, enjoying outdoor dining, or simply people-watching at one of the sidewalk cafés. The boulevard stretches from downtown to the beach, making it an ideal place to experience Fort Lauderdale’s sophisticated charm.
Flamingo Gardens
Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida. This 60-acre sanctuary houses over 3,000 species of rare and exotic plants, a Bird of Prey Center, and the largest collection of Florida native wildlife including flamingos, alligators, and panthers. Don’t miss the historic Wray Home Museum, a beautifully preserved 1930s residence that offers a glimpse into Florida’s past.
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Family-Friendly Activities in Broward County
Butterfly World in Coconut Creek is home to thousands of butterflies from around the world
Broward County excels at providing entertainment for visitors of all ages, with numerous attractions designed specifically with families in mind. These destinations combine fun with educational elements, creating memorable experiences for children and adults alike.
Museum of Discovery and Science
This interactive museum in downtown Fort Lauderdale features over 200 hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and activities that make learning about science, technology, and natural history exciting for children. Highlights include dinosaur exhibits, an Everglades airboat simulator, and a two-story otter habitat.
Butterfly World
As the largest butterfly park in the world, this Coconut Creek attraction houses thousands of butterflies in free-flight aviaries. Children will be amazed as colorful butterflies land on their shoulders while exploring the tropical gardens, hummingbird aviary, and bug zoo.
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures
Set sail on a pirate ship adventure along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway. Kids can dress up as pirates, participate in a treasure hunt, fire water cannons, and learn pirate lingo during this interactive 90-minute cruise that combines entertainment with beautiful views.
Beaches and Water Activities
With 23 miles of pristine coastline, Broward County’s beaches are among its biggest attractions. Each beach area has its own distinct character, from the lively atmosphere of Fort Lauderdale Beach to the family-friendly Hollywood Beach Broadwalk.
Top Beaches
- Fort Lauderdale Beach: The most famous stretch of sand features a beautiful promenade, upscale resorts, and water sports rentals.
- Hollywood Beach: Known for its charming 2.5-mile Broadwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Dania Beach: A quieter option with excellent fishing from the historic pier and natural dunes.
- Pompano Beach: Popular for snorkeling and diving with three living coral reefs accessible from shore.
- Deerfield Beach: A Blue Wave certified beach with volleyball courts and a fishing pier.
- Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: A charming beach town with shore diving and snorkeling on a reef just 100 yards from the beach.
Water Activities
Beyond sunbathing, Broward County offers numerous water-based activities:
Snorkeling & Diving
Explore living coral reefs and over 76 artificial reefs that create an underwater paradise for divers of all skill levels. Water temperatures range from 72-80°F year-round, making it comfortable for underwater adventures any time.
Fishing
Whether you prefer deep-sea fishing in the Atlantic, casting a line from one of the fishing piers, or freshwater fishing in the Everglades, Broward County offers excellent angling opportunities for beginners and experts alike.
Boating & Cruises
Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale’s 300+ miles of inland waterways are perfect for boating. Take a sightseeing cruise along Millionaire’s Row, rent a paddleboard, or join a sunset sailing excursion.
Shopping and Dining in Broward County
Sawgrass Mills is one of the largest outlet shopping malls in the United States
Shopping Destinations
Broward County is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from massive outlet malls to charming boutiques. Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise stands as one of the largest outlet shopping centers in the United States, with over 350 stores featuring designer brands at discounted prices. For a more upscale experience, The Galleria in Fort Lauderdale houses luxury retailers in an elegant indoor setting.
Las Olas Boulevard offers a more intimate shopping experience with its collection of fashion boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Meanwhile, Hollywood’s Downtown Arts District features unique shops selling handcrafted items, vintage clothing, and local artwork.
Culinary Experiences
Broward County’s dining scene reflects its diverse population, offering everything from fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors to international cuisine and innovative fusion concepts. Waterfront dining is particularly popular, with numerous restaurants offering views of the ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, or inland canals.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Fresh seafood: Stone crabs (in season), mahi-mahi, and Florida spiny lobster
- Key lime pie: The iconic Florida dessert
- Cuban cuisine: Authentic sandwiches, coffee, and pastries
- Conch fritters: A Caribbean-influenced appetizer
- Florida citrus: Incorporated into many dishes and drinks
Dining Districts
- Las Olas Boulevard: Upscale restaurants and sidewalk cafés
- Hollywood Beach Broadwalk: Casual oceanfront dining
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: Trendy eateries and craft breweries
- Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: Seafood restaurants with ocean views
- Wilton Manors: Diverse dining options in a vibrant setting
Practical Tips for Visiting Broward County
Weather Considerations
Broward County enjoys a tropical climate with abundant sunshine year-round. Summers (June-September) are hot and humid with temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s°F (30-35°C) and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters (December-February) are mild and dry with temperatures typically ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk period being August through October. If traveling during these months, consider travel insurance and stay informed about weather forecasts.
Local Transportation Tips
While having a car provides the most flexibility, parking can be expensive in popular areas like the beaches and Las Olas Boulevard. Many hotels charge daily parking fees ranging from $20-40. Consider using rideshare services or public transportation for shorter trips.
The Water Taxi in Fort Lauderdale offers an all-day pass that allows unlimited hop-on-hop-off access to popular destinations along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing both transportation and sightseeing in one experience.
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit during the off-season (May-November) for lower hotel rates
- Look for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Savings Card for discounts
- Many museums offer free or discounted admission on specific days
- Consider staying in neighborhoods like Dania Beach or Plantation for better rates
- Pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the Florida heat
Safety Information
- Apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days
- Stay hydrated, especially when outdoors
- Observe beach warning flags and swim only in designated areas
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight, particularly at beaches
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night in urban areas
- Follow posted guidelines when visiting natural areas like the Everglades
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Experience the Best of Broward County
From the pristine beaches and vibrant cultural scene to the wild beauty of the Everglades, Broward County offers an incredible diversity of experiences that appeal to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on sun-soaked shores, family-friendly adventures, natural wonders, or urban sophistication, this dynamic region delivers unforgettable memories.
As you plan your visit, remember that Broward County’s true magic lies in its blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan charm. Take time to explore beyond the famous beaches and discover the hidden gems that make this destination so special. With year-round sunshine, warm hospitality, and endless activities, your perfect Florida getaway awaits in Broward County.
