In the 1960 film "Where the Boys Are," a group of college girls seek spring break romance in Fort Lauderdale on Florida's Atlantic coast, then a popular destination among American undergrads. That notoriously rowdy crowd has since given way to more refined domestic and international travelers who encounter a vibrant cultural scene. Nonetheless, the white sand beach that once enticed college students and the promise of sunshine -- more than 3,000 hours a year -- remain the stars of this yacht-laden city known as the "Venice of America" for its extensive inland waterways.
A Beach for Everyone
- Fort Lauderdale's namesake beach has been repeatedly recognized by the Clean Beaches Coalition. The waters are conducive to swimming, whether you're a beginner or you feel capable of beating Olympian Michael Phelps in a race. Lifeguards are posted along the 2 miles from South Beach Picnic Area north to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Sebastian Beach, along the street of the same name, is popular with gay sunbathers. Families gravitate to a stretch of shore between Seville and Vistamar streets. Early risers can enjoy a tranquil morning jog or leisurely stroll along the Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade.
Venice of America
- You cannot truly experience the "Venice of America" without exploring the miles of navigable canals and inland waterways. Rent a catamaran or sailboat from your hotel or a local outfitter. Or relax on a sightseeing cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat or Fort Lauderdale Duck tours. The latter involves an amphibious vehicle that also takes you to historic land areas of the city. On a budget? Then ride the city's Water Bus of Fort Lauderdale, informally known as the Water Taxi. The crew shares tidbits and facts about Fort Lauderdale as you make you way from one stop to the next, making the ride feel like a tour rather than public transport.
Historic Homes
- Two of Fort Lauderdale's most venerable structures, the Stranahan House and the Bonnet House, both on the National Register of Historic Places, are now museums accessible only on guided tours. The former, Fort Lauderdale's oldest building, was constructed as a trading post in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, considered the city's founder. The edifice became Stranahan and his wife's home after stints as a post office, general store, town hall and restaurant. On your visit, note the early 20th century furniture. The 35-acre Bonnet House, circa 1921, is filled with artwork by former resident Frederic Clay Bartlett. The highlight of the tour, however, is the tropical gardens, home to a troop of squirrel monkeys.
Museum Hopping
- Whether or not you visit Fort Lauderdale with kids will likely determine if you end up at the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale or at the Museum of Discovery and Science. At the former, where the emphasis is on modern art, the permanent collection is made up of some 6,000 works, including paintings by American artist William Glackens and pieces by artists of the Cuban diaspora. World renowned artists like Picasso, Dali and Warhol are also represented. The Museum of Discovery and Science is a better fit for children, who can learn about animals that roamed prehistoric Florida, observe American river otters and play the role of pilot in three cockpit simulators.
