27 Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale While Waiting for Flight

Published April 22, 2025

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Are you exhausted from just sitting around in the airport, gazing at the time and ticking off the moments until your plane travels?

It’s time to optimize your time and stir things inside Fort Lauderdale.

Do not accept a tedious stopover when you will be able to discover everything that this lively city provides.

Discover 27 things to do in Fort Lauderdale while waiting for flight!

1. Museum of Discovery & Science

This museum is situated 16 minutes away from the airport.

Here, you can experience a diverse selection of displays that aren't only amusing but also educational.

Kids of every age can discover fun activities to engage in at the museum, starting with the fundamentals of bubble task to launching a daring rocket journey to Mars.

Also, your entire family can enjoy the airboat ride in their Everglades exploration and experience the thrill of Swamps in Florida.

You can even excavate for fossils or sense hurricane wind strength during the Storm Middle.

In fact, at this museum, there exists countless number of exciting and thrilling attractions.

Note that the museum operates from 10 to 5 on Monday to Saturday, then 12 to 5 on Sundays.

Tickets for adults cost $24 whereas seniors pay $22.

Then, tickets for military personnel and children are priced at $19 after a discount.

2. Dania Pointe

This is a lively lifestyle hub inside Dania Beach, featuring a blend of shopping, entertainment, and dining choices.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxed shopping outing or a fast delicious adventure, Dania Pointe offers something for all.

So, when you find yourself with free time during your airport delay in Fort Lauderdale, you should certainly consider checking out this spot.

Even, it's just a ten-minute drive from the Fort Lauderdale airport.

3. Hollywood North BeachPark

Seventeen minutes away from the airport, you will discover this park, a stunning tropical escape.

Situated between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Sea, the park distinctly features an entrance to both water bodies.

Stroll beside the coastline of Hollywood's renowned 2-mile/2-1 promenade.

Barbecues are accessible for utilization here, allowing you to have a tasty barbecue with your family.

Also, you are welcome to wade into the waters, snorkel, and observe the subaqueous coral formations.

Then, if you have an interest in art, explore the artwork occurring on the third, second, and last Saturdays of every month.

Alternatively, if you prefer sports, you are free to watch and engage in their A1A marathon held every February.

Even, Island Water Sports’ free surfing classes are offered on Saturday morning.

In fact, possibilities are limitless in this park and there exists something for all.

4. Las Olas Boulevard

This is among Fort Lauderdale's most renowned and lively streets, presenting a distinct combination of dining, entertainment, and shopping choices.

It is quite accessible for pedestrians and is recognized for its delightful ambiance, flanked by Mediterranean-inspired architecture and palm trees.

Additionally, the Boulevard is vibrant throughout the year, but weekends and evenings are especially busy with tourists and locals savoring the surroundings.

Undoubtedly, walking down Las Olas Blvd is essential while waiting for a flight in Fort Lauderdale.

Also, it’s among the most accessible activities as it’s so near to the airport.

5. Secret Woods Center

A car trip of 15 minutes from the airport, you will discover this Nature Center.

It's a great place if you're keen on the environment and fauna, and you can be able to observe all the marvels of the natural life in South Florida and walk beneath a stunning overhead cover of mangroves.

It's the ideal getaway if you solely have a few hours available, and regardless of how much time you dedicate here, it remains enchanting and tranquil.

Even, in 1978, Secret Woods Center was appointed as the initial "urban wilderness region" in Florida.

A wonderful spot for all, it is also ideal for households to link, unite, and even acquire a feeling of tranquility and awareness.

Feel free to stroll the promenade beside the stunning New River to observe all the creatures relaxing.

You will find land crabs moving, reptiles gliding, bees buzzing, and cormorants suspended in the tall trees.

Also, while you stroll down the boardwalk, you'll encounter various types of birds flying overhead.

Even, there exist numerous chances for kids to explore the environment, since the center focuses on educating children concerning the ecology of South Florida.

The trail here measures 1 mile long, is constructed from raised walkways, and includes numerous loops.

Note that there aren't charges for access to the Hidden Forest Nature.

Available from 9 in the morning until 5 in the evening, seven days in a week, Secret Woods is an ideal location to encounter Floridian fauna in all of its grandeur.

6. Topeekeegee Yugnee

You could invest days in this place and still continue to feel captivated by the marvels of nature.

Its name originates from the Seminole expression that signifies a “venue or assembly location" and this park is ideal for precisely that; coming together with cherished ones and appreciating the offerings of the natural world.

You can enjoy yourself in their water playground, a vast area for play design that engages both children and grown-ups.

Remember to pack your swim gear and equip yourself to immerse in the heated, tranquil lagoon.

Even, while in the park, it’s possible to camp for the night at the adjacent campsite.

In fact, there is something suitable for all at the park, starting from cycling and running to angling, basketball, volleyball, and diving.

You can hire a canoe or kayak to enjoy the waters personally, close-up perspective, or observe from the beach.

Whichever one you choose, you can expect a stunning view.

7. Fort Lauderdale Beach

This beach is an ideal spot to escape the heat of summer and enjoy a day of swimming inside its clear, warm waters while you wait for your flight or during a layover.

Whether you seek an exciting escape or just wish to unwind, this beach offers something for all.

You can explore different water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and parasailing.

Additionally, you can easily find guided tours and equipment rentals here.

8. Naval Air Station Museum

Just fifteen minutes distant from Fort Lauderdale Airport, you will discover this museum.

Constructed in 1942, it was built as a component of a nationwide defensive initiative.

One among 257 WWII air stations functioning during the war, you can explore this location and historical site.

A remarkable alumni of NASFL is George HW Bush in the year 1943.

Indeed, this museum is enormous and contains a wealth of items related to American history.

While at the museum, think about going on a guided tour with informed volunteers to acquire knowledge concerning America Flight 19.

Flight 19 left the NASFL in 1945, merely to vanish in Bermuda Triangular Area.

Explore the museum in order to learn about this story and additional captivating narratives.

The museum also is very committed to safeguarding historic artifacts.

It gathers individual narratives and records from WWII veterans to construct a robust historical heritage for future generations.

Note that the museum is available on Sunday, Saturday, and Thursday.

Tour schedules at the museum differ according to the patron's preferences, spanning from ten minutes up to 3 hours.

9. Charnow Park

This is a seaside park teeming with fun and amicable pursuits.

Its expansive play zone will enchant people of every age; covered seating, seating spaces, and picnic pavilions will enable you to relax and appreciate the environment.

Also take a moment to play around in their interactive water feature to feel refreshed, or engage in paddleball at the Garfield Courts.

You can additionally prepare a picnic to enjoy your day well at the park.

10. Dr. Von D. MizellEula Johnson Park

This is a great spot for friends, families, and partners to visit and savor a soothing couple of hours.

Prepare a picnic in order to delight by the coast and your swimwear for a plunge into the calm waters.

In the park, various activities are available for you such as swimming, fishing, sailing, trekking, and canoeing.

This place is named in honor of Civil Rights leaders who divided the park through guiding wade-in demonstrations.

Now, the park has become a welcoming, vibrant, and amazing place to relax and appreciate the marvels of nature.

So, whether you are exploring its historical background or its natural shores, this park is an amazing location to enjoy some hours in Fort Lauderdale while waiting for a flight.

Open from eight in the morning until sunset daily, it is set to create an excellent all-day excursion for any household.

More Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale

11. Bluefoot Pirate Adventure

A top Fort Lauderdale activity for kids and families is on board Bluefoot Pirate Adventure.

This engaging tour lasting one hour will guide you along Fort Lauderdale waterways as you begin an extraordinary swashbuckling escapade.

It also comes with pirate temporary outfits and tattoos.

Then, following the picturesque journey, the highlight of the adventure will be a pirate clash prior to docking.

Its water hoses, interactive performance, and props rank it as one of the top activities in Fort Lauderdale.

12. Water Taxi

This is the best method to experience everything that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.

It provides a full-day pass that allows you to get on and off at any location you prefer.

No matter where you are going in Fort Lauderdale, even a restaurant by the water, it will ensure it occurs.

The Captains provide amusement and their best feature? The fare is incredibly low in comparison to other vessel excursions in the region.

Without a doubt, it is among the premier boat tours in Fort Lauderdale, so make sure to obtain your ticket.

Note that tickets for the Water Taxi must be bought in advance before you attempt to jump on.

13. Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar

This is a beloved spot in the center of Fort Lauderdale Las Olas Boulevard.

Here, the scent of freshly ground coffee mixed with newly bloomed flowers will create a memorable impact that will endure long after you have departed.

Also, their vast array of delicious pastries will bring you again to visit.

14. Everglades Park

Experiencing an airboat tour in the Florida Everglades is an adventure that all first-time Florida visitors must experience.

This park stands at the top of the group, with convenient transport from the city out to National Reserve.

While here, devote the day to studying the Everglades, South Florida, and alligators’ ecology prior to boarding for your exciting airboat adventure.

15. Paddle Pub Cycle Boat

You can take your family on this cycle boat as it is one of Fort Lauderdale's most delightful things you will ever experience atop the water.

You guys will savor 2 fun hours of unwinding and navigating through the region.

Rest assured, the boat comes with engines therefore you won't need to pedal the whole duration.

16. Flamingo Gardens

The Gardens takes guests back to the essence of natural Florida.

Currently, this wildlife refuge of 60 acres showcases numerous subtropical and tropical trees and plants, bare eagles, bobcats, rare Florida panthers, flamingos, and alligators.

Flamingo Gardens can be found immediately west of Fort Lauderdale downtown.

The gardens are definitely a must-see and an amazing activity for enjoyment in the southern part of Florida.

They span 60 acres and serve as both a wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden, situated towards Fort Lauderdale West and Miami North.

Founded in 1927, it is among South Florida's oldest attractions and botanical gardens, showcasing more than 3,000 types of rare and exotic subtropical, tropical, and native trees and plants.

While here, guests can discover vibrant gardens, intriguing animals, and various displays.

17. Funky Buddha

Funky Buddha ranks among the biggest taprooms and breweries in Florida.

It is situated immediately north of Fort Lauderdale and beer enthusiasts will appreciate its extensive selection of craft beers such as Hop Gun and the renowned Floridian.

18. Bonnet House's Museum & Gardens

This stands as a historic structure in the center of the emerging Fort Lauderdale's Beach.

It was constructed by 2 artists, Evelyn and Frederic Bartlett, and acted as their holiday residence inside Florida Wild.

Incredible as it seems, it was not so long that this building was among the limited structures remaining in the vicinity.

Currently, it offers a rewarding cultural journey brimming with unique art, distinctive architecture, carousel sculptures, and a lovely floral patio encircled by the lush South Florida wilderness.

19. Louie Bossi’s

This is a top Italian eatery located in the Las Olas Blvd area and a preferred time to visit this place is for brunch on the weekend.

Beginning at 10 in the morning, you have the option to select from an array of tasty breakfast meals prior to savoring endless mimosas and bellinis.

20. Fort Lauderdale Waterways

One of the favorite attractions in Fort Lauderdale is kayaking through the waterways and canals.

Fort Lauderdale boasts navigable waterways of over 300 miles bestowing upon it another moniker, “Venice of America”.

Numerous residents and tour operators offer kayaking and paddle boarding excursions along its waterways of the Intracoastal Water way, New River, and Middle River.

21. Sailing Charter

Going on a sail inside Fort Lauderdale offers various sights to enjoy so go ahead and set sail on a private sailing charter.

The city stands as a sailing paradise, boasting advantageous winds and an abundance of mooring, along with the adjacent open sea.

In fact, sailing is among the most calming and pleasurable methods to spend a day in the Fort Lauderdale region.

Don't worry if you don't have any prior sailing experience, you can always hire a personal sailboat including the Captain.

Simply prepare for an awesome experience atop the water.

22. Hugh TaylorBirch State Park

This Fort Lauderdale's unique central park serves as a refuge for nature within the city environment.

Every time you seek a pause from South Florida's brisk tempo, come to this place for a break.

While here, you can bike the 2-mile circuit or take a hike through a dense rainforest hammock.

You can also unwind in a seat beside the stunning Intracoastal Waterway while the megayachts glide on past.

Then, enjoy a BBQ, have fun at the playground, or take a stroll.

23. Elbo Room

Fort Lauderdale had been identified with dive and beach bars for many years.

Even though the region has progressed, the exquisite Elbo Room stands as a prime illustration among the scarce remnants from ancient times that still stands.

This beach bar is located at the bustling intersection of Ocean Drive and Las Olas Boulevard, with views of the turquoise Gulf Shores waters.

24. Biking

Hiring a bike remains the finest method to explore all of the Fort Lauderdale area.

To be truthful, it could be the most effective method to explore the city because many things in this article can be accomplished while you're biking.

Fort Lauderdale City offers lots of bicycle rentals for tourists and has effectively created bike lanes.

Broward Bike Share, a county program, is the easiest bike rental.

You'll just have to unlock their bike through their app and leave it at any of their numerous stations scattered across the town.

The expenses for renting are 7 dollars tax for every thirty minutes.

Alternatively, you may opt for a 4-hour rental of an E-Bike that includes additional options such as guided tours, if that fits your preference better.

25. Jungle Queen

This riverboat stands as a timeless staple in Fort Lauderdale.

Moored at the beach, you'll ride it up to the stunning New River. Here you will offload for a stand-up performance, flame dancing, and a BBQ with unlimited servings.

This outing is ideal for a romantic evening or enjoyment for everyone in the family.

26. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Fort Lauderdale features incredible underwater sights.

Few are aware, but the city also provides top-notch diving experiences.

Three coral reef levels extend parallel to the coastline, just a short distance away (one hundred feet away from the shore).

The reef near Fort Lauderdale contains some coral you will locate within the continental US.

Moreover, the municipality possesses 76 shipwrecks, earning it the title “United States Shipwreck Capital”.

Also, I strongly suggest that you attempt scuba diving if you can.

Sea Experience stands as a neighborhood store offering scuba lessons for novices.

They additionally provide daily snorkeling excursions to any of the nearby shallow reefs for adventurers of every age in case scuba diving isn't your preference.

27. Invasive Species

This brewery is located in the Flagler Art District Village, a developing area located only north of the town.

It is a unique small pub offering delicious microbrews and food trucks lineup at its entrance.

It's an excellent location for residents and tourists to interact as they take pleasure in a relaxed leveling out.