Discover 10 Amazing Free Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale
- luxwatertoys
- May 14
- 3 min read
🌴 1. Soak Up the Sun on Fort Lauderdale’s Beaches
With 24 miles of pristine coastline, Fort Lauderdale boasts several beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing:
Fort Lauderdale Beach: Known for its lively promenade and crystal-clear waters.
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: A charming beach town ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Dania Beach: Offers a quieter atmosphere, perfect for picnics and kayaking.
Pompano Beach: Family-friendly with playgrounds and a fishing pier.
These beaches are free to access and provide a quintessential Florida beach experience.
🎨 2. Explore the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District
Stroll along the scenic New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where you’ll find:
Public art installations: Admire various sculptures and murals.
Live performances: Catch free concerts and events throughout the year.
Historic sites: Visit landmarks like the Stranahan House.
The Riverwalk offers a blend of culture and leisure, making it a must-visit spot.
🖼️ 3. Visit Museums with Free Admission Days
Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant art scene includes several museums that offer free entry on specific days:
NSU Art Museum: Free admission on the first Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Art and Culture Center/Hollywood: Free admission on the third Sunday of each month.
These institutions showcase contemporary art and cultural exhibitions.
🚍 4. Ride the Free LauderGO! Shuttle and Water Trolley
Navigate the city effortlessly with these complimentary transportation options:
LauderGO! MicroMover: An eco-friendly shuttle operating daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., covering downtown Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas, and the beach areas.
LauderGO! Water Trolley: A scenic boat ride along the New River, running daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
These services make it easy to explore the city’s attractions without the hassle of driving.
🌳 5. Discover Nature at Local Parks
Experience Florida’s natural beauty at these parks:
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: Located between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, this park offers trails, picnic areas, and a freshwater lagoon.
Secret Woods Nature Center: A hidden gem featuring boardwalks through cypress swamps and butterfly gardens.
Both parks provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
🛍️ 6. Window Shop Along Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s premier shopping and dining destination:
Boutiques and galleries: Browse unique shops and art galleries.
Cafés and restaurants: Enjoy people-watching from outdoor patios.
Even if you’re not buying, the vibrant atmosphere makes for an enjoyable stroll.
🚲 7. Attend Free Community Events
Fort Lauderdale hosts numerous free events throughout the year:
Fort Lauderdale Artwalk: Held on the last Saturday of each month in the MASS District, featuring local artists, live music, and food trucks.
Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk: Occurs on the third Saturday monthly, showcasing murals and art installations.
These events offer a taste of the local culture and creativity.
🚗 8. Visit the Swap Shop and Ferrari Museum
The Swap Shop is an 88-acre flea market featuring:
Vendors: Selling everything from antiques to fresh produce.
Ferrari Museum: A free exhibit showcasing rare and vintage cars, including a 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale.
It’s a unique blend of shopping and automotive history.
🏞️ 9. Explore the Historic Stranahan House
Built in 1901, the Stranahan House is Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure:
Architecture: A blend of Florida vernacular and Victorian styles.
History: Learn about the city’s pioneers and early trade with the Seminole Indians.
While guided tours have a fee, viewing the exterior and its riverside location is free.
🌅 10. Enjoy Sunset at the Riverwalk
End your day with a peaceful walk along the Riverwalk:
Scenic views: Watch boats glide along the New River.
Relaxation: Benches and green spaces provide spots to unwind.
It’s a perfect way to experience the city’s charm as the sun sets.
Fort Lauderdale offers a plethora of free activities that showcase its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring its beaches, parks, or arts scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending a dime.