With its stunning beaches and year-round warm weather, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories. Here’s a collection of exciting activities to enjoy with children in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Attractions for Kids in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale boasts numerous beaches, perfect for treasure-hunting adventures. One of the top-rated experiences on TripAdvisor is the Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, where your little ones can learn to talk and dress like pirates while fending off rivals like “Barnacle Bill” and returning home with their loot. Adults can also enjoy the high-seas fun with Bluefoot’s booze cruises.
For families with animal enthusiasts, Animal Encounters at Everglades Holiday Park offers an intimate experience with five different reptiles and mammals. This 45-minute adventure includes professional photos capturing the kids’ excitement (and possibly your surprise) as they interact with the wildlife.
When the Florida heat becomes too much, or if rain threatens your plans, Flippo’s (formerly known as Funderdrome) provides an 8,600-square-foot climate-controlled space filled with fun. Kids can enjoy a laser maze, sports court, obstacle courses, and arcade games.
While on vacation, don’t miss the chance to stimulate the kids’ minds. Young at Art is a unique museum that combines art, culture, and history into a hands-on experience. The Museum of Discovery & Science is another must-visit spot, featuring the impressive 52-foot Gravity Clock, an Everglades airboat simulator, and an otter habitat. With an IMAX theater and more, boredom will be a thing of the past.
Best Family Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is home to many kid-friendly dining options. If you have an aspiring pilot in the family, the Jet Runway Café at Fort Lauderdale’s Executive Airport is a must-visit. With a delicious menu and the thrill of watching private planes take off and land, it’s sure to delight all ages.
Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill is a family-owned gem where children might prefer a jumbo hot dog or panko-breaded chicken tenders over the self-proclaimed “hottest burger” in town.
For a classic Fort Lauderdale experience, consider a Jungle Queen riverboat cruise, which has been delighting families since 1935. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet and a variety show on a tropical island, where you can also find soft-serve ice cream and exotic animals to admire.
If you’re looking for a diverse menu, Shooters Waterfront offers everything from sushi and seafood to kid-friendly options like chicken fingers and sliders. They even have a menu for furry family members!
For dessert, Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour and Restaurant in nearby Dania Beach is a must-visit, featuring a vast menu and walls filled with fascinating memorabilia. Save room for dessert because choosing just one treat will be challenging!
Want to let the kids create their own dessert masterpieces? Yo Mama’s Ice Cream has a sundae bar filled with delightful toppings, and it shares a location with Pops Corn, where sweet and salty treats await.
Top Kid-Friendly Resorts in Fort Lauderdale
When choosing accommodations in Fort Lauderdale, the oceanfront Pelican Grand Beach Resort stands out. This family-friendly resort features an inviting pool, the only lazy river in Fort Lauderdale, and a private beach with complimentary chairs and umbrellas. On-site dining and an ice cream shop make it a convenient choice for families.
For those who want easy access to restaurants and shopping, High Noon Beach Resort offers various accommodations with kitchens, two heated pools, and a beautiful beach for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club boasts a stunning 500-foot private beach, tennis courts, a children’s playground, and no resort fees, making it an excellent family option.
Outdoor Activities for Kids in Fort Lauderdale
Beaches are the primary draw for families visiting Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling at Fort Lauderdale Beach, or stroll along the Hollywood Beach boardwalk, which offers biking, outdoor cafes, and a fun water playground for kids.
For a more relaxed beach day, visit Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, where you can easily swim to a nearby reef. The village’s motto, “Relax, You’re Here!” perfectly captures the laid-back atmosphere.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is considered Fort Lauderdale’s Central Park, offering biking, swimming, camping, and hiking. This beautiful park, donated by a Chicago attorney in 1941, provides ample outdoor activities for families.
Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre paradise filled with over 3,000 species of native plants and wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and, of course, flamingos. Kids can explore the interactive children’s garden and enjoy a narrated tram ride through the lush surroundings.
If surfing is on your family’s bucket list, EZride Surf School offers lessons seven days a week with professional instructors ready to help your kids catch their first wave.
Local Special Activities in Fort Lauderdale
The Everglades, spanning 1.5 million acres, are a unique feature of South Florida and offer many unforgettable experiences. For a thrilling adventure, take the hour-long Red Eye Everglades airboat tour to witness wildlife in their natural habitat after dark.
Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale invites families to enjoy a private gondola ride through its scenic canals with Las Olas Gondola. With Italian music and the option to bring your own snacks, it’s a lovely way to experience the area.
Just a short trip away is Butterfly World, the largest butterfly house in the world, featuring over 20,000 butterflies, exotic birds, and a Bug Zoo. It’s a perfect place for families to explore together.
For a fun and unique way to navigate the city, consider hopping on a Water Taxi. This service connects many local attractions and parks, allowing you to enjoy the sights while traveling. An all-day pass makes it simple and affordable to explore.
In summary, Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic family vacation spot, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for children of all ages. From exciting beach days to educational museums and delicious dining, there’s something for everyone in this sunny paradise.
Keyphrase: Family Activities in Fort Lauderdale
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