Few things kick off summer quite like a long Memorial Day weekend in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Whether you're craving rooftop views and beachside cocktails, boat days and barbecue, or a little luxe mixed with laid-back vibes, this coastal paradise has plans with your name on them. Here’s how to spend the holiday weekend — the Lauderdale way.
Day 1: Saturday
Kick off your three-day Memorial Day weekend by fueling up at one of the best fast-casual spots in downtown Flagler Village: Mitch’s Downtown Bagel Cafe. With hand-rolled bagels, stacked sandwiches and house-made spreads, it’s the kind of carb-loading you won’t regret — especially with a big weekend ahead. Be sure to try Parlor Doughnuts, one of the city’s newest hot spots serving its signature layered doughnuts with flavors like Carnival and strawberry shortcake. Inspired partly by the doughnut’s WWI-era role in comforting soldiers on the front lines, the brand brings that same spirit of warmth and connection into every bite.
From there, head to the Great American Beach Party at Las Olas Oceanside Park on Fort Lauderdale Beach between 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. for a family-friendly afternoon of live bands, water slides, a classic car show, a sand-sculpting contest, a military tribute and more. Keep the coastal vibes going with a detour to nearby Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. This charming seaside town is perfect for an early evening stroll, with its walkable beachfront, local boutiques, and waterfront restaurants.
Saturday nights call for drinks at The Wharf Fort Lauderdale along the Riverwalk, an open-air venue featuring several bars and food trucks to keep you satisfied when hunger strikes. Choose from hand-smashed burgers, wood-fired pizza, sushi rolls and Mexican fare. Across the way is Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery, which hails from the Magic City. It’s sure to impress with a moody, speakeasy-style vibe and drink options ranging from classic and contemporary cocktails to inventive, spirit-forward libations.
Day 2: Sunday
Recover from your sun-kissed Saturday with brunch at one of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s many restaurants. Indulge in the popular Sunday ritual at Java & Jam on Las Olas, serving specialty drinks like Cookie Butter Chai and Churro Latte, paired best with one of their omelettes or sweet breakfast staples, including Nutella French toast. Or enjoy bottomless drinks and shareable plates or a dish just for you at YOT Bar & Kitchen featuring views of the marina and its mega-yachts.
You could also head north to the award-winning, oceanfront restaurant Oceans 234 in Deerfield Beach or South Bar & Kitchen in Pompano Beach.
From there, Fort Lauderdale and its surrounding cities are your oyster. Follow whatever adventure calls to you: Shop and stroll Las Olas Boulevard, rent a kayak or paddleboard in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, or catch a photo-worthy prize from the Fisher Family Pier in Pompano Beach.
It’s also a great time to explore the water with a variety of boat excursions. Hop on the Water Taxi to visit neighboring towns like Hollywood Beach and explore spots like Margaritaville. Or book a floating tiki with friends and family (21 and older). This Fort Lauderdale favorite offers a private tiki bar boat cruise along the Intracoastal, complete with laid-back tunes and refreshments.
If you end up in Dania Beach, make a beeline for Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant, a retro-style institution known for its over-the-top sundaes, scoops served in giant goblets and old-school Americana charm. Whether you’re sharing the Kitchen Sink (yes, it’s a real thing) or just treating yourself to a cone, it’s a fun, family-friendly stop that’s worth the sugar rush.
End the day with dinner on the beach at MAASS, located inside the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, which recently earned the city its first Michelin star. Savor a menu that embraces open-fire cooking with views of the Atlantic. For something more low-key, wind down with dinner at Earls Kitchen + Bar on Las Olas Boulevard known for its globally inspired menu, or grab a waterfront table at the iconic 15th Street Fisheries to enjoy fresh seafood with views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Day 3: Monday
Make the most of your last day by exploring one of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s premier attractions — Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise. As the largest single-story outlet mall in the United States, Sawgrass Mills boasts more than 350 stores, including 70 luxury brands at The Colonnade Outlets, featuring designers such as Gucci, Prada and Versace.
Or take a day trip to the iconic Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood — an architectural marvel that’s as selfie-worthy as it gets. Towering 450 feet into the sky, this one-of-a-kind, guitar-shaped resort features world-class dining, a sprawling casino, luxury shopping and a massive pool lagoon.
You can also use today to explore Greater Fort Lauderdale’s growing craft beer scene — grab a hazy IPA at Invasive Species Brewing in Flagler Village, sip beachfront brews at Hollywood Brewery on the Broadwalk or swing by Pompano Beach Brewing Co. for a local pint and laid-back vibes.
As the sun sets on your long weekend adventures, let the vibrant spirit of Greater Fort Lauderdale remind you that every moment here is a celebration of summer's endless possibilities.