Planning a family vacation that’s big on fun but easy on the wallet? Greater Fort Lauderdale offers sunshine, surf and kid-friendly activities that won’t break the bank. From free events and outdoor adventures to ice cream stops and local attractions, this guide includes budget-conscious tips for families.
All Aboard the Free LauderGO! Water Trolley
Start your day with a scenic — and completely free — ride on the LauderGO! Water Trolley. The boat travels along Fort Lauderdale’s New River, offering waterfront views and a relaxing way to explore downtown. It’s a laid-back alternative to typical transit — and yes, it’s free.
NSU Art Museum’s Free First Thursdays
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale offers free admission and extended hours on the first Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s a great way to introduce kids to art without the pressure of ticket prices. And because it’s air-conditioned, it’s also a perfect escape from the midday heat.
Sunny Days & Exciting Nights at The LOOP
Head to The LOOP on Fort Lauderdale Beach for some laid-back fun by the ocean. Just steps away, the newly revitalized DC Alexander Park offers green space, playgrounds and scenic ocean views — perfect for unwinding with the whole crew.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. The LOOP also hosts The MKT, a vibrant weekend market open year-round. Every Saturday and Sunday, you can browse an eclectic mix of homemade and handmade goods, enjoy live music and take part in seasonal specialty events. Plus, don’t miss Movies by Moonlight—a free outdoor screening series that brings beloved films to the big screen under the stars.
Family Flicks at ArtsPark Movie Night
Another great Friday night tradition is ArtsPark Movie Night in Hollywood. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars. It’s a free activity that feels like a mini outdoor film fest — popcorn encouraged.
Score Major Savings with South Florida Adventure Pass
If you plan to hit multiple attractions, grab a South Florida Adventure Pass. For one low price — $60 for adults and $50 for children — you’ll get unlimited visits to four popular spots from May 15 through Sept. 30. The pass includes access to Coconut Creek’s Butterfly World, Fort Lauderdale’s Museum of Discovery and Science, Weston’s Sawgrass Recreation Park and Davie’s Flamingo Gardens. It’s a money-saving hack that practically pays for itself after one or two visits.
Kid-Approved Parks & Outdoor Adventures
Greater Fort Lauderdale has parks for every kind of family, from curious little explorers to adventure-loving teens. Here are three standout spots you won’t want to miss:
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (Fort Lauderdale)
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Nestled between the city and the sea, this park is a local gem offering hiking, paddleboarding, fishing and a peaceful escape into nature. Oh, and don’t miss The Grove, a new dining spot right in the middle of it all.
Welleby Park and Safety Town (Sunrise)
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A miniature city built just for kids, complete with tiny buildings, sidewalks and real working traffic lights. It’s interactive, educational and just plain adorable.
Quiet Waters Park (Deerfield Beach)
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From Ski Rixen USA’s cable water skiing and the Splash Adventure water park to mountain biking trails and teepee camping, this park packs a whole vacation’s worth of excitement into one spot.
Set Sail with Bluefoot Pirate Adventure
Ahoy, matey! For an unforgettable themed boat ride, Bluefoot Pirate Adventures offers one-hour interactive pirate cruises for families. Kids can dress up, learn to talk like pirates and search for treasure — all while cruising the Intracoastal Waterway from Dania Beach.
Score a Rainy Day Win at Xtreme Action Park
If the weather turns, don’t sweat it. Head indoors to Xtreme Action Park, the largest indoor entertainment center in Florida. From go-karts and roller skating to arcade games and escape rooms, it’s the kind of place where boredom isn’t an option.
Savor Brunch with a View at Jet Runway Café
Hungry? Brunch at Jet Runway Café is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Located right on the tarmac at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, you can sip your coffee and watch planes take off and land while the kids stay entertained with the aviation action.
A Family-Friendly Escape at Marando Farms & Ranch
Head to Davie for a hands-on farm experience at Marando Farms & Ranch. With an affordable petting zoo, fresh produce market and shaded areas for snacking or picnicking, it’s a wholesome stop that will delight young animal lovers.
Make it a Sunday Funday in Dania Pointe
For shopping, dining, and live entertainment, Dania Pointe is a one-stop shop. Even better? They offer Free Family Sundays with kid-friendly activities, games, crafts, and more. It’s the perfect excuse to explore and unwind without spending a dime.
Free Surf Lessons with Island Water Sports
Dreaming of catching a wave? Island Water Sports in Deerfield Beach offers free surf lessons every Saturday morning. Gear is provided, and instructors are pros at getting first-timers up on their boards. Early arrival is recommended, and the memories are totally priceless.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
What’s a family trip without ice cream? Greater Fort Lauderdale has no shortage of funky and budget-friendly spots to get your sugar fix:
- Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour & Restaurant (Dania Beach): Legendary sundaes and retro vibes
- Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream (multiple locations): Flash-frozen deliciousness with custom toppings
- Wilton Creamery (Wilton Manors): Gourmet flavors that feel like a treat for grown-ups too
- Cleveland's Old Fashioned Ice Cream (Hollywood): A hidden gem for classic scoops
- Sweet Aloha Ice Cream (Davie): Island vibes in every bite
- Santo Dulce! Churros & Ice Cream (Fort Lauderdale): Churro sundaes? Yes, please.
- Cherry Smash (Coral Springs): An old-timey ice cream experience with quirky décor and over-the-top sundaes.
Whether you’re cruising on a water trolley, treasure hunting with pirates or soaking up some beachside tunes, Greater Fort Lauderdale proves that family fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Use these hacks to plan a trip that’s light on the wallet but heavy on unforgettable moments.