Greater Fort Lauderdale has 24 miles of pristine beaches, outdoor activities, vibrant spots to grab a drink or dinner, fabulous local boutiques—and not to mention a thriving sports scene. With so many things to see and do, it’s no wonder why so many sports fans plan a vacation to this South Florida hotspot. The region is brimming with activities to do at leisure and events to enjoy as a spectator.
Whether you’ve made your way to town for an incredible soccer match at Chase Stadium or want to play a friendly game of golf or volleyball on vacation, we’ve curated a list of the best sporting events and things to do in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale Team Favorites
The temperature isn’t the only thing burning up in South Florida. The Florida Panthers have experienced notable successes on the ice and have continued to impress. There's much excitement from earning the President’s Trophy during the 2021- 2022 season, becoming the Eastern Conference championship last season, and their current electric playoff run. While in town, catch them in action at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise. Watch your favorite teams battle it out, enjoy in-game entertainment, and be sure to save room for that delicious soft-serve ice cream served in a helmet.
You can also witness a real-life legend at an Inter Miami CF soccer game in Fort Lauderdale. Chase Stadium is home to the soccer team that has garnered the attention of soccer fans around the globe, thanks to World Cup Champion and arguably the greatest soccer player of all time, Lionel “Leo” Messi. Be sure to grab tickets beforehand, as most matches sell out—if they haven’t already!
Can’t-Miss Sporting Events
If your travel plans bring you to Greater Fort Lauderdale in June, you’ll want to attend the ICC Cricket T20 Men’s World Cup at Broward County Stadium in Central Broward Park. The region has been selected as one of only three locations in the U.S. to host the prestigious World Cup, marking the first time on American soil. The excitement starts on June 11 with a match between Sri Lanka and Nepal. More games follow through June 15. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this momentous event and witness top-tier cricket action in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Pickleball lovers, this one’s for you! Greater Fort Lauderdale is home to countless open play courts. But Fort Lauderdale is taking it up a notch and will open the world’s first pickleball stadium, The Fort, this year at Snyder Park. Soon, you’ll be able to unleash your competitive spirit on 43 professional pickleball courts, with 14 weatherproofed for year-round play. There will also be bocce, cornhole, table tennis, and a golf simulator.
Stay tuned for Fort Lauderdale United FC, South Florida’s only professional women’s soccer team, kicking off its inaugural season in summer 2024. This highly anticipated addition to the league will play at the Nova Southeastern University (NSU) campus, promising a thrilling atmosphere for fans and players alike. In collaboration with NSU, the club’s state-of-the-art stadium and training facilities will be located at the former practice grounds of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins.
Sports at Leisure
If you want to compete with friends, enjoy a round (or two!) of golf at one of the area’s best courses. Greater Fort Lauderdale offers 35 world-class courses designed by architect greats like Donald Ross, Tom Fazio, and Robert Trent Jones. Use this vacation time to soak up golf history while sinking a few birdies at some of the best courses, like Eagle Trace Golf Club in Coral Springs, known for its island green on every par-3, and Pompano Beach Golf Course, right near Atlantic Boulevard. You can choose between two 18-hole courses at the Pompano Beach course, including the Greg Norman–designed Pines Championship Golf Course.
Fort Lauderdale beach often serves as the epicenter for beach volleyball activities, offering pristine sands and dedicated volleyball courts for guests to enjoy. After spending the day playing volleyball, cool off with a refreshing dip in the ocean.