If you have plans to rock out at a concert or cheer on your favorite team at Amerant Bank Arena, the fun doesn’t have to end there. You can build an entire vacation itinerary without leaving the suburban neighborhood it resides in, packed with shopping, eclectic dining, outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural wonders.
Amerant Bank Arena, an expansive, indoor arena formerly known as FLA Live, is situated in Sunrise just west of Fort Lauderdale on the edge of the Everglades, and only 15 minutes away from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Amerant Bank Arena is a coveted stop for big-name concert tours – think Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Luke Combs, and John Mayer. Other events include family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and Cirque du Soleil and annual events like the Y100 Jingle Ball and the AutoNation Orange Bowl Basketball Classic. And even with all of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s sunshine, Amerant Bank Arena brings on the chill of the ice as the home of the NHL hockey team, the Florida Panthers.
If you're in town for a concert or a game, here’s where to eat, stay, and play around Amerant Bank Arena.
Dine & Drink Options at Arena
There's no need to grab food and drinks before an event, as there are plenty of options at the arena.
Concession stands are sprinkled throughout the arena, offering everything from barbeque to pizza. Visitors can even grab a craft brew from the local favorite Funky Buddha Brewery Tap Room.
Elevate the night with a spot at Lounge 954, which offers prime viewing for concerts and games, along with complimentary food, beer, wine, and sodas; or catch all the action from the all-inclusive Corona Beach House for good views and gratis food, drinks, and parking. There’s also luxury seating and dining at the True Vodka Lounge, which offers epic views.
Dine & Drink Outside
When you’re not at the arena, find a solid mix of restaurants and bars in nearby Sawgrass Mills. You’ll find big chains like Grand Lux Café, Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen, and Yard House, to name a few. Enjoy a tropical drink and plates infused with Latin flavors at the Mojitobar. If you want to explore Fort Lauderdale, head 20-minutes east to dine on Las Olas Boulevard or move to nearby Weston for a selection of locally-owned restaurants.
Things to Do
There are plenty of fun things to do around the arena, perfect for the entire family.
More than a typical mall, Sawgrass Mills is one of the nation’s largest outlet shopping destinations. It’s easy to spend an entire day here. With more than 350 outlet stores, fashionistas can scoop up mega deals from big-name and luxury brands like Versace and Burberry to outlet department stores like Saks Off Fifth and Bloomingdale’s.
For different kinds of shopping experiences, stop by IKEA and stroll through the Scandinavian chain’s enormous store for several floors of furniture and home accessories. At the Alligator Alley Harley Davidson, shop (or gawk) at impressive new and used bikes, and hop on a bike simulator.
And if you prefer spending time outdoors, there are plenty of parks and attractions for you.
On the edge of the Everglades, you'll find Markham Park, a diverse park and campground with plenty of trails and land for everything from biking to hiking to picnicking and disc golf. Markham is also home to an outdoor shooting range for target practice.
Another nearby spot to immerse yourself in nature is the Sawgrass Trailhead of Atlantic Boulevard. The trailhead cuts through the Everglades and is perfect for leisurely walks, biking, and photography as the area is home to beautiful flora and fauna from birds to alligators. Insider tip: it’s also a spectacular spot to catch the sunset and watch the sky transform into a kaleidoscope of colors.
The area is also home to plenty of family fun attractions, including ifly Fort Lauderdale, where you can spend an afternoon indoor skydiving, and America’s Escape Game in Sawgrass Mills, where you have to solve a series of puzzles in an allotted amount of time.
The arena is also less than 30 minutes away from Greater Fort Lauderdale beaches. Find the perfect spot in the sand to unfurl your towel and recount stories about the concert you saw or an epic play at the Panther’s game.
Where To Stay
You can be at the center of all the action with a stay at the trendy newcomer, AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise. The fashion-centric hotel features 174 guest rooms and a rooftop bar serving craft cocktails and Spanish tapas. Plus, you're within walking distance from Sawgrass Mills. There’s also the DoubleTree by Hilton Sunrise, which is a mile from the arena.
If you’re up for an adventure, park your RV or set up your tent at Markham Park, which offers campgrounds and RV hookups. Guests have access to picnic tables, grills, Wi-Fi, and a restroom complex with hot showers.
So, come for an event at Amerant Bank Arena, and stay for the fun.