Finding family-friendly activities suitable for all ages can be a challenge when visiting a new city. However, when you're vacationing in Greater Fort Lauderdale, worry not! This vibrant region is known for its 24 miles of pristine beaches, scenic waterways, and an extensive array of shopping, dining, and things to do. There's something for every age, interest, and budget to enjoy. With an abundance of kid-friendly resorts and restaurants, Greater Fort Lauderdale is the perfect destination for everyone under the sun.
Amenity-Rich Resorts
Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club
Recently recognized by Tripadvisor as the number one family hotel in the U.S., Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club spans 10 acres of beachfront paradise that has been adored by generations. The resort offers an array of amenities nestled among majestic palms and tropical plants, including tennis and pickleball courts, beach volleyball, basketball, a putting course, shuffleboard, and a children's playground. At the heart of the resort are two expansive lagoon-style pools surrounded by private cabanas, a delightful tiki bar, and a touch of old-Florida charm. Little ones can enjoy activities like face painting or indulge in a cold treat from the charming soda shop. With live entertainment, a luxurious spa, and multiple onsite dining options, it's no wonder that Lago Mar is a top destination for the entire family.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
The Pelican Grand Beach Resort is home to Fort Lauderdale's only lazy river. Its prime location on State Road A1A offers guests breathtaking views of the Atlantic, framed by 500 feet of pristine beach. Children will love the packed daily events calendar, which includes pool and beachside activities like sandcastle competitions and lazy river races. Adults can relax with a treatment at the spa, enjoy live entertainment, or socialize during cocktail hour. After a full day of activities, the whole family can savor a beachfront dinner at the resort's own Ocean2000 or choose from the endless variety of restaurants on Fort Lauderdale beach. Comfortable guest rooms and luxury suites with private oceanfront balconies provide a tranquil retreat at the end of a busy day.
B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale
Situated on Fort Lauderdale's renowned beach and designed in the shape of a large cruise ship, the iconic B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale offers a distinct vacation experience that will be cherished by the whole family for years to come. Alongside stylish rooms, award-winning restaurants, and a serene spa, the resort's unique offerings make it a treasure for all ages. The hotel's Wreck Bar, known for being one of the last remaining porthole bars in the U.S., hosts a captivating live mermaid show that the entire family can enjoy. Witness the enchanting performances of mermaids while savoring brunch, then unwind on the private beach or take a dip in one of the resort's two swimming pools. To explore the town, make use of the hotel's complimentary bicycles, perfect for a leisurely evening cruise.
Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale
For a city-centric stay, check into the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale, where modern rooms and a sleek rooftop pool provide a captivating view of the city's bustling atmosphere. The hotel's trendy location is unbeatable in terms of proximity to kid-friendly attractions. Explore the nearby Riverwalk, offering bike and paddleboard rentals, or visit the Museum of Discovery and Science and the NSU Art Museum. Stroll to the nearby Water Taxi stop with ease, or hop on a sightseeing cruise with Carrie B. Cruises. In the evenings, grab dinner on Las Olas Boulevard and make sure to stop at Kilwins on the way home for a sweet treat.
AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise
Head west for kid-friendly adventures not to be overlooked. The family-friendly AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise provides easy access to Sawgrass Mills, one of the largest single-story outlet malls in the country. Hit the shops, then visit the Rainforest Café, where animatronic animals and immersive jungle decor create a fun mealtime environment.
Sawgrass Mills is also just a few minutes from FLA Live Arena, the home of the NHL's Florida Panthers and host to hundreds of live events, and a short drive from Florida's renowned Everglades. Children will be thrilled with an airboat ride and close-up encounters with alligators and other local wildlife at Sawgrass Recreation Park or Everglades Holiday Park.
For more outdoor fun, visit Davie's Bar-B Ranch for horseback riding, or experience an authentic rodeo followed by a barbecue at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds and Davie Arena. Additional nearby animal attractions include the iconic Flamingo Gardens, where youngsters can feed flamingos and other native wildlife.
Kid-friendly Restaurants
Dining out with little ones can be a joy in Greater Fort Lauderdale, with outdoor options like Park & Ocean, where kids can run free within the safety of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. The open-air restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy unobstructed views of both the park and ocean while enjoying live music in a casual atmosphere.
Also near Fort Lauderdale beach is a local favorite, Wine Garden. Mom and Dad will love the restaurant's great selection of boutique wines, with happy hour seven days a week, while the kids won't forget roasting s'mores around the firepit in the restaurant's tree-covered garden. An authentic Italian menu offers something for even the pickiest little eaters.
Grab a bite at 15th Street Fisheries, where their delicious seafood menu goes hand-in-hand with million-dollar views of yachts cruising by and docking at the iconic Lauderdale Marina. Kids will be wowed by the hungry tarpon that hang around the docks waiting to be fed with food from the restaurant's gift shop.
Your little sea dogs will also love Pirate Republic, a unique pirate-themed restaurant with fresh seafood dishes and a memorable waterfront ambiance on the New River. Their famous seafood moqueca, quirky pirate décor, and resident macaw make it a memorable dining experience for all ages.
For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, you can't beat lunch at Jet Runway Café, a casual hidden gem at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport serving unbeatable views of incoming and departing aircraft and delicious dishes. Their kid-friendly menu is guaranteed to satisfy a variety of taste buds, and the entertainment is second-to-none.
Put a cherry on top of your vacation at Cherry Smash, an old-timey ice cream parlor and candy shop in Coral Springs with an eclectic atmosphere and tons of character. Indulge in root beer floats, sundaes, and banana splits that the whole family will love. Your kids will thank you.
After experiencing all that Greater Fort Lauderdale has to offer, your kids will be begging to return.