With its palm-lined sidewalks, charming boutiques and ocean-to-downtown views, East Las Olas Boulevard has long been a favorite of both locals and visitors. Now, it’s ranked among the best places in the country for a feel-good stroll.
According to a recent national survey by Assisted Living Magazine, East Las Olas Boulevard ranked No. 3 on the list of “most walkable and lovable main streets in America,” chosen from more than 100 popular streets nationwide. Whether you’re logging steps, catching up with a friend or soaking in the sights, this Fort Lauderdale gem shows that wellness can be both scenic and social.
Here’s how to turn your healthy stroll into a full-blown experience. No gym membership required.
Start Your Stroll by the Sand
Kick things off at the eastern end of the boulevard near Las Olas Oceanside Park, better known as The LOOP. Just across from Fort Lauderdale beach, this palm-shaded plaza regularly hosts free outdoor yoga, wellness events and a weekend farmers market with fresh produce and artisan goods.
From here, stroll west as the ocean fades into the distance and East Las Olas begins to buzz with boutiques, galleries and outdoor cafés. The walk is flat, shaded and lined with plenty of benches for water breaks and people-watching.
Refuel with Something Fresh
For a health-forward meal or snack, East Las Olas doesn’t disappoint.
OL’DAYS Farm to Table is all about mindful eating, with hearty salads, all day breakfast, and house-made juices. Whether you’re stopping in for a quinoa bowl or a plant-forward meal, the menu leans into flavor without sacrificing freshness.
For an energizing breakfast or brunch, Java & Jam serves fresh-squeezed juices, veggie omelets, and avocado toast that’s as colorful as it is satisfying. It’s a popular stop, but worth the buzz for its locally sourced, health-conscious menu.
Meanwhile, foodies should make a point to visit Earls Kitchen + Bar, where the menu focuses on elevated comfort food with lighter twists. Think miso-glazed Chilean seabass, crisp greens, and delicious shareable plates. A refreshing option for those who like variety.
Want to sample several flavors in one go? Craft Food Tours leads guided walking tours in Downtown Las Olas, combining steps with tastings from some of the area’s best-loved restaurants and hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about Fort Lauderdale’s history while discovering new bites and sips.
Take a Sensory Pause
Walking East Las Olas is good for your body, but it’s also good for your soul.
Step inside Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar, and you’re met with the scent of fresh blooms and the hum of quiet conversation. Tucked between lush arrangements and antique décor, the café’s back patio offers a calm escape with a menu of herbal teas and seasonal lattes.
Just down the boulevard, the eye-catching world of BRITTO brings an instant dose of joy. The gallery showcases Romero Britto’s iconic pop art style, with bold shapes and bright colors that radiate positivity.
Window-shopping is part of the fun, too. Boutiques such as Green and Serene (with sustainable finds and airy fashion) and Girlfriends Boutique (a stylish stop for clothing and accessories) make it easy to pause and browse. Each shop adds its own personality to the boulevard, turning your walk into a blend of wellness and discovery.
For a quiet cultural break, wander through the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. The exhibits change regularly, but the atmosphere is consistently peaceful and thought-provoking, making it a good place to cool off and expand your perspective.
Unwind & Recharge
Before finishing your stroll, pause at Tunnel Top Plaza atop the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel. This small, open-air space is dotted with trees and benches where you can relax and feel the energy of the city all around you.
The beauty of East Las Olas Boulevard lies in its pace. You’re never rushed here. You can go from beachside yoga to a flower-scented café, grab a fresh juice, admire world-class art, and be back in time to watch the sun dip low behind the palm trees.
No matter how far you walk or how often you pause, you’ll leave East Las Olas feeling a little lighter, a little calmer, and a lot more connected to the rhythm of the city.