Get ready for an exceptional experience when traveling to Greater Fort Lauderdale for business. From innovative networking opportunities against the backdrop of swaying palms to unwinding on pristine beaches after a day of deal-making, Greater Fort Lauderdale is more than a destination; it's a haven where business and pleasure converge in perfect harmony.
Setting the Stage
Planning a business trip or conference in Fort Lauderdale? Look no further than the vibrant hub of innovation and collaboration: The Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. Now boasting an impressive 800,000 square feet of space, including 350,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, the convention center is bustling year-round. Despite its already substantial size, work is underway to further enhance the facility, with plans to reach an expansive 1.2 million square feet by 2025.
Highlights include:
- 29-story hotel featuring more than 73,000 square feet of meeting space and an 11,000-square-foot spa and fitness center
- 4 ballrooms, including a 65,000-square-foot waterfront ballroom
- 215,000 square feet of meeting space
- 220,000 square feet of flexible space
- 5-acre waterfront plaza
- 50 breakout rooms
This ongoing project signals the center's commitment to hosting world-class events and ensuring that it continues to be a premier destination for conferences and gatherings well into the future.
Suite Spots
Elevate your business travel experience in Greater Fort Lauderdale by choosing hotel accommodations that merge sophistication with convenience. No matter your preference — waterfront, boutique, all-suite, and more — discover more than 3,000 hotel rooms within a 1.5-mile radius of the Convention Center District. These hotels go beyond mere stays, offering a harmonious blend of modern amenities, strategic locations, and unparalleled comfort.
Starting on Fort Lauderdale beach, there are numerous locations to consider for taking a meeting. The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, a 24-story, 290-room all-suite condo resort, stands tall along A1A, offering spacious suites with ocean views, modern amenities, and a luxurious spa. Boasting 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a dedicated meeting concierge, the Conrad is tailored for seamless business conferences.
Nearby is the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, which exudes casual sophistication, featuring 12 meeting rooms and signature dining at Lona Cocina Tequileria. The iconic W Fort Lauderdale, nestled on the beach, beckons with trendy bars, upscale dining, and services catering to business and leisure travelers.
In the heart of downtown, The Dalmar emerges as a modern and sophisticated choice. Its inviting main lobby for client meetings and a rooftop, Sparrow, offers an unforgettable meeting backdrop. Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale on Las Olas Boulevard provides 38 rooms overlooking the city skyline, plus ample private and public meeting spaces.
Heading south to Hollywood Beach, options abound. The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood offers endless indoor and outdoor conference venues, while the famed Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort seamlessly blends work and pleasure.
For a more tranquil business setting, journey north to the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, an ideal retreat for client visits in Greater Fort Lauderdale or a relaxed business trip with the team.
Team Adventures
Beyond boardroom discussions, explore memorable group activities in this vibrant city. To get around, hop aboard the famed hop-on hop-off Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, cruising along the Intracoastal. With multiple stops at popular destinations like restaurants, shops, and attractions, it offers a convenient and picturesque way to hop between different parts of Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Take in the city’s culture by exploring the newly opened Mad Arts in Dania Beach. This permanent two-story museum celebrates technological and immersive art. There’s also the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale or Museum of Discovery and Science, among countless others.
Book a Craft Food Tour for the foodie in your group to sample over eight tastings, libations, and engaging vendor demonstrations while absorbing intriguing facts and the city's history from knowledgeable local guides.
For a touch of excitement, head to Chops + Hops in Flagler Village for a friendly ax-throwing competition, or try out Wreck It Fort Laudy in Oakland Park — the city’s first “rage room” — where you'll have tools, safety gear, and 30 minutes to let loose and destroy everything in sight.
And, of course, take advantage of the outdoor water activities synonymous with Greater Fort Lauderdale. From snorkeling at Shipwreck Park, one-and-a-half miles offshore from Pompano Beach, to paddleboarding at Las Olas Paddle Boards or SCUBA diving with various vendors, the city offers your group an array of thrilling aquatic adventures.
Flying Solo
If your business trip to Fort Lauderdale leaves you with some free time between meetings, consider turning your downtime into an opportunity to explore the city's diverse offerings. Savor a flavorful coffee or relish a quiet lunch at local hotspots like The Modern Rose, with locations in Deerfield Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
If you're seeking a moment of self-pampering, explore the best spas in the area. A particular gem is EVARA Beach Spa, tucked inside Auberge Beach Residences on Fort Lauderdale beach. A self-guided Vitality Ritual circuit awaits for a serene pre- or post-treatment experience.
Take advantage of Greater Fort Lauderdale's coastal charm by winding down or basking in the sun at one of its stunning beaches, stretching nearly 24 miles along the Atlantic Ocean.
For a dose of retail therapy, delve into the diverse shopping scene — from quaint boutiques on Las Olas Boulevard to the charming enclave of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Or check out one of the largest outlet malls in the US, Sawgrass Mills, which features more than 350 shops.