Most of the time, people think of the summer months as the best time to visit Greater Fort Lauderdale—lazy days on the beach, sipping tropical cocktails under a tiki, and partaking in endless watersports. But don’t underestimate the spring season to experience our corner of the world, when temperatures are lighter and the breeze is just right. You’re sure to find something for everyone under the sun to enjoy during your visit. Plus, with comparatively warm weather all year round, you don’t have to give up those beach days you envisioned!

Kayak Under the Full Moon

Full Moon Kayak

Sure, you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard during the day and soak up the sun, but why not experience Florida’s waterways at night? Every month, a full moon kayak tour is hosted at Fort Lauderdale’s Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for a 45-minute guided tour through the coastal dune lake. With the help of Park & Ocean, the park’s official adventure outfitter and eatery, kayakers will be able to take in the sights and sounds of freshwater wildlife under the light of the moon—and colorful glow sticks! Afterwards, hang out with your new friends around the fire for some local brews and s’mores.

Enjoy the View from a Rooftop

Rooftop @1WLO

Greater Fort Lauderdale is a constantly evolving community, and downtown Fort Lauderdale is no exception. See the new additions to the city by enjoying a meal and drink from one of the area’s many rooftop bars. Sparrow is a glitzy hideaway atop The Dalmar hotel, featuring plush mod-inspired sofas, pops of terrazzo, and plenty of cocktails to match the vibe. Rooftop @ 1WLO is the perfect place to watch the sunset over happy hour drinks or Sunday brunch set against the lush greenery. If you’re looking to take a dip in the pool, The Easton has you covered with cabanas for rent to enjoy lunch with a side of sunshine.

Hop Aboard a Water Taxi

Water Taxi

Downtown Fort Lauderdale is walkable and bikes are available for rent, but you can also see the sights from the Intracoastal waterway! The Water Taxi provides guided tours with 10 stops throughout Fort Lauderdale. You can stay for the whole three-hour ride or hop on and off as you wish to see mega yachts, mansions, state parks, waterfront restaurants, and more while you learn about the history of the area. On Fridays and Saturdays, sunset cruises are available; and if you’re itching to check out Florida’s Hollywood just to the south, there is also the express water taxi that’ll take you straight to the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. Don’t forget to check out the Water Taxi’s cruise and save partners, where you can enjoy discounts at restaurants and shops as a guest of the boat.

Feed the Peacocks at Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens White Peacock

It might be named Flamingo Gardens, but perhaps one of the most eye-catching experiences on this 60-acre estate are the countless peacocks that wander the property. Purchase a bag of bird treats—they pack it full!—at the gift shop when you first enter, and these magnificent birds will nonchalantly eat from your gently cupped hand. If you’re lucky, the male peacocks will put on a show and display their colorful feathers, and don’t forget to look up, because you’ll also find them perched among the purple and white orchids and Spanish moss. While you’re there, you can also take in the banyan trees, exotic fruit trees, flamingo ponds, and other animal exhibits.

Hit the Race Tracks

Whether you’re a pro with horse racing or have only seen it in the movies, Gulfstream Park’s thoroughbred race track is an experience for everyone. The main track is just over a mile in circumference and plays host to major tournaments such as the Pegasus World Cup and Florida Derby. With races taking place 10 months out of the year, you can try your hand by placing a bet or just take in the experience. If you’re new to the whole thing, Racing Ambassadors are available to teach you what you need to know. On live race days, dine at Ten Palms on the second floor overlooking the race track to cheer on your pick. And if you’re into another type of horsepower, mark your calendars for the second Saturday of the month for Supercar Saturdays. Car aficionados will enjoy the impressive display of more than 200 elite roadsters at this free and family-friendly event.

Spend the Day at The Pier

Fisher Family Pier Pompano

Along Greater Fort Lauderdale’s 24 miles of beaches, you’ll find piers that offer something for everyone. Most notable is Pompano Beach’s newly reimagined Fisher Family Pier, where you can cast a line to catch dinner, get a scoop of ice cream at Kilwin’s, enjoy a meal at Lucky Fish, Oceanic or Beach House, let the little ones run wild at the covered playground, or simply lay out in the sun as the waves crash on the shore. A fun fact, from the bird’s eye view, the pier is in the shape of a pompano fish! 

Activity Round-up

FLAMINGO GARDENS

  • 3750 Flamingo Rd.
  • 954-473-2955

Spend the day in this 60-acre, not-for-profit botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring…

PARK & OCEAN

  • 3109 E Sunrise Blvd.
  • 954-564-2900

Park & Ocean, spectacularly located in Fort Lauderdale’s Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (3109 E…

MARANDO RANCH

  • 5151 SW 64th Ave.
  • 954-945-5744

Marando Farms & Ranch is a 10 acre working farm & ranch featuring a local & organic farmer’s market…

GULFSTREAM PARK RACING

  • 901 S Federal Hwy.
  • 954-457-6201

Gulfstream Park is South Florida's home for Thoroughbred horse racing and an entertainment…