There may be sunny skies almost all year round, but it’s during the summer that Greater Fort Lauderdale truly comes alive. The days are longer, the ocean is warmer, and the list of things to do only grows. Whether you’re into museums, outdoor activities, or animals you won’t find anywhere else, there’s sure to be something that’ll catch your fancy in Greater Fort Lauderdale this summer.
Flutter With The Butterflies
Did you know that Greater Fort Lauderdale is home to the Butterfly Capital of the World? The city of Coconut Creek proudly holds this title thanks to Butterfly World and its 20,000 butterflies and birds. Open since 1988, visitors can explore 3 acres of botanical gardens, butterfly aviaries, tropical birds, and a full-fledged, working butterfly farm. When you step inside the aviary, you’ll be greeted by countless butterflies of all kinds of species. Wear brightly colored clothing and keep a lookout, because one is sure to make a pit stop on your shoulder.
Up Close And Personal With Gators
Riding through Everglades Holiday Park atop an airboat is one of the quintessential experiences in Greater Fort Lauderdale. At the park, you’re sure to spot hawks flying overhead, lily pads resting gently on the swamp’s surface, and the glassy eyes of alligators as they take a peek above the River of Grass. While you’re at the park, take a moment to stop by the Gator Pit for a presentation by the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue — you may have seen them on TV! — where you’ll see feats of courage, hear stories of rescuing alligators from swimming pools, and learn why these prehistoric creatures are so special to Greater Fort Lauderdale’s natural habitat.
Spend The Day Outside
You don’t have to be a triathlete to enjoy Broward College’s Tigertail Lake Recreation Center. The center offers SCUBA diving, a ropes course, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and an aqua glide course. It’s a great opportunity to try something new in a relaxed environment and perfect for families.
The Best Views Around
Escape the heat and climb to the top of the Hillsboro Lighthouse for coastal breezes and an incomparable view of the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse was first illuminated in 1907, and thanks to the work of the Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society, the public can experience it firsthand during its once-monthly tours. Guests take a boat from the Sands dock to the lighthouse for a one-hour trip. In the evening, a drive down A1A isn’t complete without passing by the lighthouse.
A Walk Among The Murals
Experience art that’s larger than life with the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, a collection of more than two dozen murals. Adorning the walls of shops, galleries, and restaurants, the works feature everything from flowers and animals to oversized portraits. Follow the map to explore at your own pace — also discover downtown Hollywood while you’re at it — or join a guided tour on the third Saturday of the month during Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk. You might even see an artist at work on their next masterpiece.
Experience Art
When it’s just too hot to be outside, retreat to the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale for a world of art from around the globe. With 25,000 square feet of paintings, sculptures, textiles, and hanging artwork, you’re sure to find something that will leave you awestruck. Not only are there more than 7,500 pieces of art in the museum’s permanent collection but also traveling exhibits throughout the year. Be sure to also put on your calendar the museum’s bevy of lectures, film presentations, and free entry on the first Thursday of the month.
Summer Events in Greater Fort Lauderdale
Dine Out Lauderdale
Throughout August and September, participating restaurants across Greater Fort Lauderdale are offering special deals for foodies during Dine Out Lauderdale. This includes prix fixe lunch menus for $35 and dinner for $45 to $75 at some of the area’s finest restaurants with the most coveted reservations.
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures
Ahoy! Kids can tap into their inner pirates as they sail the high seas of Fort Lauderdale. The one-hour cruise features battling pirates with water cannons, learning to talk like a pirate, and getting dressed up for the part.
Horseback Riding
Enjoy Davie’s Robbins Open Space Preserve from atop a horse. Bar-B-Ranch offers scenic trail rides for riders of all experience levels to explore the 160-acre preserve. Or, rent a pony for your little one under 7 to partake in the fun, too. Rides are by reservation only.
iFly Fort Lauderdale
Have a sense of adventure, but not quite ready to jump out of a plane? Get a taste of skydiving with this indoor body flying tunnel in Davie. It just might convince you to take the plunge for the real thing!
Las Olas Gondola
Fort Lauderdale has been called the “Venice of America” for its winding waterways, and you can ride around like you’re in the romantic Italian city, too. Hop aboard a real gondola for a ride through the Intracoastal, fit with a knowledgeable gondolier.
Mermaid Shows
Encounter sirens of the sea at B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale’s Wreck Bar for its famous mermaid shows! Since the 1950s, guests have enjoyed these underwater performances, with additions such as Sunday brunch, aqua burlesque shows, and the family-friendly Coral Reef Show.
101 Days Of Summer
If you’re still looking for more summer activities in Greater Fort Lauderdale, check out the 101 Days of Summer, going on now through Labor Day.