Just minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood sits one tiny but mighty city: Dania Beach. While smaller, the laid-back town features the same idyllic characteristics as its neighbors to the north—miles of sandy beaches, natural areas for outdoor fun, great dining options, and plenty of culture and fun to be explored for the whole family.
From leisurely strolls along the fishing pier to indulging in decadent ice cream sundaes that border on the theatrical, Dania Beach offers experiences sure to captivate the senses. Here's your guide to the best things to see and do in Dania Beach.
Around Town
Dania Pointe is one of the city's main attractions, home to various shopping, dining, and entertainment. The mixed-use development offers choices that cater to all ages, with added appeal for those seeking indoor activities on rainy days. Create some friendly competition at the Bowlero bowling alley, catch some great comedians at the Dania Improv, and enjoy all of the big screen hits at the movie theater. There’s no better way to spend an afternoon than with shopping. Dania Point features big-name brands, like H&M, J. Crew, and Ulta. After a long day, grab a bite to eat at Cooper's Hawk, which features a Napa-style tasting room, or Dickey's Barbecue Pit, among the many dining options at Dania Pointe.
The Casino @ Dania Beach is another must-visit Dania Beach attraction. It combines a casino with a jai alai fronton, creating a unique destination for gaming, live performances, dining, and jai alai matches. Jai Alai's comeback puts Dania Beach in the spotlight! This fast-paced sport is surging in popularity again, and Dania Beach is one of the few places in the state where you can catch the action.
Outdoor Adventures
No visit to South Florida is complete without basking in its sun-drenched landscapes. The Dania Beach Fishing Pier is a great spot to start. Stroll along while watching anglers cast a line, or try it yourself to catch snook, bluefish, and ladyfish, depending on the time of year. Don't worry if you didn’t bring gear; you can rent rods from the nearby concession, offering a selection of tackle and bait for your convenience.
Dania Beach is also home to gorgeous beaches. Choose between Dania Beach Ocean Park or Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. The latter is home to Whiskey Creek Hideout, a 1.5-mile mangrove-lined waterway great for birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Foodie Fix
Dania Beach earns brownie points for a few unique and established dining haunts.
For breakfast, visit Grampa's Bakery & Restaurant and indulge in favorite breakfast items, such as French toast, potato pancakes, omelets, Nova lox platters, and stacked pastrami sandwiches. You name it, it's probably on the menu, including Grampa’s fresh bagels, which locals have touted as the best in Broward.
For seafood aficionados, Islamorada Fish Company’s waterfront setting sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience complemented by breathtaking sunsets. TORO Latin Kitchen & Tequila Library inside the Le Méridien Dania Beach at Fort Lauderdale Airport celebrates the vibrant flavors and convivial dining culture of Central and South America. There's even a tequila library brimming with a collection of tequilas, mezcals, and agave spirits.
Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlour Restaurant reigns supreme as Dania Beach's most iconic eatery. Step inside for a nostalgic atmosphere, generous portions, and homemade ice cream that'll tantalize your taste buds. The menu is over the top, with the most iconic item being the "Original Kitchen Sink." This dessert features multiple scoops of ice cream, assorted toppings, bananas, whipped cream, and cherries. It even comes adorned with lit sparklers, making this one memorable dessert.
Culture Trip
Immerse yourself in Dania Beach's vibrant culture at Dania After Dark now through May! This free, monthly street festival is a feast for the senses. Browse unique finds from local makers and artists, savor delicious street food and cuisine from local food trucks, and tap your toes to live music and entertainment. It's the perfect way to experience the heart and soul of Dania Beach. It takes place the second Saturday of every month!
And remember to check out the new Mad Arts Museum, which offers a fresh perspective on technological and immersive art. Spanning over 50,000 square feet, the indoor-outdoor museum features 19 installations with a range of projection mapping, light sculpture exhibitions, robots, and laser shows.