Your Guide to Free Things to Do in Greater Fort Lauderdale

As a gateway to the Everglades and home to 24 miles of beautiful beaches, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers something for everyone.

Start at Island Water Sports, which offers free surf lessons every Saturday from 7 to 9 a.m. in Deerfield Beach. Classes are open to all ages and skill levels. Equipment is available for beginners, though participants are welcome to bring their own. The only requirements are knowing how to swim and reserving a spot online.

Another hidden gem in Deerfield Beach is Deerfield Island Park, a 53.3-acre nature-oriented park accessible only by boat. Every weekend, the city offers a free shuttle departing from Sullivan Park every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, explore the butterfly garden or have a picnic using the park's tables and grills.

If surfing isn't your thing, head to Hillsboro Beach and visit Wahoo Bay, a public marine education park dedicated to inspiring ocean literacy through hands-on learning, immersive field experiences and community conservation. Every second Saturday of the month, Wahoo Bay hosts an Open Snorkel event. Borrow provided gear or bring your own and enjoy the water. The park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

With so many communities coming together, Greater Fort Lauderdale boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Fort Lauderdale ArtWalk takes place in the MASS District (710 NW 5th Ave.) on the last Saturday of every month, while the Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk at 1948 Harrison St. is held on the third Saturday of each month.

For a museum outing, visit NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, known for its significant collections of contemporary art, Latin American art, works by American realist artist William Glackens and pieces from the CoBrA movement. Admission is free on the first Thursday of every month. For a night of stargazing, head to the Fox Observatory at Markham Park in Sunrise, which is open to the public every Saturday night.

Experience the sounds of Greater Fort Lauderdale through its live music offerings. Start with the Sunday Jazz Brunch, held along Riverwalk on the first Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Looking for free entertainment and wellness activities? Head to Huizenga Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where a rotating calendar of complimentary events brings the community together year-round. Visitors can participate in outdoor yoga and Pilates classes, test their knowledge during trivia nights and enjoy pop-up musical performances in the heart of the city. With programming that changes regularly, it's worth checking the park's event calendar before your visit.

Each summer, the City of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation Department presents the Bank of America Starlight Musicals concert series. Beginning June 5, concerts take place on the football field at Holiday Park and feature a different lineup each week, including country, R&B and pop music.

For live music by the beach, visit the Hollywood Beach Theatre, where the Margaritaville Hollywood Live Bandshell hosts performances every Wednesday through Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. Featuring 30 local bands, the lineup changes nightly, offering fresh sounds for residents and visitors alike.

The LauderGO! Water Trolley is a fun and free way to get around while enjoying the scenic route and accessing destinations along the New River. This eco-friendly shuttle operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and has a total of 8 stops including the Riverwalk Laura Ward Park, Huizenga Plaza/ Bubier Park, Riverfront Plaza, Esplanade Park, Tarpon River, New River Yacht Club, Downtowner and Smoker Park. Riders can track the water trolley online or in the LauderGO! App.