3- Day Culture Itinerary

Sure, we like our beach days in Greater Fort Lauderdale, but what really enriches our prized destination is our art, history, and culture scene. Fresh off celebrating 50 Years of Arts and Culture in Broward County, we encourage you to explore and engage with our diverse mix of venues, museums, galleries, timeless attractions and authentic restaurants. Here’s a three-day culture itinerary to help you navigate everything from landmarks to hidden gems, and everything in between. 

Next, drop your bags at your hotel or accommodations, and embark on a two-hour History Fort Lauderdale group walking tour (just under one mile of walking) where a guide will lead you along New River with enlightening stops at the History Museum, the Pioneer House Museum, and the 1800 Schoolhouse Museum. 

For lunch or afternoon tea, make a convenient and fitting stop nearby at The House on the River, a historic setting on the water. Once you’ve fueled up, take an afternoon field trip to Dania Beach to visit MAD Arts, which houses more than 20 interactive exhibits that feature art fused with technology. Outside, MAD Yard has some unique installations to see.

For an afternoon treat en route back to Fort Lauderdale, visit 70-year-old institution Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant to enjoy a sundae and shop for sweets in the nostalgic old-time candy shop.

In the evening, take a look at the shows and concerts listed at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which brings Tony Award-winning plays and musicals, dance, comedy, and other performances (note there are also matinee showings if you’re visiting on weekends). Or, if you’re more interested in dinner and a show, MAI-KAI in Oakland Park offers the longest-running Polynesian show in an authentic setting with both indoor and outdoor bars — the outdoor bar is set in a serene al fresco nature escape dotted with trees, plants, waterfalls, and statues.

Then, head back to Fort Lauderdale and get ready for a unique activity: paddleboarding or kayaking at Bonnet House. Launch from Coconut Cove and once you arrive, take a tour of the 126-year-old historic house designed by artist Frederic Clay Bartlett. Inside, view the art and artifact collection, including pieces from his wife, Evelyn, and tour the spacious grounds, which are rich in flora and fauna. 

Have lunch at Casablanca Cafe, a restaurant set on the ocean on Fort Lauderdale Beach, which housed the destination’s first beachfront home, truly highlighting historic charm complemented by stunning views and a delightful salty breeze. 

If you’re Day 2 falls on the third Saturday of the month, head to Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk to browse the artisan market, take a mural tour, browse the local chalk art, go on a gallery tour, see a magic show, and take in the live music from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. And if you’re not visiting on third Thursday, you can still grab a casual bite, peruse the art and galleries at ArtsPark at Young Circle, visit the Hollywood Art and Culture Center, and stroll the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project.

Make your way back to Fort Lauderdale and stop to see one of our most Instagram-famous works: Thrive by Daniel Popper. The massive concrete structure sits outside Society Las Olas apartments and is a response to social and environmental issues to promote peace. Take the rest of the afternoon to yourself at leisure. 

At night, check out the concert, show or dance performance scheduled at The Parker, a neoclassical playhouse, and one of the oldest venues in Fort Lauderdale. Alternatively, opt for another dinner and a show experience in Oakland Park at EATAPAS, a Spanish restaurant with excellent sharable plates and live entertainment from flamenco performers. Plus, Hidden Speakeasy sits behind a pantry door where your perfect grand finale nightcap awaits.

If you are planning a longer trip? If so, check out our other 3-day itineraries, which include adventure, nature, foodie, luxe, and relaxation. 

*Before visiting a location, please contact the business first to make sure they have reopened.