3- Day Nature Itinerary
The natural side of Greater Fort Lauderdale runs wider and wilder than most visitors expect. From miles of sun-soaked coastline to the sweeping Everglades just west of the city, outdoor experiences range from snorkeling coral reefs to stargazing over sawgrass prairies. However you like to explore, there’s a slice of adventure with your name on it.
Day 1: A Little Sun & Surf
Settle in, soak up the breezy, balmy weather, and ease into Greater Fort Lauderdale’s signature coastal vibes. Find shade under a palm or get close to water's edge—there’s always a spot to claim on our 24 miles of shoreline. Gentle waves make it especially inviting for families, while nearby beachside promenades offer plenty of options for a casual lunch or sunset dinner, from Fort Lauderdale beach to Hollywood Beach’s Broadwalk.
Explore seven distinct seaside towns, each offering its own take on the coast. Just north of Hillsboro Beach, the iconic Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse marks the northern edge of the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. Climb 167 steps to the top for panoramic views of the coast, then stop by the next-door museum, where guided tours are offered on select days.
Once you’ve taken in the lighthouse views, head across the way to Roy Roger's Family Park & Wahoo Bay for a hands-on introduction to the region’s marine life. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for beginners and kids, while the artificial reef structures—known as “seahives”—attract tropical fish you can spot just below the surface. The best part? It’s completely free to snorkel and spend the afternoon exploring this open-air “living laboratory.”
Day 2: Exploring the Everglades & Wildlife Adventures
Things get a little more adventurous on day two as you head west of downtown Fort Lauderdale into the Everglades—a vast, slow-moving river of grass where sawgrass marshes stretch for miles and wildlife roams freely.
Begin your day at Sawgrass Recreation Park, where an airboat ride carries you deep into the wetlands. As you glide across the water, keep an eye out for alligators in their natural habitat, along with wading birds and other native species. Some tours also include access to an on-site reptile sanctuary, home to more than 50 rescued animals like tortoises and iguanas. After your ride, refuel at The Gator Grill for gator bites and other specialties.
For a slower-paced option, visit the Everglades Elevated Boardwalk. The raised wooden path offers an easy, self-guided way to take in the landscape, with opportunities to spot birds, fish, and native plants along the way.
Visits that extend into the afternoon call for a trip to the Sawgrass Trailhead at Atlantic Boulevard in Coral Springs, where you can enjoy wide-open views of the wetlands and little obstruction. Locals claim this is one of the best spots to catch golden hour over the Everglades—the sunset's reflection off the water is stunning.
As night falls, head to the Fox Observatory at Markham Park in Sunrise. On Saturday evenings, little ones can stargaze through powerful telescopes, getting a closer look at the moon, planets, and stars, or simply take in the rare quiet of a dark South Florida sky.
Day 3: Parks, Trails & Family-Friendly Nature
Ease into your final day surrounded by greenery. In Davie, lean into the area’s Western roots with a guided horseback ride at local ranches like Bar-B Ranch or A&A Adventure Horseback Riding. Trails wind through open green space and quiet paths, offering a different perspective of South Florida’s natural landscape.
Nearby Treetops Park is a quiet slice of paradise, home to a 23-acre restored freshwater marsh. Make an afternoon of wandering through ancient live oaks, visiting the equestrian center, and strolling along the 1,000-foot boardwalk, where you’ll stumble upon a 28-foot observation tower.
End on a colorful note at Butterfly World, in Coconut Creek, affectionately dubbed the “Butterfly Capital of the World.” For more than three decades, this beloved attraction has welcomed guests to its 3-acre facility, home to more than 20,000 butterflies from around the globe, as well as multiple aviaries, botanical gardens, and a butterfly museum. Wander through lush aviaries and botanical gardens as butterflies flutter freely around you, then stop by the gift shop for a final keepsake before heading home.
Looking for even more ways to spend three days in Greater Fort Lauderdale? Check out our other 3-day itineraries including adventure, foodie, luxe, relaxation and culture.