Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Located just about 30 minutes outside of Miami, Ft. Lauderdale is a super fun place to visit when you’re in South Florida. It is full of beautiful beaches, great restaurants, lots of shopping strips and an overall great time. I am originally from Boca Raton which is 20 minutes north of here and I spent so many weekends just hanging out and basking in the energy this place has to offer. Keep in mind: It’s extremely crowded during spring break so if that’s not your style, I would think twice about going.

Sightseeing/Activities:

  • Butterfly World: I absolutely love this place. It is the largest butterfly park and is filled with the most gorgeous, vibrant colored butterflies I have ever seen. Highly recommend!

  • Atlantic Ave. (Delray Beach): Only 20 minutes away from Ft. Lauderdale, this shopping strip is great to walk down either during the day or at night. It’s filled with restaurants, bars, boutique shops and located right next next to the beach. I definitely suggest this is you’re looking to be a little social!

  • Riverwalk: Nice walk along the river with lots of restaurants and cute shops to look at!

  • Dania Beach Pier: If you like to fish, this is a place for you!

  • West Lake Park: Waterfront site GREAT for canoeing & picnics.

    Sightseeing/Activities:

  • Pompano Beach Pier

  • The Guitar Hotel

  • X-Treme Action Park

  • Las Olas Beach

  • Fort. Lauderdale Beach

Food:

  • Padrino’s Cuban: This is a staple in Ft. Lauderdale. Must go if you like cuban food. So delicious! Everything from the ham croquettes to the picadillo and mojo marinated pork is to die for.

  • Hardy Park Bistro: Impeccable sandwiches and salads.

  • Sea Watch on the Ocean: Looking for a romantic dinner? This is the place to go due to the beautiful sunset in the background. The food is delicious as well. The crab tostada is my favorite. If you love sea food, you’ll be happy you stopped by.

  • The Alchemist Cafe: Amazing coffee and it has a beautiful outdoor patio to go along with it. I also love their sandwiches, and the personal-sized pizzas. A range of food for whatever mood you’re feeling.

  • Cynth & Co: On the go? This is for you! This coffee shops serves traditional breakfast and coffee for anyone who is in a rush and needs something to pick up quick. Very instagram-worthy drinks are made with the beautiful blue butterfly latte or blackberry almond latte. Delicious quiches and breakfast sandwiches too!

Danielle Giordano