The canals and beaches of Fort Lauderdale have been luring travellers since at least the 1940s. Initially popular among the college-aged spring break crowd (in 1985 over 350,000 young people descended on the city), today it caters to a more affluent and sophisticated group of travellers. An extensive convention center complex brings people in as well. The sub-tropical climate makes for great weather year round, so it is never a bad time to visit! It is part of the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metropolitan area, making day trips to the state’s largest city a breeze. Stay like a local in Fort Lauderdale by renting through Wimdu. Everything from private rooms to bed and breakfasts to fully furnished villas to apartments are available for rent for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Where to Stay
Why stay in a boring, overpriced hotel and feel like you could be anywhere in the world. By booking with Wimdu, you have access to all types of different Fort Lauderdale rentals. For a really luxurious stay, you can rent a villa, with all the space that that includes. Apartments are also available to rent from the city centre to the beach. Full kitchens, and ultimate privacy are available - and for even less than a hotel. For even more comfort, try a bed and breakfast - the perfect mix of privacy and friendly local service. No matter where you stay, you are sure to have a pleasant visit full of sun, sand, and fun.
Fun Facts
- Because of its extensive waterway system, Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America”.
- The waters off Fort Lauderdale are one of Florida’s most popular diving spots.
- Fort Lauderdale is America’s yachting capital.
- Fort Lauderdale is home to the world’s largest drive-in theatre, with a whopping 13 screens.
- The boating industry alone employs over 109,000 jobs in the county.
Things to See and Do
If you’re not in Fort Lauderdale on business, you are probably there for it’s popular beach and nautical lifestyle. The city has 7 miles of clean, warm beaches and a wonderful promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment spaces. You can simply relax on the sand and take a dip in the ocean, or participate in a wide variety of water sports, including jet skiing, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, wind surfing and boating. The beach is also a world-class place to play beach volleyball or go for a run or a roller blade. If you plan on doing some shopping during your trip, Fort Lauderdale has you covered. Just 10 minutes from the beach is a shopping mall, and the west side of the city is home to one of America’s largest malls with over 300 stores. It is also easy by car to head down to Miami beach for the day and take in the sights of southeast Florida’s other top destination. Fort Lauderdale also offers a vibrant nightlife scene for both the younger and older crowds.The city is also the second most active cruise port in Florida, so if planning on a cruise of the Caribbean, stay here for a couple nights before heading out on the high seas. If you have a bit of extra money to spare, private air tours over the city and the surrounding everglades are available for a true scenic experience.
Getting Around
Traveling around Fort Lauderdale can be quite a unique experience within the United States. It is a modern city laid out in a grid, so driving is easy and efficient. There are of course many car rental places in the city. Cars are also great if you are looking to explore the greater Fort Lauderdale area and Miami to the south. Be careful, however, as the canal system can make things a little bit confusing as you will need to find bridges to cross. Maps are recommended. If staying in the main downtown core and along the beach, a great and healthy way to get around is by bike. Rent one or buy one cheaply, and make the trip from downtown to the beach in only 10 minutes. You will also save a ton of money on parking by travelling around with this method. Of course, being such a water-centric city, there is also the option to get around the city centre by Water Bus, a slower and rather expensive option, but a lovely way to see America’s yachting capital the way it should be seen. There is also a trolley system servicing downtown, beach, and convention centre areas.