The Venice of America: A Fort Lauderdale Weekend Guide

The Fort Lauderdale water taxi

Skip the overpriced boat tour and catch the same views for a fraction of the price on the Fort Lauderdale water taxi. Hop on and off, grab a beverage onboard (there’s a bathroom, too!), and enjoy entertaining local storytelling from your taxi guide as you cruise from stop-to-stop.

Here’s the route we traveled:

• Start at stop F1 (Las Olas area): Tour the nearby Stranahan House—the oldest surviving home in the city, before hopping on the water taxi.

• Travel to Stop F4 (The Hilton Marina): Hop off for an easy walk over to the Nube Rooftop at the Hilton Beach House, for small bites and beverages with ocean-meets-sky views.

Explore the charm of Las Olas Boulevard

A scenic social hub characterized by historic architecture and lush greenery. From unique boutiques to diverse eateries, it’s the perfect place to experience the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures

Traveling with kiddos? Book a 60 minute, interactive “high seas” family cruise. This adventure is designed for children ages 3–10, though all ages are welcome. Young passengers will work as “junior pirates” to locate treasure and defend their ship, while parents will enjoy the captain’s narrated tour of the Intracoastal waterway—sharing stories about celebrity yachts and multi-million-dollar mansions.

Flamingo Gardens

Established in 1927, this wildlife sanctuary is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida. Hand-feed the flamingos, let the children explore the Children’s Maze Garden and The Everglades Outdoor Classroom, walk through the butterfly pavilion, and take a narrated tram tour through the property’s tropical rainforest and cypress swamp.

Enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s beaches

• Best for families: Pompano Beach, Hollywood Beach, Deerfield Beach, and Fort Lauderdale Beach Park

• Best for adults: Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Las Olas Beach, Dania Beach, Harbor Beach

Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

This spot on Las Olas Boulevard is a non-negotiable on any Fort Lauderdale itinerary. I experienced an instant serotonin boost the moment I stepped onto the dreamy back patio. With ‘secret garden’ vibes, it’s a true gem. To my delight, the food was just as impressive as the aesthetics. Don’t sleep on the Rossa Ricotta wood-fired pizza with hot honey.

The Mai-Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show

A Fort Lauderdale icon for nearly 70 years, and if you’re craving a true “Old Florida” escape, this is your place. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill dinner show. From lush tropical gardens to intricate, hand-carved details, it feels like stepping into a South Pacific oasis.

• Essential tip: Book online well in advance so you can choose your table—seats closest to the stage sell out months in advance.

Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar

Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar is easily one of the most charming spots on Las Olas. I loved wandering through the shop, browsing the antiques and fresh florals while sipping a lavender latte.

You might even catch live music on the patio during your weekend lunch or evening cocktail.

Pan'e Dolce Italian Bakery

We visited three times in just 48 hours: It’s that good. My husband was so hooked on their Americanos that he even snuck away from our nearby breakfast just to grab his coffee here. While waiting in line, we chatted with Italian locals who told us they were regulars. According to them, we had found the most authentic spot in town for traditional Italian pastries and coffee.

Coconuts

Coconuts is that rare spot that feels upscale for adults but is genuinely welcoming for kids. It’s right on the water, so you can watch yachts cruise by while you eat. There’s a dedicated kid’s menu, while adults still have access to top-tier seafood and beverages. It’s the perfect low-stress choice with a view.