Fort Lauderdale Travel Guide | Friends Trip

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Destination: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States
Trip length: 2 days
Trip dates: July 11 - July 13
Travel style: travelling with friends
Budget: $$
Accommodation:
Activities: gastronomy, nightlife and entertainment, outdoor adventures, arts and culture

Key Facts

location: Southeast Florida, USA
currency: United States Dollar (USD)
religion: Christianity
population: 182,760
language: English, Spanish, Creole

electricity: 120V, 60Hz, Type A/B?
time zone: EST/EDT (UTC-5)
country code: +1
internet access: Widely available, high-speed broadband
climate: Tropical rainforest, hot and humid summers

Introduction

Fort Lauderdale, set along Florida’s southeastern coast, is famous for its Intracoastal Waterway, glittering canals, and expansive beaches. Once a 1960s spring break hotspot, the city now balances lively nightlife with a relaxed, sophisticated vibe.

In July, expect warm, tropical weather—with highs around 90°F—perfect for sunny days at Las Olas Beach or boat tours with friends. Explore the bustling Riverwalk, check out the shops and restaurants along Las Olas Boulevard, or hop on a water taxi. With affordable group activities, vibrant culture, and endless sunshine, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal spot for a fun trip with friends.

Getting There

Fort Lauderdale is easily accessible by air, with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) serving many direct flights from major cities. The airport is just a short ride from downtown, making it convenient for groups traveling together. For a budget-friendly option, consider using rideshares, taxis, or airport shuttles.

If you’re coming from other parts of Florida, Brightline’s high-speed train and Greyhound buses offer affordable group transport. Amtrak is another comfortable train option, though travel times are longer. Fort Lauderdale is also a major cruise port, ideal if you’re arriving by boat.

In July, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so allow extra travel time, especially if flying. Always check for potential flight delays and bring rain gear when exploring the city with friends.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Fort Lauderdale features a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and balmy ocean breezes. Winters are mild and dry, while summers are hot, humid, and often rainy. Expect average highs from the mid-70s °F (24°C) in winter to upper 80s °F (31°C) in summer.

From July 11 to July 13, the city is typically in its wet season, so you can expect daily highs near 90°F (32°C), high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. While hurricanes are possible in summer, they're less likely in mid-July, so extreme weather is rare, but stay updated during your visit.

You'll find endless outdoor adventures along the beaches, enjoy a vibrant gastronomy and nightlife scene, and explore an eclectic arts and culture community year-round, though some prefer the milder winter weather.

Itinerary

Day 1

Kick off your adventure bonding with friends while exploring Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant foodie scene, basking in outdoor activities along the coast, and sampling the city’s lively nightlife and entertainment spots.

Las Olas Boulevard Foodie Crawl
Kick off your adventure by strolling down Las Olas Boulevard and sampling the area’s famed restaurants and cafes. Try local seafood plates and creative cocktails at favorites like YOLO or The Floridian. This lively avenue is ideal for group fun and bonding.
Beach Yoga & Sunrise at Fort Lauderdale Beach
Begin your day with a rejuvenating group yoga session on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Enjoy soothing ocean breezes and panoramic views as you transition from relaxing stretches to soaking in the sunrise, setting a positive tone for your trip.
Riverwalk Arts & Culture Walk
Wander along the scenic Riverwalk, where outdoor art installations, galleries, and performing arts spaces line the path. Pop into the NSU Art Museum for a quick culture fix—perfect for inspiring new conversations with friends.
Water Taxi Hop—Exploring Canals with Friends
Board Fort Lauderdale’s famous Water Taxi and cruise the “Venice of America.” Hop on and off to explore waterfront bars and quirky stops with your group. It’s a fun, scenic way to see the city from a new angle.
Nightlife Kickoff at The Wharf Fort Lauderdale
Experience Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife together at The Wharf, a lively open-air venue by the New River. Dance to live music, enjoy food trucks, and sip cocktails as the sun sets—the perfect way to toast your first day!

Day 2

Soak up local culture through art and history, enjoy more of Florida’s stunning outdoors together, and share memorable gastronomic delights before ending your day with a fun night out.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Exploration
Discover historic Fort Lauderdale at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Stroll through lush grounds filled with tropical plants and wander the quirky, art-filled mansion for a dose of local color and history with friends.
Kayaking Adventure on Middle River
Paddle together along the scenic Middle River, enjoying wildlife sightings and unique perspectives of the city. Rentals are nearby and routes are beginner-friendly—ideal for memorable outdoor fun and laughter.
Brunch at Louie Bossi’s Ristorante
Treat yourselves to a classic South Florida brunch at Louie Bossi’s. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastries, and bottomless mimosas in a lively garden setting—the perfect refuel for a day of exploring.
Street Art Tour in FATVillage
Get inspired in Fort Lauderdale’s buzzing arts district, FATVillage, with a walking tour of vibrant murals, pop-up galleries, and creative studios. Watch for open house events and local makers’ markets!
Cocktails & Live Music at Rooftop @1WLO
End your day with friends atop Downtown’s Rooftop @1WLO, where panoramic city views blend with live beats and inventive drinks. Arrive around sunset for the best ambiance and photo ops!

Accommodations

For a friends' trip on an average budget, check out hotels like The Dalmar or Riverside Hotel, both centrally located and stylish without breaking the bank. Las Olas Boulevard and downtown are perfect neighborhoods for vibrant nightlife and dining right outside your door. For beach access, consider North Beach Village, which offers trendy and budget-friendly boutique hotels.

If you’re open to hostels, try The Hotel Deauville, a social spot near the beach with dorms and private rooms. Use booking sites like Booking.com and Expedia for deals—book early since July is summer and rooms fill quickly, especially around events. Rentals like Airbnbs are also popular for groups, offering shared spaces and more flexibility.

Food and Drink

Fort Lauderdale’s cuisine highlights fresh seafood like stone crab, mahi-mahi, and conch fritters, alongside tropical drinks and Cuban coffee. Local bars and cafes serve key lime pie and craft beers, perfect for a friends’ getaway. Don’t miss waterfront favorites like Coconuts, local eats at El Camino, or Thai favorites at Chimney House.

Hit Las Olas Boulevard for lively spots like Louie Bossi’s or Riverside Market for craft brews and pizza. Most restaurants expect a 15-20% tip for table service. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are readily available, especially in casual eateries. For the best experience, try sunset dining near the beach and sample local food markets for quick bites.

Hamburger

The classic American hamburger is a grilled beef patty served in a soft bun, often topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and a variety of condiments. It's a staple of American fast food culture and a beloved comfort food for many.

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue ribs are slow-cooked, tender cuts of pork or beef that are generously seasoned with a flavorful dry rub or smothered in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce. This dish is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine and is often enjoyed at summer cookouts and family gatherings.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish made with elbow macaroni pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's a nostalgic comfort food that's popular among both kids and adults, and it's often served as a side dish or a main course.

New York-style Pizza

New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin, hand-tossed crust, generous cheese topping, and a variety of classic toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. It's a quintessential street food in New York City and has become a beloved icon of American pizza culture.

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken consists of juicy, tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. This dish is a Southern classic and is often served with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, biscuits, and coleslaw.

Attractions and Activities

Fort Lauderdale offers vibrant dining scenes on Las Olas Boulevard, perfect for sampling cafes, bars, and diverse cuisine with friends. Enjoy live music and dancing in the city’s waterfront nightclubs and lounges after sunset.

For outdoor fun, head to Fort Lauderdale Beach for sun and watersports, or stroll the scenic Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, home to galleries, museums like NSU Art Museum, and lively cultural events. Year-round, you can also explore boat tours along the canals, which give the city its “Venice of America” nickname.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Discover Fort Lauderdale’s quirky side by kayaking through the scenic mangroves of Whiskey Creek in Dr. Von D.

Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, a serene spot teeming with wildlife and few crowds. Explore the eerie but fascinating Jungle Queen Indian Village, an offbeat destination reached only by riverboat, where you’ll glimpse kitschy Florida history and lush gardens.

If you’re truly adventurous, try a full moon night dive at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea for a stunning underwater view of nocturnal marine life—a thrilling experience for certified divers.