When in need of a quick beach vacation visit Fort Lauderdale, Florida; known for its 23 miles of beautiful beaches and boating canals. Fort Lauderdale features an extensive list of hotels, restaurants and shopping locations with gorgeous beachfront views. In addition to a wide range of family-friendly outdoor activities that are a must try.
Although we only stayed in town for 48 hours, of course…we would have loved to stay longer, we were able to do a lot of fun things that didn’t break the bank. Below is a small list of recommended places to visit to make your short stay amazing.
For beneficial tips for traveling on a budget click on the post below
The Beach
Planning on traveling to Fort Lauderdale, then the first stop of a quick vacation must be the beach. The beach is free and super relaxing. While sunbathing on the beach, take a minute to listen to the waves. I feel it helps to slow the mind down and just decompress.
If trying to catch fish directly off the shore your chances are exceptional. There were a lot of small fishes that nibbled on our toes as we swam in the water.
Don’t forget the sunscreen while unwinding under those Florida sun rays!!!
Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies
This part of Florida is not shy to the restaurant scene, with its abundance of restaurants and eateries. Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies was featured on an entertaining episode of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. Clearly, if it is good enough for Guy Fieri then it was good enough for us. This place is obviously a hot spot to the locals with all the curbside and to-go orders flying out of the kitchen.
I ordered the # 90, which is a classic steak hoagie, with cheese sauce, and fried onions. I added on some mushrooms for a little extra flavor. It was delicious, I can see why people flock here in droves.
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour and Restaurant
Jaxson’s is a must stop for families! The carnival atmosphere is sure to be a kid-friendly pleaser. Aside from the decor the food is without a doubt something you probably haven’t seen. The proportions served here will feed a family of four off one plate. Hot dogs are the size of a grown man’s forearm, fries are pilled a mile high, and the burgers were gut busting just looking at them.
Jaxson’s is known for their monumental ice cream sundae called ” The Kitchen Sink”. The Kitchen Sink has been featured on various televised food shows and we can see why. It comes with four pounds of ice cream of your choice, bananas, whipped cream, cherries, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts served in their iconic replica of a classic kitchen sink. Served with two raging sparklers on top to add to the gratifying experience. We had so much fun trying to tackle this behemoth.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a lovely historical place to visit. Originally built in the 1920’s, this 35-acre estate features mature foliage, tropical gardens and an eclectic style house. There isn’t a section featured in this museum that you won’t want to take a picture of.
They offer self-guided for $20 per adult and guided tours for $25 per adult. Be sure to visit the gift shop.
Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens is a family friendly attraction featuring flamingos and other various species of beautiful birds. In addition to the birds the park features alligators, turtles, bobcats, panthers, and bears.
Some of the trademark trees and plants on display at the Gardens include, white silk floss trees, pink trumpet trees, panama, tropical hazel nut, African mahogany, ear pod trees, yellow poinciana and cluster fig.
Peacocks are abundant in the gardens. It amazed me with how up close and personal you can get to these amazingly docile creatures. There is also an all white peacock on the premises, but you have to catch him while you can. I really wanted to see those white feathers bloom but he was not in the mood. Well technically there were no females around for him to boast happily to. Enjoyable none the less.
Be sure to take the tranquil narrated Tram tour. The tour last for an hour and is very informative of the animals, landscape and nature that surrounds the park.
Downtown Hollywood Mural Project
The Downtown Hollywood Mural Walk is so fun, free and an absolute must do. It is a collection of beautifully painted murals, that can be found on the side of the local businesses and shops throughout Downtown Hollywood. Consequently, it becomes a game to see which buildings have murals and which do not.
There are guided & self-guided walking tours to see all the beautiful artwork. Depending on weather, I would recommend a self-guided personal vehicle tour. Stop by one of the local bars, grab a drink and get your cameras ready.
Click the link below to access a full copy of the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project Map
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