Family-Friendly Itinerary for Fort Lauderdale

Monday, November 20th: Arrival and Beach Time

Start your family vacation in Fort Lauderdale by heading straight to the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach. Spend your morning building sandcastles, swimming in the turquoise waters, and soaking up the sun. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a picturesque estate with stunning gardens and art collections. For dinner, enjoy delicious seafood at the family-friendly Coconuts.

  • Fort Lauderdale Beach: Free, Half-day
  • Bonnet House Museum and Gardens: $20 per adult, $16 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Coconuts: $-$$, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 21st: Museum and Entertainment Day

Start your day at the Museum of Discovery and Science, where interactive exhibits will engage and educate the whole family. In the afternoon, visit the Xtreme Action Park, Florida's largest indoor entertainment venue, for go-karting, arcade games, and more. For a unique dinner experience, head to Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show, where you can enjoy delicious food while watching a luau-style performance.

  • Museum of Discovery and Science: $17 per adult, $13 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Xtreme Action Park: Varies depending on activities, 2-4 hours
  • Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show: $$-$$$, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 22nd: Everglades Adventure

Embark on an exciting Everglades airboat tour in the morning to explore the unique ecosystem and spot alligators in their natural habitat. After the tour, visit the Sawgrass Recreation Park to learn more about the Everglades and encounter other wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the Rustic Inn Crabhouse, known for its mouthwatering seafood.

  • Everglades Airboat Tour: $25-$30 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Sawgrass Recreation Park: $23 per adult, $13 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Rustic Inn Crabhouse: $$-$$$, 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 23rd: Thanksgiving Celebration

Spend Thanksgiving Day enjoying a special Thanksgiving buffet at one of Fort Lauderdale's family-friendly restaurants, such as Shooters Waterfront. After your feast, take a leisurely stroll along Las Olas Boulevard, known for its boutique shops and art galleries. In the evening, catch a family-friendly show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

  • Thanksgiving Buffet: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
  • Las Olas Boulevard: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Broward Center for the Performing Arts: Prices vary depending on show, 2-3 hours
Friday, November 24th: Fun at Flamingo Gardens

Start your day with a visit to Flamingo Gardens, a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary. Explore the lush gardens, encounter native wildlife, and learn about the history and conservation efforts of the area. In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale to admire its extensive collection of fine art. For dinner, enjoy a casual meal at the family-friendly Primanti Bros.

  • Flamingo Gardens: $19.95 per adult, $12.95 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale: $12 per adult, Free for children 12 and under, 2-3 hours
  • Primanti Bros: $-$$, 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 25th: Water Fun at Rapids Water Park

Get ready for a day of water-filled fun at Rapids Water Park. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that will keep the whole family entertained. In the evening, head to Gulfstream Park for dinner and enjoy the variety of entertainment options, including horse racing, shopping, and dining.

  • Rapids Water Park: $44.99 per person, Full-day
  • Gulfstream Park: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Sunday, November 26th: Departure Day

On your last day in Fort Lauderdale, take a relaxing morning stroll along Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, known for its beautiful views and lively atmosphere. Grab a delicious brunch at one of the beachfront restaurants before heading to the airport.

  • Hollywood Beach Broadwalk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Brunch: Prices vary, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting Butterfly World in nearby Coconut Creek. It's the largest butterfly park in the world and offers a magical experience for the whole family. Another hidden gem is the Young at Art Museum, where children can explore interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities. Locals love exploring Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, which offers nature trails, picnic areas, and kayak rentals for a fun day outdoors.

Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your Fort Lauderdale trip.

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