I recently spent a weekend in Fort Lauderdale when I traveled for the Black Travel Summit, the premiere conference for black content creators in the travel space. This was my first visit to Fort Lauderdale, and prior to that my only experiences visiting Florida were in Miami!

Weekend in Fort Lauderdale: What is Fort Lauderdale known for?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city in sunny Florida known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, yachting experiences and cultural diversity. A lot of people who visit Florida tend to sleep on (ignore) Fort Lauderdale because Miami as a destination is more popular. But you would be surprised (just like I was) of how different Fort Lauderdale is from Miami. Let me explain.

Fort Lauderdale vs Miami: which city is better for a sunny weekend getaway?

Picking between Fort Lauderdale and Miami actually depends on what you are looking for, because the two cities have a different vibe and appeal. Having spent a weekend in Fort Lauderdale and before, another weekend in Miami, I would say that Fort Lauderdale is more laid-back, more calm and more community-focused; compared to Miami which is more “high-energy”, more cosmopolitan and has more of a big city, celebrity vibe. For a family weekend in Florida, I would definitely pick Fort Lauderdale. For a girlfriends;/bachelorette trip in Florida, Miami would be the best pick!

Fort Lauderdale vs Miami: Beaches and Culture

In Fort Lauderdale, the beaches are quieter and more family-friendly, compared to Miami beaches which are busier, and have bigger crowds. South beach in Miami, for example, is iconic and very popular among tourists who are doing winter getaways in Florida. Another thing that I noticed when I compared Fort Lauderdale to Miami was the fact that Fort-Lauderdale has more highlights of African-American culture. For instance, you have institutions such as the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (commonly known as AARC which I visited during my weekend in Fort Lauderdale), Stranahan House which are sites that showcase the area’s Black history and cultural contributions. Even though Miami also features immigrant history, here the city is more popular for Latin culture due to Cuban influences (very evident with cultural hotspots such as Little Havana).

Fort Lauderdale vs Miami: Day and Nightlife

In Fort Lauderdale: seeing small, locally-owned restaurants and bars is more of the norm, and there are several options when you spend a weekend in Fort Lauderdale.  I also noticed that the city has a growing focus on supporting Black-owned and sustainable businesses. The nightlife is also more laid-back and intimate compared to Miami, where you have higher-end style dining, celebrity chef experiences and also a world-renowned nightlife scene. No wonder people travel to Miami just to party, and for these reasons, when it comes to the cost of travel experiences, spending a weekend in Fort Lauderdale would definitely be cheaper than spending a weekend in Miami.

Overall, when it comes to picking the best destination for your South Florida escape, here is my verdict: if you want a balance of culture, history, and relaxation, then you’re better off spending your vacation weekends in Fort Lauderdale. It’s ideal for families, more laid-back experiences and those who want to have a memorable time exploring communities and supporting local businesses. From there, you can also take a day-trip to Miami to have that glamorous, high-energy and fast-paced vacation experience. Fort Lauderdale stands out as a more authentic, culturally immersive destination, while Miami often feels larger-than-life.

Now that you know which city would be best based on the vibe of your vacation in South Florida, let’s dive into what a weekend in Fort Lauderdale would look like! So, if you only have 2-3 days to explore Fort Lauderdale, here is how to make the most out of it. 

My Weekend in Fort Lauderdale Itinerary

Before we dive into this weekend in Fort Lauderdale itinerary, I wanted to highlight that this itinerary can be used even if you are not traveling to Fort Lauderdale on a weekend. So if you are only spending 2-3 days in Fort Lauderdale at any point of the week, you can use this Fort Lauderdale travel itinerary. I went there for a conference, so this weekend in Fort Lauderdale itinerary can also be used if you are traveling there for business, or if you are in Miami and want to extend your stay in South Florida to Fort Lauderdale.

Day 1: Traveling to Fort Lauderdale from Toronto

I took my flight from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale with Air Canada, and this was a direct flight from Toronto Pearson International airport. My Air Canada flight from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale was approximately 3 hours, and I arrived in the evening. This gave me ample time for me to rest and explore the best things to see and do in Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale at night! 

Cheap Flights from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale

Getting cheap flights from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale is actually pretty easy, even if you are traveling during the Toronto winter and are trying to escape the winter or go somewhere warmer in the spring. To score cheap flights from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale, make sure to set up flight alerts using Google flights, that way you are always notified whenever the price drops. This is what I do to get cheap flights, and I have even more tips in my cheap flights guide which you can access here!

My experience at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) coming from Canada

I arrived through the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which is just a short 15-minute drive to downtown Fort Lauderdale. One thing that I loved was that for travelers from Canada (considered international travelers), you don’t need to clear customs or immigration when you arrive at the Fort Lauderdale airport! So, from the time you disembark your flight, you head straight to pick up your baggage (if you have any) and then go! This is such a huge plus because that way you save even more time, avoid the hassle and get to explore more of Fort Lauderdale on your short trip.

Afternoon: Check-in at your Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale 

For my weekend in Fort Lauderdale, I did not stay at a hotel, but rather, at the Flow Apartments in Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale. Styled like an Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale, I loved the Flow Apartments because they offer a combination of modern luxury and sustainability. And as someone who loves experiencing eco-conscious accommodations, these Airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale were the perfect fit for me. Designed with energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials, these apartments prioritize reducing their environmental footprint without compromising comfort. The Flow Apartments are located at the heart of Las Olas Boulevard, which is where everything happens downtown Fort Lauderdale. 

Evening: Dinner at Las Olas Boulevard 

Begin your weekend with a delicious dinner at one of the top restaurants in Fort Lauderdale at Las Olas Boulevard, the most popular street downtown Fort Lauderdale. I opted for tacos at Bodega which is a spanish pub coupled with a nightclub (downstairs), located right opposite the Flow Apartment complex. If you want to experience things to do at night in Fort Lauderdale, then you can definitely pop in at one of the nightclubs downtown. 

Day 2: History tour of Fort Lauderdale and Beach Day

Morning: Food and History Tour of Fort Lauderdale

During my weekend in Fort Lauderdale, I realized that Fort Lauderdale was not just sea and sand, and happily so because when I travel I love to explore the history and culture of new destinations. On this day, I started my journey at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. It’s more than a library—it’s a cultural treasure trove, preserving the stories and contributions of African Americans in South Florida. After this, our tour took us to the Broward College, a cornerstone of education in the region. Its commitment to diversity and opportunity has shaped countless lives and continues to empower the community. Nearby, the YMCA – Mizell Community Center, a hub of activity and history, offering programs that inspire growth, wellness, and connection, is also another spot that we got to visit. 

Black-owned, local restaurants to try out in Fort Lauderdale

And since this was a food and history tour, what better way to close it out than by tasting some unique delicacies from black-owned restaurants in Fort Lauderdale?  A stop at Smitty’s Sistrunk wings for some of the best wings in town—crispy, flavorful, and made with love is a must. And then, to wrap things up on a sweet note, we stopped at Phuse Cream, a Black-owned ice cream shop serving up creative, handcrafted flavors that are as bold as they are delicious.

This is a great tour through which you will discover the rich history and vibrant African-American history of Fort Lauderdale, while enjoying delectable bites. And this tour is offered by Key2MIA, a locally, female-owned and run business in Florida!

Afternoon: Visit Las Olas Beach  

You can’t complete a weekend in Fort Lauderdale without making a stop at the beach! Las Olas Beach in Fort Lauderdale is one of the closest beaches to downtown (only 15 mins by car from Las Olas Boulevard). It is a gorgeous, white sand beach that is perfect for solo escapes, couples rendez-vous or family getaways in Fort  grab a cocktail (or two) at one of the bars nearby.

Evening: Dinner at El Camino

If you’re looking for a great dinner spot during your weekend in Fort Lauderdale, you have to check out this Mexican restaurant on Las Olas Boulevard, El Camino. This was highly recommended by locals after having gone there, I understand why! The vibe is super lively and fun, perfect for a night out with friends or even a casual date. Their tacos are absolutely amazing—fresh, flavorful, and just the right amount of messy! I had the burrito (because this is what I was craving for), and served with Mexican rice and black beans. The portions were so big that I had leftovers for breakfast the next morning!

Day 3: Fort Lauderdale Museums and Yacht Cruise

Morning: Dive into history at Fort Lauderdale Museums

If you’re a history lover (or just curious about the past), Fort Lauderdale’s museums are a must-visit! Kick things off at the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the oldest building in the city, where you’ll hear incredible stories about Fort Lauderdale’s early days and the people who made it what it is today. Then, head over to the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society for a walk through time with photos, artifacts, and exhibits that bring the city’s evolution to life. And you can’t miss the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center—it’s packed with fascinating exhibits that celebrate the rich history and culture of Black communities in South Florida.

Afternoon: Brunch Yacht Cruise with Yacht Buddy

Fort Lauderdale is known as one of the top cruise destinations in the USA, and its gorgeous canals. So, a weekend in Fort Lauderdale cannot be complete without a yacht cruise experience! We did our yacht cruise with Yacht Buddy, and this was the perfect choice! Picture yourself gliding through the city’s famous canals, soaking up the sun, and enjoying breathtaking views of luxurious waterfront homes and yachts (and this is exactly what I saw). With Yacht Buddy, you’re not just getting a fun cruise; you’re also supporting a company that prioritizes sustainability. They’re committed to minimizing their environmental impact with eco-friendly practices. A yacht cruise with Yacht Buddy combines luxury, adventure, and a dedication to keeping our oceans clean. It’s an unforgettable way to experience this beautiful city while doing your part for the planet!

How to Get to Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is easily accessible by air, with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) being a major hub for domestic and international flights. If you’re driving, the city is located about 25 miles north of Miami, making it an easy drive from Miami International Airport (MIA). Public transportation options, such as the Broward County Transit system and the Sun Trolley, are also available for getting around the city.

Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale

If you want to save cost and are traveling with your family (or even solo), I recommend getting an Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale! You will be surprised to see that some of them are even nicer, more comfortable and more convenient than top-notch hotels! For my weekend in Fort Lauderdale, the Flow Apartments on Las Olas Boulevard stood out as a top choice for comfort, style, and sustainability. These modern, eco-friendly apartments are designed with travelers in mind, offering spacious interiors, sleek finishes, and thoughtful touches like energy-efficient appliances and smart climate control. I loved that the apartment complex was located at the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, right at the Las Olas Boulevard. It provided easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s cultural gems, beaches, and dining hotspots while promoting sustainable travel with features that minimize environmental impact.

Where to Eat in Fort Lauderdale

Here’s a list of some must-try spots in Fort Lauderdale, each with something special to offer:

• Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
  • What Makes It Special: A fun, lively spot that serves up tacos, cocktails, and late-night eats. Known for its energetic vibe, it’s perfect for grabbing a bite with friends or enjoying a casual night out.
• El Camino
  • What Makes It Special: A lively atmosphere with bold, authentic Mexican flavors. Their tacos are a hit, and the margaritas are top-notch. Perfect for a fun night out with friends, casual lunch or dinner. 
• Coyo Taco
  • What Makes It Special: Fresh, made-from-scratch tacos with vibrant flavors and a true taste of Mexico. Their cozy vibe and delicious street-style tacos make it a local favorite. They also have great and affordable happy hour deals!
• YOLO Restaurant
  • What Makes It Special: A trendy spot offering modern American cuisine with a twist. Known for its creative menu, upscale ambiance, and beautiful outdoor patio for dining al fresco.

• Sistrunk Wings
  • What Makes It Special: Home to some of the best wings in Fort Lauderdale, Sistrunk Wings serves up crispy, flavorful wings with a variety of sauces. A great spot for casual dining and comfort food.
• Phuse Ice Cream
  • What Makes It Special: A Black-owned ice cream shop that offers unique, handcrafted flavors. It’s the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth with innovative and delicious ice cream creations.

Each of these spots offers a different vibe, but they all have one thing in common: unforgettable food and a unique experience.

Best time to Visit in Fort Lauderdale

If you are trying to escape the winter from Canada, then the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is anytime from November to May!  During these months, temperatures hover between the mid-60s and low 80s (°F), providing a comfortable escape from colder climates. Avoid the summer months (June to September) if you’re not a fan of heat, humidity, and too many crowds. However, if you’re a budget traveler, summer can offer great deals on accommodations and quieter beaches.

No matter when you go, Fort Lauderdale’s charm and beauty make it a year-round destination! I hope you enjoyed this weekend in Fort Lauderdale itinerary! If you did, drop me a comment below to let me know, and don’t forget: sharing good things is caring!