things to do with kids in fort lauderdale include sandy beaches, hands-on museums, boat rides, and easy outdoor adventures in sunny South Florida. Fort Lauderdale is a family-friendly city in the United States, with a mix of Atlantic coastline, canals, parks, and attractions that suit different ages and budgets.
You can spend the morning on the beach, cool off in a museum after lunch, and take a relaxed boat ride before dinner. The city is spread out, though, so choosing activities by area can save time and reduce the number of car trips.
This guide to things to do with kids in fort lauderdale covers popular attractions, quieter options, local food, transport, seasonal advice, and practical details for planning a family visit.
20 Things to Do with Kids in Fort Lauderdale
Tip 1 – Spend a morning at Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is an easy first stop for families. Children can play in the sand, paddle in the shallows, and watch boats pass offshore. The beachfront promenade is good for a stroller walk, and you will find restaurants and shops nearby.
Bring sun protection, drinking water, and a change of clothes. The sand and midday sun can get very hot, so an early visit is usually more comfortable. Always follow posted beach flags and lifeguard instructions, and keep children close near the water.
Tip 2 – Explore the Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science, often called MODS, is a useful rainy-day choice and a welcome break from the heat. Its interactive exhibits cover science, engineering, nature, and space, with activities that give children something to do rather than just look at displays.
Allow a few hours, especially if you plan to see an IMAX film. Check the Museum of Discovery and Science website for current hours, admission, exhibits, and special programs before setting out.
Tip 3 – Take a Water Taxi ride along the canals
Fort Lauderdale’s waterways are a big part of the city’s character. A Water Taxi trip lets children see yachts, waterfront homes, and the downtown skyline without spending the whole day in a car. It can also work as a scenic way to reach a restaurant or another stop along the route.
Routes, schedules, and ticket options can change, so check the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi website before you go. A boat ride may be less comfortable for children who are sensitive to sun or motion, so pack hats and any usual travel remedies.
Tip 4 – Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Bonnet House combines a historic home, tropical gardens, and a quieter pace than the beach. Families can walk through landscaped grounds and look for local birds and plants. It is a good choice for children who enjoy nature or history, though young kids may have more fun outdoors than inside the house.
Check the visitor information and tour schedule before visiting. Some areas may have limited access, and the grounds are best explored at a gentle pace with water and comfortable shoes.
Tip 5 – Walk or cycle at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park sits between the beach and the Intracoastal Waterway. Families can stroll shaded paths, look for wildlife, picnic, or rent a bicycle when available. It offers a leafy change of scene close to the coast.
Bring insect repellent, water, and snacks. Shade is helpful, but Florida heat and humidity still make outdoor activity tiring. Check the Florida State Parks page for Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for current access and activity details.
Tip 6 – See flamingos and gardens at Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens in nearby Davie is a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary that makes a worthwhile half-day outing from Fort Lauderdale. Families can see native and rescued wildlife, walk among tropical plants, and learn about South Florida habitats.
It is not in central Fort Lauderdale, so plan for a drive or a ride-share trip. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and check the schedule and admission details before you leave.
Tip 7 – Take a Jungle Queen cruise
A narrated cruise is an easy way for children to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waterways while adults get a look at the city from the water. The Jungle Queen is one established local option, with different cruise experiences depending on the schedule and season.
Check the duration and what is included before booking. Longer trips may be a better fit for school-age children than toddlers, and you will want snacks, hats, and a light layer for breezier conditions on the water.
Tip 8 – Let children play at Esplanade Park
Esplanade Park is a convenient downtown stop near the Riverwalk and Museum of Discovery and Science. It gives children room to stretch their legs between indoor attractions, and its location makes it easy to add a short park break to a downtown day.
Check for local events that could affect crowd levels or access. The park is best treated as a relaxed rest stop rather than a full-day attraction.
Tip 9 – Stroll along Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
Riverwalk is a pleasant route through downtown beside the New River. It passes public spaces and cultural venues, and it can be a low-cost way to enjoy the city on foot. Take a short section rather than expecting children to walk the whole area in the heat.
Pair the walk with a meal or a museum visit. If you are exploring with a stroller, check your route in advance and take breaks in shaded areas when possible.
Tip 10 – Browse shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is a popular place for a family meal, an ice cream stop, or an easy evening walk. The stretch has restaurants, cafés, galleries, and shops, so adults and children can each find something enjoyable.
Prices vary, and popular restaurants can be busy at peak dinner time. Look at menus before sitting down if you are watching your budget or need child-friendly choices.
Tip 11 – Make a day trip to the Everglades
The Everglades region offers families a chance to learn about wetlands, birds, and alligators. It is outside central Fort Lauderdale, so plan it as a separate day and choose an established visitor site or guided activity rather than trying to cover too much.
Travel times depend on your destination and traffic. Use the National Park Service Everglades visitor information to check access and conditions. Stay on marked paths, follow ranger guidance, and never approach or feed wildlife.
Tip 12 – Look for a family-friendly boat tour
Besides scheduled water taxis and dinner cruises, Fort Lauderdale has sightseeing tours that focus on canals, the coast, or local history. A shorter trip can be a good introduction for younger children, while older kids may enjoy a longer narrated cruise.
Compare departure locations, trip length, shade, restroom access, and cancellation terms. Reserve ahead during school holidays, but avoid booking a tight schedule that leaves no room for weather or delays.
Tip 13 – Try a casual South Florida meal
Make a meal part of the trip by trying fresh seafood, Cuban-influenced dishes, or a simple café lunch. Fort Lauderdale’s restaurants range from relaxed beachfront spots to more formal dining along Las Olas and the waterways.
Ask about children’s portions and check prices before ordering, especially at waterfront restaurants. If anyone in your family has an allergy, explain it clearly and confirm how the kitchen handles it.
Tip 14 – Choose a rainy-day backup
Brief showers and thunderstorms are common in South Florida, particularly in the warmer months. Keep an indoor option ready, such as MODS, a movie, or a relaxed meal, so a wet afternoon does not derail the day.
Check weather alerts before heading to the beach or on a boat. If thunder is nearby, leave the water and follow local safety advice rather than waiting under an isolated shelter.
Tip 15 – Visit the beach early or later in the day
Families often find the beach more comfortable in the morning or late afternoon than during the hottest part of the day. These times can also make it easier for younger children to enjoy the sand without becoming overtired.
Sun exposure can still be strong when clouds are out. Reapply sunscreen as directed, use shade, and offer water regularly.
Tip 16 – Use a car strategically, not for every short trip
Fort Lauderdale is spread out, and a rental car can be useful for parks and attractions beyond the central beach area. But parking and traffic can add time, particularly around busy beach and downtown areas.
Group nearby activities together and check parking rules before leaving the car. For a trip involving multiple areas, compare driving with local transit or a ride-share service. The Broward County Transit website has route and service information.
Tip 17 – Consider Brightline for regional travel
If your family is combining Fort Lauderdale with other South Florida cities, Brightline can be a comfortable alternative to driving between some destinations. The Fort Lauderdale station is downtown, but you may still need a taxi or ride-share to reach your hotel or the beach.
Check the Brightline website for schedules, station details, fares, and family travel policies. Book ahead during busy travel periods and allow time to get to the station.
Tip 18 – Pick a base that matches your plans
Staying near Fort Lauderdale Beach makes beach time simple, while downtown or Las Olas can be convenient for restaurants, museums, and Riverwalk. A hotel farther inland may cost less, but you will need to account for transport to the coast.
Before booking, check the distance to the places your family most wants to visit, parking charges, breakfast options, and whether the room has enough space for everyone.
Tip 19 – Pack for sun, showers, and air conditioning
Bring swimwear, hats, sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and light clothes that dry quickly. A compact rain jacket or poncho can help during a sudden shower, while a light layer is useful in strongly air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Pack any child-specific medicine and a small first-aid kit. Comfortable walking shoes matter even if most of the trip is spent near the beach.
Tip 20 – Avoid the most common family-planning mistake
The biggest mistake is trying to fit a beach morning, several attractions, a long boat trip, and a distant day trip into one day. Fort Lauderdale’s traffic, heat, and weather can make a packed itinerary tiring for children and adults alike.
Choose one main activity each day, add a nearby meal or short walk, and leave room for rest. For more family travel inspiration in another US destination, see 20 Fun and Best things to do in moreno valley.
Quick Reference for Things to Do with Kids in Fort Lauderdale
| Activity | Best for | Time to allow | Planning note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale Beach | Sand, swimming, and an easy outdoor day | 2-4 hours | Go early or later to avoid the strongest midday sun |
| Museum of Discovery and Science | Hands-on learning and rainy weather | 2-4 hours | Check exhibits and film times before visiting |
| Water Taxi or sightseeing cruise | Seeing the canals from the water | 1-3 hours | Confirm route, duration, and departure point |
| Hugh Taylor Birch State Park | Nature, cycling, and picnics | 2-3 hours | Bring water and insect repellent |
| Everglades outing | Wildlife and a full-day adventure | Half or full day | Plan transport and check current conditions |
Practical Advice for a Family Visit
When to visit Fort Lauderdale
Winter and early spring are popular for warm, comparatively comfortable days, but accommodation and attractions can be busier and more expensive. Summer is hot, humid, and often rainy in the afternoon. It can still be a good time for a family trip if you plan outdoor activities early and keep indoor options available.
Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June through November. That does not mean a storm will affect your visit, but it is sensible to monitor forecasts, understand your accommodation’s cancellation policy, and follow local instructions if weather alerts are issued.
Getting around the city
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport serves the area, and the best transport choice depends on where you are staying. A rental car can help with farther-flung attractions, while taxis, ride-share services, transit, and water transport may work for specific trips. Confirm current routes and fares before relying on a service.
For local information and trip ideas, the official Visit Lauderdale tourism site is a useful starting point. If you are flying, check airport updates and facilities on the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport website.
Safety, useful apps, and emergency help
Use a current map app for directions, traffic, and walking routes, and check official attraction pages for opening hours. Save your hotel address offline and keep children’s important contact details with them. At beaches, obey flags and lifeguards, and use extra care near canals and docks.
For an emergency in the United States, call 911 for police, fire, or ambulance assistance. For non-emergency questions, ask your hotel or check the relevant local agency’s official website. Keep valuables secure and do not leave bags visible in a parked car.
Local customs, useful phrases, and food
English is widely used, and Spanish is also commonly spoken in South Florida. A friendly “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” are appreciated. Restaurant tipping is customary in the United States; check the bill to see whether a gratuity has already been included.
Restaurant portions can be generous, so sharing may work for younger children. Ask about ingredients and allergy procedures directly, and carry snacks for long outings.
Advance bookings and packing notes
Book accommodation and popular cruises in advance during school breaks and winter high season. For museums and parks, check whether timed tickets or advance reservations are recommended. Keep a flexible backup plan in case weather changes or a child needs a rest.
Pack swimwear, sun protection, walking shoes, water bottles, light rain gear, and any regular medication. A small day bag can hold snacks, wipes, a spare shirt, and a charger.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Fort Lauderdale is in Florida, United States, so entry requirements are set by the US government. Rules can differ depending on the traveler’s passport, travel purpose, transit plans, and current government policy. Do not assume that another family member’s or friend’s requirements will apply to you.
Before booking or traveling, check the US Department of State’s official US visa information and, where relevant, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official ESTA application site. ESTA is relevant only to eligible travelers using the Visa Waiver Program. A visa or travel authorization does not by itself guarantee admission; final decisions are made by US border officials.
Check that each traveler has a valid passport and enough validity for the rules that apply to their passport and itinerary. Passport-validity requirements can vary, so confirm them through the relevant US government information and your own country’s passport authority. Also check whether your passport needs blank pages, whether you need a visa or electronic travel authorization, and whether each child needs an individual document.
Be ready to show your return or onward travel plans and accommodation details if requested. Consider travel insurance that covers your family’s needs, since medical care in the United States can be costly. Review current vaccination and health recommendations from official sources, as these can change and may depend on where you have traveled.
Follow US customs rules for food, medicines, cash, and other goods. Some items must be declared or may be restricted, so check CBP guidance before packing them. Length-of-stay permission depends on the traveler’s visa or admission category and the decision made at entry; do not rely on a general online summary for an individual case.
For the final requirements, consult the official US government websites, a US embassy or consulate, and your airline before departure. Policies can change, and this information is general travel guidance rather than legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do with kids in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Museum of Discovery and Science, a Water Taxi ride, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park are strong family options. The best choice depends on your children’s ages, the weather, and how much time you have.
Is Fort Lauderdale good for a family vacation?
Yes. Families can combine beaches, museums, parks, gardens, and boat trips. The city is spread out, so it helps to choose a convenient base and plan activities by area.
What can kids do in Fort Lauderdale when it rains?
The Museum of Discovery and Science is a practical indoor choice. You can also consider a movie or a relaxed meal, and check weather conditions before heading back outdoors.
Do you need a car in Fort Lauderdale with kids?
Not for every trip, but a car can make it easier to visit attractions outside the beach and downtown areas. Compare parking, traffic, public transit, and ride-share options based on where you are staying.
How many days should families spend in Fort Lauderdale?
Two or three days can cover a beach visit, a museum, and a boat or park activity. A longer stay gives you more time for a slower pace or an Everglades outing.
What is the most common mistake when planning things to do with kids in Fort Lauderdale?
Trying to schedule too many activities in one day is a common mistake. Heat, traffic, and sudden rain can slow plans, so leave time for meals, breaks, and changes of pace.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale gives families plenty of ways to enjoy the coast and explore beyond the beach. A morning by the water, an interactive museum visit, and a short canal cruise can make a varied trip without requiring a packed schedule.
Choose a base that suits your plans, check attraction details before you go, and keep a rainy-day option ready. With a little flexibility, things to do with kids in fort lauderdale can suit toddlers, school-age children, and parents looking for an easy South Florida break.
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