By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
Guests who are visiting the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, area often have time between embarking on a cruise or after debarking a cruise and heading home. The area around Port Everglades has a multitude of fun and exciting, or relaxing activities to enjoy. Some of the activities below can be combined to completely fill a day, or they can be explored on their own to fill a shorter period of time. Keep reading to learn about all of the fun that is waiting for you in Fort Lauderdale!
Dania Beach: This beautiful local beach is only a four minute drive or ride from the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport and includes showers and bathrooms for guests to use. Because cruise ships often require guests to debark early in the morning, this is an ideal spot to head to prior to making your way to the airport. It is much more enjoyable to relax and enjoy some sun rather than sitting and waiting in the terminal. Other beaches in the area include Sebastian Street Beach, Las Olas Beach, and the beach at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park.
Museum of Discovery and Science: Located only 15 minutes drive or ride from Port Everglades, the museum is a great place to spend a few hours and enjoyable for all ages. Highlights include: the The Sprouting STEM Early Childhood Learning Lab, the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater, an Official LEGO® Minifigure Trading Site, the Great Gravity Clock, Dino Dana Adventures, Prehistoric Florida exhibit, a MAGNA-TILES® studio, a Minerals Rock exhibit, and much more! There are also meal and snack options available at the on-site Elements Cafe.
Boat Tours: There are a couple types of boat tours available in the Fort Lauderdale area. If you are looking for a relaxing and educational boat tour, then a riverboat tour aboard the paddleboat Jungle Queen might be for you. This is a 90-minute narrated tour available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. If a thrilling adventure is more your speed, then an Everglades airboat tour may be an enticing option.
Anne Kolb Nature Center: This 1,501-acre nature center is the largest in the local park system and offers walking/jogging/biking trails, an observation tower, an indoor learning center, and fishing opportunities. This spot is located about a 15 minute drive or ride from the airport.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens: Located approximately 20 minutes drive or ride from Port Everglades, this oceanside spot offers a tranquil respite from the city. The estate is dedicated to preserving the environment and history of the region and offers both guided and self-guided tours of the house and grounds. For those seeking additional adventure, kayak and paddleboard rentals and tours are also available to learn more about the delicate ecosystem in the area.
Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk: This free activity includes the Riverwalk Linear Park and the Downtown Riverwalk district spanning 10 parks. Visitors can rent bicycles and explore on their own or take a guided tour via bicycle. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore and enjoy as well.
Local Spas: If a relaxing, rejuvenating spa day is something you are looking for, there are numerous in the area to choose from. Spas on the beach include: The Spa at Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale, Spa Q, and The Ritz Carlton Spa Fort Lauderdale. These spas offer facilities for showering and changing in case you are wanting to sneak in some relaxation before hopping on a flight back home.
If you need help planning the logistics of your pre or post-cruise stay in Fort Lauderdale, including tickets or transportation, do not hesitate to reach out to your Royal Carriage Vacations travel expert.
If you would like to be gifted funds on free onboard credit to use towards your port adventures, spa treatments, specialty dining, souvenirs, and more during your sailing as well as to receiving free travel planning services, please request a quote from our dedicated Royal Carriage Vacations travel agents. It would be our pleasure to ensure that your next cruise is the most magical yet!
