Most Unique Experiences in Fort Lauderdale

Prepare for “oohs” and “aahs” during a night tour and get ready for all kinds of creepy as you glide through the marshy swamps of the Everglades on an airboat in the dark. During the 60-minute tour, you’ll spot alligators and endangered species and tune into the sounds of animals cooing. Plus, listen to the captain tell the tales of how the Seminoles coexisted with panthers in the wetlands.

When in Florida do as the Floridians do. Deep-sea fishing is no doubt popular in Fort Lauderdale, with many charters along the coast. A half-day fishing trip in Fort Lauderdale s a great way to get out on the water, admire coastal views, and reel in a few favorites like grouper, trigger fish, and snapper. This tour is geared toward beginner fishers and includes the instruction and equipment you need to make your first catch. Plus, fish cleaning is included so you can cook up your catch when you get home.

Film fanatics should head to the 2017 Fort Lauderdale Film Festival, which runs through November 19. The films are shown at various venues, but be sure to check out the historic SAVOR Cinema, an old church-turned-theatre and center for culture and independent film. Tickets are $9 for students and military members, $10 for seniors 60 years or older, and $12 for general admission.

This is a classic of the region, but utterly unique for visitors from further afield. Escape to Everglades Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale for a 1-Hour Narrated Airboat Tour . This adventure is a great way to experience the unique subtropical ecosystem of the Everglades. Skim across the grassy water at speeds up to 40 miles per hour while looking for alligators, wading birds and an abundance of flora and fauna in their natural habitats.

Spend an afternoon at this botanical garden for a look at butterflies, hummingbirds, Florida’s largest tree in the Champion Register and to marvel at the beautiful pink flamingos. With more than 3,000 tropical, subtropical and native plants and one of the largest collections of Florida native wildlife, Flamingo Gardens is a must-see for nature lovers.

Glide through Fort Lauderdale’s downtown, residential, and beachside routes on this entertaining guided Segway tour. Learn about Fort Lauderdale’s celebrity mansions, yachts, and hot spots on a 5- or 10-mile loop around the city. Segway training, helmet, and safety equipment are included. Enjoy personalized attention on this small-group experience limited to eight people per guide.

Indulge in a cultural activity with a visit to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Overlooking the New River in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, the venue hosts ballets, Broadway musicals, concerts and operas with performances by renowned companies, such as the Florida Grand Opera. Experience the arts on a dazzling stage for an out-of-the-ordinary evening.

A combination of Jet Skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, the SEABOB is a truly remarkable experience that lets you swim with the fishes quietly and safely. After a short gear fitting and training session on the SEABOB, explore three local reefs where you can dive up to eight feet and see a variety of aquatic sea life. Read more about 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” because of its winding canals and rivers, so why not get a tour of the city by water? Hop on the pink Water Shuttle to get a view of the city and take advantage of the various stops to discover the most popular points of interest. You can also take the Blue Discovery Ecotour with a local marine biologist and photographer for a deeper look into the mangrove forests and manatees.

Start your deep-sea fishing expedition by making your way to the departure point in Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas area. This small-group excursion offers an opportunity for solo travelers or smaller groups to share the excitement of deep-sea fishing without having to charter a boat. Board the boat equipped with all necessary gear, bait, and tackle provided, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the catch. Target sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and other big game species and enjoy personalized attention from your crew; they’ll even clean your catch for a delicious meal.