Fort Lauderdale, Florida

This aquatic center is a site for many international competitions. It has a 50-meter pool and contains photos and medals from historically important swimming events worldwide. Moreover, you can catch some vintage swimming movies there. A must-see for all swimming, synchronized swimming, diving, and water polo enthusiasts.

The Swap Shop has become one of the most popular attractions in the area and offers indoor as well as outdoor entertainment across over 80 acres. You can get a retro experience in one of the world’s largest drive-in cinemas and refresh yourself with farmers' products in the big food court. Moreover, in between movies you can go and get a bargain at the flea market–the largest daily flea market in the world–featuring over 2,000 stalls or stop by the video arcade.

Opened in 1988, Butterfly World is the largest butterfly park in the world and the first park of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. It is home to around 20,000 exotics butterflies and birds, and it is a great place to take your kids and spend a peaceful day surrounded by nature and these beautiful creatures.

Take off your shoes and walk right on the warm sand of Las Olas Beach! Should you ever get tired of relaxing in the sun or swimming in the azure blue sea you can always grab a bite at the various restaurants along the beach or check out the luxury boutiques nearby.

The Fort Lauderdale Historical Society aims to bring you closer to the city’s legends of the past. Follow the trails of national and economic development or simply get a glimpse of Broward County’s oldest hotel and estates in the historic district.

Founded in 1927, the Botanical Garden in Davie is home to more than 3000 exotic animals and some of the tallest and oldest trees in Florida. The associated Wildlife Sanctuary is a refuge for rehabilitated animals such as alligators, panthers, otters, peacocks, and flamingos. Join a narrated tram tour through the jungle and wetlands or discover the peculiarities of the tropic wildlife during special encounter shows.

Not far from busy Fort Lauderdale lies the town of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. You can leave behind the rush of the Hollywood area, stroll along Anglins Fishing Pier and soak up the sun on its peaceful sandy beaches. Enjoy the small-town vibe as a day trip or check in to one of the many quiet hotels in the area.

While there are many guided tours on the Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal Waterways, the Jungle Queen Cruises are probably the most famous ones. Old-fashioned sternwheeler ships travel the rivers and offer tours between 90 minutes and three hours. Not only gorgeous views but also dinners and shows on the riverboats will make this cruise a memorable one.