The cruise terminal of Fort Lauderdale, called Port Everglade, is the second most important cruise port in Florida. It is not found in the Everglades marshes, as many people think, nor is it in Miami, it is only one mile from Fort Lauderdale International Airport. It is located in the Venice of America, well known for the canals that run through the city of Fort Lauderdale being one of the cruise ports that hosts the largest number of Cruise Lines in the world.
It is highly advisable to arrive at least one day before the time of departure of your desired cruise, to avoid incidents that make you miss the ship’s departure or simply to know a bit of the city you have arrived in, either for a day or several. For that reason today we present you with 7 must see places in Fort Lauderdale to fill your days before the cruise with unforgettable sights and experiences. Moving between the places while still on land might become so much easier if you have a car rented in Fort Lauderdale when you arrive.
Hollywood Beach Broadwalk
A 4 km walk along the beach where you will find more than 50 restaurants for all tastes, more than 30 stores, parks, hotels, bars, and also the most recent Margaritaville so popular in many cruise destinations.
Sawgrass Mills
The largest shopping center in the United States with more than 350 designer stores and brands recognized worldwide at warehouse price.
Gulfstream Park
A day in Gulfstream Park in the city of Hallandale Beach a few kilometers south of the Port will fill you with indescribable experiences. In this place you will find the largest equestrian sculpture in the world, a huge winged horse fighting against dragons with a height of 33.55 meters and 716 tons of weight that adorns the park and the surrounding restaurants, shops and bars.
Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard, full of restaurants, bars, live music and beaches with crystal clear waters will be another place to visit without fail either day or night.
Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens is an animal conservation park with beautiful gardens. It will be the perfect place for lovers of animals and exotic plants. Here you can meet Josh The Bear, one of the most popular creatures of the park in addition to the beautiful flamingos so typical of South Florida.
Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Do you like art, good food, and cocktails? This area of the city will satisfy your expectations. The Fort Laudedale Art Museum offers a variety of worthwhile exhibitions, located right in the Heart of Downtown, as well as bars, restaurants and nightclubs for a relaxed or hectic night, as you like before you start your cruise.
Everglades National Park
Ride on air powered boats, encounter wild animals from the Florida marshes, learn about the culture of the Seminoles Native American tribe, and more is what you will find in this famous park. These rides are also offered on the post-cruise tours of almost all cruise lines.
Practical Tips
● Normally the hotels in Fort Lauderdale or near the port have transportation that takes you to the Cruise Terminal, but if you can drive, a very good option would be to use the Fort Lauderdale car rental services, I personally recommend it.
● Keep yourself informed and prepared, check the official page of Tourism of Fort Laudedale which has interesting programs such as Cruise & Play where you can get special prices for some attractions, hotels and restaurants in the city, you will only need your cruise booking as proof to receive these discounts.
Enjoy your time in Fort Lauderdale and above all, have an incredible cruise!
