Many visitors to South Florida expect to spend a lot during their stay, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
While Fort Lauderdale has replaced many classic beach motels with luxury high rises, there are still plenty of affordable attractions to enjoy.
With a bit of planning, you can experience a budget-friendly vacation filled with sunshine and urban charm. To save even more, consider focusing your trip on one city and skip the rental car. If you're visiting another destination besides Fort Lauderdale, rent the car only when it's time to travel to your next stop!
Best Time to Go
South Florida is a popular getaway year-round, but for the best deals, consider visiting between June and August. If you don’t mind the heat, summer is ideal, as most snowbirds have headed home. Just be aware that hurricane season runs from June to November, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather reports.
Where to Stay?
To stay on budget in Fort Lauderdale, opt for accommodations a few blocks from the main beach. The Tropi Rock Resort is just five minutes from Lauderdale Beach, offering colorful decor and a heated outdoor pool. The Tranquilo Hotel, located in a quiet neighborhood, features remodeled amenities and is just minutes from shopping and dining. The Fortuna Hotel is a short walk from the beach and boasts newly renovated rooms in an art deco style.
Where to Eat
Fort Lauderdale offers a wide variety of dining options, some of which can be expensive. For a local favorite, visit Parrot Lounge for delicious food and famous mocktails. If you're craving Mediterranean cuisine, Greek Islands Taverna is the place to be—try their herb-stuffed grape leaves and gyro with charbroiled lamb chops. For a taste of Trinidad, head to Joy's Roti Delight for flavorful curry and roti.
What to See and Do
1. Explore Fort Lauderdale’s canals with a water taxi, a convenient way to take in the city’s sights. The 15-stop route serves as both a scenic tour and a shuttle to local attractions, including East Oakland Park Boulevard and the 17th Street Causeway. and museums.
2. Art and nature lovers should visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a historic 1920s estate offering tours of the house and it's lush gardens. For a more budget-friendly option, you can choose to tour just the gardens. If you enjoy outdoor art, don’t miss the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, showcasing murals by both local and international artists.
3. For water sports, Riverwalk Activities offers affordable canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bike rentals. Fashion and art enthusiasts will want to visit Las Olas Boulevard, where you can browse art galleries, local boutiques, and shops.
