When you stroll out onto the sunny streets of Fort Lauderdale, you’ll immediately see why it’s been called “The Venice of America.” This city is a hidden gem that easily holds its own against its more well-known Florida neighbors because to its extensive system of waterways, beautiful beaches, and thriving cultural scene.
Located roughly 25 miles north of Miami on Florida’s southeast coast is the city of Fort Lauderdale. The United States constructed a string of forts in the area during the 1830s, when they were engaged in the Second Seminole War. Tourists go there to experience life on the water in the city dubbed “Venice of America” because to its 300 miles of canals and rivers. There are 3,000 hours of sunshine each year with an average temperature of 75.5 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a tropical paradise. The economy is quite varied, including components in maritime production, manufacturing, banking, insurance, property development, cutting-edge R&D, and media production. It’s home to a wide variety of activities and sights, including beaches, museums, theaters, concerts, festivals, markets, shops, restaurants, bars, and hikes.
Fort Lauderdale, located on Florida’s southeast coast, is home to an anticipated 2023 population of more than 182,760 people. Don’t let the population size fool you, though; this city has all a big city has to offer while still maintaining a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Proactive community policing activities have contributed to Fort Lauderdale’s progressively declining crime rate over the past few years. In 2023, the crime rate in Fort Lauderdale was 5% lower than the state average in Florida, making it a more desirable location for both locals and visitors. The community spirit and sense of security in areas like Victoria Park and Coral Ridge have won them much praise.
The historic downtown area of Brownsville
High school graduation rates in the city are higher than the state average, while the student-teacher ratio is lower than the national average. Broward County Public Schools, which serves the Fort Lauderdale area, is the sixth biggest public school system in the United States and provides students with a wide variety of academic and extracurricular possibilities.
Fort Lauderdale is one of the few Florida cities that manages to strike a perfect mix between laid-back living and exciting nightlife. It has plenty of attractions and activities, but without the continual hustle and bustle of Miami and the tourist-heavy vibe of Orlando. The city offers a wide variety of attractions, from beautiful beaches to the world-famous Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
The city’s 165 miles of canals, which pass by mansions, gardens, and boat harbors, are among its most prized assets. Fort Lauderdale’s appeal is less marketed and more genuine than Miami’s South Beach.
Fort Lauderdale’s job market is strong, and the city’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average. Several Fortune 500 firms call this city home, and the marine industry accounts for over $8.8 billion in annual revenue for the county.
But of course, no urban area is perfect. As with many coastal communities, Fort Lauderdale is struggling with the consequences of climate change, particularly rising sea levels. In addition, housing costs are a major contributor to a higher cost of living than is seen nationally. However, it’s important to remember that Fort Lauderdale has more reasonably priced real estate than Miami.
In sum, Fort Lauderdale is an enticing destination thanks to its combination of commercial potential, cultural vitality, and seaside charm. It stands apart from the rest of Florida’s cities because to its strong feeling of community and the draw of the beach life. Fort Lauderdale, Florida, should be your first stop whether you plan to relocate to or vacation in the Sunshine State.
FAQs
10 interesting FAQs about Fort Lauderdale, FL:
- Q: What is Fort Lauderdale famous for?
- A: Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture, and events. It is also known as the “Venice of America” because of its 300 miles of inland waterways.
- Q: How big is Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Fort Lauderdale is the largest city in Broward County and the tenth largest city in Florida. It has a population of 182,760 and an area of 36.30 square miles.
- Q: How far is Fort Lauderdale from Miami?
- A: Fort Lauderdale is about 30 miles north of Miami along the Atlantic Ocean.
- Q: What are some attractions in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some attractions in Fort Lauderdale include the beachfront promenade, Las Olas Boulevard, the Stranahan House, the Riverwalk, the Museum of Discovery and Science, Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Hard Rock Live, NSU Art Museum, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and Everglades National Park.
- Q: What are some activities to do in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some activities to do in Fort Lauderdale include swimming, boating, fishing, golfing, shopping, dining, nightlife, tours and sightseeing, water taxi rides, gondola rides, and airboat rides.
- Q: What is the weather like in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Fort Lauderdale has a tropical climate with an average year-round temperature of 75.5 °F and 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. The hottest month is August with an average high of 90.7 °F and the coldest month is January with an average low of 59.8 °F.
- Q: What are some events in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some events in Fort Lauderdale include the Winterfest Boat Parade, the Las Olas Art Fair, the Tortuga Music Festival, the Pride Fort Lauderdale Festival, the International Boat Show, and the Riverwalk Fall Festival.
- Q: What are some places to stay in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some places to stay in Fort Lauderdale include beach hotels, spa resorts, LGBTQ hotels, and accessibility-friendly hotels.
- Q: What are some places to eat in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some places to eat in Fort Lauderdale include restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines such as seafood, Italian, Mexican, Asian, American, and Caribbean.
- Q: What are some places to shop in Fort Lauderdale?
- A: Some places to shop in Fort Lauderdale include Las Olas Boulevard, Sawgrass Mills, Swap Shop, Galleria Mall, and Broward Mall.