At this time of year, I close my eyes and smell the crisp air and feel the ocean breezes waft across my face. Sometimes, though, I keep my eyes wide open because I don’t want to miss the amazing energy that surrounds me in Greater Fort Lauderdale—a laid-back subtropical playground in an exciting cosmopolitan region.

In the mood for tropical breezes and fresh air? Head over to John U. Lloyd State Park, a serene oasis overlooking the ocean, and watch passing cruise ships going in and out of Port Everglades. Yearning for bright big-city lights? Aim for chic Las Olas Boulevard in downtown Fort Lauderdale and its great dining venues, appealing shops and boutiques.  

Cool Neighbourhoods

Now is “the season” when Greater Fort Lauderdale bustles with world-class art festivals, excellent exhibitions at the NSU Museum of Art, Broadway musicals and concerts at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, as well as street fairs, golf tournaments and craft shows held throughout Broward County. It’s also the season for people-watching on Las Olas and the colourful street life in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea or along the Broadwalk in Hollywood Beach, where you can skate, cycle or stroll past trendy shops and eateries serving poutine.

Fort Lauderdale has developed some very hip urban neighbourhoods, such as FAT Village—the Flagler Arts & Technology Village. This evolving four-block creative district offers a mix of artisans and entrepreneurs, and Art Walks on the last Saturday night of each month. Then there’s the Himmarshee neighbourhood, the original heart of the city, which thrives with trendy bars and restaurants.

Entertainment and Festivals

Superb shopping experiences abound on Las Olas Blvd., at Sawgrass Mills and at the Galleria. New restaurants include The Ritz-Carlton’s Burlock Coast, the Marriott Harbor Beach’s 3030 Ocean, and the Boatyard, which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. Take in the entertainment (and NHL hockey games) at the BB&T Center. Or check out the new hotels, such as the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort right on the Broadwalk.

For the first time, the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival will expand north to host a Taste Fort Lauderdale series from February 24–28.

The series kicks off with Seaside Eats, featuring Robert Irvine at the historic Bonnet House Museum, followed by star-studded events showcasing celebrity hosts all over town.

Other outstanding events include Jazz in the Gardens in March; world-renowned acts at the Tortuga Music Festival in April; the Wine, Spirits & Culinary Celebration at the Museum of Discovery & Science in April; the Las Olas Wine & Food Festival in April; and the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in May.

Greater Fort Lauderdale definitely rocks!

Travel Planner

Discover all Greater Fort Lauderdale has to offer at sunny.org. For details on the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, log onto sobefest.com.