Published: September 6, 2025
By: Emily Carver
Fort Lauderdale offers far more than beaches and nightlife. Its canals, natural parks, and quick access to Orlando make it perfect for discovery. Locals and visitors who value family life in South Florida know how rewarding short outings can be. That is why day trips from Fort Lauderdale have become a favorite way to create lasting memories. Each one blends relaxation with excitement, giving you a reason to step out and see more.
Visit These Day Trips And Risk Falling in Love!
Visiting Fort Lauderdale and experiencing everything it has to offer can do more than fill a vacation itinerary. The city’s warm climate, scenic canals, and easy access to natural wonders often leave visitors imagining a more permanent stay.
Beyond its beaches, Fort Lauderdale offers strong schools, thriving job opportunities, and a relaxed lifestyle built around waterfront living. Families enjoy year-round outdoor activities, from paddleboarding on the Intracoastal to exploring nearby state parks. Retirees appreciate the vibrant cultural scene and excellent healthcare options.
If your travels spark the idea of relocating, it helps to find the right moving team to handle the transition smoothly. Professional movers make the process easier so you can focus on settling into a community that feels like home.
These day trips from Fort Lauderdale carry a beautiful risk with them
The Charm of the Venice of America
The city earns its nickname “Venice of America” for a reason. Its waterways weave through neighborhoods, connecting restaurants, cultural spots, and shops. The Water Taxi All Day Hop-On Hop-Off Venice of America Boat Tour grants access to 20 stops across Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, making exploration easy and fun. Narrated rides share stories about the city’s history while guiding you past landmarks like the Stranahan House and the International Swimming Hall of Fame. You can hop off near Las Olas Boulevard for shopping or dining, or enjoy a waterfront meal at 15th Street Fisheries. Stops at the Hilton Marina and Bahia Mar add elegance and variety. With tickets starting around $38 per adult, the freedom to choose each stop turns sightseeing into an active and flexible experience.
Why Water Taxi Tours Stand Out
This tour is not just about transport. It creates chances to see Fort Lauderdale from a different angle. Families can ride during the day and enjoy views of impressive mansions and yachts. Evening rides bring glowing skylines that leave a lasting impression. Parents looking for ideas can connect this outing with places to take the kids in South Florida this summer, since the tour links to many kid-friendly spots.
To make the most of the Water Taxi, consider:
- Planning your route before boarding
- Checking the schedule for convenient stops
- Setting aside time for a meal on the waterfront
These simple steps ensure you see more without rushing.
Everglades Day Safari from Ft Lauderdale
A short trip west reveals a world far different from city life. The Everglades stretch across South Florida, offering endless chances for discovery. The Everglades Day Safari from Ft Lauderdale transforms this wild space into a guided and safe experience. Led by a naturalist, the tour explores both land and water, weaving through mangrove forests in Everglades National Park and crossing the Big Cypress National Preserve. Guests can ride an airboat through sawgrass marshes, spotting alligators, turtles, and egrets along the way. Narration highlights why the Everglades remain one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, blending education with awe.
This safari appeals to travelers who crave excitement yet want a touch of insight. It brings you close to Florida’s natural roots without losing comfort, with a delicious lunch included to refuel mid-day. Children marvel at colorful bird sightings, while adults gain a deeper respect for fragile wetlands. At around $250 per adult, the experience offers both adventure and a meaningful understanding of the state’s most iconic wilderness.
Safaris are always a good choice for a day trip
Ft Lauderdale Day Trip to Universal Orlando Resort by Rail
Not every outing needs to stay close to the city. A train ride north brings you to Orlando and its world-famous theme parks. The Ft Lauderdale Day Trip to Universal Orlando Resort by Rail is perfect for families craving excitement without long drives. With Florida’s new high-speed train, travelers relax in reserved seats while avoiding the stress of traffic. The ride itself becomes part of the fun, giving everyone time to recharge before the thrills begin.
At Universal, expect a full day of excitement with a self-guided itinerary and all tickets included. Guests can choose between a 1-Day Ticket for one park or both parks, tailoring the experience to their interests. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to roller coasters that defy gravity, attractions suit every age group. Parents find quieter corners for young children, while teens sprint toward fast rides. Universal CityWalk adds another layer, offering an impressive range of dining and shopping options. With prices starting at around $350 per adult, the package combines seamless rail travel with out-of-this-world entertainment, ensuring every moment feels worthwhile.
Tips for Planning Successful Day Trips
Smart preparation can turn a simple outing into an unforgettable experience. Fort Lauderdale offers unique options, but each requires a bit of planning to enjoy without stress. These tips focus on what works best for local trips:
- Check water taxi schedules in advance. Fort Lauderdale’s canals operate on specific timetables. Reviewing stops and times ensures you reach destinations like Las Olas Boulevard or the Stranahan House without delays.
- Book Everglades safaris early. Tours often fill up during peak tourist months. Reserving in advance guarantees your spot and allows you to choose the most convenient departure.
- Dress for the sun and humidity. Lightweight clothes, wide-brim hats, and strong sunscreen help families stay comfortable while exploring. Afternoon storms are common, so carrying a poncho or umbrella prevents interruptions.
- Plan rail departures carefully. High-speed trains to Orlando run on set schedules. Morning departures maximize your time at Universal, while evening returns give you a full day without feeling rushed.
- Budget beyond tickets. Meals at waterfront restaurants, snacks during safaris, and souvenirs from Universal can raise expenses quickly. Setting aside extra funds helps avoid stress later.
- Balance activities. Pair one major excursion with smaller local outings, like beach stops or museum visits, to keep energy levels steady for everyone. This mix reflects the wide range of family-friendly fun in South Florida, making your plans both exciting and realistic.
With these Fort Lauderdale-focused steps, day trips stay smooth, enjoyable, and full of lasting memories.
Use these tips to make the most of your trip
Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale Will Be Beautiful Memories One Day
These experiences remind us that exploration does not require weeks of travel. They prove that day trips from Fort Lauderdale can carry the same excitement as longer vacations. Families who take time to plan smartly and explore actively gain more than photos. They gain stories, laughter, and memories that last for years.