Any city with good food and fun modes of transport gets positive marks in my book. Bonus points if the airport is super close. I recently went to Ft. Lauderdale for some strategic planning. While it was hot and humid, I still found time for some exploration during the cooler parts of the day.
All spots are linked on the Wanderlog map below the last set of photos!
Stay
- The Dalmar: I’m obsessed with the vibe of this hotel. The rooms are bright and airy, the lounge offers daily gelato (though I missed it during my visit), there’s a cute coffee bar in the lobby, and I’ve heard the rooftop bar is a must-visit.
Eat
- Louie Bossi: Heard many great things, and it lived up to all of them. I sat at the bar, enjoyed a happy hour Hugo Spritz, and the tagliarini al limone with added shrimp was divine. We should normalize bringing a book and sitting solo at the bar of a restaurant.
- Cafe Bastille: A French-inspired all-day brunch spot where the food was so good I didn’t even get a photo. Split the pistachio croissant with a coworker (next level delicious) and had a Mediterranean omelette that was top-notch.
- Carrot Express: A great spot for a healthy midday refuel.
- Salt7: Despite the humidity, we opted to sit outside with a great view of the river. Among the items ordered: oysters, spicy tuna pizza (delicious), calamari, watermelon salad, seared tuna, and some great drinks.
See / Shop
- Water Taxi: We opted for the evening pass and took the water taxi to and from the beach. Our first mate provided commentary on the mansions, their owners, funny anecdotes, and more. It was a great way to see some of the city from the water while it was so humid.
- Las Olas Beach: I hopped off the Water Taxi at Stop #6 (Swimming Museum) and walked the block to the beach before strolling down the shore around sunset. Despite the heat, the beach breeze was lovely and made for a fun evening before grabbing the water taxi back to Las Olas.
- Laced with Charm, Nail Salon: I was in dire need of a manicure, and LWC was perfectly located.
