Researching the weather is an essential step to consider when booking the hotel or flights for your trip. We’ve seen it time and time again when people were expecting to hop on a plane to Bali or some other tropical destination for some winter sun, only to discover that it’s rainy season and they’re in for more puddles than pool days.
However, we have some brilliant news for all you sun lovers who Google the UV index in the hope of scoring that perfect golden glow all year round Fort Lauderdale in winter is just what you’re looking for. While others are cozying up to fireplaces and drinking hot cocoa, you’ll be basking in 70’F days, clear skies, and plenty of sunshine.
So, grab your sunscreen and those oversized sunnies, because here are the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale this winter:
1. Go to the Winterfest Boat Parade
If you’re in Fort Lauderdale this winter and miss the Winterfest Boat Parade, did you even really go? This is one of the city’s most popular December traditions, where over 100 boats, all lit up like Christmas trees on water, glide through the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. With over a million viewers lining the 12-mile route and an economic impact of over $50 million, this is the parade where the floats really float.
Book your tickets for the Grandstand Viewing Area well in advance (we’re talking weeks, if not months here, don’t wait until the last minute). Or, for the ultimate VIP experience, hire a table at one of the waterfront restaurants along the route, because who doesn’t want to sip cocktails while watching boats outshine your holiday lights?
2. Catch a Show at the Broward Center
If you’re in the mood for something a little more glamorous than lounging on the beach, Fort Lauderdale has a seriously impressive lineup of performances this winter.
Head to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, one of the city’s most iconic venues, where Broadway’s hottest touring casts, mesmerizing opera performances, incredible concerts, and theater productions regularly take center stage. Whether you’re a fan of musicals, live music, or dramatic theater, they’ve got something for everyone.
This winter, the Broward Center is bringing in some truly fabulous shows. First up, The Cher Show, this Tony Award-winning musical will have you singing along to Cher’s iconic hits while dazzling you with outrageous costumes and larger-than-life performances. I mean, it’s Cher. What more do we need to say?
And, if you’re in the mood for something a little more festive, don’t miss the Nutcracker Gala by the Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida. It’s a stunning, sophisticated take on the beloved holiday classic, with all the magic, beauty, and twirling ballerinas you could ask for.
3. Take a Holiday-themed Tour of Stranahan House
If you’re looking for a Christmassy experience that mixes history with holiday cheer, The Stranahan House is a must-visit. This historic gem in downtown Fort Lauderdale offers special Victorian Christmas tours throughout December that give you a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like then.
The Stranahan House was built in 1901 and is Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving home, so you’re basically walking through a piece of living history. You’ll get a peek into the lives of the Stranahan family, who played a major role in the development of the area. The house is beautifully decorated for the season, with traditional holiday décor that really sets the mood. Admire the festive touches, from garlands and wreaths to sparkling Christmas trees, while learning about the customs and celebrations that were part of life in early Fort Lauderdale.
4. Go Fishing
It’ll take you just minutes of scrolling through a dating app in Fort Lauderdale to realize this city is very big on fishing. Seriously, half the profile pics are of guys flexing with a massive trout or bass. But hey, if you’re into fishing (or want to pretend for a day) then you’ve got tons of options to try it out here.
Whether you’re dropping a line from the shore, hitting the piers, or hopping onto a charter boat, there’s no shortage of action. You can be reeling in a massive Sailfish, Snook, or Tarpon without venturing far. The area is packed with prime spots, from the deep Gulf Stream to the Intracoastal Waterway. Not to mention, you’ve got year-round fishing for just about every species imaginable.
If you’re not into the hassle of gear and bait, you can find fishing tours where everything’s set up for you. And the best part is, you’re likely to hook something within minutes of casting your line.
5. Soak Up Some Sun on Fort Lauderdale Beach
Finally, a winter getaway to Fort Lauderdale would not be complete without spending at least a few hours topping up your summer tan. After all, you want your colleagues to be green with envy when they see your sun-kissed glow while they’re still shoveling snow back home.
Fort Lauderdale Beach offers the perfect spot to soak in the winter sun. Regardless of if you’re into people-watching along the buzzing boardwalk, where bars and restaurants like Lona Cocina Tequileria at The Westin are just a step away, or you prefer a quieter vibe where watersports are the main attraction, there’s a beach for every mood.
Pack your swimsuit, slather on the sunblock, and hit the coast for a day of sunshine, paddleboarding, or even a luxurious yacht tour. Soak up the rays, sip on a cocktail, and let the tanning begin.
Let the Winter Planning Begin
That’s a wrap ladies and gents! We hope you’ve been inspired (and completely convinced) to visit Fort Lauderdale this winter. With its endless sunshine, exciting events, and unique experiences, this city offers the perfect escape from the cold. So catch the Winterfest Boat Parade, enjoy world-class shows, and soak up the sun on the beach, you deserve it!
PS: if you’re looking for more of a snowy, traditionally cold place for your winter getaway to the US, there are plenty of choices you could also look into like Breckenridge, Colorado (a popular place for skiing and other wintertime pursuits).
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