Fort Lauderdale is a must-see city in Florida, known for its stunning beaches and sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. However, because of its popularity among visitors, deciding the best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale, FL isn’t always simple.
The nicest areas in Fort Lauderdale range from vibrant seaside districts like Fort Lauderdale Beach to laid-back communities like Flagler Village. This lovely South Florida community has it all, from 5-star luxury hotels to low-cost lodging.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachside resort or a quaint boutique hotel nestled in a charming neighborhood, Fort Lauderdale has something to suit every traveler.
In this Fort Lauderdale neighborhood guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in Lauderdale in 2024. From upscale resorts to trendy vacation rentals, get ready to discover the ultimate lodging options for your next getaway. So, grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive into the top places to stay in Fort Lauderdale!
Facts About Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant and thriving city in Florida that boasts a rich history, a bustling tourism industry, and a reputation as a popular destination for sun-seeking travelers from around the world. Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale has more than 300 miles of waterways, and many homes have their private docks.
Fort Lauderdale is located on the southeast coast of Florida and was first discovered by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the city started to develop into a popular tourist destination. In the 1920s and 30s, the city was a popular spring break spot for college students, and many of the historic hotels and buildings were constructed during this time.
In the 1960s and 70s, Fort Lauderdale became famous as the “Spring Break Capital of the World,” and college students from all over the country would flock to the city every year to enjoy the sun, sand, and parties. However, in the 1980s, the city started to shift away from this party reputation and began to focus more on luxury tourism, attracting affluent travelers and retirees.
Today, Fort Lauderdale is a cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From the trendy Las Olas Boulevard, with its many upscale shops and restaurants, to the iconic beaches, parks, and museums, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this lively city. With its warm weather and sunshine, Fort Lauderdale is a popular destination for visitors all year round.
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What Makes Fort Lauderdale a Top Travel Destination in 2023?
Fort Lauderdale is quickly emerging as a top travel destination for both domestic and international tourists. With its sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and year-round events and activities, Fort Lauderdale is a haven for every kind of traveler.
So, what makes Fort Lauderdale a top travel destination in 2023? Let’s find out:
1. Beaches
Fort Lauderdale boasts of 23 miles of golden sand beaches that offer everything from surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball to fishing and diving. The clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and its thriving coral reefs make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
2. Culture
The city of Fort Lauderdale is rich in history and culture, evident in its many art galleries, museums, and festivals. The Museum of Discovery and Science and the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offer a glimpse into the city’s past and are a must-visit for history buffs.
3. Nightlife
The vibrant nightlife of Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse range of bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes. The Las Olas Boulevard area is particularly popular, with its fine dining options and entertainment venues.
4. Events
The city of Fort Lauderdale hosts many annual events, such as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Tortuga Music Festival, and the Fort Lauderdale Air Show, which attract tourists from all over the world.
5. Nature
Fort Lauderdale is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, evident in its parks, gardens, and wildlife. The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the Butterfly World are two examples of the city’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.
6. Shopping
The shopping scene in Fort Lauderdale is unmatched, with many malls, boutiques, and outdoor markets. The Sawgrass Mills Mall is the largest in Florida and is a shopper’s paradise.
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Top 17 Best Places to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant city with so many great options for places to stay. There is something for everyone, whether you want luxury or budget. Here are the top 17 best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale in 2023.
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale is a luxurious hotel located directly on Fort Lauderdale beach and offers guests stunning ocean views. The Ritz-Carlton is known for its exceptional customer service and amenities.
The hotel has an expansive pool area, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full-service spa. Each guest room is beautifully appointed with comfortable bedding, a private balcony, and marble bathrooms.
Guests can also enjoy world-class dining options, including the signature restaurant, Burlock Coast. The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place to unwind and relax in style.
2. W Fort Lauderdale
W Fort Lauderdale is a modern, oceanfront hotel perfect for the young and the young at heart. The hotel has a sleek, stylish design with artful details throughout. The guest rooms are spacious, featuring stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
W Fort Lauderdale boasts a large outdoor pool area, complete with a poolside bar and cabanas. Guests can also take advantage of the 24-hour fitness center and Bliss Spa.
The hotel is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach, putting guests just steps away from restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. For a trendy, lively vacation experience, W Fort Lauderdale is the place to stay.
3. Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Pelican Grand Beach Resort is a beachfront resort that offers a luxurious and peaceful environment for guests and it is considered one of the best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale. The resort’s oceanfront pool provides a refreshing and breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.
The resort has various types of rooms that offer either oceanfront or ocean views, which means that every guest will be able to enjoy the ocean breeze and stunning sunsets.
The resort has many dining options, and the Ocean 2000 restaurant serves the freshest seafood that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. The resort is also family-friendly and provides kids with a pool area that will keep them entertained for hours.
4. The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort
The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is another popular choice among tourists. This resort provides a convenient location, right across from the beach, and a fantastic ocean view.
The resort’s signature Heavenly Beds provide a comfortable sleeping experience for every guest, and the spacious rooms ensure that every guest feels relaxed. The resort has several dining options, and the Siren’s Table restaurant offers excellent local cuisine.
The resort’s pool is also an attractive option, and it has cabanas that provide guests with an added touch of luxury. The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort also has a pet-friendly policy, so every guest can bring their furry friends on their vacation.
5. Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach
If you are looking for luxurious accommodation in Fort Lauderdale, then the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach should be your top choice. This hotel offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from all its rooms. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach boasts an award-winning spa that offers the ultimate relaxation experience. Additionally, you can enjoy world-class cuisine at their on-site restaurant, Terra Mare. Overall, the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach provides a fantastic blend of luxury and comfort.
6. The Atlantic Hotel & Spa
Another top place on this list of the best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale is The Atlantic Hotel & Spa. This oceanfront hotel offers unparalleled ocean views from their balconies. Their spacious rooms feature elegant and modern décor, ensuring a comfortable stay.
You can pamper yourself at their spa, indulge in their outdoor pool, or take advantage of their fitness center. Their on-site restaurant, Coastal, serves excellent seafood dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Furthermore, The Atlantic Hotel & Spa offers easy access to the famous Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Boulevard. If you’re looking for a beachfront oasis in Fort Lauderdale, then The Atlantic Hotel & Spa is the place to be.
7. B Ocean Resort
B Ocean Resort, located right on Fort Lauderdale Beach boasts breathtaking ocean views, modern decor, and top-notch amenities. One of the best things about B Ocean Resort is its convenient location – guests can easily access the beach and all the activities that come with it, including paddleboarding, parasailing, and more.
In addition to the beautiful setting, the resort also has multiple on-site restaurants, a rooftop pool and bar, and a fitness center. With all these features and more, it’s easy to see why B Ocean Resort is a top choice for visitors.
8. Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort situated on a private beach and offers stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and excellent dining options. For those who want to unwind and relax, the on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, from massages to facials.
The resort also has multiple pools, including a lagoon-style pool and a poolside bar, perfect for enjoying a drink while soaking up the sun. In addition, the hotel’s location allows guests to easily explore all the attractions of Fort Lauderdale, from museums to shopping centers.
9. The Pillars Hotel
The Pillars Hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind while soaking in the serene waterfront views of Fort Lauderdale. This boutique hotel provides guests with an intimate atmosphere and exceptional service that ensures you feel at home during your stay.
Additionally, The Pillars offers excellent amenities such as a poolside bar, beautiful gardens, and complimentary bicycles to explore the surrounding areas. Guests are impressed by the timeless elegance and superior attention to detail displayed by the hotel. This is why The Pillars Hotel is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Fort Lauderdale.
10. Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale is one of the best places to stay as it provides visitors with an exciting vacation experience that is suitable for both families and business travelers. Its luxurious suites offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and a fantastic view of Fort Lauderdale’s stunning sunsets.
The hotel features many top-of-the-line amenities such as a beautiful swimming pool, fitness center, free shuttle service, and beachfront access, which offers many outdoor activities to keep visitors occupied.
Guests also praise the fantastic food offered by the hotel’s restaurant, a guarantee for a memorable experience. For those visiting for business, the Embassy Suites’ spacious conference rooms and executive suites offer the best combination of professionalism and leisure to ensure that business is well taken care of.
11. Ocean Manor Beach Resort
The Ocean Manor Beach Resort offers a truly unparalleled vacation experience. From the pristine white sand beaches just steps away to the luxurious rooms equipped with top-notch amenities, this resort is sure to impress.
The spacious rooms are tastefully decorated with tropical motifs and feature private balconies with breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss out on the mouth-watering cuisine at the on-site restaurant, as well as the delightful pool and lounge area that add an extra touch of luxury to your stay.
12. Riverside Hotel
The Riverside Hotel, located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s bustling entertainment district, this historic hotel is the perfect blend of sophistication and leisure.
The charming European-style architecture and décor offer an ambiance of timeless elegance, and the superb on-site restaurants provide guests with a culinary journey through a wide range of international cuisines.
The Riverside Hotel also offers complimentary water taxi rides, providing easy access to nearby attractions and allowing you to take in all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.
13. Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach
Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach is a waterfront property and one of the best places to stay in the city. It boasts of stunning ocean views, beautiful rooms, and a host of amenities that make for an unforgettable stay. From an on-site pool and restaurant to a fitness center and full-service spa, Bahia Mar has everything you need to unwind and relax.
For those who prefer to explore the local area, Bahia Mar’s location can’t be beat. Situated on the beach and close to many popular attractions, guests are just a short walk away from the action. Plus, the hotel is pet-friendly, so your furry friend can enjoy the sun and sand too.
14. Marriott’s BeachPlace Towers
Marriott’s BeachPlace Towers is all about luxury. With spacious rooms, top-notch service, and an unbeatable location right on the beach, it’s no wonder this property consistently earns high praise from guests.
But Marriott’s BeachPlace Towers offers more than just a comfortable stay. The property also boasts several amenities that elevate the guest experience, including a rooftop pool, whirlpool, and a fitness center. Additionally, Marriott’s BeachPlace Towers is within walking distance of Fort Lauderdale’s famous Las Olas Boulevard, making it easy to explore the city’s vibrant culture.
15. The Victoria Park Hotel
This boutique hotel in Fort Lauderdale’s trendy Victoria Park neighborhood offers a chic and intimate atmosphere perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for a luxurious escape. The
rooms are elegantly designed with modern decor and premium amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
You’ll also love the on-site pool, perfect for soaking up some Florida sun. Best of all, the hotel is just minutes away from some of Fort Lauderdale’s most famous attractions, including the beach and the shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard.
16. Holiday Inn Express Fort Lauderdale North
If you’re traveling with family or friends and need a more budget-friendly option, the Holiday Inn Express is an excellent choice. This hotel is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale and offers a comfortable and convenient home base for exploring all that the city has to offer.
The rooms are spacious and clean, with all the essentials you need, like comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also offers free breakfast and parking, so you can save money on meals and transportation. Plus, you’re just a short drive away from the beach and all the other attractions that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.
17. La Casa Hotel
Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, La Casa Hotel offers the perfect blend of tranquility and elegance. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale for those looking for a quiet retreat.
What sets La Casa Hotel apart is its stunning design that features traditional architecture and elegant decor. With a stunning courtyard, beautiful rooms, and impeccable service, La Casa Hotel has it all. The hotel offers guests a chance to relax and unwind with its spacious and well-appointed rooms.
At La Casa Hotel, you can enjoy a relaxing swim in the hotel pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. It’s an ideal location for couples, solo travelers, and families seeking to enjoy the very best that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.
How to Get Around Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant city in the heart of Florida with a lot of beautiful places where visitors can stay. The city is known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. If you’re planning a trip to this sun-soaked destination, you’ll want to know how to get around Fort Lauderdale like a pro. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of your stay:
1. Rent a car
Car is the most convenient way to travel to Fort Lauderdale. With numerous rental agencies located near the airport and downtown area, renting a car is a hassle-free option that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. If you’re driving in from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that the major highways leading to Fort Lauderdale are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
2. Take a taxi or rideshare
If you’re not keen on driving, you can always take a taxi or rideshare service to get around the city. Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and you can book them with just a few clicks on your phone. Keep in mind that during peak travel times, wait times may be longer, so plan accordingly.
3. Try the water taxi
Fort Lauderdale is regarded as the “Venice of America” because of its huge network of waterways. If you’re looking for a unique way to get around the city, try the water taxi. The service runs daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and stops at various locations around Fort Lauderdale, including the beach, shopping centers, and restaurants. It’s an enjoyable way to see the sights while avoiding traffic.
4. Rent a bike
For a more eco-friendly option, rent a bike and pedal your way around the city. There are several bike rental services in Fort Lauderdale, including the Broward B-cycle, which has over 30 stations around the city. You can easily rent a bike for a day or more and explore the city on two wheels.
5. Take the bus
Finally, Fort Lauderdale also has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and trains. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking the bus. Several routes cover the city, including the Sun Trolley, which has a beach route that runs from downtown to the beach area.
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How to Choose the Best Place to Stay For Your Fort Lauderdale Getaway
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which accommodation is the best fit for you. However, there are some important factors to consider that will help you choose the perfect place to stay in Fort Lauderdale. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Location
The location of your accommodation is a crucial factor to consider. Do you want to be near the beach, restaurants, shopping areas, or nightlife hotspots? Decide what’s important to you and choose a place that’s conveniently located. Some of the best areas to stay in Fort Lauderdale include Las Olas Boulevard, the beachfront, and downtown.
2. Budget
Fort Lauderdale has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly motels. Set a budget and stick to it, but also consider the value of what you’re getting for your money. A more expensive accommodation might offer more amenities, but a budget-friendly one might be more conveniently located.
3. Amenities
Consider what amenities you’ll need during your stay. Will you need a pool, fitness center, spa, or on-site restaurant? Check the accommodation’s website or call ahead to confirm what’s available.
4. Reviews
Do your research before booking by checking reviews online. Reading reviews from other guests who have stayed at the accommodation will give you a good idea of what to expect. Pay attention to comments about the cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall experience.
5. Type of Accommodation
Do you prefer a hotel, resort, vacation rental, or bed and breakfast? Each type of accommodation has its unique charm and benefits. Decide which one is best suited to your needs and preferences.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best place to stay for your Fort Lauderdale getaway.
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Challenges Involved With Staying in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is known for its sunny weather and stunning beaches, making it an ideal location for a relaxing vacation. However, staying in this paradise isn’t always easy.
One of the biggest challenges faced by visitors is the cost of living. Fort Lauderdale is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, making it a challenge for budget-conscious travelers.
Additionally, traffic can be a headache, especially during peak season, when the population swells. Visitors also have to deal with humidity, which can make it challenging to explore the city’s many attractions.
Despite these challenges, Fort Lauderdale’s stunning scenery and warm hospitality make it worth a visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best areas to stay in Fort Lauderdale?
The best areas to stay in Fort Lauderdale are Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Wilton Manors. Downtown Fort Lauderdale is a great location for business travelers while Fort Lauderdale Beach is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to be near the action. Wilton Manors, on the other hand, is a gay-friendly area and ideal for those who want a more laid-back and relaxing environment.
Which hotels offer the best beach views?
Some of the hotels with the best beach views include The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale, Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, and The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. These hotels offer panoramic views of the ocean, and you can even hear the waves from your room.
Are there any budget-friendly accommodations in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, there are many budget-friendly accommodations in Fort Lauderdale, including motels, hostels, and affordable hotels. Some popular options include The Drift Hotel, La Casa Del Mar, and Seville Hotel and Apartments.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale is an ideal destination for travelers who love beaches, boating, and fun activities. When it comes to finding a place to stay, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with its unique features and perks.
Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or budget-friendly accommodation, there is something for everyone in Fort Lauderdale.
From beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, visitors can have a relaxing and unforgettable experience in this stunning coastal city. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and head to Fort Lauderdale to enjoy a perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea.
Reference
- travellemming.com – Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale in 2023 (By a Local!)
- santorinidave.com – Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale