Is it a castle? Is it ruins? If you’ve never been, knowing what to expect from Fort Lauderdale is perhaps a little difficult. It’s a Floridian city – and its name actually holds a lot of important history behind it. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some fun facts about Fort Lauderdale to help clue you in on the area.
1. Why is it called “Fort Lauderdale?”
So, if it isn’t a castle, then why is it called Fort Lauderdale? As it happens, there is actually a very good reason for the name! During the Second Seminole War, the US built an array of keeps and forts in the area. Hence, the name Fort Lauderdale.
2. It’s the Venice of America.
Fort Lauderdale is known for many things, but did you know it is also known by several as the Venice of America? This is thanks to the incredible canal and waterways networks in the area.
3. Row, row, row your boat, gently… through Fort Lauderdale?
Granted, the song doesn’t work too well with a long name like Fort Lauderdale, but the sentiment is still very much there! Boaters and water sports enthusiasts come from all over to experience over 300 miles of navigable waterways!
4. What is The Strip?
Even if somehow you haven’t heard of Fort Lauderdale, chances are that you have already heard of The Strip. This is a stunning beach, also known as Fort Lauderdale Beach (although we can all agree that name is not nearly as memorable). The beach is known for its stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters!
5. Plenty to see and do!
Although many visitors come to bathe in the sun and the warm blue waters, there is also much to visit in the area for culture fanatics. For example, you could head over to the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Broward Centre for the Performing Arts, or even the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens for a taste of history in the area.
6. Spring Break!!
Fort Lauderdale is probably most famous to younger people out there for being a hub bursting with spring break parties and events. Thousands and thousands of college students make their way to this city every year to break loose for a few days – it gets crazy, believe us!
7. It’s great for cruising around.
If flights aren’t your thing and you’d like to spend time on the water, then you’ll be happy to know that Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place for a cruise! Several major cruise lines operate out of Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
8. When’s the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale’s (arguably) best visiting period is usually from early spring through to late summer. That is when there’ll be the warmest temperatures, the most events, great nightlife, and warm waters to enjoy your holiday in! That said, if you want to really avoid the crowds, stay away during spring break!
9. You’ve probably seen it on the big screen.
Fort Lauderdale – for its stunning beaches and fantastic weather – has proven to be a superb filming location for many a movie. If you’ve ever seen the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s True Lies, or Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore, you’ve cast eyes across Fort Lauderdale.
FAQs about Fort Lauderdale
What is Fort Lauderdale famous for?
Fort Lauderdale is primarily known for its amazing nightlife, stunning beaches, and vacation spots. However, it’s probably best known for being the spring break capital of the East Coast.
How far is the distance from Fort Lauderdale to Disneyland?
If you have traveled to Florida to see Disneyland, you might want to get closer than Fort Lauderdale! Fort Lauderdale is about 209 miles (336 km) from Walt Disney World in Florida.
Is Miami hotter than Fort Lauderdale?
Generally speaking, it is actually Fort Lauderdale that is hotter than Miami! However, both are among the hottest places in the US, so either is a great option for some warm weather!
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/USA
https://www.visitlauderdale.com/
https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/southeast/fort-lauderdale/
Do you know any fun facts about Fort Lauderdale? Share them in the comments below!
