Fort Lauderdale, the "Venice of America" — Photo courtesy of Doug Castanedo / Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau

One of the most unique attractions within Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is its waterways. Over 300 miles of navigable boating avenues snake through this glamorous city and the county of over a million; by boat is a fascinating way to see the city and get a true feel of the "Venice of America" – and why it's called this.

Whether for sight seeing or as a mode of daily transportation, the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is the trolly in the water, and it's probably the best way to see it all.

Don't let the word taxi fool you; this is more than that. The captain and crew are a wealth of information and inform their riders with recommendations of where to dine, where to grab a drink and where to be entertained. In fact, many locals use the Water Taxi to hop from restaurant to restaurant, club to bar, all safely and easily. And, of course, to impress their out-of-town guests.

A daily pass will get passengers on and off at 19 stops and over 60 businesses, including the countless shops and restaurants at Las Olas Boulevard (right behind Mango's, with plenty of paid parking nearby), Las Olas Riverfront/Briny Pub at 40 West Las Olas Boulevard, the always fantastic Downtowner Saloon and the 15th Street Fisheries, among others.

Or head to Hollywood from the Hilton Marina/Convention Center and take advantage of the exciting stops along the way at Giorgios Bakery & Bistro, the beautiful Westin Diplomat or the Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach.

Planning to enjoy dinner at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66? The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi stops here, too. A great shopping day planned at the glamorous Fort Lauderdale Galleria? There is a stop at the grand Gallery ONE Doubletree Guest Suites, which is within a walkable distance.

So from Hollywood to just north of Oakland Park Boulevard, there really is very little else so convenient as the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi to enable city visitors and locals to take in a great view and enjoy a legendary South Florida experience.

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi — Photo courtesy of Dale Mack

Enjoy the ride on these glimmering aquatic waterways, and be ready to be impressed by the astounding yachts as well as many smaller vessels, each captained by enthusiastic nautical lovers from all over the world. 

These coveted waterways are a tourist magnet, as they're lined with spectacular mansions, many of which are owned by some of the country’s most successful business tycoons and even some celebrities.

Log onto the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi's website for pricing and maps, and enjoy!