Deerfield Island Park

One of the most beautiful free places to go in the Fort Lauderdale area, Deerfield Island Park is a roughly triangular idyllic 53.3-acre paradise bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway and accessible only by water, and is the type of place where it is easy to forget the urban dwelling all around it. Catch the complimentary weekend boat shuttle, and set out to explore the sun-speckled trails, one of which meanders through a picturesque mangrove swamp. Interestingly, the eastern portion of the area once included slash pines, while most of the western part was a treeless freshwater marsh. Along the way, stop to enjoy wildlife sightings, welcoming picnic tables, peaceful fishing spots and the awe-inspiring observation deck.