More Fort Lauderdale Neighborhoods
Explore Fort Lauderdale
Find the Best Things to Do in Downtown
By Dale Mack
About Downtown
Photo courtesy of Stranahan House
Downtown Fort Lauderdale is where it all begins. With its gleaming highrises that house both businesses and spectacular condominiums with breathtaking views, endless array of restaurants, boutiques, museums, parks and scenery fit for postcards, Downtown Fort Lauderdale is the ideal setting for those who enjoy an urban setting with a tropical touch.
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See & Do
Downtown is a hub of activity any day or night of the week. Here you'll find the historic Stranahan House, which was where it all began, the always-fascinating Museum of Discovery and Science as well as the Broward Center For The Performing Arts, which is a true treasure to the community. It is here each Sunday where jazz lovers gather with their picnics, their pets and a bottle of wine to hear local jazz performers.
Eat
Head to Downtown and sample the very finest of the local restaurant scene. From the popular Mango's Restaurant and Lounge to the award-winning Morton's Steakhouse, the elegant Wild East Asian Bistro, to the tried and true and famous Floridian with its abundance of burgers, salads and locals who call this their favorite. Whether for breakfast, Sunday brunch, lunch or dinner or late-night impromptu meal, Downtown is the place to be.
Party
As the sun sets the lights come up you feel the rhythm of Downtown as it draws those who love to live large and enjoy the nightlife. Find a place to park in one of many convenient parking garages or lots and enjoy. You will find the ever-popular Art Bar with its lively night scene. Love jazz? Head to Mango's Restaurant. And for a dance club with great music it must be Revolution!
Stay
There's no better place to stay than Downtown. On the glitzy Las Olas Boulevard is the Riverside Hotel. This is a prime example of class and elegance and they welcome their guests who wish to have the full experience of what the good life is like in Fort Lauderdale. Whether here for business or pleasure, The Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale is convenient, comfortable and welcoming in a prime location which makes a walk-about a daily experience.
Shop
Forget the malls for one day and head to Downtown. Las Olas Boulevard will have you saying ooh! and aah! over the elegant boutiques and shops that wait for you. Get outfitted in a South Florida style at Tommy Bahama or Maus & Hoffman, or find that elegant evening gown at Zola Keller. There are unique gifts at Las Olas Gifts, and then stop in at Kilwins Chocolates and Ice Cream for a perfectly decadant indulgence.
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