Port Everglades, the world’s third largest cruise port, is among the top gateways for Canadians heading off on a Caribbean cruise vacation. And located only 15 minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale – and even less from the airport – it’s perfectly positioned for clients who want to add on extra time in sophisticated and fun South Florida to their cruise vacation.

Indeed, with more than 38 km. of sun-kissed coastline among eight beaches, 31 distinct neighbourhoods and a variety of attractions for everyone under the sun – not to mention accommodations for every budget and party group size, from luxury resorts to boutique properties – it’s easy to enjoy a two-day (or more) stay in Greater Fort Lauderdale pre- or post-cruise.

Visit Fort Lauderdale offers the following insider tips to help clients make the most of their stay (and yes, it includes ice cream!):

• Start your day at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, built in 1920 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This grand estate is one of the few complete homes and studios of two American artists with original furnishings open to the public. Choose among guided tours or a self-guided tour to meander at your leisure. For the adventurer, you can also add on a kayak or paddleboard eco-tour.
• Climb aboard the Jungle Queen riverboat, Fort Lauderdale’s longest-running attraction since 1935. Explore the waterways on a scenic ride and listen to the city’s history. For a more go with the flow sort of tour, take the Water Taxi along the Intracoastal Waterway to explore the beach and downtown, hopping on and off as you wish.
• If you’re an art aficionado, visit the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, known for its significant collection of Latin American art, contemporary art with an emphasis on art by Black, Latinx and women artists, African art that spans the 19th to the 21st-century.
• Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the beach for fine dining with oceanfront views at DUNE by Laurent Tourondel, Takato or Burlock Coast. Make your way to Las Olas Boulevard for your pick of gastronomic delights from around the world, while people watching on the bustling “Style Mile” of Fort Lauderdale. Any discerning travellers in your group or foodies looking for variety? Sistrunk Marketplace & Brewery should be added to your itinerary, with more than 10 food vendors offering up delectable bites, all housed inside the vibrant food hall.
• If you’re looking for a unique, interactive dining experience, join a three-hour Craft Food Tours.
• Top the night off with inventive cocktails and spectacular views from Rooftop @1WLO or Sparrow Rooftop. If off the beaten path is more your speed, and you’re able to find the code or secret door, enter Unit B, Mama Hank’s, or Room 901.

• Another great way to start the morning in Greater Fort Lauderdale is with a trip out to the Everglades, a mere 30 minutes from downtown. Spot alligators in their natural habitat and take in the breeze during the thrilling airboat ride. Take your pick from Sawgrass Recreation Park for an open-air boat or Everglades Holiday Park for a covered air boat. Stay for wildlife shows and fried alligator bites.
• Speaking of alligators, Sawgrass Mills, the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in the US is shaped like an alligator and features more than 350 stores. Peruse designer handbags, jewellery, and shoes, indulge in sweet and savory bites, and find the best bargains.
• Next, an afternoon visit to Flamingo Gardens in Davie, is the perfect way to bask in the sunshine and take in the beautiful, lush gardens and enjoy learning about animals at this wildlife sanctuary.
• Want to go where the locals go? Then head to the airy riverfront Tiki Tiki in Hollywood for fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and tacos.
• Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant in the heart of Dania Beach is another beloved culinary gem. Since 1956, Jaxson’s has been scooping out giant ice cream sundaes set among one of the nation’s largest collections of American memorabilia. Go all in with the Kitchen Sink, a sundae with 36 scoops of ice cream, or opt for a single scoop of any of their 45+ flavors.

For more ideas on things to do during a pre- or post- cruise stay, visit www.visitlauderdale.com/things-to-do.