Fort Lauderdale’s global influences are reflected in its arts and culture, spanning a wide array music, art, dance and theater, including nationally-acclaimed performances. The Broward Center of the Performing arts hosts concerts, ballet performances, operas and Broadway shows. Arts, jazz and blues festivals are scheduled throughout the year. And if you’re in town the first Sunday of the month, check out the SunTrust Jazz Sunday brunch, a live outdoors concert at Riverfront.

• Shopping & Eating on Las Olas Blvd.
• Historical Museums include Bonnet House, Stranahan House, Museum of Art & the Museum of Science and Discovery

The fun begins waterside. Cruise past celebrity mansions and Fort Lauderdale landmarks aboard the world-famous Jungle Queen Riverboat. Spend a leisurely day sailing on Atlantic Ocean waters or pick up the pace via speedboat or jet ski. On land, more fun beckons. Catch an airboat ride through the Everglades, capped off by a live alligator show. For tamer adventure, thousand of live exotic butterflies, birds, tranquil waterfalls, tropical gardens and other relaxing delights await you at Butterfly World. Look into:

• Butterfly World
• Everglades National Park

Those who love to shop love Fort Lauderdale: the variety here is simply staggering. Las Olas and The Galleria add upscale flair. Sawgrass Mills Outlet Mall is the world’s largest discount and entertainment mall, while the bargain-packed Swap Shop is the South’s largest flea market. The Swap Shop also boasts a classic 14-screen drive-in movie theater: one of the few left in the U.S. Try:

• Sawgrass Mills Outlet Mall
• ​Galleria Mall

With breathtaking vistas, waterfront views are always a particular favorite here. A few places earning “best view” ratings by Zagat members: Aruba Beach Café, Blue Moon Fish Company, China Grill, Coconuts, Da Campo Osteria and 15th Street Fisheries. The Mai Kai is like a mini-Hawaiian vacation: authentic Polynesian cuisine, exciting live shows and stunning island gardens. Check out:

• Mai Kai
• ​Aruba Beach Café