Winter changes the pace of Fort Lauderdale. The heat softens, the days stretch out, and the city settles into the kind of gentle rhythm that works beautifully for families. Mornings feel made for the beach, afternoons fill with outdoor exploring, and warm evenings turn into easy moments spent along the water. Whether you’re planning a reunion, escaping the cold, or simply carving out time to reconnect, Fort Lauderdale offers a calm, sunlit backdrop to bring every generation together.
With The Garden Hotel & Resort as your home base, your family getaway becomes even smoother. Bright rooms, open-air spaces, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere give everyone room to unwind. Here’s how to make the most of winter under the palms.
Easy Outdoor Activities Perfect for Every Generation
Winter in Fort Lauderdale feels designed for families: comfortable weather, warm ocean water, and endless ways to spend time outside without rushing.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Wide sands, gentle waves, and a long beachfront promenade make this one of the most family-friendly beaches in Florida. Kids can play safely in the shallows while adults enjoy long oceanfront walks or relax under an umbrella. Even in December or January, the water stays warm enough for a swim.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
This lush coastal park gives families space to spread out and explore at their own pace. Rent kayaks, wander shaded trails, cycle along the park road, or enjoy a lakeside picnic. It’s a peaceful break from the busier parts of the city and perfect for multigenerational groups.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
Stretching along the New River, the Riverwalk offers playgrounds, wide paths, waterfront cafés, and plenty of space for an unhurried afternoon. Kids love watching the boats drift by; adults love the easy, scenic stroll.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Just a short drive away, this colourful beach town feels made for family outings. With a walkable square, ice cream shops, a fishing pier, and calm snorkeling spots, it’s a simple, charming choice for low-effort fun.
Family Attractions That Make Winter More Memorable in Fort Lauderdale
Beyond the beaches and parks, Fort Lauderdale has a handful of attractions that strike the balance between engaging and relaxed, ideal for families traveling with a mix of ages.
Museum of Discovery & Science
A hit for curious kids and adults alike. Expect interactive exhibits, a massive IMAX screen, an aviation zone, and live animal encounters. It’s especially good for cooler mornings or when you want a change of pace from outdoor activities.
Flamingo Gardens
Part botanical garden, part wildlife sanctuary, and full of charm. Families can wander through immersive habitats, hop on the narrated tram tour, and spend time with the famous pink residents at the flamingo lagoon.
Butterfly World
A short drive inland, this tropical butterfly haven feels like stepping into a botanical dream. Walk through lush aviaries, spot rare butterflies, and enjoy a gentle, sensory-friendly morning activity.
Fort Lauderdale Holiday & Winter Events for Families
Winter in Fort Lauderdale brings its own kind of festive glow, one shaped by waterfront lights, warm evenings, and outdoor celebrations instead of cold-weather traditions. The city’s seasonal calendar makes it easy for families to create memorable moments without complicated planning.
Winterfest Boat Parade — A Signature Fort Lauderdale Celebration
The Intracoastal Waterway becomes a festive stage each December as boats of every size glide past in full holiday regalia. Expect towering light displays, themed floats, music, and cheering crowds gathered at parks and marinas along the route. It’s bright, playful, and unmistakably South Florida, a winter tradition families return to year after year.
Las Olas Holiday Season — Evenings Full of Warmth & Light
While Christmas on Las Olas is the headline event, the boulevard takes on a lively, festive character throughout December. Imagine palm trees wrapped in lights, open-air dining spilling onto the sidewalks, pop-up musicians, decorated boutiques, and a warm breeze drifting between storefronts. It’s the kind of place where you can wander with no agenda and still feel wrapped in the holiday spirit.
Gulfstream Park’s Symphony in Lights — A Colorful Night Out
Just a short drive south, Gulfstream Park transforms into a glittering courtyard of synchronized lights and music. Kids love the spectacle; adults enjoy the surrounding dining and shops. It’s polished, vibrant, and one of the easiest family outings to build into a winter itinerary.
Waterfront Winter Markets — Local Charm in Every Stall
On weekends throughout December, Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront hosts rotating markets filled with handmade gifts, seasonal treats, art, live music, and friendly local vendors. These markets have an easy flow, perfect for strollers, grandparents, or anyone who prefers relaxed browsing over crowded festivals. The river views and warm evenings make them especially memorable.
Park Pop-Ups & Outdoor Movies
Huizenga Plaza and Esplanade Park often host winter pop-ups with outdoor films, small concerts, craft stations, and community events. They’re simple pleasures, but they add a touch of magic to evenings without requiring a full night out.
Whether you want a big celebration or a quiet, festive moment, Fort Lauderdale’s winter lineup offers something for every family.
Why Fort Lauderdale Works So Well for Family Reunions
Planning a multigenerational trip becomes easier when a destination naturally supports it, and Fort Lauderdale does. Mild winter temperatures mean you’re never stuck indoors. Beaches, parks, cafés, and evening events are close together, making it simple to keep a group connected without rigid schedules.
Winter is also one of the best times for family reunions in Florida. You get warm weather, plenty of outdoor dining, easy transportation, and a relaxed coastal setting that encourages slow, shared moments. Think beach picnics, breakfast outdoors, long riverfront walks, or afternoons spent exploring neighborhoods together.
Why The Garden Hotel & Resort Is an Ideal Winter Base for Families
When you’re traveling with family, comfort matters, and The Garden is built around that idea. It feels calm, considered, and unintimidating, giving everyone in your family, from small kids to grandparents, space to settle in.
Families enjoy:
- Bright, spacious rooms that work well for longer stays
- Open-air courtyards and a quiet pool for downtime
- Pet-friendly options for four-legged family members
- Complimentary EV bikes for relaxed exploring
- Easy access to beaches, parks, and winter events
- Fresh, unfussy food and drinks at The Greenhouse
- A warm, welcoming team that makes extended stays feel personal
It’s the kind of place where families naturally slow down, reconnect, and enjoy winter in a way that feels restorative rather than rushed.
Plan Your Winter Escape Under the Palms
From beach days and park adventures to festive nights along the water, Fort Lauderdale offers an inviting, effortless backdrop for winter family travel. The sunshine, calm atmosphere, and mix of activities give every generation something to look forward to.
And with The Garden Hotel & Resort as your home base, you’ll have a peaceful, grounded retreat close to everything, perfect for building memories that feel warm long after winter ends.
