Discover Fort Lauderdale at Your Own Pace
Sunshine, palm-lined streets, and an ocean breeze that invites you to slow down – welcome to Fort Lauderdale. While this beachside city is known for its sparkling coastline, there’s far more to experience beyond the sand. Whether you’re looking for water adventures, cultural gems, or quiet escapes into nature, Fort Lauderdale delivers. And when you’re staying at The Garden Hotel & Resort, you’re perfectly positioned to explore it all.
Nestled in a tranquil corner of the city, The Garden Hotel & Resort offers a relaxed, wellness-forward vibe that matches the rhythm of Fort Lauderdale itself. With complimentary e-bike rentals, an electric house car, and a walkable location, guests can step out and discover something new without the stress of traffic or the need for endless planning. This is exploration without pressure – on your time, at your pace.
Here are some of our favorite ways to experience the area, all just moments from your stay at The Garden Hotel & Resort.
Top Activities Near The Garden Hotel & Resort
Cruise the Canals with the Water Taxi
They don’t call it the “Venice of America” for nothing. Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Water Taxi is more than just a way to get around – it’s a scenic cruise through the city’s intricate network of canals. Purchase a day pass and hop on and off at spots like Las Olas Boulevard, the Riverwalk, and Shooters Waterfront.
The Garden Hotel & Resort offers house shuttle service to the nearest Water Taxi stop, less than five minutes away. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or exploring as a couple, this floating transit system turns a simple commute into a day of sightseeing.
Explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Just a 5 to 7-minute drive from the hotel (or a breezy bike ride using one of the resort’s complimentary e-bikes), Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a green oasis in the heart of the city. Guests can hike shaded trails, enjoy guided nature walks, or try paddleboarding on the park’s coastal dune lake. There are picnic areas, plenty of birdwatching opportunities, and quiet corners to unplug.
It’s the ideal getaway for nature lovers or anyone needing a break from the buzz.
Bonus: admission is only a few dollars per vehicle.
Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
History, art, and tropical beauty collide at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, just minutes from The Garden Hotel & Resort. Built in the 1920s, this whimsical estate offers guided tours that wind through lush botanical gardens, historic art studios, and colorful courtyards.
Founded by artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, Bonnet House feels like a hidden world within the city. It’s a perfect half-day experience for couples or solo travelers who appreciate charm, creativity, and a good story.
Soak Up the Scene on Las Olas Boulevard
For a mix of culture and casual energy, Las Olas Boulevard is a must-visit. We recommend heading over in the late afternoon for a bit of shopping followed by dinner or drinks. Wander through independent boutiques, linger at sidewalk cafés, or stop by an art gallery or two.
Getting there is easy via Water Taxi and with several parking garages nearby, it’s also an easy destination if you’re driving in.
Snorkel or Paddle at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
A quieter coastal community just north of central Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is beloved for its laid-back atmosphere and shoreline snorkeling. The reef is just 100 yards off the beach, making it ideal for beginners or families.
Guests can rent gear from local shops, book guided tours, or even have snorkel kits delivered to the hotel. Pair your outing with lunch at a beachfront restaurant for the perfect slow-paced afternoon.
Family Day at the Museum of Discovery and Science
Traveling with kids? The Museum of Discovery and Science is a favorite for all ages. With hands-on exhibits covering everything from space to South Florida’s ecosystems, there’s plenty to see, touch, and do. Don’t miss the IMAX theater, rotating science demos, and indoor play zones for younger guests.
Located downtown, it’s a short ride from The Garden Hotel & Resort, and perfect for rainy days or mid-day heat breaks. Nearby food options are casual and family-friendly, making lunch stops a breeze.
Bonus Picks: Fort Lauderdale’s Underrated Finds
Looking for something a little different? Try these lesser-known but worthwhile stops:
- NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale: Bold exhibitions and a calming, minimalist space for an afternoon of contemporary culture.
- Middle River Paddleboarding: A great alternative to beach activities – glide through quiet mangrove-lined canals just minutes from the hotel.
- Friday Night Sound Waves: Free live music on the sand near Las Olas Beach (seasonal). Perfect for an end-of-week unwind.
Fort Lauderdale’s Energy Matches The Garden Hotel & Resort’s Pace
In Fort Lauderdale, the best days don’t always come from packed itineraries. They come from moments you didn’t plan: a peaceful paddle through calm waters, a sidewalk café that becomes your favorite lunch spot, a gallery you wander into on a whim.
The city flows at a relaxed, coastal pace – and so does The Garden Hotel & Resort. Here, there’s no pressure to check off a list. Instead, guests are encouraged to breathe deep, move slowly, and let the day unfold naturally. Whether you’re biking along palm-lined streets or sipping coffee in the garden courtyard, there’s space to pause and enjoy.
It’s a rhythm you can feel in every corner of the hotel, and in every moment you spend exploring Fort Lauderdale.
Stay at The Garden Hotel & Resort
After a day of discovery, The Garden Hotel & Resort welcomes you back with comfort that feels easy and effortless:
- Take a short walk or electric shuttle down to the relaxing beach
- Refresh with a dip in one of our three heated pools
- Recharge with a quiet meal at The Greenhouse café or a sunset cocktail at The Terrace at The Greenhouse
- Kick off your shoes and get cozy in our calm, garden-inspired guest rooms & suites
- Enjoy e-bike rentals and a convenient house shuttle for easy transportation
- Take advantage of the property’s pet-welcoming attitude for guests traveling with furry companions
- Make use of our EV charging and eco-minded touches for sustainability-conscious travelers
- Dive into our resort amenities & activities, from fitness classes to ping-pong and putting greens
Whether you’re in town for adventure, sunshine, or a little bit of both, make The Garden Hotel & Resort your home base. Book your stay now and start exploring Fort Lauderdale, naturally.
