Visit Lauderdale is making trip planning easier thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The official destination marketing organization has launched an AI travel personal travel assistant named “Sandy” powered by Matador Network’s GuideGeek tech. Sandy is the newest addition to the Visit Lauderdale website, offering an efficient way for travelers to explore and plan a getaway. Visitors and travel advisors will be able to live chat with Sandy and create customized itineraries and personalized travel recommendations. “We’re excited to introduce Sandy to deliver a seamless, personalized experiences for all visitors," said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. "By embracing cutting-edge AI tech, we’re not only enhancing the trip-planning process but also ensuring that our destination remains at the forefront of innovation in tourism.” Travelers can message with Sandy by going to VisitLauderdale.com and clicking the icon in the bottom right corner of the screen. Visitors can plan where to stay, eat and shoot the best selfies once they arrive in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Sandy prioritizes data from Visit Lauderdale’s content library, as well as drawing from ChatGPT and over 1,000 additional travel integrations built into the GuideGeek platform. The more travelers tell Sandy about their group and what they’re looking to experience in Greater Fort Lauderdale, the more customized the responses will become. “Greater Fort Lauderdale attracts such a wide range of visitors,” says Matador Network CEO Ross Borden. “Sandy can help travelers plan a week-long stay at the beach months in advance, a spontaneous romantic weekend, or an action-packed overnight before shipping out on a cruise.” In addition to launching Sandy, Visit Lauderdale has implemented a multilingual translation feature on its website, enabling visitors from across the globe to information in their preferred language. To chat with Sandy and explore Greater Fort Lauderdale: VisitLauderdale.com.

  Graham McKenzie engages in a delightful conversation with Tracy Vaughan from Visit Lauderdale, shedding light on Fort Lauderdale's inclusive ethos. Tracy eloquently articulates how Fort Lauderdale, with its melting pot of 170 nationalities and 140 languages spoken, embraces diversity wholeheartedly. Proudly dubbed the LGBTQ capital of Florida, it boasts the second largest LGBTQ community in the US. Tracy's passionate narration unveils Fort Lauderdale's casual, non-judgmental atmosphere, inviting visitors to be themselves amidst the city's stunning beaches, the enchanting Everglades, and myriad water activities. As Graham and Tracy discuss, Fort Lauderdale's inclusive spirit is not just a marketing strategy but a way of life, promising an unforgettable experience for all who visit.  

Fort Lauderdale’s inviting sandy beaches and sunshine are a constant, never changing feature. But that’s not the case with every other aspect of Greater Fort Lauderdale life. It’s a vibrant place and always evolving with new entertainment experiences, attractions and events to surprise visitors every year. See what’s in store for 2024 with an insider’s look at the latest happenings to interest Everyone Under the Sun.   Upcoming Events Held on the white sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival is a 3-day, multi-stage music festival featuring some of the biggest names in country, rock and roots music. 5 - 7 April 2024.   The Fort Lauderdale Airshow is back on 11 & 12 May 2024, with aerial feats by expert pilots from the military and entertainment industries. Set on Fort Lauderdale Beach, the weekend-long annual event is filled with exhilarating aerial acrobatics.   International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup will be held in the US for the first time this year. Consisting of 55 high-intensity matches, played in nine cities throughout the world. The Greater Fort Lauderdale area will host four games in June at the Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill from 11-16 June 2024.   Greater Fort Lauderdale Hosting IPW, Premier International Trade Show A major win for Visit Lauderdale, Greater Fort Lauderdale was selected as the host site for IPW in 2026 for the first time. U.S. Travel’s IPW is a major industry event attended by international and domestic travel buyers and journalists who represent more than 70 countries. This is among the largest generators of travel to the United States. The event will be staged at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center from 18-22 May 2026, plus additional sites throughout the region.   Sports and Entertainment Did you know Greater Fort Lauderdale has its own anthem? The catchy song, entitled “Laudy Dayo” is a celebration of the diverse community, landscapes, and dynamic energy. Visit Lauderdale partnered with Alexander Star, a local Emmy-nominated songwriter and impact artist who performed the anthem. It is poised to become a timeless representation of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s identity.   The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywoodushered in a ‘new era’ of gaming with the recent introduction of craps, roulette and long-awaited, legalized sports betting. The launch of these new games sees Greater Fort Lauderdale join the ranks of leading international casinos.   The Fortis the ultimate pickleball destination, coming soon to Snyder Park in Fort Lauderdale. Located on a 10-acre expanse, the Pickleball Club will boast 43 pickleball courts, with 14 under roof, including the world's first officialpickleball stadium. More than just pickleball, The Fort also offers a dynamic lakeside social experience with The Lakehouse, an event center that doubles as sky boxes during tournaments and special events.   Topgolf Pompano Beachis a brand-new entertainment option. A blend of sports, socializing, technology and entertainment, Topgolf is the perfect place for parties of all sizes where guests can take aim at the giant outfield targets and enjoy climate-controlled hitting bays and complimentary clubs.   Escape rooms have evolved, and fans are loving the new Escape Game Sunrise now open at Sawgrass Mills Mall. At Escape Game Sunrise, you and your team are heroes on a mission. Games are collaborative, tactile, story-driven, and about more than just escaping, they are adventures.   The historic Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and International Swimming Hall of Fame complex, home to Florida’s first Olympic-sized swimming pool that opened in 1926, underwent a $47 million renovation in summer 2023. The expansion includes five swimming pools and support amenities that will welcome new generations of aquatic sport enthusiasts. A major highlight for the new venue is a 27-metre dive tower with springboards and nine platform levels. Upon request, visitors can take their experience to greater heights with the “Top of the Tower” tours unlocking scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale beach.  Further renovations are expected to be completed by 2025.   Accessibility & Transportation Visit Lauderdale continues to enhance its inclusion and accessibility offerings with Greater Fort Lauderdale/ Broward County Convention Center becoming the first convention center in North America to adopt the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a simple tool for people with non-visible disabilities to voluntarily share that they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent. All convention center employees will receive Sunflower training on how to spot and help someone with a hidden disability. A permanent space now provides a person with a hidden disability, or a traveling companion, with various Sunflower products, such as a lanyard, pin, wristband, or retractable Sunflower ID card holder.   Brightline, the high-speed rail, which connects Fort Lauderdale to Miami and West Palm Beach, added Orlando to its service in September 2023. The station, located in the heart of Orlando International Airport’s Terminal C, makes Fort Lauderdale more easily accessible for travellers flying direct into Orlando (MCO) with a travel time of less than three hours from Orlando to Fort Lauderdale. Traveling on Brightline is fully accessible to users of all abilities and easily accommodates guests using wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistance devices.   Disney Cruise Line brought its magic to Port Everglades with the arrival of The Disney Dream in November 2023. The ship will homeport year-round in a specially designed cruise terminal at Port Everglades, dedicated for Disney Cruise Line guests. In 2024, Port Everglades will also welcome Azamara Onward and Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, its fifth Oasis-Class Ship and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Ascent. Also coming soon, are newbuilds Silversea’s Silver Nova and Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess.   JetBlue Airways has plans to build its own terminal that will soon be responsible for 250 daily trips by 2027. The new terminal at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a 230,000-square-feet project featuring five passenger gates, inbound and outbound baggage processing facilities, a security checkpoint, retail and food and beverage concessions.   The famed Water Taxi has added a brand-new stop along the Intracoastal Waterway at the International Swimming Hall of Fame Museum. Located at 1 Hall of Fame Drive in Fort Lauderdale, passengers now have another convenient location to cruise the ‘Venice of America’.   Getting to Fort Lauderdale UK and Irish visitors can fly direct into Miami or Orlando, via a range of airlines, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Aer Lingus, and Norse.  Fort Lauderdale is a one-hour drive or 33 mins on the train from Miami (MIA) and a 3.5-hour drive or under three hours on the train from Orlando (MCO).   Visitors can also fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with Air Canada from London (LHR), via Montreal or Toronto, which has the added benefit of being able to clear US customs in Canada, ensuring a swift arrival into FLL.   Find inspiration for your next trip at visitlauderdale.com.

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  Tracy Vaughan, SVP Global Trade Development at Visit Lauderdale, spoke to Graham McKenzie in London about her destination and the type of tourists that they are trying to attract.  

 

HOW TO CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH

    There’s no better place to celebrate pride month than in Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s LGBT+ Capital. Here’s the scoop on where to stay and play, wine and dine and much more. Pride Festivities  

OF JULY FUN

    From parades, cruises and watermelon-eating contests to outdoor concerts and of course, fireworks, there’s a ton of fun to be had over this holiday weekend. Read on to see what’s happening in each city of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Events and More  

ENJOY THE GOOD LIFE FOR LESS

    Plan your summer vacation now and save with LauderDeals – exceptional deals on hotels, dining, attractions and more. Also find deals for Florida residents, military personnel and first responders. It’s time to treat yourself – and save! Shop Deals  

WHAT’S NEW IN POMPANO BEACH

    Pompano Beach is welcoming new restaurants, bars, shops and other attractions. And this cool beach town can’t wait to welcome you. See What's New  

JUNE FISHING REPORT

    Get in the know and on the fish. Our monthly fishing report has the latest news on what to catch where. Angler Scoop

 

CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

  Plan to visit in June during Caribbean-American Heritage Month for special events that honor Greater Fort Lauderdale’s rich Caribbean heritage, including the inaugural Pompano Caribbean Fest. Also learn where you can enjoy authentic island flavors all year long.  

WHAT’S NEW IN DEERFIELD BEACH

  One of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s most beloved beach communities is ready to welcome you with new places to dine and play. Read on to learn about new culinary sensations, can’t-miss events and more.  

MAY FISHING REPORT

  From hard-hitting blackfin tuna to the kickstart of hogfish and grouper seasons, May is an exciting time to drop a line in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your next fishing trip – especially if you want to treat dad for fast-approaching Father’s Day.  

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND GETAWAY

  Celebrate our American heroes and the start of summer with a beach getaway to Greater Fort Lauderdale. Here’s a look at all the fun in store, from where you can taste the local craft brews to exciting activities on the area’s golden beaches.      

Destination marketing organization Visit Lauderdale launched a new campaign to celebrate the area’s diversity. The ‘We Are’ campaign includes video and social media as an extension of the destination’s ‘Everyone Under the Sun’ campaign, which was created to welcome all populations and communities. “Visitors to Greater Fort Lauderdale can be assured they are in a place where diversity, inclusion and acceptance is actively championed as an established way of life that is fully ingrained throughout our community,” said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “The Visit Lauderdale slogan, ‘Everyone Under the Sun,’ reflects the open and welcoming nature of our community.” Greater Fort Lauderdale includes 31 municipalities. People from 170 countries, speaking more than 147 languages call Greater Fort Lauderdale home. Additionally, it is home to the largest percentage of same-sex couple households in the US and is recognized as Florida’s LGBT+ capital. It is also a majority minority county with a large Hispanic and Caribbean-American population. “Travel transcends politics and decisions made at the state level do not always align with our mission, values, and community,” continued Ritter. “In spite of HB 1557 being signed into legislation, Greater Fort Lauderdale is a progressive destination recognized throughout the tourism industry for its thought leadership on diversity, inclusion, and acceptance.”

Visit Lauderdale has launched Lauderdale Loyalist, a new interactive m-Learning training and sales initiative for travel advisors. Already available online, Lauderdale Loyalist is a game-changer for travel pros, supporting their destination learning requirements and serving as an ongoing sales enhancement resource. It was developed with the support of TravPRO Mobile. It begins with a series of interactive learning modules including an introduction to Greater Fort Lauderdale and its beaches and communities. Advisors are introduced to central themes including nature, arts and culture, LGBT+ and the destination-wide spirit of inclusivity. Once the learning modules are completed, advisors progress to the Retain section, where content remains available to access at any time. “The Lauderdale Loyalist platform provides state-of-the-art education and sales tools to help agents provide expert advice, start more conversations and book more travel,” said Tracy Vaughan, Senior Vice President, Global Trade for Visit Lauderdale. “Visit Lauderdale is committed to providing resources to help our valued travel advisors do their jobs and in our search for a new learning tool, we were impressed with TravPRO’s Promote and Sell sections that help advisors throughout the planning and booking process.” There are videos, images, promotional callouts, insider sales tips and engaging questions about the lodging and experience choices throughout the Greater Fort Lauderdale region. The platform guides advisors with assets that are educational and easily shareable or downloadable. There is also a destination directory with over 500 suppliers to help Lauderdale Loyalists find and book the right supplier. A Spanish language version of Lauderdale Loyalist will be available by late March and the platform will expand with additional languages next year. Advisors can register and begin the web-based program now at www.lauderdaleloyalist.com or download the mobile apps from the App Store or Play Store.

Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale has arrived on the Atlantic coast of South Florida. The property’s clean contemporary lines designed by architect Kobi Karp are inspired by Fort Lauderdale’s yachting heritage, winding waterways, and lively streets. “Like a picture-perfect postcard, the newest Four Seasons in our growing portfolio will create an unmatched luxury lifestyle experience – from design to service, and everything in between. We are setting the stage to experience one of America’s most beloved seaside communities in an entirely new way,” says Christian Clerc, Four Seasons President – Hotels and Resorts. A Place in the Sun “The opportunity to soak up the sun poolside, spend a day at the beach or head out onto the water is the reason so many are drawn to South Florida,” said General Manager Mazen Saleh. “We’re matching the energy and spirit here in Fort Lauderdale with the sophisticated touch of Four Seasons.” The Ocean Sun Deck is home to two horizon-edge pools and the Hotel’s signature dining experience, Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale, all fashioned by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. Outdoor spaces come to life with varietals of tropical palms and greenery by Fernando Wong Outdoor Living Design that frame the Hotel’s ocean vistas. Before heading out, guests can select beach fare favourites from Honey Fitz, stop by the toys station, and let the Beach Concierge plan the perfect day, including local water sports. Restaurant and Bars An homage to “the lady of Bonnet House,” Evelyn Fortune Lilly Bartlett – one of Fort Lauderdale’s most notable luminaries – Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale is where eastern Mediterranean meets coastal cuisine in an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. Here, Restaurant Chef Brandon Salomon, a Long Island native most recently from the kitchen at Florie’s by Mauro Colagreco, presents mezzes, coastal seafood selections, wood-smoked meats and fish around the table. Flowing down the first level, Honey Fitz continues seamlessly from the lobby as an inviting and relaxing space for gourmet coffee creations and colourful handcrafted pastries by Pastry Chef Christina Kaelberer by day. As the sun sets, natural wines, grower champagne and cocktails along with accompaniments both savoury and sweet, are served. Inspired Spa and Wellness The Spa at Four Seasons is a sanctuary where holistic remedies meet modern innovations. Taking the inspiration of Fort Lauderdale’s ubiquitous waterways, the Spa Dream aqua bed by Lemi offers the opportunity to float on a warm water mattress while enjoying one of the body treatments from “The Waves” menu, including scrubs, wraps and options that combine body and facial treatments.  A 24-hour, fully-equipped fitness centre offers motivating ocean views, while outside, sunrise yoga classes and complimentary bicycles to explore the community await. A Perfect Night’s Sleep A rest awaits in one of 189 guest rooms and suites. They have marine-inspired details throughout, from recessed ceilings and wraparound shelving to brass lamps and polished wood finishes. The result is modern and airy, with a fresh take on classic themes. The hotel’s premier accommodation is the Birch Oceanfront Terrace Suite, named for local legend Hugh Taylor Birch, who gifted miles of Fort Lauderdale beachfront for the enjoyment of all.  Boasting more than 1,600 square feet (150 square metres) of space indoors, plus a nearly 2,000 square feet (180 square metre) fully furnished terrace with direct ocean views.

  PLAN YOUR SPRING BREAK NOW   Calling kids of all ages! Your spring break fun is here with tons of activities the whole family will love. From exciting nature encounters to interactive museums and much more, you’ll discover that the beach is just the beginning.   THE FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL IS BACK   The highly-anticipated Florida Renaissance Festival is back and runs every weekend through March 20th. Games, rides, live music, stage plays, medieval-style ale and grub, the world’s largest touring display of robotic dragons and much more await at this family-friendly annual event!   MEMORABLE GROUP DINING EXPERIENCES   If you’re planning a visit to Greater Fort Lauderdale with a group of friends, extended family or business colleagues, there’s one question you definitely need answered: which restaurants offer the best dining for large parties? We’ve put together some delicious options so you can savor every moment of your stay.   JOIN THE ST. PATRICK'S DAY FESTIVITIES   If you love celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll find plenty of festivities happening in Greater Fort Lauderdale. From parades and bar crawls to Irish music and food, get ready to paint the town green.

 

• Greater Fort Lauderdale (Broward County) encompasses 1,197 square miles (766,016 acres). It has a resident population of almost 1.9 million living in 31 municipalities. Over 180,000 reside in the city of Fort Lauderdale, the largest city and the seat of county government. Visit Lauderdale is the regional tourism organization representing all of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Find information on places to stay, things to do, dining and more at visitlauderdale.com.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale’s climate is tropical with an average year-round temperature of 76°F / 25°C and 3,000 hours of sunshine. Winter temperatures average a mean of 66° F / 19° C; summer, a mean of 84° F / 29° C. January is the coolest month of the year and August is the warmest. The heaviest rainfalls occur during August and September.

• 24 miles of Atlantic coastline beach line the shores of Greater Fort Lauderdale in 8 beachside cities. From north to south the beach communities are: Deerfield Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Pompano Beach, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Hollywood and Hallandale Beach.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale spans from the beaches on the east side to the Everglades in the west. A vast expanse of the Everglades ecosystem provides an expansive area for nature exploration, fishing for bass and other freshwater species, and airboat tours. In addition to the Everglades, the “wild west” region includes the rural horse-loving communities of Davie and Southwest Ranches. Take a guided horseback ride along tree-lined trails, invest in riding lessons, visit the rodeo or shop for boots and western wear.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale’s tourism slogan, Everyone Under the Sun, reflects the open and welcoming nature of the area thanks to the diverse local population. Greater Fort Lauderdale (Broward County) is a majority minority county. The largest minority group is now Hispanic and there is a large Caribbean-American population, including the most Jamaicans in the United States. The area is also home to the largest percentage of same sex households.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale is recognized as Florida’s LGBT+ Capital and as one of the most progressive destinations in the U.S. and is recognized for its authentic, welcoming vibe. Here you’ll find a thriving local LGBT+ community with the highest concentration of same-sex couple households in the country as well as hundreds of gay-owned businesses, many of which are centered around the Wilton Manors neighborhood. Sebastian Beach, a top-rated gay beach in the U.S., is nestled in Fort Lauderdale beach.

• Fort Lauderdale transformed from a quiet beach community to Spring Break central with the December 1960 premiere of the film “Where the Boys Are,” shot on location along Fort Lauderdale beach, in Hollywood and several other Greater Fort Lauderdale locations. The area made the decision to move away from promoting the area as a Spring Break destination in the mid-1980s. Today, Greater Fort Lauderdale is known worldwide as a year-round cosmopolitan and diverse destination with something for everyone under the sun.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale is experiencing a hotel boom. There is great investor interest in the area, as evidenced by six new hotels that opened in 2020; 10 new hotel openings by the close of 2021; and another seven properties with openings scheduled in 2022, including the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale.

• The area is known as one of the top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in Florida. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is famous as the Shore Diving Capital of South Florida with colorful near-shore reefs and shipwrecks. Shipwreck Park in the waters off Pompano Beach is an artificial reef system including several shipwrecks and other reef structures. The Lady Luck shipwreck is a popular wreck dive adorned with artwork and has been made into an underwater casino, complete with octopus dealers and poker-playing sharks!

• “Venice of America” is more than a humble brag for the area. It is the destination’s world-famous nickname based on the 300 miles of navigable inland waterways that run through Greater Fort Lauderdale, with about 165 of those miles in the city of Fort Lauderdale itself.

• Fort Lauderdale is also recognized as the Yachting Capital of the World. It’s convenient to find every yachting service you might need including crew training and management, yacht management services, yacht provisioning, yacht and boat repairs and maintenance, yacht brokerage, financial services, dry docking, and an increasing number of slips for larger boats and superyachts. And you can’t beat the great weather year-round. The annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, celebrating 63 years in 2022, is the world's largest in-water boat show.

• Locals and visitors alike love the boating lifestyle. It pays to have a friend with a yacht, but if you don’t, visitors who aren’t comfortable navigating a rental boat can find transportation on the Water Taxi or an independent boat charter for a sightseeing cruise or dock-and-dine evening at the many waterfront restaurants and bars. Private waterway tours are available on a variety of small boats and there are even authentic Venetian gondola tour boats.

• The famous Winterfest Boat Parade – currently known as the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade – celebrated 50 years in 2021. What started in 1971 as a few friends getting together for a fun holiday celebration now features 100 wildly decorated watercraft ranging from superyachts and showboats featuring live music and entertainment to small craft of every size. Over a million spectators line 12 miles of the New River and Intracoastal Waterway to watch the spectacle, which is also carried live on regional television and each year features a celebrity grand marshal.

• Fort Lauderdale is home to the tallest dive tower in the Western Hemisphere. The new 27-meter dive tower at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and International Swimming Hall of Fame includes nine platforms. There are 162 stairs to the top. When the revitalized complex (under construction now) reopens in late 2022, the public can take a “Top of the Tower Tour.” Although you won’t be able to actually take a dive, you can revel in the spectacular view over Fort Lauderdale’s famous beach and the Intracoastal Waterway.

• The first Olympic-sized swimming pool in Florida opened at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center in 1928.

• Butterfly World, which opened in 1988 at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek on the northwest side of Greater Fort Lauderdale, is the largest butterfly park in the world and the first park of its kind in the Western Hemisphere.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades ranks as the third-largest cruise port in the world, typically hosting nearly four million passengers annually.

• Greater Fort Lauderdale dining is often seafood-centric with numerous waterfront restaurants with views of the ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway or the many inland rivers and waterways. Popular fresh Florida seafood that can be found includes fish like grouper, snapper and swordfish and shellfish like Gulf shrimp, blue crab and stone crab claws (served in season from October 15 to May 1 each year). Stone crab claws are known as Florida’s renewable seafood resource. Fisherman remove a claw from the crab and then return it to the water alive, where it regenerates a new claw.