SOUTH Florida FREE Things TO DO

By admin | March 6, 2009

South Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is centrally located between Miami and Palm Beach, making it the perfect destination to rent a passenger van, head up the coast and see what Palm Beach has to offer. Warm temperatures and miles of beautiful beaches draw hundreds of visitors to Florida each year and both cities offer plenty of shopping, dining, museums, historic sights and nightlife as well as attractions for the family to enjoy.

You’ll want to rent a car to get around Fort Lauderdale and if you are traveling to Palm Beach with your family, a van rental might be a better option. Below are the top attractions in the Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach areas with links for more information.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - Fort Lauderdale

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale is a fun family stop. The park is 180 acres and sits on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Inland Waterway. The park has plenty of lagoons and swamps and visitors can rent canoes, participate in a nature walk or enjoy a picnic. Other activities include swimming, salt water fishing and surfing.

Riverwalk - Fort Lauderdale

For those who enjoy shopping, culture and dining, the Riverwalk is the perfect spot. Often referred to as “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile,” this popular downtown area is surrounded by beautiful scenery. This area is also home to the Museum of Discovery and Science.

Museum of Discovery and Science - Fort Lauderdale

Once you’ve driven to the Riverwalk, be sure to stop by the Museum of Discovery and Science. The entire family will enjoy this museum that makes learning fun and is known for its interactive exhibits on ecology, health and outer space. Activities and displays include a replica of an oak forest, a real coral reef and even a planetarium for stargazing. The museum also houses an IMAX theater that shows daily science related films.

Las Olas Boulevard - Fort Lauderdale

Another great stop for those who like to dine, this trendy boulevard is filled with individually owned boutiques and restaurants, including sidewalk cafes.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens - Fort Lauderdale

Built in 1920, this amazing estate is is the former home of artists, Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. European art and architecture make this plantation style home a great stop for the family. The scenery is filled with 35 acres of beauty including, wetlands, a fruit grove, lily pond, and a theater surrounded by a moat. Take a stroll on the walking trail to enjoy the property’s wildlife.

Midtown Beach - Palm Beach South Florida

If you’re looking for a sandy beach in Palm Beach, this is probably your best option. Since beaches aren’t a priority in the city, this is the best spot to find public access to the sand.

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum - Palm Beach

This museum recreates the luxury of the early 20th century. You’ll find ornate furnishings and architecture as well as plenty of art. The museum is in the mansion that Standard Oil founder Henry Flagler built for his wife in 1902, and also includes a restored rail car.

Lake Worth Municipal Beach- Palm Beach

The perfect park for children, Lake Worth Municipal Beach has plenty of activities to keep them busy. The beach has some sandy areas for families to picnic and includes a large pool with lifeguards. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the fishing pier, or parents can rest while the kids play on the playground before getting back in the rental car and heading to the next destination.

Free Things to Do in South Florida One Way Van Rentals