The best things to do in Fort Lauderdale with kids are the Museum of Discovery and Science, a Jungle Queen riverboat cruise, Flamingo Gardens and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Between them they cover a rainy day, a hot day and a day when everyone needs to sit down. The riverboat is the one we would book first, because it runs along the Intracoastal past the yachts, on a shaded deck, for a few hours with no walking. Plan one of these a day and keep the rest for the beach. Below is who each one suits, when to go, and what to bring.
| Activity Name | Best For | Key Highlight | Recommended Age | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Museum of Discovery and Science | Rainy Day Fun | IMAX Theater | All ages | View Details → |
| Jungle Queen Riverboat | Sightseeing | Intracoastal Views | All ages | View Details → |
| Flamingo Gardens | Nature Lovers | Wildlife Sanctuary | School-aged | View Details → |
| Hugh Taylor Birch State Park | Outdoor Chill | Kayaking | All ages | View Details → |
Detailed Profiles of Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale with Kids
Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science is the indoor option, and the exhibits are close together, which makes it easy to keep track of everyone.
- The Fun: Hands-on science displays and large wildlife tanks.
- Best Age Group: All ages. There are areas for toddlers and harder exhibits for older kids.
- Tip: Arrive at opening for easier parking and to get ahead of school groups.
- Good to know: The gift shop is at the exit. Plan your way out.
Jungle Queen Riverboat
The Jungle Queen Riverboat is sightseeing where everyone sits down for a few hours.
- The Fun: Cruising the Intracoastal past big yachts and local wildlife, from a shaded deck.
- Best Age Group: All ages. Babies nap, older kids watch the boats.
- Tip: The afternoon cruise gets you the sunset.
- Good to know: The boat is open-air. Bring hats and sunscreen even when it is cloudy.
Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens is a slower morning out, with gardens, birds and Florida animals, and it is rarely crowded.
- The Fun: Getting close to exotic birds and native Florida animals.
- Best Age Group: School-age kids, who get the most out of the animal facts and the tram tour.
- Tip: Take the tram tour first to see the whole place without walking it.
- Good to know: It is all outdoors, so go early and skip the hottest part of the day.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a quiet green break from the city and a good place for a picnic.
- The Fun: Renting bikes or kayaks to get around the park.
- Best Age Group: All ages. Toddlers have room to run and older kids can bike the trails.
- Tip: Bring lunch. The picnic areas are shaded and there is no need to go looking for a restaurant.
- Good to know: The lot fills on weekends. Weekdays are much quieter.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale
We book the room first and build the days around it. Here is what Fort Lauderdale has open, with hotels on one side and family sized rentals on the other.
FAQs About Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale with Kids
Is Fort Lauderdale good for a slow-paced family trip?
Yes. There are indoor museums for bad weather and parks for good weather, so it is easy to mix one outing with plenty of downtime.
What is the best way to get around with kids?
A rental car is easiest. You can come and go on your own schedule instead of waiting for a bus with tired kids.
Should I book activities in advance?
Yes. Booking online skips the ticket line and means you will not find a tour sold out on the day.
What are the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale with family?
Most families start with Museum of Discovery and Science and Jungle Queen Riverboat.
More Family Travel Guides for Fort Lauderdale: