Fun things to do around Fort Lauderdale airport
Getting stuck in an airport for a layover or waiting around for a delayed flight is no fun. Even if we have our smartphones to keep us company, browsing social media or streaming a TV show can eventually become boring. Not to mention, it’s battery draining for our devices. So, what else is there to do? Luckily, we’ve found several fun things to do around Fort Lauderdale airport. Here are some of the options:
Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum
They say big things come in small packages, and the NASFL Museum is a prime example of this.
Located at 4000 West Perimeter Road, the museum, which is also known as the Link Trainer Building #8, houses a collection of personal stories and countless documents from veterans of World War II. The main goal of the museum is to help preserve the lasting historical legacy for many generations to come. Many of the unpublished collections found here include letters, photographs, diaries, and wartime memoirs. The museum also accepts contributions that can be scanned, so families are still able to keep their original mementos.
Visitors are encouraged to schedule an appointment prior to their intended visit. The museum is usually open on Saturdays from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and those who aren’t familiar with the area would benefit from leaving their cars parked at a secure facility, since there are countless public transport options available.
Ocean Park Beach
It’s not very often that travelers get to spend their layover on a beach that’s just a mile away from the airport. Enjoy a quick dip in the ocean, get a tan, or dine at one of the many seaside restaurants that occupy the area. There’s even a pier where people can be found fishing. Located at 100 North Beach Road, Dania Beach, it’s the perfect spot for some sun, surf, and sand in Florida.
Gin Making Experience
There’s no need to be a gin enthusiast to enjoy this educational and entertaining workshop offered by the South Florida Distillers. The 2-hour long activity includes a tour of the distillery as well as a short workshop involving gin distillery basics. Classes are no more than a group of 10 people, and those interested can book a workshop in advance.
All students get to learn about the different types of gin, the botanicals that go well with the spirit, and the process of making their own. Located at 110 NE 8th Ave, Fort Lauderdale — South Florida Distillers is open Wednesdays to Fridays from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM and from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays. Aside from the gin class, they also host private events and offer a unique tasting experience, perfect for travelers who have a really long layover.
Those who are planning to indulge in a few spirits can opt to park their vehicles at the nearby Fort Lauderdale airport parking.
The Casino at Dania Beach
Slot machines, roulette, poker tables, blackjack, and jai alai can all be enjoyed at The Casino at Dania Beach. A favorite amongst the locals and the tourists alike, this entertainment hub also houses a selection of restaurants and various live acts, concerts, and events. Tickets can be purchased ahead by calling this number 844 -954 -SHOW.
A little over a 3-mile drive from Fort Lauderdale Airport, The Casino at Dania Beach can be found right along Dania Beach Blvd. For more information, you can visit their site. Don’t forget to check out our complimentary shuttle options so that you don’t have to take your car out of the secure Fort Lauderdale airport parking.
Holocaust Documentation and Education Center
Dedicated to the memory of the Holocaust as well as educating guests about the many dangers of hate, bigotry, and intolerance, the Holocaust Documentation and Education Center is open from Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. General admission is set at $10, while students pay only $5. Spouses, survivors, and liberators of the Holocaust are free of charge. At the moment, the museum only allows self-guided tours, and those who wish to schedule an appointment may visit their website or phone their number: 954-929-5690 x 304.
Snyder Park
Just a stone’s throw away from the airport, travelers can enjoy a quick walk and simply leave their vehicles safely parked at the FLL airport parking. Perfect for those who are looking to enjoy a breath of fresh air and watch some friendly canines play, there are picnic tables scattered all over the park for that quick outdoor snack. There’s also a butterfly garden where lots of people come to enjoy the beautiful insects fluttering around. A disc golf course can also be found here.
Snyder Park, which is just north of the airport runways, is located at 3299 SW 4th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. For more details on other park facilities and the schedule of programs and events, check out their website.
Go Karting at K1 Speed
This popular go-karting track has many locations across the U.S., and one can be found right by the airport. We suggest logging in for an hour or two on the tracks for maximum enjoyment. First-time go-kart racers can avail of lessons, while more experienced track visitors can start racing straight away. The track is sometimes used as a venue for parties and events, so make sure to phone them at 1-954-419-3421 before heading over to their address.
Kayaking (Salty Soul Adventures)
A favorite pastime of many Floridians, locals, and visitors — you can head over to Salty Soul Adventures for a kayaking tour. Guests can experience numerous water activities like kayaking, stand paddle boarding, and snorkeling. For those who prefer to stay nice and dry, there’s a hiking path, biking trails, and many educational ecological programs. Founded only in 2019, they’re open the entire week from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Inquiries can be sent through their email Ariana@saltysouladventures.com, and they can also be reached via (954) 634-2221.
Cathedral of St. Matrona of Moscow in Miami
Don’t be fooled by the name, this Russian church is not really in Miami. In fact, it can be found just a few blocks south of the airport. The best way to get to the temple is to hop in a cab so that you don’t have to take your car out of the airport parking, where it’s safe and secure.
According to their website, the church welcomes everyone to visit, not just Russians. Visitors may come in to light a candle and pray inside the temple. The Cathedral of St. Matrona of Moscow in Miami can be found at 113 South Federal Highway, and they are open every day from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
Buehler Planetarium and Observatory
Normally open on Wednesdays from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the planetarium offers visitors a guided exploration of the night sky, astronomy, and outer space with their state-of-the-art equipment. It can be located at 3501 Davie Rd, Davie, in Broward College. Travelers who happen to be in the area on a Wednesday and are looking for things to do around Fort Lauderdale airport while on layover may want to consider this activity. Additional information regarding Buehler Planetarium and Observatory programs or schedule changes can be found on their official page.
Cigar Lounges
Some folk find that there’s nothing more relaxing than having a nice cigar to puff on. Trying to smoke one at the Fort Lauderdale Airport, however, may not be met with approval. Cigar aficionados can instead find refuge in one of the many cigar lounges that are close by.
Stix Cigar Lounge can be found at 4 S. Federal Highway, in Dania Beach. Their phone number is 954-925-0149.
Neptune Cigar Superstore has everything a cigar lover will ever need. Visit them at 2325 S. Federal Highway, in Fort Lauderdale, or call them at 800-655-3385.
Mermaid Lessons
Ever dreamt of becoming a mermaid? Or at least wondered what it would feel like to swim with a tail? Wonder no more, because AquaMermaid classes are in session. Instructors provide basic lessons, trick movements, and techniques that can turn anyone into a pro mermaid in no time. Lessons are held in an outdoor pool at the Acqualina Resort. From the Fort Lauderdale airport parking, head over to 17875 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach. A one-hour mermaid lesson starts at $120, tail included. Classes are available to ages 7-12yrs and 13 and up. For more information contact them at info@aquamermaid.com.
Relaxing Massage
Rest, relax, and rejuvenate by getting a massage. Thankfully, there’s no need to go far. Leave your car parked in a safe and secure FL airport parking spot and get that much-needed massage.
Nearby Planet Massage boasts 15 years of experience under their belts. They also offer a whole host of massage services and packages to suit the solo traveler, couples, or groups. Located at 320 SE 10th Ct, Fort Lauderdale, it’s encouraged to book an appointment first. Clients may phone 954-763-1619 or visit planetmassage.com for more information.
Another option is Hong Kong Massage Spa at 1561 S Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale. In business for over 7 years, this spa offers a wide array of services, so book an appointment by phoning 954-990-6733
Enjoy an Adventure
Sitting around in an airport lounge killing time until your flight is ready is no fun at all. Rather than waste time doing nothing, why not check out the nearby places to visit? Learn new activities, explore, and experience what Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Join a tour or hop on public transport to see the sites. You can leave your worries behind when you park your car at our safe and secure Fort Lauderdale parking facility.
