Outdoor Enthusiast’s Guide to Fort Lauderdale Nature

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its sunny beaches and lively culture, but there’s so much more to explore— especially if you’re into all things nature. From peaceful butterfly gardens to snorkeling over coral reefs, this city is packed with outdoor experiences for every type of adventurer.

 

But with so many options, choosing your activity for the day can be tricky. We’ve broken down your choices into three sections: where to see wildlife, unique plants and gardens, and physical activities that you can do outside in Fort Lauderdale.

Where to See Florida Wildlife

Fort Lauderdale is teeming with opportunities to get up close with wildlife, from native species in their natural habitats to exotic animals in immersive experiences. 

Everglades Holiday Park

Just a short drive west of Fort Lauderdale, Everglades Holiday Park provides airboat tours through the Everglades, allowing visitors to get up close to alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat. After your airboat tour, catch an alligator presentation by the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue team, who you may recognize from their TV series on Animal Planet. 

Be sure to check the park’s website before your visit for other events and animal encounters!

 

If you can’t get enough of this ecological wonder, be sure to check out other Everglades activities.

Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary. The park is home to native Florida animals such as alligators, bobcats, otters, eagles, bears, panthers, peacocks, and— of course— their namesake flamingos. Visitors can explore the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary and the free-flight aviary, which houses one of the country’s largest collections of wading birds.

Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail

The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is a state-wide birding network that includes several sites in Broward County. Visit the trail’s website to find the best birdwatching parks and public lands near you.

Butterfly World

Can’t get enough of winged creatures? Butterfly World is a must-see for both butterfly enthusiasts and plant lovers. As the largest butterfly park in the world, it features beautifully landscaped gardens and enclosures home to thousands of butterflies from around the globe. 

In addition to butterflies, the park also houses a hummingbird aviary and offers educational exhibits on butterfly conservation and pollinators. It’s a magical escape into the beauty of nature and is perfect for visitors of all ages.

Lion Country Safari

Located north of Fort Lauderdale, Lion Country Safari is a unique drive-through wildlife experience where you can observe over 900 animals in open habitats, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos. Visitors can also enjoy the walk-through Safari World adventure park with interactive animal exhibits, rides, and more!

Anne Kolb Nature Center

The Anne Kolb Nature Center is a 1,500-acre coastal mangrove preserve that is a great spot to visit if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of endangered or threatened species in Florida. ​​The preserve is home to various animals, including wading birds, crabs, and manatees. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk trails or climb the observation tower to spot wildlife in their natural habitat, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the largest park in Broward County.

Where to See Unique Plants and Fort Lauderdale Nature

Fort Lauderdale has an incredible variety of spots for plant lovers and garden explorers to admire unique and beautiful flora.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is an attraction that combines art, history, and nature. You’ll see a lot in the gardens— a desert garden, tropical fruit grove, hibiscus garden, and orchid display house— all of which showcase a diverse array of plant species. The estate’s natural barrier island habitat encloses a maritime forest, mangrove wetlands, and a coastal dune ecosystem, offering a unique environment for plant enthusiasts.

Secret Woods Nature Center

This free-to-visit park may be small, but it is worth the visit. Secret Woods Nature Center was Florida’s first urban wilderness area and has been attracting visitors since it opened in 1978. It features a butterfly garden and nature trails that traverse a mangrove swamp and a laurel oak hammock. 

 

Note: The nature exhibit hall and other indoor areas are currently closed, but the nature trails are open and ready for you to explore! 

Deerfield Beach Arboretum

Also known as the “Tree Zoo,” this 9-acre arboretum in Deerfield Beach showcases over 200 species of trees and palms from around the world. A group of dedicated volunteer master gardeners maintains the park, which is a must-visit for those interested in dendrology and unique plant species. Plus, it’s another free-to-visit attraction!

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Situated in Delray Beach, Morikami is an expansive Japanese garden featuring bonsai collections, bamboo groves, and serene landscapes that highlight unique plant species in traditional Japanese designs. If you are looking for a little reprieve from the outside world, the indoor museum hosts several exhibitions of Japanese art and artifacts throughout the year.

Outdoor Physical Activities in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re the kind of person who likes to get moving while enjoying the outdoors, you’re in the right place!

Kayaking Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

This beautiful park is a favorite for paddlers, making it one of our favorite things to do in Fort Lauderdale! The mile-long freshwater lagoon is perfect for kayaking, with scenic views of native plants and wildlife all around. If you don’t have your own gear, no worries—kayak rentals are available on-site.

Snorkeling Vista Park Reef

Vista Park Reef is one of the best places to snorkel in the area. It’s easy to access from the shore, which is perfect if you’re not looking to hop on a boat. The shallow waters are teeming with marine life and coral formations. It’s a great way to experience sea life without needing a scuba certification!

Scuba Diving Offshore

For those who want to go a little deeper, scuba diving will take your adventure to the next level. One of the most popular shops in the area— Sea Experience— offers daily diving charters, plus glass-bottom boat tours if you’d rather stay above the waves. While the shop will provide all the necessary equipment, you’ll need to be certified (or get certified there) to dive.

Stay in the Middle of the Action

It’s easy to see why Fort Lauderdale is truly the place to be for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you’re the type that likes quiet, tranquil walks or more heart-pounding adventures, you can find it in the Venice of America!

After a day of discovery, Yacht Haven Park & Marina provides a serene place to recharge. Nestled along the water, the park is surrounded by natural beauty, which keeps you close to all the action. It’s the perfect base for your Fort Lauderdale experience!