Miami or Florida

Question

My DH and I will be flying into Miami next April and am trying to decide whether to spend our 2 days pre-cruise either in Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Our cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale but flights are better from UK to Miami. We’re mid/late 50’s with no mobility issues. We love beaches, swimming (if not too chilly in April!), general sightseeing and eating out. I realise this may be a case of ‘horses for courses’ but I’m looking for inspiration! TIA

Answer

For a short 2-day stay before your cruise, both Miami and Fort Lauderdale have their own unique appeal, so the choice really depends on the type of experience you want.

Miami offers vibrant culture, iconic beaches, and diverse dining options. South Beach is famous for its Art Deco architecture, turquoise waters, and bustling promenade. Even in April, the water may be slightly cool but often pleasant for swimming. Beyond the beach, you can explore:

Wynwood Walls for colorful street art and galleries.
Little Havana for Cuban culture, food, and coffee tasting.
Lincoln Road or Española Way for leisurely strolls, outdoor cafes, and boutique shopping.
Bayside Marketplace if you want a waterfront dining and shopping experience.

Miami has more energy and a more “destination city” feel, but it can be busy and traffic can be heavy. It’s also about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive to Port Everglades for your cruise departure.

Fort Lauderdale is more relaxed and has a “coastal town” vibe. Its beaches are quieter, the promenades less crowded, and the water access is easy. Fort Lauderdale also has the Intracoastal Waterway and canals, giving it a unique charm often called the “Venice of America.” Highlights include:

Las Olas Boulevard for boutique shopping, cafes, and art galleries.
Fort Lauderdale Beach promenade for a peaceful walk and beachside dining.
Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District for museums and waterfront parks.
Easy access to Port Everglades for a stress-free embarkation on your cruise.

For swimming, both Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer pleasant beaches, but Fort Lauderdale tends to have gentler waves and less crowded conditions, which may be more relaxing.

Practical considerations:

If convenience to your cruise port is a priority, staying in Fort Lauderdale reduces travel stress on embarkation day.
If you want a more energetic, cultural, and iconic Florida city experience, Miami is the better choice.
Car hire can help you explore either city, but both have good walkable areas with restaurants and sightseeing options.

Overall, for a mix of beach, sightseeing, and dining with minimal hassle before your cruise, Fort Lauderdale is ideal. For a vibrant, culturally rich, and more famous Florida experience, Miami is the choice. Some visitors even split the two days between Miami and Fort Lauderdale if they don’t mind a bit of driving.

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