Answer: If you’re arriving on a red-eye into FLL and looking for a classic “greasy spoon” breakfast spot before heading north to Orlando, you’re in luck — Broward County and the I-95/I-75 corridor have some excellent local diners that offer hearty breakfasts and friendly service.
Answer: Traveling from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to the Miami Airport (MIA) area is very doable, and since you’re arriving late morning on a Sunday with plenty of time before check-in, you can choose based on convenience, budget, and how much you feel like navigating transit. Below is a detailed breakdown of all the realistic, up-to-date options.
Answer: If you’re traveling in mid-March with two teenage boys and want beach action, good people-watching, and convenience to Port Everglades, both Fort Lauderdale Beach and Hollywood Beach are excellent choices — but they offer very different vibes. Your decision mainly comes down to how lively you want things to be and how much you want to walk vs. rent a car.
Answer: Traveling from the Fort Lauderdale cruise terminal to Orlando is quite straightforward, but the best option depends on your preferences for convenience, cost, and comfort. The drive is roughly 210–220 miles and typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours without heavy traffic.
Answer: If you’re flying into FLL and want a smaller, more laid-back beach town rather than the commercialized feel of Fort Lauderdale Beach or the Riverwalk area, there are several nearby options that are charming and less crowded. These towns give a more relaxed vibe while still being within reasonable driving distance from the airport.
Answer: For a no-car long weekend in February where you want a nice, relaxing beach and easy walking access to restaurants and bars, focus on two main areas: Fort Lauderdale Beach (the beachfront A1A / Las Olas corridor) and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Both give you a safe, walkable beach experience without the louder party scene you disliked at Hollywood Beach — Fort Lauderdale Beach is a straighter beachfront promenade with lots of dining options and walkability, while Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a small, low-rise beach town with a quieter, old-Florida feel.
Answer: For a short stay in Fort Lauderdale before and after your cruise, there are several excellent hotel options that cater to beach lovers and those who enjoy relaxing poolside or exploring the area by foot or bike.
Answer: Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of Airbnb options that are convenient for both the airport (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) and Port Everglades. Many visitors prioritize proximity for quick transfers to cruises or early flights. Generally, neighborhoods such as Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Victoria Park are popular for short stays and reasonable commuting times.
Answer: Yes, it is possible to leave Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) without using toll roads, but it will require careful route planning. The area around FLL is surrounded by a mix of local roads, major highways, and tolled expressways, so you’ll need to stick to surface streets and non-tolled state highways.
Answer: Good question. Short answer: yes — there *has* been construction/renovation happening at the Marriott Harbor Beach, but the major renovation work is mostly complete as of early-2025. Whether or not you’ll hear disruptive noise during your stay in May depends a lot on where your room is, how sensitive you are to daytime noise, and exactly which parts of the property were being worked on most recently.
Answer: Hi! The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi can definitely be a bit confusing at first because it has multiple routes and stops along the New River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and connecting canals. Here’s a detailed explanation to help clarify your route from Margaritaville to Riverside Hotel and sightseeing along the mansions.
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is a solid choice for a family stay, especially if you want beach access and a slightly quieter atmosphere than South Beach. May is warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities with a 9-year-old. Here’s a detailed guide for your trip.
Answer: Having nearly a full day in Fort Lauderdale after your cruise is a great opportunity to enjoy the city without rushing. Since you’re relying on Uber, you’ll have easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions. Below is a detailed plan with options depending on your interests, how much luggage you have, and how relaxed or active you want the day to be.
Answer: Hotel Maren sits at the southern end of Fort Lauderdale Beach, so you’ll be within a short walk or quick rideshare of several excellent yoga studios. The area is well-known for beachfront classes, boutique studios, and fitness-centered hotels, so you’ll have plenty of options depending on the style and atmosphere you prefer.
Answer: Great question — Fort Lauderdale is actually super easy to navigate for a beach + restaurant stay, and there are three neighbourhoods that are consistently the best fit depending on the vibe you want: Fort Lauderdale Beach (Central Beach), Las Olas Boulevard / Riverwalk (downtown), and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Each is walkable to good dining and has a different flavour — here’s a quick guide to help you choose plus hotel-style examples and practical tips.
Answer: Getting from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Weston, FL, is straightforward, but there are several options depending on your budget, convenience, and travel style. Weston is about 20–25 miles southwest of FLL, and the trip typically takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Answer: Good question. The Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale is *not* really a “budget” hotel—it’s historic, upscale, and quite centrally located on Las Olas Boulevard. According to its own materials, it has 221 rooms, a rooftop terrace, a pool overlooking the New River, and fairly elegant amenities.
Answer: Good morning! If you’re disembarking a cruise in Fort Lauderdale and looking for convenient 3- to 4-star hotels that offer free shuttles from the port and to Sawgrass Mills, there are a few options, but it’s important to note that services vary widely depending on the hotel and the time of year.
Answer: When looking for the best Fort Lauderdale airport hotel for a one-night stay, you’ll want convenience, comfort, and a reliable airport shuttle. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has several hotels within a few minutes’ drive, many offering complimentary shuttles.
Answer: It sounds like you had a very frustrating experience with Autounion Car Rental at Fort Lauderdale. Unfortunately, this is a case that illustrates the risks of booking through third-party sites without verifying the actual rental company at the airport. Autounion does not appear to be a legitimate car rental company, and it seems many travelers have been caught off guard when arriving at the rental terminals.
Answer: B Ocean Hotel in Fort Lauderdale is an oceanfront property that appeals to families looking for direct beach access and a central location near Fort Lauderdale Beach. Recent guests’ experiences vary, largely depending on expectations and room type.
Answer: Using luggage storage services like Bounce.com can be a very convenient and cost-effective option if you have a long layover in Fort Lauderdale after your cruise. Bounce partners with local businesses, including shops and hotels, to provide secure storage for your bags, allowing you to explore the city hands-free.
Answer: For a family traveling with kids and luggage, and without a rental car, staying in Fort Lauderdale for the two nights after your cruise is generally more convenient than returning to Miami. This minimizes travel time and stress, especially since the cruise terminal in Fort Lauderdale is right on the water near multiple hotel options. You’ll avoid having to transfer luggage back to Miami and then deal with traffic to the airport on your departure day.
Answer: The Wreck Bar in Fort Lauderdale is a unique and quirky destination known for its underwater mermaid burlesque show, which takes place in a sunken ship-themed pool inside the bar. The show combines elements of performance art, mermaid-themed fantasy, and burlesque-style entertainment. It’s definitely a niche experience—cheeky, fun, and somewhat campy—but that’s part of its charm.
Answer: The Atmos 360 Immersive Dining experience in Fort Lauderdale is designed to be a high-end, multi-sensory event, combining gourmet cuisine with immersive visuals, lighting, and audio. It’s often compared to dinner theater meets molecular gastronomy, aiming to provide more than just a meal—it’s an experience meant to engage all your senses.
Answer: Visiting Fort Lauderdale from March 31 through April 10 is actually a smart timing if you want to avoid the peak of spring break crowds. Here’s what you can expect in detail:
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is an excellent choice for a family trip that combines beach time with fishing opportunities. February offers pleasant weather and calm ocean conditions, making both activities enjoyable for teens and adults alike. Here’s a detailed guide to help plan your stay.
Answer: It sounds like your experience with Right Cars and DiscoverCarHire.com in Fort Lauderdale was extremely frustrating and disappointing. Unfortunately, situations like this are not uncommon with third-party rental booking sites, especially when dealing with smaller or off-airport providers.
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is well-known for its beachfront resorts, waterway access, and lively dining scene, making it an excellent choice for a girls’ trip. For friends in their 40s looking for a combination of beach service, on-site dining, bars, and easy access to water taxis or other local transportation, there are several standout options.
Answer: Good question — you’re right that it can be surprisingly difficult to find hotels near Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) that both offer a shuttle and allow 18- or 19-year-olds to check in. Many properties have a 21+ minimum, especially for younger guests without older adults. That said, there are a few options to consider, though you’ll want to call ahead and confirm their policies before booking.
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic destination for a girls’ trip, especially if you’re looking for a boutique-style hotel with beach access and proximity to the water taxi. Late February is a perfect time, as the weather is usually warm and sunny without being too hot.
Answer: For a one-night stay in Fort Lauderdale with a very early flight, both the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and the Hilton Diplomat offer high-quality accommodations, but there are differences in location and convenience that may influence your choice.
Answer: Good question. Based on currently published schedules, there doesn’t seem to be a *major headliner event or festival* in Fort Lauderdale exactly the week of February 3rd, 2025—so the high hotel prices are more likely due to “peak season” demand rather than a one-off event.
Travel FAQ list for Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale
Question: Best Greasy Spoon hidden Gem Breakfast near FLL Airport?
Answer: If you’re arriving on a red-eye into FLL and looking for a classic “greasy spoon” breakfast spot before heading north to Orlando, you’re in luck — Broward County and the I-95/I-75 corridor have some excellent local diners that offer hearty breakfasts and friendly service.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Miami (MIA)
Answer: Traveling from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to the Miami Airport (MIA) area is very doable, and since you’re arriving late morning on a Sunday with plenty of time before check-in, you can choose based on convenience, budget, and how much you feel like navigating transit. Below is a detailed breakdown of all the realistic, up-to-date options.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: March Break Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood Beach
Answer: If you’re traveling in mid-March with two teenage boys and want beach action, good people-watching, and convenience to Port Everglades, both Fort Lauderdale Beach and Hollywood Beach are excellent choices — but they offer very different vibes. Your decision mainly comes down to how lively you want things to be and how much you want to walk vs. rent a car.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Transportation
Answer: Traveling from the Fort Lauderdale cruise terminal to Orlando is quite straightforward, but the best option depends on your preferences for convenience, cost, and comfort. The drive is roughly 210–220 miles and typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours without heavy traffic.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Can u suggest a smaller beach town near FLL?
Answer: If you’re flying into FLL and want a smaller, more laid-back beach town rather than the commercialized feel of Fort Lauderdale Beach or the Riverwalk area, there are several nearby options that are charming and less crowded. These towns give a more relaxed vibe while still being within reasonable driving distance from the airport.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Long weekend in Feb.
Answer: For a no-car long weekend in February where you want a nice, relaxing beach and easy walking access to restaurants and bars, focus on two main areas: Fort Lauderdale Beach (the beachfront A1A / Las Olas corridor) and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Both give you a safe, walkable beach experience without the louder party scene you disliked at Hollywood Beach — Fort Lauderdale Beach is a straighter beachfront promenade with lots of dining options and walkability, while Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a small, low-rise beach town with a quieter, old-Florida feel.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Hotel suggestions please
Answer: For a short stay in Fort Lauderdale before and after your cruise, there are several excellent hotel options that cater to beach lovers and those who enjoy relaxing poolside or exploring the area by foot or bike.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: air b& b
Answer: Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of Airbnb options that are convenient for both the airport (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) and Port Everglades. Many visitors prioritize proximity for quick transfers to cruises or early flights. Generally, neighborhoods such as Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Victoria Park are popular for short stays and reasonable commuting times.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Toll roads around FLL
Answer: Yes, it is possible to leave Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) without using toll roads, but it will require careful route planning. The area around FLL is surrounded by a mix of local roads, major highways, and tolled expressways, so you’ll need to stick to surface streets and non-tolled state highways.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Marriott Harbor Beach construction?
Answer: Good question. Short answer: yes — there *has* been construction/renovation happening at the Marriott Harbor Beach, but the major renovation work is mostly complete as of early-2025. Whether or not you’ll hear disruptive noise during your stay in May depends a lot on where your room is, how sensitive you are to daytime noise, and exactly which parts of the property were being worked on most recently.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Margaritaville to Riverside Hotel via Water Taxi
Answer: Hi! The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi can definitely be a bit confusing at first because it has multiple routes and stops along the New River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and connecting canals. Here’s a detailed explanation to help clarify your route from Margaritaville to Riverside Hotel and sightseeing along the mansions.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Advice on family friendly stay
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is a solid choice for a family stay, especially if you want beach access and a slightly quieter atmosphere than South Beach. May is warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities with a 9-year-old. Here’s a detailed guide for your trip.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Suggestions on what to do
Answer: Having nearly a full day in Fort Lauderdale after your cruise is a great opportunity to enjoy the city without rushing. Since you’re relying on Uber, you’ll have easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions. Below is a detailed plan with options depending on your interests, how much luggage you have, and how relaxed or active you want the day to be.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Yoga studios near Hotel Maren
Answer: Hotel Maren sits at the southern end of Fort Lauderdale Beach, so you’ll be within a short walk or quick rideshare of several excellent yoga studios. The area is well-known for beachfront classes, boutique studios, and fitness-centered hotels, so you’ll have plenty of options depending on the style and atmosphere you prefer.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Hotel recommendation close to beach and restaurants
Answer: Great question — Fort Lauderdale is actually super easy to navigate for a beach + restaurant stay, and there are three neighbourhoods that are consistently the best fit depending on the vibe you want: Fort Lauderdale Beach (Central Beach), Las Olas Boulevard / Riverwalk (downtown), and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Each is walkable to good dining and has a different flavour — here’s a quick guide to help you choose plus hotel-style examples and practical tips.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Transportation FLL to Weston
Answer: Getting from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Weston, FL, is straightforward, but there are several options depending on your budget, convenience, and travel style. Weston is about 20–25 miles southwest of FLL, and the trip typically takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Riverside Hotel
Answer: Good question. The Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale is *not* really a “budget” hotel—it’s historic, upscale, and quite centrally located on Las Olas Boulevard. According to its own materials, it has 221 rooms, a rooftop terrace, a pool overlooking the New River, and fairly elegant amenities.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Free shuttles from the port and hotel to sawgrass mills
Answer: Good morning! If you’re disembarking a cruise in Fort Lauderdale and looking for convenient 3- to 4-star hotels that offer free shuttles from the port and to Sawgrass Mills, there are a few options, but it’s important to note that services vary widely depending on the hotel and the time of year.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Ft Lauderdale airport hotel
Answer: When looking for the best Fort Lauderdale airport hotel for a one-night stay, you’ll want convenience, comfort, and a reliable airport shuttle. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has several hotels within a few minutes’ drive, many offering complimentary shuttles.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Autounion Car rental - BEWARE!!
Answer: It sounds like you had a very frustrating experience with Autounion Car Rental at Fort Lauderdale. Unfortunately, this is a case that illustrates the risks of booking through third-party sites without verifying the actual rental company at the airport. Autounion does not appear to be a legitimate car rental company, and it seems many travelers have been caught off guard when arriving at the rental terminals.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: B Ocean Hotel
Answer: B Ocean Hotel in Fort Lauderdale is an oceanfront property that appeals to families looking for direct beach access and a central location near Fort Lauderdale Beach. Recent guests’ experiences vary, largely depending on expectations and room type.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Luggage Storage After Cruise
Answer: Using luggage storage services like Bounce.com can be a very convenient and cost-effective option if you have a long layover in Fort Lauderdale after your cruise. Bounce partners with local businesses, including shops and hotels, to provide secure storage for your bags, allowing you to explore the city hands-free.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Stay in Fort Lauderdale or not
Answer: For a family traveling with kids and luggage, and without a rental car, staying in Fort Lauderdale for the two nights after your cruise is generally more convenient than returning to Miami. This minimizes travel time and stress, especially since the cruise terminal in Fort Lauderdale is right on the water near multiple hotel options. You’ll avoid having to transfer luggage back to Miami and then deal with traffic to the airport on your departure day.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Wreck Bar - Mermaid Burlesque Show?!
Answer: The Wreck Bar in Fort Lauderdale is a unique and quirky destination known for its underwater mermaid burlesque show, which takes place in a sunken ship-themed pool inside the bar. The show combines elements of performance art, mermaid-themed fantasy, and burlesque-style entertainment. It’s definitely a niche experience—cheeky, fun, and somewhat campy—but that’s part of its charm.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Has anyone tried the Atmos 360 Immersive Dining?
Answer: The Atmos 360 Immersive Dining experience in Fort Lauderdale is designed to be a high-end, multi-sensory event, combining gourmet cuisine with immersive visuals, lighting, and audio. It’s often compared to dinner theater meets molecular gastronomy, aiming to provide more than just a meal—it’s an experience meant to engage all your senses.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Spring Break Q
Answer: Visiting Fort Lauderdale from March 31 through April 10 is actually a smart timing if you want to avoid the peak of spring break crowds. Here’s what you can expect in detail:
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Good place to stay by beach with fishing
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is an excellent choice for a family trip that combines beach time with fishing opportunities. February offers pleasant weather and calm ocean conditions, making both activities enjoyable for teens and adults alike. Here’s a detailed guide to help plan your stay.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Right Cars / Discovercarhire.com - DO NOT USE
Answer: It sounds like your experience with Right Cars and DiscoverCarHire.com in Fort Lauderdale was extremely frustrating and disappointing. Unfortunately, situations like this are not uncommon with third-party rental booking sites, especially when dealing with smaller or off-airport providers.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Resort for girls trip in Fort Lauderdale
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is well-known for its beachfront resorts, waterway access, and lively dining scene, making it an excellent choice for a girls’ trip. For friends in their 40s looking for a combination of beach service, on-site dining, bars, and easy access to water taxis or other local transportation, there are several standout options.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Fort Lauderdale Hotels that allow 18+ check-in
Answer: Good question — you’re right that it can be surprisingly difficult to find hotels near Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) that both offer a shuttle and allow 18- or 19-year-olds to check in. Many properties have a 21+ minimum, especially for younger guests without older adults. That said, there are a few options to consider, though you’ll want to call ahead and confirm their policies before booking.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Best boutique style hotel for girls trip in late February
Answer: Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic destination for a girls’ trip, especially if you’re looking for a boutique-style hotel with beach access and proximity to the water taxi. Late February is a perfect time, as the weather is usually warm and sunny without being too hot.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Hotel Question
Answer: For a one-night stay in Fort Lauderdale with a very early flight, both the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and the Hilton Diplomat offer high-quality accommodations, but there are differences in location and convenience that may influence your choice.
View MoreFort Lauderdale
Question: Ft Lauderdale Events
Answer: Good question. Based on currently published schedules, there doesn’t seem to be a *major headliner event or festival* in Fort Lauderdale exactly the week of February 3rd, 2025—so the high hotel prices are more likely due to “peak season” demand rather than a one-off event.
View More