Beach bars
Fort Lauderdale beach - a wide stretch of soft, sugary sands - is a calm, sun-dappled paradise during the day, but at night it comes alive with the buzz of bouncing bars.
Situated on the northern end of the beach, Parrot Lounge is a friendly bar that welcomes tourists and locals alike. Of all Fort Lauderdale’s beach bars, Parrot Lounge provides the largest selection of domestic, import, and cool craft beers. There’s also an inexpensive cocktail menu for those after something more special. Check their calendar too, as they often show the biggest sports games.
911 Sunrise Lane, Fort Lauderdale FL 33304.
The Wreck Bar
Try something a little different and head to The Wreck Bar, based at the south end of the beach. This quirky nautical-themed bar - with a ship-style layout and wide selection of spirits - seems to be submerged underwater, with huge glass windows looking out into the depths. On weekends, you may even catch underwater mermaid shows while you drink.
1140 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale FL 33316.
Live music
Whether you’re in the mood for mellow blues, jumping jazz, or riveting rock, Fort Lauderdale’s lavish live music scene has it all covered. Many smaller live music venues line Las Olas Boulevard, but bigger venues are speckled throughout the city. Culture Room
The Culture Room is Fort Lauderdale’s top live music venue, boasting huge speakers, body-shaking sub-woofers, and dazzling light shows. Its floor space is intimate, offering close-up views of the stage, but gives plenty of room to dance. Expect big music names, from reggae kings and blues legends to folk singers and country stars.
3045 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale FL 33306.
Clubs
Fort Lauderdale was once the spring break capital of Florida, seeing swathes of party-hungry students flooding its beaches, bars, and clubs. Spring break isn’t as popular here as it was, but its clubbing scene - which ranges from disco to techno - is as lively as ever.
Spread across 2 floors, this enormous and classy club has a huge dance-floor where you can show off all your moves to retro nightclub hits and modern hip hop masterpieces. Chandeliers hang from the ceilings, glowing and glinting in the neon lights. For indulgent party-goers, there’s also a luxurious VIP room which can be booked in advance.
2345 Wilton Drive, Fort Lauderdale FL 33305.
Live comedy
If you feel like stepping back from the electrifying bars and clubs and enjoying a laid-back night of entertainment, head to one of Fort Lauderdale’s comedy clubs or venues.
Situated away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the Improv Comedy Club is a guaranteed way to brighten up your evening. With a range of renowned comedians filling up its calendar, this ritzy club - which provides elegant sit-down dining and table service - will have you in stitches by the end of the night.
5700 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL 33314.
