Things To Do
in Lauderdale Lakes
Lauderdale Lakes is a diverse suburban city in Broward County, just west of Fort Lauderdale, anchored by a network of scenic lakes and leafy residential streets. The area offers easy access to parks, family-friendly activities, and a gateway to the broader Fort Lauderdale coastline and cultural scene. The community reflects South Florida's multicultural mix, with Caribbean, Latin American, and local flavors infusing everyday life.
Visitors can enjoy relaxed neighborhoods, outdoor recreation, and convenient links to beaches and city attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Vincent Torres Memorial Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk surrounded by lush greenery. Take a moment to appreciate the park's tranquil lake and the various species of birds that call it home. Grab a coffee from a nearby café as you stroll along the walking paths.
Head to the nearby Lauderdale Lakes City Hall Park for a picnic lunch in the shade. Afterward, engage in some recreational activities like basketball or simply relax on the grassy areas. The park's playground is perfect for families, so let the kids enjoy while you unwind.
As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Caribbean cuisine, a nod to the area's vibrant culture. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to soak in the evening atmosphere and perhaps discover some local art installations. End your evening with a refreshing dessert from an ice cream shop nearby.
Begin the day with a visit to the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, where you can explore exhibits that celebrate the history and culture of African Americans in Broward County. Spend time browsing through the extensive collection of books and artifacts that tell compelling stories of resilience and achievement. Don't forget to check the schedule for any guided tours or special programs offered that morning.
After a morning of learning, head over to the nearby Museum of Discovery and Science for an engaging afternoon. Participate in interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages, and don't miss the IMAX theater showing captivating nature films. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum's café, where you can refuel for the rest of your explorations.
Wrap up your day with a cultural performance at a local theater or community center, where you can experience music or dance that reflects the heritage of the area. Take in the sights and sounds of the performance as you immerse yourself in the local arts scene. After the show, grab a late-night snack at one of the food trucks that often gather near the venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week (per person) | $60-100 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-80 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.00-4.00 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment rent in city center (monthly) | $1,600-2,000 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to beaches and parks
- Multicultural food scene with diverse dining options
- Car-dependent layout can require driving
- Nightlife options are more limited within Lauderdale Lakes itself
Places to Visit in Lauderdale Lakes
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning light over Lauderdale Lakes creates calm reflections and pastel colors.
Tree-lined canals and palm-lined streets offer classic South Florida compositions, especially at golden hour.
Sunset color casts across a quiet park lake, ideal for silhouettes and landscape shots.
Food in Lauderdale Lakes
Lauderdale Lakes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A pressed sandwich with roast pork, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard—often found at local cafes and delis.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried morsels featuring tender conch meat, peppers, and herbs; a popular bite at Caribbean eateries.
Sweet, succulent crab claws typically served with mustard sauce at seafood spots (seasonal).
Mash of fried plantains with garlic, pork cracklings, and seafood or meat; common at Caribbean-inspired eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and Caribbean street foods.
Weekly gatherings around Sunrise Blvd and nearby corridors with diverse street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Florida casual attire is standard; dress comfortably for weather and modest for certain venues.
Be friendly; brief small talk is common; handshakes or greetings are typical.
Tipping is expected for service; polite conversation and smiling faces go a long way.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas, especially at night; ask before photographing private properties.
Ask for permission before taking portraits of people or sensitive sites.
Safety
Tipping in Lauderdale Lakes
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is customary for good service; rounding up at casual spots is common. For rideshares, tip similarly.
Most places accept cash and cards; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely used; some places may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms and a high hurricane risk; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and seek shade.
Still warm with intermittent showers; tropical systems are possible but most days are sunny with warm evenings.
Mild and comfortable; pleasant beach days and outdoor activities with cooler evenings.
Warm days with rising humidity and lingering afternoon showers; great time for outdoor exploration.
Lauderdale Lakes at Night
Hiking in Lauderdale Lakes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalk paths and nature trails through a shaded wetland ecosystem.
Coastal mangrove trails and wildlife viewing along the shoreline.
Paved and natural trails with picnic areas and lakeside views.
Airports
How to reach Lauderdale Lakes by plane.
Major international airport with domestic and international flights; about 15-20 minutes by car from Lauderdale Lakes depending on traffic.
Large international hub offering numerous connections; about 40-60 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Smaller international airport serving the region; about 60-90 minutes by car in lighter traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable Caribbean and Haitian community contributes to the area’s cultural flavor.
Residents from various Latin American backgrounds add to the region’s culinary and cultural diversity.
Diverse age groups, with many families and retirees choosing Lauderdale Lakes for its suburban feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Several nearby courses provide year-round golfing opportunities with tropical scenery.
Community leagues and recreational courts are common in parks and schools.
Swift access to the Atlantic beaches makes swimming, snorkeling, and water sports popular.
Flat terrain and parks encourage joggers and runners year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lauderdale Lakes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options like veggie bowls, bean dishes, salads, and sides; ask for meat-free versions and sauces on the side.
Look for plant-based dishes such as beans, rice, roasted vegetables, and salads; request dairy-free substitutes.
Seek naturally gluten-free options like grilled fish, salads, rice, beans, and corn-based sides; confirm sauces are gluten-free.