Things To Do
in North Lauderdale
North Lauderdale is a quiet, family-friendly suburb in Broward County, just north of Fort Lauderdale. It blends residential neighborhoods with convenient parks, shopping centers, and services, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. Located between the coast and the Everglades, it offers quick day trips to beaches, nature reserves, and cultural hubs.
Visitors will find a relaxed atmosphere, with warm Florida weather and a welcoming, diverse community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the beautiful Hampton Pines Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and calm ambiance. Bring along a picnic breakfast to savor under the shade of the trees. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the local wildlife as you stroll along the walking trails.
After a leisurely morning, head to the nearby Central Broward Regional Park for an afternoon of outdoor fun. You can participate in recreational sports or simply relax at the park's picnic areas. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as families gather and children play.
As evening falls, make your way to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in the flavors of Southern cuisine. Perhaps catch a local live music performance to wrap up an enjoyable day. You can savor a refreshing drink while soaking in the warm, inviting ambiance of the area.
Visit the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center to begin your day with a dose of history and culture. The center showcases various exhibits and resources that celebrate African-American heritage. Spend some time exploring the library's vast collection and engaging with the community events.
Take a short trip to the nearby Coral Springs Museum of Art in the afternoon, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary artwork. Participate in guided tours or creative workshops if available, deepening your appreciation for the local art scene. Enjoy the interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages.
Conclude your cultural day with a dinner at a locally owned restaurant that features ethnic cuisine, reflecting the diverse community here. Share stories and reflections from your day's adventures with friends or new acquaintances over a warm meal. If available, catch a community event at a nearby venue to experience more local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly estimate) | $250-350 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $1,400-2,000 |
| 🚎Public transit pass (monthly) | $60-85 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet suburban atmosphere with easy access to beaches and nature.
- Wide range of outdoor activities and green spaces nearby.
- Multicultural dining options reflecting South Florida’s diversity.
- Proximity to major highways and Fort Lauderdale’s cultural attractions.
- Limited nightlife and city-center excitement within North Lauderdale itself.
- Can be traffic-prone during peak hours in Broward County.
- Seasonal hurricane risk requires seasonal preparedness.
Places to Visit in North Lauderdale
Visit one of these nice places.
Along the New River, offering skyline views, boats, and waterfront scenes, especially beautiful at sunset.
Wide sandy shores, palm silhouettes, and golden hour ocean shots; capture lifeguard towers and surfers in season.
Historic estate gardens with mature trees, water features, and coastal flora—great for lush nature photography.
Boardwalks and boardwalk wetlands with birdlife and shaded lighting ideal for close-up and landscape shots.
Vibrant street photography opportunities with storefronts, pedestrians, and canal-side views.
Food in North Lauderdale
North Lauderdale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A pressed sandwich with roasted pork, ham, cheese, pickles, and mustard, widely available at local delis and cafes.
Must-Try!
Caribbean fried pork with tangy pickled peppers; found at Caribbean-inspired eateries and markets.
Fried seafood bites common in Caribbean-influenced spots; great as a starter or shared dish.
Delicious cornmeal patties filled with cheese, meat, or beans; popular at Latin American eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts—good for tasting regional snacks.
A broader market with fruits, veggies, seafood stalls, and Caribbean street-food snacks to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Florida is generally casual; lightweight clothing is common. In nicer restaurants, modest attire is expected.
Be mindful of hurricane alerts, follow local safety guidance, and respect wildlife in nature areas.
Basic courtesy goes a long way; a simple greeting and please/thank you are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in North Lauderdale
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard. For bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab. Taxis and rideshares typically expect 10-15% tips.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for small shops and markets. Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly accepted in many spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons. Hurricane season runs June–November; monitor local alerts.
Warm temperatures with lower humidity; pleasant for outdoor exploring. Thunderstorm risk remains, but less intense than mid-summer.
Mild and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for walking and city exploration. Cool fronts can bring cooler evenings—pack a light jacket.
Warm and humid with occasional rain showers; good beach and outdoor activity conditions, plus lush vegetation after spring rains.
North Lauderdale at Night
Hiking in North Lauderdale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coconut Creek; boardwalks through wetlands with birdwatching and shaded trails—great for nature photography and easy hikes.
Sunrise; lakeside loops and shaded trails with wildlife viewing and picnic areas, suitable for a relaxed hike.
Urban waterfront park with coastal trails and marshes; longer day hikes and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach North Lauderdale by plane.
The closest major airport, about 15-25 miles from North Lauderdale, offering domestic and international flights with a wide range of carriers.
A larger hub about 30-40 miles south of North Lauderdale, with extensive international connections and multiple terminals.
A bit farther north, about 70-90 miles from North Lauderdale, convenient for certain domestic and charter trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children; safe neighborhoods and parks are a draw for families.
A rich cultural presence reflected in local eateries, markets, and multilingual communication.
Mild winters and accessible services attract seasonal residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at high schools, colleges nearby, and local leagues; community events often feature games and tailgating.
Loved at schools and in community gyms; pickup games and youth leagues are common around Broward County.
A growing sport with youth academies and outdoor fields across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Lauderdale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many casual spots offer vegetable plates, salads, rice and beans, plantains, and veggie burgers. When in doubt, ask for customizable veggie bowls or sides like grilled vegetables, beans, and rice; consider markets for fresh produce and vegetarian-friendly prepared foods.