Things To Do
in Sunrise
Sunrise, Florida sits in the northwestern corner of Broward County just west of the Fort Lauderdale metro area. It’s anchored by the FLA Live Arena and a growing dining and shopping scene along modern corridors. The city blends suburban comfort with easy access to parks, waterway trails, and family-friendly attractions.
With warm year-round weather and quick access to the Everglades and the Atlantic coast, Sunrise makes a convenient base for exploring South Florida.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sunrise Civic Center, where you can explore local art exhibits and learn about the city's history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks, taking in the lush greenery and vibrant flowers that bloom in the morning sun. Grab a coffee and a pastry from a local café as you soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
After lunch, head over to the Flamingo Gardens, where you can discover the beautiful botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuary. Spend the afternoon wandering through the lush landscapes, watching flamingos and other exotic birds in their natural habitat. Don't forget to visit the Wray Home Museum to gain insight into the area's pioneer history.
As the sun sets, make your way to a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring fresh local cuisine. Enjoy the ambiance of the outdoor dining areas, where you can listen to live music while savoring your meal. Conclude your day with a quiet walk around the neighborhood, enjoying the warm evening breeze.
Kick off your morning at Fort Lauderdale Beach, just a short drive away, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the soft sands. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to start your day with some water sports, or simply relax by the water with a good book. The morning sun glistening on the ocean will set a perfect tone for the day ahead.
After an active morning, take a break and enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local eateries offering fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant beach atmosphere, participating in beach volleyball, or lounging with friends. If you're feeling adventurous, consider booking a snorkeling tour to explore the nearby coral reefs.
As evening arrives, find a beachfront bar to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. The lively beach scene transforms as the night sets in, offering live music and entertainment options. Indulge in a dinner featuring local specialties, and take a sunset stroll along the shore to end your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧋Cup of bubble tea or beverage | $4-7 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to beaches and Everglades
- Strong dining scene and safe neighborhoods
- Excellent accessibility via Fort Lauderdale and Miami airports
- Family-friendly attractions and modern infrastructure
- Can be crowded during peak season
- Property and dining prices can be high in Broward County
- Limited nightlife directly in Sunrise; need to travel to Fort Lauderdale
Places to Visit in Sunrise
Visit one of these nice places.
Bold modern architecture and glass reflections make for dramatic cityscape photography.
Lush boardwalks and marsh scenes ideal for wildlife photography.
Calm water reflections and palm-fringed landscapes.
Sunset shots over boats and yachts with a warm glow.
Food in Sunrise
Sunrise Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Found at authentic Cuban cafés throughout the Fort Lauderdale-Sunrise area.
Must-Try!
Bright, sweet crab claws served chilled or warm with mustard sauce; seasonal availability in fall.
Tart, creamy pie made with local limes; widely available in bakeries and diners.
Fresh local fish tacos with tropical salsa and lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with produce, artisan snacks, and local treats in Sunrise.
A spread of food trucks and stalls around downtown Fort Lauderdale—great for casual bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings are typical; a simple 'Hello' or 'Good morning' is appreciated.
Form lines for service; patience is valued in busy restaurants and markets.
Florida culture tends to be casual; dress for warm weather and be respectful in neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Sunrise
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the bill before tax is standard; at bars, $1-2 per drink; valets $2-5 depending on service.
Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets common; some smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, use shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Warm but slightly less humid; a great time for outdoor trails and water activities before the winter crowds.
Milder and drier; comfortable for outdoor exploration; evenings can be cool.
Warm with rising humidity; wildlife activity increases, ideal for nature walks and photography.
Sunrise at Night
Hiking in Sunrise
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalks and nature trails along the intercoastal waterway near Fort Lauderdale.
Urban state park offering mangroves, biking, and hiking—nearby in North Miami.
Longer day trips to see subtropical wetlands and wildlife; accessible from Sunrise via highways.
Airports
How to reach Sunrise by plane.
Major international airport about 10-15 miles from Sunrise with frequent domestic and international flights.
A larger hub about 25-30 miles away, accessible by car, train, or shuttle.
Regional option about 50-60 miles north, useful for some connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family presence, good schools, and safe neighborhoods; many parks and community events.
Commuters to Fort Lauderdale and Miami; multiple apartments and planned communities.
Spanish-speaking residents and cultural events; diverse culinary options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Florida Panthers play at FLA Live Arena in Sunrise; games and practice attract fans.
Local colleges and clubs, plus pro events at nearby venues; weekend leagues in parks.
Several public and resort courses in the Sunrise–Fort Lauderdale area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sunrise.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Sunrise-Fort Lauderdale eateries offer vegetarian options like veggie bowls, black beans and rice, pizzas, and salads; ask for meat-free sauces.
Look for gluten-free options; opt for grilled seafood, salads, and rice/dairy-free options; tell staff about cross-contamination concerns.