Rain or shine: Top Fort Lauderdale family adventures
Discover Fort Lauderdale's top indoor and outdoor activities for families and groups, offering flexible options for a variety of ages.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | October 16, 2025
Fort Lauderdale is a city where shimmering waterways and pristine white sand beaches invite every generation to relax, play, and connect. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a reunion with friends, this destination seamlessly blends classic attractions with hidden gems, making group travel a breeze. From exploring lush parks and interactive museums to cruising scenic canals, Fort Lauderdale welcomes you to create lasting memories.
Family-friendly Fort Lauderdale adventures
Outdoor escapes for everyone
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a natural oasis in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, offering 180 acres of shaded trails, picnic spots, and gentle waterways perfect for canoeing or paddleboarding. Families and large groups can stroll under towering trees, spot wildlife, and enjoy group-friendly amenities like reservable pavilions. The park's proximity to the beach allows you to easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon spent by the ocean. Don’t miss the ranger-guided interpretive nature tours and live animal presentations.
After a day outdoors, unwind at the Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, where a rooftop pool, direct beach access, and elegant decor make it easy to recharge and reconnect.
Waterway adventures for groups
Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi is a favorite for multi-generational groups, offering hop-on, hop-off access to a variety of scenic stops across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood. Plan a day of sightseeing, shopping, and dining with easy access to Las Olas Boulevard and waterfront attractions, such as tarpon feeding at 15th Street Fisheries.
For families seeking a home base, GALLERYone - a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel is a waterfront hotel with direct water taxi access. Offering spacious suites, a gorgeous waterfront outdoor pool, and Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™, the hotel makes it easy to explore the "Venice of America" at your own pace and return to comfort whenever you need a break.
Indoor discoveries for rainy days
When the weather stops cooperating, the Museum of Discovery and Science provides hands-on fun for all ages. Interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and an IMAX theater keep kids and adults engaged while educational programs and science demonstrations add extra value for curious minds.
Located downtown, Home2 Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale Downtown features family-friendly suites and free hot breakfast, making it easy to start your day with energy before heading out to explore. After a full afternoon of learning, unwind in modern accommodations with a fifth-floor pool bar, in-room kitchens, and extended stay options.
Classic sightseeing by riverboat
Step aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat for a storied cruise through Fort Lauderdale's winding waterways. Since the 1930s, this sightseeing experience has delighted families with dinner cruises, narrated tours, and group packages for daytime and evening excursions.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina is located near the riverboat dock, offering convenient amenities and panoramic water views. After your cruise, gather at the palm-lined pool or grab a bite at Olive & Sea, a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop restaurant serving daily seafood specials.
Indoor thrills for active families
Xtreme Action Park is one of Florida's largest indoor entertainment venues, designed for high-energy fun across all ages. From bowling and laser tag to rope courses and go-karts, there's something for every member of the group. Group packages and accessible facilities make planning easy, while age-appropriate activities ensure that everyone can participate.
Located near the excitement of downtown, Tru by Hilton Fort Lauderdale Downtown offers a free hot breakfast and an outdoor pool, so families can enjoy a stress-free vacation and focus on having fun in Fort Lauderdale.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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