So you’re sailing out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale? Lucky you! ✨ But here’s the thing — Fort Lauderdale isn’t just the place where your cruise starts or ends. It’s the kind of city that’s too fun to skip. I always tell friends: arrive a day early (flight delays happen), or linger after your ship docks (because who really wants vacation to end?). Continue reading for more cruise tips on dining, staying and attractions.
Trust me, that extra night or two turns your cruise into a full-on vacation.
🛏️ Where I Love to Stay
One of the things I adore about Fort Lauderdale is how easy it all is. The airport, the port, and the hotels? They’re all within 10–15 minutes of each other. No stress, no endless taxi rides. Here are a few favorites I’d actually book myself:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton – Big comfy rooms, free breakfast (hello, waffles!), and shuttle service to the port. Zero hassle.
- Hyatt Centric Las Olas – If you like being in the middle of the action, this is your spot. Downtown vibes, cool rooftop bar, and plenty to walk to.
- Lago Mar Beach Resort – A little slice of paradise with its own private beach. Honestly, it feels like sneaking in a mini-resort vacation before (or after) your big one.
You can find many more hotel options by clicking here
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Where to Eat (Because Cruise Food Isn’t the Only Game in Town)
- Seafood Shacks & Oyster Bars – Roll up your sleeves, order something that was probably still swimming this morning, and get messy. Nothing says “vacation mode” like buttery lobster rolls or a platter of oysters on ice.
- Local Favorites – Every port city has that diner or hole-in-the-wall where locals go. Go there. Eat what they eat. Bonus points if it involves pancakes the size of your head.
- Fancy Pants Dining – If you want one last glamorous meal before boarding (or to stretch out that vacation glow after disembarking), book a white-tablecloth spot and toast to yourself. You deserve it.
What to Do (So You Don’t Just Sit Around Watching Seagulls)
- City Tours with a Twist – Forget the boring buses. Try a foodie walking tour, a ghost tour (yes, spooky AND hilarious), or even a Segway ride if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Museums & Markets – From quirky local museums (think maritime history or even oddball art collections) to buzzing markets full of snacks and souvenirs, you’ll find a treasure or two.
- Nature Breaks – Parks, beaches, or even a sunset cruise-before-the-cruise (yes, it’s a thing). Because sometimes you need to breathe fresh air before you’re surrounded by 3,000 of your newest cruise ship friends.
for more ideas on what to do and where to eat in Fort Lauderdale please click here. You really won’t be disappointed
My Pro-Tip: Build in “Buffer Time”
Flights get delayed. Luggage gets lost. Aunt Linda forgets her passport. Do yourself a favour and arrive a day early. It takes the stress out of rushing and gives you the gift of extra exploring. And on the back end? A post-cruise stay keeps the vacation glow alive just a little longer before reality comes crashing in (aka laundry and emails).
✨ Bottom line: Don’t treat your port city like a pit stop. Treat it like the opening act—or the encore—to your cruise. Because trust me, the memories you make before you even set foot on that ship (or after you wobble off) might just be your favourite part.
