What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear Florida? Is it the beach? Or is it some weird news that is just memeable about some events happening around the state? Is it a make or break to have Florida on your next visit list?
So today, we have Donna of Explore The Road With Donnamarie to talk about exploring a city under the budget of $10. And this time, we're going to South Florida to see some must-visit spots in Fort Lauderdale that are also budget-friendly.
So, what could you get in Fort Lauderdale for $10?! Read more to find out! 😉
6 Places To Visit in the Greater Fort Lauderdale Under $10
There are many things to do in south Florida for families, couples, and singles, however, many of these things cost money. What can you do in Fort Lauderdale for under $10?
Fort Lauderdale is mainly known for its miles upon miles of white sand beaches. What better way to spend a visit here but in the great outdoors? Best of all, most beaches and parks here are free!
You will only have to pay for parking. The secret is to come early or go during the week so you can find cheap metered parking. This will usually be around $2 per hour. Sometimes you can find cheap all day lots, but often these will charge more money.
There are several beaches in the area, each with different characteristics. So pack a lunch and stop at the dollar store to pick up some sunscreen and some flip flops. Then head to the beach.
Did you know?
At least six beaches in Fort Lauderdale are Blue Wave Certified. It means that these beaches have already passed strict environmental standards for their cleanliness and sustainability. All of the certified beaches will be mentioned in this post!
Hollywood Beach
Located south of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Beach has 2.5 miles of Boardwalk where you can bike, stroll, or rollerblade. Check out the cute shops and restaurants without ever leaving the beach. Free concerts are held Wednesday through Sunday evenings at the Hollywood Beach Theatre which is located on the Boardwalk.
On the third Saturday of the month, you can go to Downtown Hollywood Artwalk. Between 5 and 10 pm, you can participate in a walking tour of the mural project which is a collection of murals from artists around the world. Witness the Dream Car Classic on the first Sunday each month between 10 am and 2 pm. Then in December, watch the Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade.
Nearby is the Anne Kolb Nature Center. Located off Sheridan Street, you can view a 3500-gallon aquarium, visit the eco-room, climb the 68 foot observation tower, or fish from the pier. There are also nature, biking, and boating trails. Admission is free during the week.
A free electric shuttle is available Sunday-Thursday 10 am-9 pm and Friday-Saturday 10 am-10 pm to take you around the city of Hollywood.
South Florida is known for its white sandy beach.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Besides sunning yourself on this spring break beach of yesteryear, Fort Lauderdale has many free cultural opportunities.
Friday Night Sound Waves is a free live music series that takes place between March and July from 6:30-9:30 pm at Las Olas Oceanside Park. At the entrance to the Society Las Olas apartments is public art titled Thrive by Daniel Popper. Every Saturday you can visit the Farmers', Antiques, and Artisans' Market at Las Olas Oceanside Park.
Many festivals are also held throughout the year. In January, March, and October, visit the Las Olas Art Fair. In May, witness the Air Show. November hosts Christmas on Las Olas Boulevard. Then on the 2nd Saturday in December, view the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade along the Intercoastal Waterway. While some of these events may require tickets for prime seating, most you can still view from a distance or from nearby hotels and restaurants for free or the price of a drink.
Free transportation in Fort Lauderdale includes the Seabreeze Tram which is the community shuttle. The electric shuttle known as the Circuit runs between 11:30 am and 10 pm daily. Also, to get across the New River, the Riverwalk Water Trolley offers free rides between 10 am and 10 pm.
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea
Just north of Fort Lauderdale Beach, at the end of Commercial Boulevard sits the little town of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. This village has many seaside inns to stay at right on the beach or within walking distance. Shops and restaurants are also an easy stroll away. You can even eat right on the beach.
On Sundays, from December through May you can check out local vendors and grab some street food in El Prado Park, one block north of Commercial Boulevard.
The beach is a great snorkeling destination if you have your own equipment. There are 3 reefs right offshore. This beach is where the locals go so it isn't as crowded as Ft. Lauderdale beach. There is more of a laid-back vibe. It is a great place to go for long walks and collect shells. This is my favorite beach because it is less crowded.
Pompano Beach
A bit further north, at the end of Atlantic Blvd., is Pompano Beach. This is a great family beach with playgrounds and a fishing pier where you can fish with the best fishing nets you can use. Check out the green market on the 2nd and 4th Saturday each month from 9 am until 2 pm, November through April. On the 2nd Friday in December, Pompano Beach hosts a Holiday Boat Parade.
Wilton Manors
This village in the city of Fort Lauderdale has a big LGBTQ community and hosts many events throughout the year. The Stonewall Pride Festival takes place in June. Wicked Manors is a Halloween event, of course in October.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Deerfield Beach
Located at the end of Hillsboro Boulevard at the north end of the county, Deerfield Beach offers many free things to do, just pay for parking. Take a free shuttle on the weekend to Deerfield Island Park which is only accessible by boat. On Saturdays, Island Water Sports offers free surf lessons. Deerfield Beach also has sand volleyball courts and a fishing pier.
While vacationing in the greater Fort Lauderdale area can often be expensive, you can still have fun on a budget. For less than $10 you can park your car and find numerous places to explore in the great outdoors. With the mild climate you can experience these things year round.
Contributor: Donna Emperador from Explore the Road with Donnamarie
Donna Emperador is a travel blogger at Explore the Road with Donnamarie. She writes mainly about her travels off the beaten path in Florida, experiments with world cuisine and her exciting cocktail creations to enjoy with friends.
