Top 15 things to do in Fort Lauderdale with kids

For an exhilarating adventure that’s distinctly Floridian, take your family to the Everglades Alligator Farm. As the oldest alligator farm in South Florida, it offers an up-close look at some of the state’s most fascinating wildlife, including hundreds of alligators, crocodiles and other native species.

You can experience the farm on a high-speed airboat tour that slices through the Everglades. The skilled guides share insights into the ecosystem and point out wildlife sightings along the way, making it a highly educational and exciting journey for everyone.

The Flamingo Gardens are a 60-acre oasis in Davie that showcases the natural beauty of South Florida. This botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat where families can connect with nature and discover a variety of native plants and animals.

Wander through the winding paths or join a narrated tram tour. Kids will be thrilled by the wildlife encounters, which include peacocks, alligators, and of course, the garden’s namesake flamingos.

If your little ones are curious about the world around them, the Museum of Discovery and Science is a great place to visit. With its vast array of interactive exhibits and an awe-inspiring IMAX theater, this museum offers an educational experience that sparks the imagination.

Highlights of your visit can include everything from exploring the wonders of space to engaging in hands-on experiments. The museum’s displays are designed to encourage exploration, making it a perfect stop for families looking to mix education with the relaxation of a cruise.

Dip your toes into the sandy shores of Pompano Beach, a stunning coastal gem that promises fun under the sun. Here, the kids can explore coral reefs or see shipwrecks via snorkeling and diving. You can also enjoy the amenities of the newly renovated pier and marina.

As you take in the warm Florida sun, let your kids enjoy the gentle waves or take a walk along the beach to collect shells — and create lasting memories. With a variety of fun things for the kids, Pompano Beach is a great destination to add a splash of excitement to your family’s cruise itinerary.

One of the most popular things to do in Fort Lauderdale is to take a ride on a water taxi, the “trolley in the water.” This is a full-fledged sightseeing experience that allows you and your family to experience the Venice of America. You can hop on and off to visit local shops and cafes or simply enjoy the ride to see the city from its beautiful waterways.

Perfect for a restful break between more active adventures, it's a wonderful way to let the scenic vistas of Fort Lauderdale enchant the entire family before you head out to sea.

This sanctuary is the first and largest butterfly house in the US, offering visitors the chance to walk among thousands of brilliantly colored butterflies in a lush, tropical setting. You can also explore the aviaries filled with exotic birds, meander through a mesmerizing garden of passion flowers, or discover the hummingbird exhibit, where these tiny energetic birds dart with incredible speed and precision. Children and adults alike will be captivated by the beauty and serenity of Butterfly World.

Discover the natural beauty of Fort Lauderdale at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a haven nestled between the beach and the Intracoastal Waterway. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities that make it a perfect spot for families looking to enjoy Florida, including:

• Kayaking
• Biking
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Snorkeling
• Picnics

The park also features a visitor center that offers educational exhibits about the local wildlife and ecosystems.

Step into a magical world of light and color at the Luminosa Chinese Lantern Festival in Miami. Just a short drive from Fort Lauderdale, this festival transforms the night with over 40 illuminated sculptures inspired by both the beauty of Florida and the artistry of Chinese lantern-making.

As you walk through the dazzling displays, you get to experience a blend of art, technology, and culture that captivates children and adults alike. The luminous gardens and mythical creatures offer a breathtaking backdrop for family photos.

This interactive pirate ship excursion is one of the most popular Fort Lauderdale kids' activities since it allows families to step into the shoes of pirates as they navigate the beautiful waterways of Fort Lauderdale.

During the voyage, young pirates will engage in a spirited treasure hunt, complete with a battle against rival pirates using the ship’s water cannons. The crew entertains while educating about the local marine life and pirate history. If you’re looking for a unique way to spend the day on a shore excursion, Bluefoot Pirate Adventures is a great option.

Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour has been a cherished landmark in Dania Beach since 1956. Known for its old-fashioned charm and homemade ice cream, Jaxson’s offers a sweet retreat from the sun with flavors that cater to every palate. The ice cream is made daily using the finest ingredients. Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour is a must-visit for families looking to add a scoop of joy to their cruise vacation.

Visit the Young at Art Museum in Plantation, a cultural hub that sparks creativity in kids through engaging art interactions. This museum isn't just about viewing art — it's about experiencing it hands-on with exhibitions and workshops designed to foster expression and exploration.

Colorful galleries filled with thought-provoking installations make every visit both fun and educational. It’s an ideal spot for blending learning with creativity, enhancing your family’s cruise vacation by transforming children into budding artists in a place where art truly comes to life.

Dive into the fun at C.B. Smith Park, a spot for family-friendly recreation featuring the thrilling Paradise Cove waterpark. This park delights with four 50-foot water slides and a lazy river, as well as various water play areas for all ages. Beyond splashing around, enjoy amenities like fishing lakes, miniature golf and biking paths.

Whether cooling off or engaging in a mini-golf challenge, C.B. Smith Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and family bonding. It mixes excitement and relaxation to enhance your cruise with memorable water activities and scenic natural beauty.

Xtreme Action Park in Fort Lauderdale is Florida’s largest indoor entertainment venue. This exhilarating park caters to thrill-seekers with a variety of activities like go-kart racing, bowling, a vast arcade, and an indoor ropes course.

Perfect for families eager to add some excitement to their vacation, Xtreme Action Park offers a day of intense play followed by relaxation at the sports bar or café, ensuring a memorable addition to cruises from Fort Lauderdale.

Embark on a classic Fort Lauderdale experience with Jungle Queen Riverboats. Known for their iconic 90-minute sightseeing tours, these riverboats offer a leisurely way to explore the scenic waterways and discover the rich history and lush landscapes of the area.

As you glide along the river, you’ll see luxurious mansions and sprawling tropical gardens. The knowledgeable guides provide entertaining commentary, sharing tales of the city’s past and present.

All these adventures start and end at the Fort Lauderdale cruise port, where your Princess Cruise allows you to extend the family fun. Explore the unique and interactive attractions to fully experience Florida.

For the ultimate family vacation experience, cruise with Princess Cruises and create unforgettable memories through Fort Lauderdale’s array of kid-friendly activities. Book your getaway today.