A guide to adventuring in Fort Lauderdale with kids
Fort Lauderdale’s Guide to Adventuring with Kids
In this guide you will find:
- Our top spots
- Ratings for each spot including stroller friendliness, activities...
- Seasonal Outdoor Festivals
- How to make adventuring part of your routine
Our top spots
We pick our top spots because we have tried them. These spots have kid friendly trails are fun, safe and have areas for kids to explore.
#1 - Tree Tops Park
Winding trails through oak hammocks and wetland boardwalks.
3900 SW 100th Ave, Davie, FL 33328
Scenery: 5/5 – Stunning oak canopies, wetlands, and an observation tower.
Stroller-Friendly: Yes – occasional uneven areas
Dog-Friendly: Yes – on a leash.
Playground: Yes.
Fun Activities: Hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting.
Free or Paid: Paid ($1.50/person; kids under 5 free).
Highlight: Climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the park.
Insider Tip: After a good hike, head over to Fruits & Cahoots close by for a great smoothie
#2 - Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Nestled between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, there’s something for everyone.
3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Scenery: 5/5 – Coastal beauty meets shaded trails and scenic waterways.
Stroller-Friendly: Yes – Paved 2-mile loop trail is perfect for strollers. Dirt trails are uneven
Dog-Friendly: Limited – Dogs allowed in certain areas on a leash.
Playground: Yes.
Fun Activities: Paddleboarding, biking, hiking, and beach access.
Free or Paid: Paid ($6/vehicle entry fee).
Highlight: Lunch at the grove with live music
Insider Tip: spotting gopher tortoises along the dirt trails.
#3 - Wolf Lake Park
Nature trails, a dog-friendly swimming lake, and plenty of shaded picnic areas.
3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Scenery: 4/5 – A mix of natural landscapes and open spaces.
Stroller-Friendly: Yes – Trails are mostly stroller-accessible.
Dog-Friendly: Yes – Dogs love the dedicated swim area. Not allowed on the back trails.
Playground: Yes.
Fun Activities: Butterfly garden, Edible garden, trails, and picnic spots.
Free or Paid: Free.
Highlight: The mountain bike trail is great even for balance bikes (or a hike).
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the butterfly garden, where kids can observe these colorful creatures up close.
#4 - Snyder Park
Nature trails, a dog-friendly swimming lake, and plenty of shaded picnic areas.
3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Scenery: 4/5 – A mix of natural landscapes and open spaces.
Stroller-Friendly: Yes – Trails are mostly stroller-accessible.
Dog-Friendly: Yes – Dogs love the dedicated swim area. Not allowed on the back trails.
Playground: Yes.
Fun Activities: Butterfly garden, Edible garden, trails, and picnic spots.
Free or Paid: Free.
Highlight: The mountain bike trail is great even for balance bikes (or a hike).
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the butterfly garden, where kids can observe these colorful creatures up close.
#5 - Flamingo Gardens
Botanical gardens with a wildlife sanctuary.
3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330
Scenery: 5/5 – Vibrant gardens and unique wildlife habitats.
Stroller-Friendly: Yes – Paved paths make it easy to navigate.
Dog-Friendly: No – Pets are not allowed.
Playground: No.
Fun Activities: Wildlife encounters, tram tours, and seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid ($21.95/adult, $15.95/child).
Highlight: Feeding the flamingos. Also, the crows talk, say Hi for a bit and wait.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the butterfly garden, where kids can observe these colorful creatures up close.
Seasonal Outdoor Festivals & Events
FTL is home to a variety of outdoor festivals that families will love:
- South Florida Garlic Fest (January): Celebrate all things garlic with food and family-friendly entertainment.
- Flamingo Gardens Orchid & Garden Festival (February): Explore stunning orchids and gardening exhibits.
- Las Olas Wine & Food Festival (March): A family-friendly take on food and drink, with tastings and live music.
- Tortuga Music Festival (April): Enjoy live music on the beach with activities for all ages.
- Great American Beach Party (May): Sandcastle contests, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- 4th of July Spectacular (July): Fireworks, live music, and kid-friendly entertainment.
- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Cool Saturdays: (August): discounted admission, enjoying its lush gardens and art collections.
- Riverside Oktoberfest (October): Celebrate German traditions with games and festive treats.
- Flamingo Gardens Harvest Festival (November): Hayrides, pumpkin patches, and seasonal fun.
- Winterfest Boat Parade (December): A holiday tradition showcasing decorated boats along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Insider Tip: Check event websites for family-friendly activities and plan ahead to avoid crowds.