Fort Lauderdale Beach Walking Tour (Self Guided), Fort Lauderdale
For decades, Fort Lauderdale Beach has been known primarily as a destination for raucous college students to celebrate Spring Break. Today, although a bit calmer and less chaotic than before, this neighborhood still boasts a wealth of opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and enjoyment.
One of the notable local attractions is the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. This historic estate showcases the artistry of Frederic Clay Bartlett and offers a glimpse into the region's history. The lush gardens, art exhibitions, and intriguing history of the Bonnet House make it a captivating stop for those seeking both beauty and culture.
If you're in the mood for some nightlife, Elbo Room is a legendary beachfront bar known for its lively atmosphere and oceanfront views. It's a popular spot to enjoy a drink and soak in the beach vibes as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
For sports enthusiasts and history buffs, the International Swimming Hall of Fame is a fascinating visit. It pays tribute to the world's greatest swimmers and divers, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the sport. An inspiring place to learn about aquatic legends!
Bahia Mar Marinas – “the Yachting Capital of the World” – is another gem in Fort Lauderdale Beach, offering access to boating and water activities. Whether you're looking to set sail, go fishing, or simply enjoy the marina's scenic views, it's a great place to explore the maritime side of the area.
Lastly, the Willard Van Orsdel King House, with its charming architecture, adds to the historical richness of Fort Lauderdale Beach. This beautifully preserved house provides a glimpse into the architectural heritage of the region.
In Fort Lauderdale Beach, you are sure to find much more than just miles of pristine white sugary sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Embarking on this self-guided adventure to Fort Lauderdale Beach, don't forget to grab your camera along with your sunscreen. You may need both, basking in the sun, exploring the rich heritage, and creating lasting memories by the sea!
One of the notable local attractions is the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. This historic estate showcases the artistry of Frederic Clay Bartlett and offers a glimpse into the region's history. The lush gardens, art exhibitions, and intriguing history of the Bonnet House make it a captivating stop for those seeking both beauty and culture.
If you're in the mood for some nightlife, Elbo Room is a legendary beachfront bar known for its lively atmosphere and oceanfront views. It's a popular spot to enjoy a drink and soak in the beach vibes as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
For sports enthusiasts and history buffs, the International Swimming Hall of Fame is a fascinating visit. It pays tribute to the world's greatest swimmers and divers, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the sport. An inspiring place to learn about aquatic legends!
Bahia Mar Marinas – “the Yachting Capital of the World” – is another gem in Fort Lauderdale Beach, offering access to boating and water activities. Whether you're looking to set sail, go fishing, or simply enjoy the marina's scenic views, it's a great place to explore the maritime side of the area.
Lastly, the Willard Van Orsdel King House, with its charming architecture, adds to the historical richness of Fort Lauderdale Beach. This beautifully preserved house provides a glimpse into the architectural heritage of the region.
In Fort Lauderdale Beach, you are sure to find much more than just miles of pristine white sugary sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Embarking on this self-guided adventure to Fort Lauderdale Beach, don't forget to grab your camera along with your sunscreen. You may need both, basking in the sun, exploring the rich heritage, and creating lasting memories by the sea!
How it works: Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Fort Lauderdale Beach Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Fort Lauderdale Beach Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Fort Lauderdale (See other walking tours in Fort Lauderdale)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 5
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.9 Km or 3 Miles
Author: christine
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Fort Lauderdale (See other walking tours in Fort Lauderdale)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 5
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.9 Km or 3 Miles
Author: christine
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
- Elbo Room
- International Swimming Hall of Fame
- Bahia Mar Marinas
- Willard Van Orsdel King House
1) Bonnet House Museum and Gardens (must see)
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic house museum. It consists of the main house, an art studio, a music studio and a guest house. The gardens include native plants, forest, an orchid house and beachfront access to the Atlantic Ocean. A particular plant that can be found on the grounds is the bonnet lily, from which the house gardens gained their name.
The property was originally purchased in 1895 by attorney Hugh Taylor Birch. In 1919, Birch gifted the land to his daughter Helen and her new husband. Helen married Frederic Clay Bartlett, an artist who is known for his vast art collection. The plantation home was built in 1920 as a winter residence for the couple off a design created by Bartlett himself. He used vernacular architecture in his design with materials and inspiration having been gained from the local environment.
Sadly, Helen died soon after the buildings were completed. Bartlett then married Evelyn Fortune Lilly who helped to make the estate what it is today. Among her contributions to the land was wildlife. She brought approximately 40 monkeys to live onsite in the tropical forests. She also refurbished the home with many of the decorative elements and art that are still found on the grounds. It was Evelyn who gave the estate to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens appears on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take self-guided tours Tuesday through Sunday. The house and gardens are located on a coastal island south of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
Why You Should Visit:
- To see five distinct ecosystems in one location
- To enjoy the art studio that was once used by Frederic Clay Bartlett
Tips:
Admission to Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is $20 for adults and $16 for children ages six to 12. Visitors are welcome to picnic onsite with a paid admission.
The property was originally purchased in 1895 by attorney Hugh Taylor Birch. In 1919, Birch gifted the land to his daughter Helen and her new husband. Helen married Frederic Clay Bartlett, an artist who is known for his vast art collection. The plantation home was built in 1920 as a winter residence for the couple off a design created by Bartlett himself. He used vernacular architecture in his design with materials and inspiration having been gained from the local environment.
Sadly, Helen died soon after the buildings were completed. Bartlett then married Evelyn Fortune Lilly who helped to make the estate what it is today. Among her contributions to the land was wildlife. She brought approximately 40 monkeys to live onsite in the tropical forests. She also refurbished the home with many of the decorative elements and art that are still found on the grounds. It was Evelyn who gave the estate to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens appears on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take self-guided tours Tuesday through Sunday. The house and gardens are located on a coastal island south of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
Why You Should Visit:
- To see five distinct ecosystems in one location
- To enjoy the art studio that was once used by Frederic Clay Bartlett
Tips:
Admission to Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is $20 for adults and $16 for children ages six to 12. Visitors are welcome to picnic onsite with a paid admission.
2) Elbo Room
Sitting on the corner of Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale strip since 1938, the Elbo Room is a legendary dive and live music bar, much loved by students as a Spring Break destination. The place also gained popularity around the country for numerous movie appearances, including the award-winning 1960 film “Where The Boys Are”, starring Connie Frances and George Hamilton, which made it a true landmark.
College students from all over the U.S. came flocking to Fort Lauderdale and this place in particular during Spring Break to bask in the sun and meet the partner of their dreams. This phenomenon continued through the 1980s, when a change in local laws made the it somewhat less Spring Break friendly. The living memory of this iconic spot is now represented by displays of customer photos from the past years.
As a mainstay in Fort Lauderdale for more than half a century, the Elbo Room is as much historical as it is old. Naturally for a beach bar, it has personality which changes with the eclectic clientele and the bands playing. The latter are mostly really good, and are richly complemented by the great ocean view, cold beer and strong cocktails.
There is always something for everyone, and if you like loud music, legendary bars and history, you will love the Elbo Room, no doubt. It's just the matter of catching it at the right time. No trip to Fort Lauderdale Beach is complete without a visit to Elbo Room!
College students from all over the U.S. came flocking to Fort Lauderdale and this place in particular during Spring Break to bask in the sun and meet the partner of their dreams. This phenomenon continued through the 1980s, when a change in local laws made the it somewhat less Spring Break friendly. The living memory of this iconic spot is now represented by displays of customer photos from the past years.
As a mainstay in Fort Lauderdale for more than half a century, the Elbo Room is as much historical as it is old. Naturally for a beach bar, it has personality which changes with the eclectic clientele and the bands playing. The latter are mostly really good, and are richly complemented by the great ocean view, cold beer and strong cocktails.
There is always something for everyone, and if you like loud music, legendary bars and history, you will love the Elbo Room, no doubt. It's just the matter of catching it at the right time. No trip to Fort Lauderdale Beach is complete without a visit to Elbo Room!
3) International Swimming Hall of Fame (must see)
The International Swimming Hall of Fame is dedicated to the history of swimming. The building has a location on the Harbour Isles that looks over New River Sound.
Visitors to the International Swimming Hall of Fame will find a 7,500 square foot building filled with swimming memorabilia. Included are Olympic medals swimsuits, photography and swim-related art from such notable artists as Norman Rockwell and LeRoy Neiman.
The museum offers a screening room where visitors can learn about water safety or watch such classics as "Million Dollar Mermaid" or "Tarzan the Ape Man." It also includes a tribute to Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy who were champion swimmers in their younger years.
Those inspired by the International Swimming Hall of Fame may take interest in the pools. The International Swimming Hall of Fame Complex includes two 50 meter pools, a diving well and a training pool.
The International Swimming Hall of Fame was established in 1962. Originally, it was merely a shrine that accompanied an Olympic sized pool.
Visitors to the International Swimming Hall of Fame will find a 7,500 square foot building filled with swimming memorabilia. Included are Olympic medals swimsuits, photography and swim-related art from such notable artists as Norman Rockwell and LeRoy Neiman.
The museum offers a screening room where visitors can learn about water safety or watch such classics as "Million Dollar Mermaid" or "Tarzan the Ape Man." It also includes a tribute to Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy who were champion swimmers in their younger years.
Those inspired by the International Swimming Hall of Fame may take interest in the pools. The International Swimming Hall of Fame Complex includes two 50 meter pools, a diving well and a training pool.
The International Swimming Hall of Fame was established in 1962. Originally, it was merely a shrine that accompanied an Olympic sized pool.
4) Bahia Mar Marinas
Bahia Mar Yachting Center is located on the Harbour Isles of Fort Lauderdale. Bahia Mar is a prime location for watching boats, but it is also much more. This full service resort area has virtually anything a visitor in Fort Lauderdale could want for fun and relaxation.
Visitors can hop on a riverboat for views that can only be seen on water. Cruises may offer all-you-can-eat buffets, provide live entertainment or tour the nearby luxurious homes.
Visitors can also rent boats so they can experience the beauty of the water. Deck boats for small families through large groups are offered.
Most vacationers will simply enjoy walking through the marina and admiring the beauty of the boats. They can also go shopping at one of the unique boutiques, take part in some deep sea fishing or go on a pirate adventure. Nearby Fort Lauderdale Beach Park offers a great way to end the day.
Visitors can hop on a riverboat for views that can only be seen on water. Cruises may offer all-you-can-eat buffets, provide live entertainment or tour the nearby luxurious homes.
Visitors can also rent boats so they can experience the beauty of the water. Deck boats for small families through large groups are offered.
Most vacationers will simply enjoy walking through the marina and admiring the beauty of the boats. They can also go shopping at one of the unique boutiques, take part in some deep sea fishing or go on a pirate adventure. Nearby Fort Lauderdale Beach Park offers a great way to end the day.
5) Willard Van Orsdel King House
The Dr. Willard Van Orsdel King House, situated in Fort Lauderdale, stands as a significant historical residence. Erected in 1951, it epitomizes the architectural style of the Mid-century modern movement. The residence, featuring three bedrooms, was meticulously designed by William F. Bigoney to ensure a luminous yet refreshing ambiance amidst the subtropical climate. Notably, its focal point is a spacious central area adorned with expansive windows on two sides, reflecting the architectural ethos of the era. The construction of this house coincided with the onset of a post-war development surge in Fort Lauderdale.
This house represents one of the remaining legacies of William Francis Bigoney Jr. (1921-1996), a pioneering architect in Fort Lauderdale. Trained under the tutelage of Walter Gropius, the renowned architect and founder of the Bauhaus design school, Bigoney emerged as one of the city's prominent modernist architects. Not only did he contribute significantly to the architectural landscape, but he also played a pivotal role in civic affairs, notably in spearheading the Riverwalk project. In recognition of his contributions, the city bestowed upon him the title of "Honored Founder" in 2000.
Dr. King, the owner of the residence, garnered international acclaim as an Entomologist, specializing in mosquito control. Having obtained his Doctorate from Tulane University in 1915, Dr. King is celebrated for pioneering aerial spraying techniques to combat mosquito-borne diseases. His leadership at the Orlando Lab and his significant contributions earned him the Legion of Merit for distinguished service.
The historical significance of the Dr. Willard Van Orsdel King House was formally recognized when it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
This house represents one of the remaining legacies of William Francis Bigoney Jr. (1921-1996), a pioneering architect in Fort Lauderdale. Trained under the tutelage of Walter Gropius, the renowned architect and founder of the Bauhaus design school, Bigoney emerged as one of the city's prominent modernist architects. Not only did he contribute significantly to the architectural landscape, but he also played a pivotal role in civic affairs, notably in spearheading the Riverwalk project. In recognition of his contributions, the city bestowed upon him the title of "Honored Founder" in 2000.
Dr. King, the owner of the residence, garnered international acclaim as an Entomologist, specializing in mosquito control. Having obtained his Doctorate from Tulane University in 1915, Dr. King is celebrated for pioneering aerial spraying techniques to combat mosquito-borne diseases. His leadership at the Orlando Lab and his significant contributions earned him the Legion of Merit for distinguished service.
The historical significance of the Dr. Willard Van Orsdel King House was formally recognized when it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
Walking Tours in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Fort Lauderdale was originally inhabited by the Tequesta. Like many other native people, they faced disease and expulsion when European explorers made their way to the Florida shores.
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
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