The "Venice of America", Fort Lauderdale sits by the ocean, is hugged by a river , and enervated by numerous canals and waterways that straight-arrow their way through its body. In addition to tourism, diverse businesses came to the area creating a healthy economy. With 23 miles of sandy beaches and over 3000 hours of sunshine each year, tourism is still what it's famous for and, for being a party place.
Glass-faced buildings announced by colorfully illuminated fountains, hundreds of shops and over 3500 restaurants make up the city of Fort Lauderdale. America's Venice pulsates with activity day and night. Music fills the air as diners savor their suppers at outdoor cafes. Joggers trot along the Riverwalk as water taxis bus passengers to town and a bevy of shoppers dicker at the largest flea market in south Florida. At the beach, parties roll out a blanket of fun - the most popular attraction in town.
In addition to museums and historical sights, Fort Lauderdale offers a splash of activities that are exciting and unforgettable. Snorkeling is a popular sport here, usually to examine man-made reefs off shore. Deep sea fishing and diving can be added to the list. With over 200 types of freshwater fish in the lakes, fishing here is great. The fact that there are more than 300 miles of waterways in town makes boating a blast. Non-water sports include golf, bicycling, rollerblading, and bowling. Watching pro baseball is also hot here, especially since Fort Lauderdale is spring home to the Baltimore Orioles and home to the Florida Marlins.
Fort Lauderdale is off I-95 North, about 23 miles outside of Miami.
Hollywood, Florida offers quaint, small-town shops and boutiques in a European-style setting that is more relaxed than either Miami or Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beachfront, delicious cuisine, and a wealth of diversity, this pixie of a town is well worth a visit. Activities are plentiful and adventuresome including diving, snorkeling, parasailing, surfing, kayaking, air boating, fishing, biking and hiking.
Hollywood is on I-95 between Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
