Our favorite free things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Try these free things to do in Fort Lauderdale for a summer to remember

If you’re learning to fly at our Florida flight school, you might want to check out these free things to do in Fort Lauderdale. Each one promises maximum fun for minimal money, meaning you can enjoy a summer without the price tag!

Sunday Jazz Brunch (first Sunday of each month; 11am-2pm)

Start your day with a swing as you head down to the beautiful Riverwalk and listen to the sweet sounds of the Sunday Jazz Brunch! With three different stages, you can guarantee to hear some of the best local jazz aficionados Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Pack a picnic brunch, bring a blanket or chair, and settle in for fantastic entertainment – without spending a dime.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

A 25-minute drive from our flight school, the haven that is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park will make you feel a million miles away from the rest of the world. Gifted to the city by Hugh Taylor Birch, this tropical paradise offers a sanctuary for local plants and wildlife. Even better, you can see them all as you walk the two short trails which run through the park. And for those of you who are prepared to spend a small amount, rent a canoe and paddle along the lagoon.

Starlight Musicals (Friday nights between June and August; 7-10pm) 

If it’s your first summer in the city, you may not know about the Starlight Musicals – but they’re one of the best free things to do in Fort Lauderdale! Every year, this free and family-friendly concert series takes place in Holiday Park. Again, you’ll simply need your lawn chairs and a cooler to enjoy live music for your pleasure! Last year’s acts included Jaded (an Aerosmith tribute band), Southern rock band Fabulous Fleetwoods, Latin beats from RD Project, and Beatles tribute Across the Universe. So whatever your musical tastes, there’s sure to be something for you this year!

Secret Woods Nature Center

Having opened back in 1978, Secret Woods Nature Center has long been a firm favorite when it comes to free things to do in Fort Lauderdale. Walk the Laurel Oak Trail through towering trees, crossing bridges over a tidal marsh, and giving you the chance to spot birds, lizards, and insects. Visit Butterfly Island, designed to attract some of Florida’s most beautiful butterflies. Or take a long walk on the New River Trail, which guides you through three different ecosystems on its 3.2km route.

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park 

Previously known as John Lloyd Park, this fabulous beachside state park is the perfect place to relax on white sands, spot local wildlife, or try a range of activities – including canoeing, surf fishing, and, of course, swimming. You could even charter a boat if you want to indulge yourself, or simply relax with your favorite book, a picnic, and wait to watch the sunset in this beautiful place.

Mermaid Shows at the Wreck Bar 

If you’ve not made it to the Wreck Bar at the B Ocean hotel yet, you’re in for a surprise! Here, real mermaids entertain guests with their underwater mermaid show every weekend! Although, it’s not just about these fantastical fish-people; be sure to enjoy some of the Wreck Bar’s fabulous food and drink while you’re amused by the underwater antics. Or, if you feel like spending more, go all out with a Dinner Show, Aqua Burlesque Show, or the Mermaids & Mimosas Sunday Brunch Buffet.

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