Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

The Riverwalk area, frequently described as the "Venice of America" by locals and visitors, consists of a park, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a movie theater, making it a popular destination for strolling, eating, and catching some outdoor entertainment. The complex also includes big attractions such as the Stranahan House, the Broward Center for Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Florida Grand Opera, and Esplanade Park.

There are several ways to explore the Riverwalk, including walking tours, Segway tours, or sightseeing cruises with operators such as Jungle Queen Riverboat. Those boat rides will cover the Riverwalk, as well as glimpses of Millionaire's Row, a stretch of luxe houses and their attendant mega yachts that runs from Tarpon Bend to the Intracoastal Waterway.

• Public restrooms are stationed at regular intervals along the Riverwalk.

• In addition to a variety of local restaurants, there are also several picnic areas for those who want to pack a meal.

• The Riverwalk is ADA accessible.

• Parking is available on SW 4th Street by the pavilion.

• Dogs are allowed on the Riverwalk, but they must be leashed.

Two main streets run through the Riverwalk district: Las Olas Boulevard and Himmarshee Street. Bus numbers 11, 30, and 40 stop in the area. There is no dedicated parking lot, but there is parking available up and down the streets connecting to the Riverwalk.

The Riverwalk is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round. Paths are lighted, which can make for a delightful evening stroll—especially in summer and fall, when the weather tends to be uncomfortably hot and humid during the day. The most popular time to visit Fort Lauderdale is between December and April, when temperatures are between the mid-50s and mid-80s.

The Riverwalk has a packed calendar year round, including yoga classes, musical performances, sports competitions, and popular annual events such as the Riverwalk Fall Festival, the 80s Dance Party, or the Smoke on the Water Barbecue Competition.

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, also known as the Las Olas Riverwalk, is one of the most popular attractions in the city. South Florida’s year-round warm temperatures make a visit enjoyable no matter the season. Restaurants and shops stay open year-round, too, though many food festivals and events take place during the spring.

Yes and no, there are audio self-guided tours of the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, as well as tour companies that provide city tours which include the Riverwalk. One of the best ways to see the Riverwalk and learn about its history is through a guided boat tour around Fort Lauderdale.

There are multiple public parking lots on both the north and south sides of the New River, though most are paid parking lots or garages. Public parking is available near Bubier Park, the New River Center, Riverside Hotel, Riverwalk South, Esplanade Park, Florida Atlantic University’s campus, and Smoker Family Park.

Yes, there are multiple water taxi stations near the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale. Riverwalk Water Trolley Stop #8 is at Esplanade Park. Water Taxi Stop #1 is beside the New River Tunnel and SALT7. Water Taxi Stop #2 is close to the Riverwalk at East Las Olas Boulevard and SE 9th Ave.

Annual events take place on the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale at Riverwalk Park. On the first Sunday of each month, a Sunday Jazz Brunch Concert takes place. Annual events like the Riverwalk Chili Cook Off, Las Olas Wine and Food Festival, and Riverwalk International Food Festival also line its yearly calendar.

There are multiple cafes, bars, and restaurants along and near the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale. SALT7 and Marti’s New River Bistro anchor the northern sides of the Riverwalk. Eateries in between include The House on the River, Matchbox, and Rivertail. Masa & More and The Historic Downtowner are on the south side.