Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale

The Basics

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.

Things to Know Before You Go

• 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.

How to Get There

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.

When to Get There

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.

Events at the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk

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.

When is the best time to visit the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale?

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.

Are there guided tours of the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale?

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.

Where is public parking near the Riverwalk 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.

Is there a water taxi station at the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale?

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.

What events are held on the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale?

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.

Are there restaurants and cafes along the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale?

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.

Ways to explore

There are plenty of ways to explore Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, from walking and Segway tours to scenic sightseeing cruises. Boat trips reveal views of the Riverwalk and Millionaire’s Row—an impressive stretch of luxury homes and mega-yachts between Tarpon Bend and the Intracoastal Waterway. Other yacht tours incorporate views of the Riverwalk with stops at a sandbar. For independent travelers, it’s also possible to explore the area on a self-guided tour using a smartphone app—a fun way to learn about local history and check off key city landmarks.

Accessibility

The promenades are paved and wheelchair accessible, and there are accessible restrooms.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, refillable water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Flat, comfortable shoes and light layers

Not allowed

Taking cuttings from plants, littering, disruptive behavior

Amenities

Public restrooms, cafés, restaurants, picnic areas

Address 

From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, take US-1 North toward downtown and follow signs for Las Olas Boulevard, which leads directly to Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale. Parking garages and metered street parking are available but fill quickly on weekends.

Public transportation

If traveling by bus, take bus #11, which stops at multiple locations along Las Olas Boulevard. You can also take the LauderGo! Water Trolley service to stops along Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, including Riverwalk Laura Ward Park.

Best times to visit

Mornings offer cooler temperatures and quieter paths, whereas sunset is a photogenic time to visit.

Best days to visit

Mondays through Thursdays are generally quieter than the busy weekends, which draw in the crowds.

Best months to visit

Fort Lauderdale weather is usually best between December and April. Summer months are hotter and attract bigger crowds.

Special events

The Annual Riverwalk Stone Crab & Seafood Festival is typically in January, and the Annual Riverwalk Tacos & Tequila Festival is in July.