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Richmond is one of the most historically significant cities in the United States, but it is also home to a thriving food, music, and arts scene. Whether you’re visiting for work or pleasure, you’ll find plenty of things to do while you’re in Virginia’s capital. History buffs, artists, and foodies all agree Richmond (or RVA, as it’s commonly called) is a special place.

Find out when you should visit, how much you can expect to spend each day on food and lodging, and start planning fun things to do while you’re in RVA. The following list of top 10 fun things to do in Richmond, VA, will get your started planning your trip.

Best Times to Go to Richmond, VA

Richmond is at its most pleasant in spring and fall. Not only is the weather consistently warm during these months, but you’ll also be more likely to hear outdoor music and find food trucks parked throughout the city.

If you’re researching how to save money for a trip, the good news is that the best times to visit Richmond don’t coincide with peak tourist dates, which are typically during the summer months, when many festivals occur, such as the Iron Blossom Festival (music) and Smoke and Vine Festival (wine and cigars).

Bad Times to Go to Richmond, VA

In July and August, temperatures are routinely in the 90s, if not higher. With humidity on top of the heat, it can be a difficult place to enjoy in the height of summer.

Compared to other areas in the U.S., Richmond has pretty mild winters, but January and December can be both cold and damp. While it doesn’t snow too often in Virginia’s capital, early winter may not be the best time to visit, either.

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Average Cost of a Richmond, VA, Vacation

Budget Your Trip estimates that the average daily cost for a hotel in Richmond is $161 a night, though you might find ways to save money on hotels and get a lower rate. Visitors should expect to spend around $17 per person per meal.

In total, this means visitors should expect to spend the following amounts if visiting Richmond for a week:

•  $357 on food for one person

•  $714 on food for two people

•  $1,128 per person for one week

•  $2,256 for a couple for one week

However, these are just averages. You may be able to save even more by finding travel deals.

In addition, you will need to budget for your travel to and from Richmond. That might mean filling up your car’s gas tank, or it could mean finding cheap flights.

Lastly, you may want to budget for travel insurance. Credit card travel insurance may be available, or you might want to buy a separate policy as a bit of security if anything were to go awry.

10 Fun Things You Must Do in Richmond, VA

How, for the top 10 fun things to do in Richmond, VA: This list was culled from savvy travelers, RVA residents, and top-rated attractions on online review sites.

1. Take a Walk in the Park

Looking for free things to do in Richmond, VA? Put Maymont on your list. As New York has Central Park, Richmond has Maymont. This 100-acre park is part zoo, part garden, part meandering trails, but is 100% the heart of Richmond. It’s easy to spend a few hours or even all day there.

Traveling with pets? Sorry: With bears, foxes, goats, and other animal inhabitants in the park, you can’t take your dog.

Try visiting the Italian garden in the spring or the Japanese garden in the fall (you’ll take more than a few pictures of the Japanese maples). If you’re lucky, the waterfall will be flowing while you’re visiting. If so, bring a book and soak up the views. The grounds are open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, with a $5 suggested admission. maymont.org/

2. See an 18th-Century Church

In the heart of what is known as Church Hill is St. John’s Church. Built in 1741, it’s an established historic landmark and is famous for being the place Patrick Henry proclaimed, “Give me liberty or give me death!” Time your visit right, and you may get to see a reenactment of that very speech. Tickets (approximately $15 each) to sit and watch the reenactments are available online in advance.

Once done, we recommend walking around Church Hill. Many of the buildings were built in the early 19th century and are on Virginia’s historic register. There are several restaurants and cafes in the area, and walkable Libby Park gives an excellent view of the James River and the city below. historicstjohnschurch.org/

3. Shop and Sip at Carytown

One of the best things to do in Richmond, VA, is visit Carytown. This neighborhood is known for its eccentric shops and restaurants, and it has something for practically anyone along its mile-long stretch. Window-shop, get a coffee, maybe buy a new book. Then end your day with a classic movie at the Byrd Theater, where on select days throughout the week, an organ player starts the show with select tunes from the olden days.

Carytown is just up the street from Maymont if you want a little bit of culture and nature on the same day. It’s also very close to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which is up next on this list of cool things to do in Richmond, VA. carytownrva.com/

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4. Immerse Yourself in Art

One of the top travel hacks is to find free places to visit when you’re traveling. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is one of the coolest free things you can do while you’re in Richmond.

Which has another benefit: It can be a way that families can afford to travel and soak up some culture.

The VMFA is a world class museum, and has around 50,000 art pieces from around the world. It’s open 365 days a year from 10 am to 5 pm, and has both a cafe and fine dining on premises. Recently the VMFA acquired a sculpture from world-renowned artist Kehinde Wiley titled “Rumors of War.” Be sure to check it out if you visit! vmfa.museum/

5. Explore Some Science

Looking for family-oriented things to do in Richmond, VA? Include a visit to the Science Museum of Virginia. This destination is fun for both kids and adults as each of its exhibits manages to make the natural world seem utterly magical and surreal.

If you have the time, we suggest seeing a movie in The Dome at the museum, which is the largest theater in VA. Also noteworthy is the building itself. Built in 1919 as Richmond’s premier train station, it is a prime example of neoclassical architecture. The films shown explore the natural world, making your visit more immersive.

Admission to the museum, which is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm daily, is $17 for ages 13-59; a ticket to a feature at the Dome adds $5. smv.org

6. Stroll Through a Great Garden

Searching for fun things to do in Richmond VA for couples? Put the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden at the top of your list. While technically in Henrico County, Lewis Ginter is just a stone’s throw away from the city line.

Established on 50 acres, Lewis Ginter is home to over a dozen unique gardens you can easily spend all day appreciating. If you have children, there is a large, multi-level treehouse on the grounds with a tower that overlooks the park’s central lake. There’s also a conservatory, cafe (where you can earn credit card rewards when charging a snack or meal), garden shop, and library on the property. Admission is $17 for adults; the garden is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with some extended evening hours in the summer and fall. lewisginter.org/

7. Discover Hollywood Cemetery

One of the most unique things to do in Richmond, VA, is visit Hollywood Cemetery. You may not think a cemetery would be worth visiting, but in this case you’d be mistaken. It’s located on over 135 beautifully landscaped acres, with stunning views of the James River and surrounding rolling hills.

This nationally recognized cemetery is the final resting place of many historic figures, such as two U.S. presidents, James Monroe and John Tyler. Even if you’re not a history buff, the architecture of the mausoleums alone is worth a couple hours of your time. hollywoodcemetery.org/

8. Raft or Kayak the James River

Any list of top things to do in Richmond, VA, should include the James River. To be more specific — kayaking or rafting the James.

Throughout the entire United States, Richmond is the only city where you can kayak through a class IV rapids and still be downtown. However, if boating isn’t your thing, you can contact companies like H20 Adventures or James River Reeling and Rafting to help guide you through an amazing afternoon you won’t soon forget.

9. Tour the Capitol Building

The Virginia State Capitol was designed by Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. While Jefferson is famous for other architectural achievements, the Virginia State Capitol is considered one of his best designs. Check the website about opportunities to visit this amazing building. virginiageneralassembly.gov/

10. Eat Well

Richmond has a vibrant food and drink scene, with many excellent restaurants. L’Opossum has some of the best reviews you’ll ever read. It’s been ranked #1 out of Richmond’s 877 restaurants on many review sites. To eat at this French-American fusion, you’ll need to make a reservation well in advance. Other options: Rappahannock Restaurant for oysters, and Perly’s for updated deli delights in a vintage setting.

The Takeaway

Richmond, VA, has a little bit of everything for everyone. Historically, there are many places throughout the city that have been pivotal to major events and national dialogues. Artistically, there’s just as much to admire and appreciate. Whether it’s the food, nature, art, or shopping, Richmond can be an exciting destination to explore.

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FAQ

Is Richmond a walkable city?

Yes, Richmond is very much a walkable city. Not only are there sidewalks throughout the entire city, but you can easily go from city sidewalks to nature trails along the James River. Both drivers and cyclists know to be on the lookout for pedestrians, no matter what time of day it is.

Is Richmond a friendly city?

Overall, visitors from anywhere in the country should be able to find a common ground with Richmonders. It’s an eclectic city and also home to Virginia Commonwealth University, meaning it has a good mix of people.

What part of Richmond should I stay in?

Visitors should consider staying in the downtown area. Downtown Richmond not only has some of the best views of the city and the James River, but it also has a bustling nightlife. With restaurants, bars, and theaters, you may not even need an Uber to get to where you want to go. The Jefferson and the Quirk Hotel both have top-notch restaurants and bars.

Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

Pastel houses. Six-toed cats. Hemingway. Key West is known for many things, but above all, it’s known for being a place to unwind and relax. Still, in between sipping cocktails on the beach and taking naps, there are plenty of fun things to do in Key West, Florida!

Read on to discover the best times to go and top 10 must-see destinations.

Best Times to Go to Key West

Compared to other parts of the country, Key West is temperate year-round. The best time to visit is from November to April when it’s still warm but you’re less likely to encounter a tropical downpour.

Here are some of the annual events in the Keys:

•  January: Key West Kingfish Mayhem

•  February: Old Island Days Art Festival

•  March: Key West NOW Women’s Film Fest

•  April: Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration

•  June: Key West Pride

•  July: Hemingway 5k Sunset Run & Paddleboard Race

•  October: Key West Fantasy Fest

By the way, if you’ve never tried traveling solo before, Key West is a great place to do it.

Bad Times to Go to Key West

If you’re thinking about summer travel to Key West, keep in mind that it can get up to the 90s and be quite humid, which may put a damper on your plans. June through October is the wet season, so you’re more likely to get rained out. Many of the best things to do in Key West are outdoors, so plan with the weather in mind.

Average Cost of a Key West Vacation

How much should you set aside for your Key West trip? For a couple planning to stay for a week, the average cost is $4,400. This will, of course, depend on how much you spend on renting a car, accommodations, and dining, as well as activities.

If you choose to stay in a hotel, you’ll spend anywhere from $101 to $460 a night, while a vacation rental will run you $390 to $1,300 per night.

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10 Fun Must-Dos in Key West

Here are the top things to do in Key West, based on popular opinion.

1. Snorkeling

The warm, clear waters of the Atlantic make it ideal for snorkel enthusiasts. Explore the reef near Sand Key Lighthouse and you might see snapper, sea turtles, or nurse sharks. Or take a boat and snorkel at the site of a shipwreck.

Sunset Watersports is one of the many companies offering snorkel tours. You can choose the Rise & Reef Morning Snorkel, Dip & Sip Afternoon Snorkel, Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Tour, or Sunset Snorkel, depending on your interests. SunsetWatersportsKeyWest.com/snorkeling/

2. Key West Aquarium

If you’re a land-lubber who’s not into snorkeling, you can still get to know the ocean’s inhabitants at the Key West Aquarium. Caress conchs and sea stars in the Touch Tank, feed docile nurse sharks, or take the Sea Turtles Conservation tour. Tickets start at $21.44. KeyWestAquarium.com/

3. Duval Street

By day, Duval Street is a great place to shop and explore attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. At night, it’s a hotspot for drinks and dinner. Craving cocktails? Consider the Duval Pub Crawl, which stops for drinks at places like Sloppy Joe’s and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville — or crawl on your own. There’s also Key West Pub Crawls, which offers a Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl & Ghost Tour. KeyWestWalkingTours.com

4. Hemingway Home

Ernest Hemingway fell in love with Key West in the 1920s, and this museum is in the home where he lived for many years. During your visit, you can meet some of the famous six-toed cats that are the descendants of the cat Hemingway received from a ship’s captain. Explore the gorgeous gardens, take a tour to learn more about Hemingway’s life in Key West, or buy a memento in the shop. 9am-5pm daily. General admission $18 (cash only). HemingwayHome.com

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5. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Inside this glass-domed tropical butterfly habitat, you’ll discover more than 50 species of butterflies from around the world, as well as a variety of tropical birds. The attraction makes for a popular stop for mother-daughter getaways. 9am-5pm daily. General admission $13.98. KeyWestButterfly.com

6. Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Every night is a party with Sunset Celebration. See performers, shop for arts and crafts, sit for a psychic reading, and enjoy great street food every night, starting two hours before sunset. The best part? It’s totally free. SunsetCelebration.org

7. Conch Houses

The pastel wooden houses throughout Key West are known as “conch houses,” and you’ll see the iconic homes represented in local art and souvenirs. Built as far back as the late 1800s, the homes were constructed on posts to allow air to circulate underneath. Most have a porch across the front of the home. Explore neighborhoods on your own, or take the Conch Tour Train to learn some of Key West’s history. ConchTourTrain.com/

8. Key West Cuisine

Key West boasts several unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Start your day with cafe con leche and a pan Cubano at Cuban Coffee Queen. When lunchtime hits, try conch, a local sea snail, in a conch fritter or cracked at the Conch Shack. Later, when you’re ready for something sweet, head for Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, where you can try the traditional key lime pie or something different like strawberry key lime pie or a pie bar. For dinner, enjoy spiny lobster (when in season) or the Caribbean “BBQ” Shrimp while listening to live music. Then roll yourself back to your hotel.

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9. Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum

This iconic lighthouse was built in 1848 and — heavens to Betsy! — run by a woman. It was decommissioned in 1969 and is now open to the public. Climb the 88 steps to view memorabilia from the keepers of the lighthouse, and discover how the lighthouse survived hurricanes and the Civil War. 10am-5pm daily. $17 adults (you can save a little by booking online). Kwahs.org/museums/lighthouse-keepers-quarters/visit

10. Beaches

Once you’ve sampled the local culture, it’s time to do what you came to Key West for: Grab your towel and head to one of many pristine beaches. Depending on how far you want to wander from your hotel, you can set up camp for the day at Smathers Beach, Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach, or the aptly named Rest Beach. You can also drive to one of the other Keys to explore Sugarloaf Beach, Long Beach, or Sandspur Beach. All beaches are free to locals and tourists, making beach time a great option for frugal travelers.

The Takeaway

In Key West, engaging activities, vivid history, exciting nightlife, and delicious food await you. You can choose your own adventure, whether that’s lounging and recharging on the beach or getting out and learning about the history of Key West.

SoFi Travel is a new service offered exclusively to SoFi members. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. Then apply those rewards to your next trip when you book through our travel portal. SoFi makes planning a getaway fast, easy, and convenient — perfect for people on the move.

FAQ

How long should I spend in Key West?

Plan for a minimum of three days in Key West. If you have more time, you can stretch out your relaxation and activities.

Where can I see six-toed cats in Key West?

The Hemingway Home and Museum is home to more than 60 of the six-toed cats who are descendants from the cat Hemingway was given by a ship captain.

What should I eat in Key West?

Key West has eclectic dishes you won’t find elsewhere, like pink shrimp, conch, and Key lime pie.

Photo credit: iStock/NAPA74

U.S. citizens take for granted that they can travel for thousands of miles without leaving the country — or needing travel documents. But if you have your sights set on international travel, you will need a passport in most cases.

There are a few countries where you may not need a passport. Keep in mind that requirements for travel can change rapidly, so check with the U.S. Department of State for the most up-to-date information before you hop a flight or set sail.

How Passports Work

A passport is a legal identity document issued by a specific country. A passport is used to verify a traveler’s citizenship. In the U.S., most passports are valid for ten years before they need to be renewed.

Countries Where You Don’t Need a Passport

Here are a few countries where you won’t need a passport if you are a citizen of the U.S.:

North America

In some situations, you may not need a passport to cross into Mexico or Canada by land or sea. If you have a Ready Lane acceptable document, you may be able to use that rather than a passport. These include U.S. Passport Cards, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, Enhanced Tribal Cards, Enhanced Border Crossing Cards, Enhanced Permanent Resident Cards, and Trusted Traveler Program cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST).

U.S. citizens who are under the age of 16 (or those ages 16 to 18 who are traveling with a school, religious, or other youth group) also do not need a passport when crossing into Canada or Mexico by land or sea. They can present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship.

International Cruises

Certain international cruises may not require you to provide a passport, as long as they begin and end at the same U.S. port. Note that this only applies to your ability to enter the U.S. If you don’t bring a passport on an international cruise, the cruise company may prevent you from boarding or you may not be able to disembark the ship when it stops. Check with your cruise company to make sure that you have the documents they require.

Caribbean

You can travel in the Caribbean using the exemptions we mentioned above — either on a closed-loop international cruise or by visiting one of the U.S. territories in the Caribbean. These include the three islands of Puerto Rico — the namesake main island, plus Vieques and Culebra — plus St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, collectively known as the U.S. Virgin Islands. To visit all other Caribbean countries, you will need a passport.

Pacific Islands

There are a few places way out in the Pacific Ocean that you can visit without a passport. Besides Hawaii, the islands of Guam and American Samoa are U.S. territories. All other Pacific countries and territories will require a passport to visit.

Traveling to Guam or American Samoa can make for an amazing trip and may not feel like you’re still in the U.S.

Europe

You will need a passport to enter Europe, including Scandinavia. However, most of Europe is part of what’s called the Schengen Area, where there are no border controls between countries. So while you will need a passport to get into France, for example, you won’t need your passport to travel between France and Germany.

Do I Need an Enhanced or Real ID Driver’s License?

Whether you need an enhanced or Real ID Driver’s License depends on what you are trying to do and where you are traveling to. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) are state-issued driver’s licenses that also provide proof of citizenship and identity. Currently, only a few states issue EDLs (Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington), but they may become more popular over time.

The Takeaway

For the vast majority of international travel, U.S. citizens require a passport both to enter into another country as well as to return to the U.S. However, there are a few scenarios where you can use other documentation to enter another country or get back into the U.S. Make sure you fully understand the requirements set by the State Department as well as your travel provider (airline or cruise company) to avoid any messy border situations.

SoFi Travel has teamed up with Expedia to bring even more to your one-stop finance app, helping you book reservations — for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more — all in one place. SoFi Members also have exclusive access to premium savings, with 10% or more off on select hotels. Plus, earn unlimited 3%** cash back rewards when you book with your SoFi Unlimited 2% Credit Card through SoFi Travel.

FAQ

Can you legally leave the US without a passport?

Yes, there are certain situations where you can legally leave the United States without a passport. Depending on the circumstances and the documents you have with you, you may be able to travel by land to Mexico or Canada without a passport. You may also be able to travel on some international cruises as long as they start and end in the same U.S. port. Make sure you understand the guidelines published by the State Department before you leave the country.

Where can U.S. citizens travel without a passport?

Most international destinations require a passport for United States citizens. However, depending on what other documents you have or your specific situation, you may be able to board an international cruise or travel by land to Mexico or Canada without a passport.

What is the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative?

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a U.S. initiative started in 2004 as a way to streamline entry to the United States from various other countries in the Western Hemisphere. As part of the WHTI, U.S. citizens can present other documents besides a passport when entering the United States. These may include a passport card, Trusted Traveler card (such as NEXUS or Global Entry). Make sure you understand the requirements published by the U.S. government to avoid a sticky situation at the border.

Photo credit: iStock/xavierarnau

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You’ve likely heard of Fort Lauderdale as a top spring break destination, but the town has loads of things to keep vacationers busy almost any time of year. Known as “the Venice of America” due to its inland waterways, you can explore Fort Lauderdale by water taxi or kayak, as well as take in its beautiful parks, shop on Las Olas Boulevard, and (of course) hit the many amazing beaches nearby.

Learn more about the top 10 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale here, as well as tips to make your getaway go as smoothly as possible. Once you’ve got your itinerary and travel plans wrangled, you’ll be set to enjoy the sun and the fun.

Best Times to Go to Fort Lauderdale

The best time to go to Fort Lauderdale is in the spring, between March and May. Average temperatures are in the 80s, and it is not too humid or rainy. The fall and winter (from early November onward) is also a good time to go to Fort Lauderdale, as it can be less crowded but still enjoy good weather, also in the 80s.

The winter holidays are a great time to escape cold weather and visit this Florida hotspot. You may not be able to go swimming in the ocean due to chilly water temperatures, but otherwise you can probably have a great time.

Bad Times to Go to Fort Lauderdale

Summer in Fort Lauderdale can be hot, humid, and rainy. Average temperatures are in the 90s. June is the rainiest month, so summer travel may be the worst time to go to Fort Lauderdale.

Although spring is a wonderful time to go to Fort Lauderdale, try to avoid school spring break time, which is usually mid March through early April. It can be more crowded and expensive due to all of the families and students who are traveling.

Average Cost of a Fort Lauderdale Vacation

Fort Lauderdale is a relatively affordable vacation spot. Hotels in Central Beach, near the ocean, will cost you around $250 to $400 on a typical weekend in April. If you are wondering how to save money on hotels, try staying in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, which is still a central location and hotels cost $180 to $300 on the same weekend. The average hotel cost is around $192 per night.

On average, one week for a couple costs about $2,549; for one person, that would be $1,275 for a week-long stay. Of course, you should factor in other costs when budgeting for your trip, like car rentals, rideshares, food, entertainment, plane tickets and/or gas.

When budgeting for a trip, you should also think about where to keep travel funds. Ideally, you can sock away money in an interest-bearing account, like a savings account that earns an above-average rate of return. Typically, this means an online bank vs. a traditional one.

If you are thinking about booking a trip to Fort Lauderdale but are worried that you may have unforeseen circumstances and have to cancel your trip, you can look into travel insurance. If you pay for your trip with certain credit cards, they may provide travel insurance. You should understand how credit card travel insurance works when deciding whether to purchase private travel insurance or use your credit card protections.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Fort Lauderdale

Florida is mostly known for beaches, but there are plenty of other things to do in Fort Lauderdale. This list of the top 10 must-dos in Fort Lauderdale was curated from frequent travelers’ and residents’ recommendations, as well as online review sites. Included is a mix of favorite destinations, free activities, and some off-the-beaten-path ones. The list includes things that you can do with a family, by yourself, with a partner, and with a group of friends.

One important note: If you are going on a Fort Lauderdale vacation trip, you may want to look into renting a car. Many of the attractions on this list require a car to get to. If you don’t want to rent a car, you could also take rideshares or limit your activities to ones within walking distance of your hotel.

That said, here are the top 10 fun things to do while visiting Fort Lauderdale.

1. Head to Fort Lauderdale Beach

What is a trip to Fort Lauderdale without a beach? Fort Lauderdale Beach is a typical Florida beach to enjoy at no charge, making it one of the best free things to do in Fort Lauderdale. With four miles of palm-tree lined beaches, this coastline is an iconic destination.

Yes, Fort Lauderdale Beach has some typical partiers, but it is also very family-friendly. Bringing your own towel, chairs, food and beach toys can be how families afford to travel to beach destinations.

2. Eat Well

While you’re at the beach, you’re likely to get hungry. Fortunately, there are great restaurants nearby, serving everything from great grilled cheese or Cuban sandwiches (try the popular Padrino’s Cuban) to fresh fish, caught just a few dozen yards away (say, at Sea Watch on the Ocean). Or just beat the 3 pm slump with some coffee; the Alchemist’s patio is a top spot.

3. Shop Las Olas Boulevard

Las Olas Boulevard is a well-known street in Fort Lauderdale with many restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums. Many of the shops are upscale with recognizable designer names, so prices may be high (swipe or tap with your plastic to pay, though, and you could earn some hefty credit card rewards).

Traveling on a budget? Window-shop while enjoying that warm Fort Lauderdale weather.

4. Visit Historic Stranahan House Museum

The Historic Stranahan House Museum, Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving home, is located off Las Olas Boulevard. A founding farmer, Frank Stranahan, built Stranahan House in 1901. It’s a wood-frame vernacular building with wide porches in front that take in incredible view of the New River. The structure has served as everything from a home to a town hall to a post office in its 100+-year history. Today, visitors can visit the museum by taking a guided tour, which are offered at 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm, with the exception of major holidays, and cost $12. Advance booking recommended. stranahanhouse.org/

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5. Stroll Through Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens is a botanical garden and Everglades wildlife refuge located 17 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale. As the name indicated, yes, you can see those unusually colored flamingos, as well as freely roaming peacocks, plus sea otters, panthers, and alligators. There are lush gardens, too. Run by a nonprofit organization, Flamingo Gardens is open every day between 9:30 am and 5 pm, and costs $21.95 for adults and $15.95 for children. There is a free tram tour through the park that runs between 11 am and 4 pm. flamingogardens.org/

6. Immerse Yourself in Butterfly World

If you would rather see butterflies than flamingos, Butterfly World may be an attraction to visit; it’s definitely a fun thing to do in Fort Lauderdale. Here’s why: It’s home to more than 20,000 live butterflies and more than 50 species. It’s a magical experience to see them up-close and in such great numbers.

Butterfly World is located in Coconut Creek, about 15 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale. Ticket prices are $32.50 for adults and $22.50 for children. It is open 7 days a week, typically from 9 am to 5 pm, and closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter Sunday. Hours are subject to change due to weather, so check before visiting. butterflyworld.com/

7. Be Amazed at the Museum of Discovery and Science

Keep your brain engaged in between beach visits. The Museum of Discovery and Science has a variety of fascinating exhibits, like ones that give you a deep dive into dinosaurs, space, gravity, ecology, and food. Located in the City View neighborhood, the museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm except Thanksgiving day and some local holidays. Tickets cost $24 to $27. mods.org/exhibits/

8. Hop on a Water Taxi

Fort Lauderdale is known for its waterways that weave through the verdant Florida landscape. The Water Taxi lets you see the city from the water, while learning about its history during the narrated ride. You can hop on and off at 11 stops on the Water Taxi. Tickets range from $15 to $35, and it operates 7 days a week between 10 am and 10 pm. watertaxi.com/

9. Spend Time at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Ready to hike, kayak, or just take in the view? Head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, located between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. The park has coastal dune lakes, where you can canoe or kayak, plus a top-notch coastal trail that will have you trekking through a native maritime tropical hardwood hammock ecosystem.

Incidentally, if you are traveling with pets, there’s a dog beach at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Canine Beach is a 100-yard stretch of coastline where you and your doggo can frolic.

The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is open every day from 8 am to sunset, and costs $6 per vehicle for up to eight people, or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle. floridastateparks.org/HughTaylorBirch

10. Live Large at Gulfstream Park

If you’re looking for a break from the beach and craving entertainment, try Gulfstream Park, another of the 10 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale. The Park features a thoroughbred horse racetrack, which can be a total thrill. Plus there’s dining, outdoor shopping, a casino, a bowling alley, and an entertainment venue. Horse races are held every Wednesday to Sunday from December through September. There are special events throughout the year, like the annual Florida Derby in March or April. And here’s a plus: There’s no admission fee to the racetrack, making it one of the fun free things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. gulfstreampark.com/

The Takeaway

Florida is a popular destination for some of the best weather and beaches in America, and Fort Lauderdale has all that and more. It can be a great place to vacation for its natural beauty and sun, but it also offers terrific museums, dining, shopping, and other attractions. Whether you have a full week or a long weekend, this Southern Florida destination can make for a memorable getaway.

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FAQ

What is Fort Lauderdale best known for?

Fort Lauderdale is best known for its beaches, arts, and shopping. Along with beautiful beaches, Fort Lauderdale has canals and a historic riverfront to explore as well.

What is the famous strip in Fort Lauderdale?

Las Olas Boulevard is located in Fort Lauderdale and has shopping, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and more. For those who like shopping or window-shopping at designer boutiques, Las Olas Boulevard is a top destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale a walking town?

Some areas of Fort Lauderdale are walkable, like Las Olas Boulevard. However, if you want to explore multiple areas or attractions of Fort Lauderdale, you will likely need a car to cover the distances involved.

Photo credit: iStock/Cassanas

Planning your next getaway? For many people, especially families with kids, amusement parks and adventure parks are high on the list of popular travel destinations. Whether it’s Disney, Universal, Six Flags, Cedar Point, or any number of other parks, you’re likely to have an amazing time twirling, swooping, spinning, and splashing through the rides.

Because many of the biggest amusement and adventure parks are very popular (and expensive), it can take a bit of planning if you want to maximize your fun given the crowds and costs you can encounter. That’s where some vacation strategy comes into play.

Here, you’ll learn the smart tricks and tips that can help you make epic memories when visiting adventure and amusement parks.

Best Times to Visit to Avoid Crowds

If you love big roller coasters, water rides, haunted houses, and other heart-pumping rides, you are not alone. Lots and lots of people head to the parks in a typical year. For instance, the most popular theme park of 2022, Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Florida, welcomed more than 17 million visitors.

This means that many of the most beloved adventure parks can get quite crowded. If you are trying to book summer travel, schedule a spring break vacation, or travel over a holiday weekend, expect that many other people are also trying to visit a theme park at those same popular times.

While there may never be a time when there aren’t any crowds at some of the larger amusement parks, traveling midweek or during the offseason may help you avoid some of the crowds.

5 Tips for Making the Most of Your Amusement Park Trip

Here are a few of top tips for getting the most out of your amusement park trip:

1. Go Early

One of the best budget-friendly travel tips is to get to the park early. In many parks, crowds tend to only get bigger as the day goes on. If you’re there right as the park opens, you may be able to minimize the lines for rides and do more during your time at the park. Starting your day early may help keep you out of the sun with lower overall temperatures.

2. Prioritize Your Top Rides First

Along those same lines, you’ll want to take a look at the top rides that are most important to you. Prioritize riding those early in the day; you will likely avoid the disappointment of showing up midafternoon and discovering an incredibly long wait.

Most amusement parks have one or two new or really popular rides that generate the biggest crowds. Or perhaps it’s a forever favorite, like Space Mountain at Disney or the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal. Lines for these rides tend to only increase as the day goes by, so if you want to ride, make a beeline for those attractions.

3. Make Reservations for Meals

Many restaurants at large amusement and adventure parks work on a reservation system. That means that you can’t just show up to the restaurant at noon and expect a table. Instead, you could wind up wandering around in a hangry state, unable to find what you want to eat.

You might be able to make reservations through the park’s mobile app. Another option: You can often stop by the restaurant earlier in the day to make a reservation for when you want to eat.

4. Bring the Right Gear

It can be smart to bring the right gear when you go to a large amusement park. This could include things like sunscreen, water, umbrellas, and/or ponchos. It may be difficult, costly or impossible to get some of these essentials inside the park.

If you’re traveling with infants, toddlers or young children, you want to make sure that you have all the essentials for them as well. Check your park’s policy on strollers and other large bags to make sure you’re not turned away at the entrance.

On the topic of planning ahead: When booking a trip to a park, you may want to consider getting travel insurance to protect your investment in your vacation. You may be covered by credit card travel insurance or want to buy a separate premium.

5. Pace Yourself

While it can be tempting to turn your day at an amusement park into a marathon, it’s wise to be flexible about how long you spend at a park. If you get there when the park opens, don’t feel that you have to stay there the whole day. If you do, make sure that you take frequent breaks so you don’t wear yourself (or your family) out and can get hydrated and oriented, especially if you’ve been doing a lot of spinning rides.

If your schedule allows and your park permits it, consider leaving the park during the hottest part of the day, going back to your hotel to relax, and then returning for the evening. Many small kids really enjoy this kind of pace, with pool time or a nap in the afternoon.

How to Help Young Kids Have a Good Time

Amusement park trips can be wonderful for young kids…or something significantly less than that.

Recognize that many parks are loud, crowded, and have lots of exposure to the elements (sun, humidity, rain, etc.). Waiting in line isn’t easy for little ones, nor is walking from one end of a park to the other. All of this can lead to kids being hungry, tired, and cranky.

Some advice to make the most of your visit to a park:

•  It can be wise to prioritize the kids’ top choice in terms of rides. This should help minimize aimless wandering and disappointment over missing their favorite rides.

•  Make sure that you have snacks and drinks on hand for them. Take frequent breaks to rest and refresh. Bringing your own food can also be a way families can afford to travel.

•  Acquaint yourself with where bathrooms are as soon as you enter the park.

•  Explain height requirements to kids, and figure out beforehand which rides they can go on so you don’t wait in line and then get turned away.

•  Also, many kids go a little souvenir-crazy while at the parks. It can be wise to set a budget in advance and help them understand how much they have to spend and that once it’s gone, it’s gone! That may help them spend wisely on souvenirs they won’t regret buying.

Ways to Save Money on Your Theme Park Visit

While many large theme parks are quite expensive, there are a few ways that you can save money on your visit.

•  Look for discounted tickets, either through a big box store, online deal, or at a travel agency. You can also look at staying at a hotel that is affiliated with the park which may reduce or eliminate park admission fees; while these accommodations may be pricier than other rooms, the bonus free park access could wind up making it a way to be a frugal traveler.

•  Don’t forget to see if you can use credit card rewards to buy down the price of your trip.

•  Bring your own snacks to the parks, including drinks (avoid glass bottles as some parks don’t allow them inside). Bottled sodas and water can be $5 or more at some of the most popular parks.

•  Also know that many theme park restaurants and snack stops will give you a free cup of ice water upon request.

•  If you do eat at the parks, consider sharing a meal. Portions as well as the price tag can be hefty.

•  See if you can snag discounts with memberships like those at AAA or Costco. Those can sometimes lower everything from hotel prices to car rental costs.

Recommended: Ways to Save Money on a Disney World Vacation

The Takeaway

Many large amusement or adventure parks are magnets for family travel, but they can also be quite expensive and crowded. Consider traveling in the off-season, arriving at the park early, and taking frequent rest breaks throughout the day as a few strategies to maximize your enjoyment at the park. Also bring some key supplies (sunblock, water, snacks) before you hit the parks.

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FAQ

How do you beat the lines at an amusement park?

A couple of the best strategies to beat long lines at an amusement park: Travel during a less-crowded time of year, arrive at the park as early in the day as possible, and make sure to prioritize the most popular rides early in the day.

Are adventure park rides safe?

Many adventure park rides are regularly inspected, either by the park itself or certain independent or government inspectors. While amusement park ride injuries are rare, they do happen. You’ll want to do your own research to decide what parks and what rides you feel comfortable with.

What should I bring to a theme park?

Basics like water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate rain gear are good things to bring to a theme park. If you have young children, you’ll want to make sure that you have all the supplies that they will need as well.

Photo credit: iStock/wundervisuals