Greater Fort Lauderdale: A Destination for Everyone Under the Sun

Wheelchair user and blind man enjoying activities in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Everyone, regardless of abilities, is welcome to Fort Lauderdale

Greater Fort Lauderdale is more than just a beach paradise—it’s a city that embraces inclusivity, ensuring that everyone under the sun can enjoy its beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you have a physical, visual, or invisible disability, Fort Lauderdale offers diverse experiences designed to be welcoming for all.

What Makes Fort Lauderdale a Destination for Everyone?

In partnership with Visit Lauderdale, Wheel the World explored Fort Lauderdale through three separate Destination Verified projects—evaluating accessibility for people with physical disabilities, visual disabilities, and invisible disabilities. The result? A city that prioritizes accessibility and inclusion in a way that few destinations do. Not many places can truly say they are a destination for everyone.

Wheelchair user and family on Segways touring around Fort Lauderdale
Accessible tour around Fort Lauderdale

A City as Diverse as Its Visitors

With over 170 nationalities and 147 languages spoken, Fort Lauderdale is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the U.S. Its welcoming atmosphere ensures that no matter where you come from or what your abilities are, you’ll find a place to belong.

See How Fort Lauderdale Welcomes Everyone

As part of our Destination Verified projects, we documented real travelers experiencing Fort Lauderdale through different perspectives.

Destination Verified is a game-changing initiative designed to assess and improve accessibility in travel destinations. Through this program, Wheel the World works directly with cities like Fort Lauderdale to evaluate their accessibility, recommend enhancements, and provide travelers with detailed, trustworthy information. The result? A city that is truly welcoming to everyone under the sun.

See how every disability is included in Fort Lauderdale:

Blind man enjoying accessible attractions in Fort Lauderdale
Henry visiting Fort Lauderdale with visual disabilities

Why Visit Fort Lauderdale?

From sun-drenched beaches and thrilling outdoor excursions to world-class museums and vibrant cultural scenes, Fort Lauderdale offers something for every traveler.

  • Perfect Weather Year-Round: With an average temperature of 77°F (25°C), Fort Lauderdale is a paradise in every season. Whether you’re visiting in the peak of summer or escaping colder climates in winter, the city’s warm, tropical climate makes it an ideal getaway for outdoor exploration, beachside relaxation, and waterfront dining—all with accessibility in mind.
  • A Foodie’s Dream: From fresh seafood and Latin-inspired dishes to Caribbean flavors and craft cocktails, Fort Lauderdale’s food scene is a celebration of its multicultural community. Visitors can savor local delicacies at bustling food markets, unwind with a drink at a rooftop bar, or enjoy a waterfront meal with breathtaking views. Every bite tells a story of the city’s rich cultural influences. Plus, many of the restaurants are accessible!
  • Endless Outdoor Adventures & Waterfront Exploration: Known as the “Venice of America”, Fort Lauderdale is home to 300 miles of scenic waterways, offering unique opportunities to explore by boat, kayak, or water taxi. Take in the views on a scenic stroll along the Intracoastal Waterway, paddle through mangrove-lined trails, or set sail on a sunset cruise. The city’s strong connection to the water creates countless ways to experience its beauty, all while ensuring accessibility for visitors of all abilities.
Family kids smiling and happy in Fort Lauderdale
Fun under the sun!

Top Accessible Activities, Parks, Rentals & Transportation Options

From thrilling water sports to scenic parks and world-class museums, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of accessible things to do. Browse the list below to find your next adventure, and click “View Accessibility Info” to get detailed accessibility details.

🎭 Top Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center

Home to Olympic-level swimming facilities and diving towers, offering a world-class aquatic experience.

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Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

A historic home with lush gardens, artwork, and a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s past.

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Museum of Discovery and Science

Explore hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and interactive science displays.

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Butterfly World

Step into a lush paradise filled with thousands of colorful butterflies and tropical birds.

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Flamingo Gardens

Botanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary featuring flamingos, peacocks, and native Florida animals.

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Sawgrass Recreation Park (Airboats)

Experience thrilling airboat rides through the Everglades in search of alligators and wildlife.

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NSU Art Museum

A contemporary art museum showcasing innovative exhibits and cultural programs.

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Broward Center for the Performing Arts

A premier venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural performances.

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Jungle Queen

Take a scenic riverboat cruise through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways with live entertainment.

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Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library

A vital LGBTQ+ history museum preserving stories and activism through exhibits and archives.

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Hollywood Hot Glass

Experience live glassblowing demonstrations and even create your own glass art piece.

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🏖️ Accessible Rentals & Beach Experiences

Park & Ocean Canoes

Explore the scenic waterways of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park with canoe rentals, offering a unique way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty.

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Las Olas Beach - Accessible Beach Mats

Enjoy the stunning Las Olas Beach with accessible Mobi-Mats, providing easy access to the sandy shoreline for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids.

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Whiskey Creek Hideout

A popular rental spot for kayaks, paddleboards, and outdoor adventures, offering a great way to explore the beautiful mangrove trails of South Florida.

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🌿 Accessible Parks in Fort Lauderdale

Birch Park

A scenic nature retreat offering peaceful walking trails, waterways, and diverse local wildlife.

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Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Known as the "Central Park" of Fort Lauderdale, this lush green space is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and exploring Florida’s natural beauty.

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Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

A coastal state park with pristine beaches, picnic areas, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

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Pine Trails Park

A well-maintained park featuring green spaces, walking trails, sports courts, and family-friendly amenities.

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Snyder Park

A dog-friendly park with lush greenery, picnic areas, and scenic lakes for a relaxing outdoor experience.

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🚖 Accessible Transportation in Fort Lauderdale

Yellow Cab (Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles)

A reliable taxi service offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) for convenient transportation around Fort Lauderdale.

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Brightline (Intercity Accessible Train)

Florida’s high-speed rail service providing seamless travel between major cities with wheelchair-friendly boarding and amenities.

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Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi

Explore the city’s scenic waterways via the Water Taxi, with select stops offering accessibility for wheelchair users.

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What Are You Waiting For?

Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem of a destination to consider for your next getaway. And now, it's easier than ever to visit with the detailed accessibility information at your fingertips.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your Fort Lauderdale excursion.

Accessible Travel Resources

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