Fort Lauderdale has everything you need for a great beach vacation, including hotels, restaurants, shopping, festivals—the list goes on. It’s also an excellent place to live due to its warm weather, strong family values, and a central location within the state.
Whether you’re visiting for a short time, just moved in, or are simply looking to meet some new people, there are several places you can do so throughout the city. To look and feel your best, choose one of your favorite outfits, decide on somewhere agreeable, and go to your dentist — Fort Lauderdale’s social scene will have you smiling in no time.
Breweries
Breweries bring together great drinks, tasty food, and good friends, especially after a long day at the beach or in the heat. Fort Lauderdale has several breweries with various flavors to tap into from the tap and the kitchen. Come in with a small group, bring a book, or look out for events to attend to meet new people. You can try any number of places, including Funky Buddha, Gulf Stream Brewery, American Icon Brewery, Invasive Species Brewing, and LauderAle Brewery.
Local Parks
With places like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Gulfstream Park, Bonnet Gardens, Sawgrass Recreation Park, Flamingo Garden, and Butterfly World, there’s no shortage of chances you’ll be in nature and meet someone with something interesting to say. Many of these parks have events such as yoga, meditation, music, and markets where you meet someone new while you bond with the area’s local culture.
Las Olas
Several beaches in and around Fort Lauderdale are known for their stunning stretches of white sand, premier shopping and dining, events, galleries, and other things to do. Las Olas, about one mile east of downtown, is one of the top beaches in the area, offering unique, authentic, and eclectic things to do for a more adventurous first date.
Blue Martini
This sleek and sophisticated gathering place sporting weekday happy hours, nightly live bands, and dancing makes this cocktail bar a winner. With a special martini menu and an assortment of appetizers and desserts, you can get some fresh air on the outdoor patio or splurge for the VIP lounge for a memorable night. Or, make a day of it and go shopping at the Galleria, stopping by for a drink with new friends.
Revolution Live
If you love live music and want to meet others who do as well, check out Revolution Live. This live concert venue is located downtown in the heart of the entertainment district. It can accommodate a max capacity of 1,300 people, which features several floors, a VIP mezzanine, and outside balconies. It’s also used as a performing arts club, hosting concerts, events, festivals, shows, and more.
Museums
Get inspired and immerse yourself in world-class art, history, and science at some of the top museums in the area, such as the NSU Art Museum, History Fort Lauderdale, and Museum of Discovery and Science. Many museums host happy hours, seminars, special events, and deeper learning opportunities to help you mingle with like-minded others and forge a connection.
