What to do in Fort Lauderdale while house and pet sitting

Located on Florida's Southeastern coast, Fort Lauderdale is an incredible place to visit with its long sandy beaches and boating canals – and just one of the many beautiful places you could visit on your next pet sit with TrustedHousesitters. 

So, if you’re still unsure of whether Fort Lauderdale will be your next pet sitting destination or if your trip there is already set up and you’re simply looking for some ideas for what to do in Fort Lauderdale while you’re taking care of your new fur-baby, we’ve got you covered!

Fort Lauderdale attractions

Fort Lauderdale is known for its upscale outdoor restaurants, boutiques and luxury hotels, but what are some of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale as regards to sightseeing, fun activities and pet-friendly activities? Let’s start with things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida as regards to attractions:

1. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Just a stone's throw away from Fort Lauderdale beach, the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a preserve that protects the natural heritage of subtropical coastal habitat. A gift from the late Mr. Hugh Taylor Birch, amenities include canoe rental, kayaks, pedal boats, jet skis and more. There’s a 1.8-mile loop round through the park that’s a must-visit if you love biking, hiking or skating. 

2. Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District

Set along the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale, the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District is a great place to explore with a coffee (or two). Spanning 22 blocks, the District boasts some of Fort Lauderdale's top attractions. There you'll discover the Historical Society, Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, the Broward Center for Performing Arts and the Florida Grand Opera amongst others. The district also encompasses Las Olas Boulevard, where you’ll find shopping, bars & cafes and plenty of dining options. 

3. Flamingo Gardens

Discover 60 acres of tropical paradise at the Flamingo Gardens Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to more than 3,000 species of rare and exotic native, tropical and subtropical plants as well as some of the largest trees in the state. 

Free things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Looking for budget-friendly activities to do in Fort Lauderdale? We’ve lined up some activities that won’t cost you a dollar: 

1. Fort Lauderdale Beach

If you love the beach, you’re in luck with the sandy shores at Fort Lauderdale. Dubbed the "Venice of America," you can while away a sunny day on the sun-kissed white sand, sparkling turquoise water, and take in the tall palm trees. The best part? It’s all completely free!

2. Las Olas Beach

If a smaller, more intimate beach is what you’re looking for, Las Olas Beach is a small stretch of sand that attracts beach lovers of all ages. Visitors have access to beach chairs and water sports equipment and there’s restaurants, bars and shops across the street for your perusal. 

3. Las Olas Boulevard

After some retail therapy? Las Olas Boulevard is situated in the heart of Fort Lauderdale and has everything from fashion boutiques and art galleries, to memorable restaurants and unique bars. 

Fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Now, after all the state parks and beaches, what are some fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale?

1. Fort Lauderdale Boat Tours

Who doesn’t love a good boat tour? It’s truly one of the best ways to see Fort Lauderdale. From traditional sightseeing trips with experienced tour guides to themed excursions in speciality boats, there’s a tour for everyone to enjoy. 

2. Sawgrass Mills

With 2,370,610 square feet of retail space, the alligator-shaped outlet mall Sawgrass Mills is the 11th largest mall in the US. The mall has a vast array of brands, including Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and Gap as well as electronics brands and favorites like Target and Marshalls.  

3. Sawgrass Recreation Park

Looking for something different to do while you visit? The Sawgrass Recreation Park is an adventure you won’t want to miss in the Florida Everglades. Each airboat ride is guided by an experienced captain who gives you a thorough tour about this impressive ecosystem, complete with plenty of wildlife sightings. 

What to do in Fort Lauderdale with pets?

Pet sitting someone's fur-baby means you’ll want to spend as much time with them as possible. So, if you’re wondering which pup-friendly locations to visit in Fort Lauderdale, look no further.  

1. Fort Lauderdale’s Canine Beach 

Dogs love the beach as much as we do so a trip to Fort Lauderdale’s canine beach for a splash in the water and play in the sand near A1A Sunrise Boulevard is a must. There’s certain restrictions and permits needed, so it’s always worth double-checking before you visit. 

2. Nauti Dawg

A walk down Las Olas Boulevard and you’ll see pups relaxing on the outdoor patios of cafes and restaurants. Nauti Dawg is one of the most popular and treats its pup visitors like royalty, offering fresh water as well as an extensive menu of chicken breasts, hamburgers, beef filets and more. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for a laid-back place to visit with your latest pup.

3. Good Luck Cat Cafe 

Located near the Village Arts District and Flagler Village, Good Luck Cat Cafe is the best in Fort Lauderdale to get your cat fix. You can grab a cup of coffee and a snack, all while cuddling the cafe’s latest cats. The best part? All the cats are up for adoption so if you fall in love, you might not be leaving empty handed. Find out everything you need to know about cat cafes in our guide to these furry establishments.

Best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale: Food and drink

After all the fun activities, the only thing left to do is take a look at the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale – so, here we go:

1. Coconuts 

Looking for the best seafood restaurants in Fort Lauderdale? Beachy hangout, Coconuts serves seafood and Sunday brunch, all as yachts cruise by. The waterfront spot is open seven days a week and dogs are allowed on leash.

2. Johnnie Brown’s 

Do you love a good American grill?  Then you’ll love Johnnie Brown’s with their grill with burgers, wings & ribs, plus plenty of beer, cocktails & live rock performances.

 3. Shooters Waterfront 

Wondering what to do in Fort Lauderdale in the evening? If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, drinks, waterfront views and live music, Shooters Waterfront is where you want to be.

After reading through all our recommendations, we’re confident you now have enough ideas for what to do in Fort Lauderdale while you’re visiting. There’s so much to experience in Fort Lauderdale – including amazingly cute pets and welcoming owners who would love to invite you over to take care of their four-legged friend while exploring their area. 

House and pet sitting in Fort Lauderdale

Now you're set on visiting Fort Lauderdale then all that’s left to do is find a house and pet sit. Just head right over here and connect with loving pet owners and their four-legged friends.