- Attraction: Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
- Location: Downtown Fort Lauderdale along New River, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Industry: Park
- Website: https://www.goriverwalk.com/
Imagine cruising along crystal-clear waterways while gazing at million-dollar yachts, then stepping onto a tropical paradise that seamlessly weaves together art, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk spans the north and south banks of the New River, creating a lush tropical waterfront in downtown’s urban center that’s been voted the #7 “Best Riverwalk” in USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice 2025.
This linear promenade stretches for 2.5 miles along the historic New River and is widely considered “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile,” linking boutiques, restaurants, shops and museums with stunning tropical scenery.
And the area holds deep historical significance – along these very banks, Native Americans once brought their ocean catches upriver to trade, and early settlers transported their harvest for rail shipment north, making this Fort Lauderdale’s birthplace.
Scenic Walks & Water Adventures
The Perfect Stroll: The Riverwalk offers one of the most scenic walks you can take in Fort Lauderdale, with River Walk North stretching about a mile one-way along the river and River Walk South extending about half a mile on the opposite side.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll find amazing views as you walk along the water’s edge, with beautiful yachts parked along the walkway creating a laid-back atmosphere right in the middle of the busy city.
Free Water Transportation: The free Riverwalk Water Trolley operates daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, offering hop-on, hop-off service with 8 stops along the Riverwalk – 4 each on the north and south sides of the New River.
The estimated wait time at any stop is 20 to 30 minutes, and it’s just like waiting for a bus – simply wait at one of the designated stops and the trolley will pick you up.
Active Recreation: You can walk, bike, jog or take the water taxi along the Riverwalk to enjoy the beauty of the scenery. Riverwalk Activities offers kayak and paddleboard rentals to explore the New River, plus bike rentals to ride over to Fort Lauderdale Beach along Las Olas or explore the amazing neighborhoods.
Tropical Gardens & Parks: Along the Riverwalk’s path you’ll discover romantic gazebos, picnic areas, native plant exhibits and a beautiful butterfly garden. Multiple recreation parks dot the route, including Bubier Park with 10 exercise stations, Hardy Park and Peter Feldman Park with playground equipment, and Smoker Family Park featuring built-in chess tables.
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Discover MoreArts, Culture & Entertainment District
World-Class Museums: The Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District spans 22 blocks and holds some of Fort Lauderdale’s top attractions, including the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, and the Historic Stranahan House Museum.
The Historic Stranahan House Museum, built in 1901, serves as a fully preserved home showcasing Fort Lauderdale’s early days, while the 1899 Schoolhouse Museum offers a glimpse into turn-of-the-century education.
Monthly Jazz Concerts: Free jazz concerts take place on the first Sunday of every month from 11 AM to 2 PM at Esplanade Park, where live musicians hold outdoor concerts on three different stages while attendees can browse local vendors.
Special Events & Festivals: The Riverwalk hosts exciting seasonal events including the Riverwalk Fall Festival each September, featuring carnival games, friendly competitions, face painting, music, and food trucks – all ages and leashed pets are welcome.
Food festivals and live jazz performances regularly take place along this scenic waterfront venue.
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Keep Exploring →Photography Hotspots: Photography enthusiasts love the view from the Broward Center steps looking east, an oversized Adirondack chair just east of Esplanade Park, and the artistic installation “Thrive” by artist Daniel Popper on display at the breezeway of Society Las Olas.
That last one is probably the most Instagrammed public work of art in Fort Lauderdale.
Waterfront Dining & Shopping Experience
Las Olas Boulevard Connection: The district encompasses Las Olas Boulevard, where you’ll find many shopping, dining and nightlife venues just steps from the waterfront green space right off this famous street.
You’ll discover incredible boats to see including mega-dollar yachts, incredible condos and apartments, all near Las Olas street that rivals Rodeo Drive of Beverly Hills.
Riverside Restaurants: The area provides many dining options including seafood, steakhouses, bars, and cafes, with many restaurants offering waterfront seating where you can enjoy lunch or dinner while admiring the endless watercraft activity and skyline views.
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Discover MorePopular waterfront spots include Rendezvous and Stache Drinking Den & Coffee Bar for drinks and dining.
Water Taxi Connections: The Water Taxi system connects to numerous popular Greater Fort Lauderdale attractions and restaurants, with stops featuring everything from the Historic Stranahan House Museum to bustling Las Olas Boulevard restaurants like YOLO or El Camino.
Atmosphere & Setting
Urban Oasis Vibes: European visitors have described Fort Lauderdale as “American Venice” and found the Riverwalk to be a laid-back retreat right in the middle of the busy city.
The park serves as a quiet oasis in the hustle and bustle of city life while functioning as a vibrant gathering place for the emerging downtown community.
Day & Night Appeal: The Riverwalk is unique in that it can be enjoyed during the day or night, with a lighted path that allows you to explore on foot whenever you wish.
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Keep Exploring →Sunset creates a particularly nice atmosphere, though midday can get very hot.
Tropical Paradise Setting: Lush tropical landscape and winding walkways create Florida’s most beautiful mile, combining arts, history, entertainment, and business in an urban setting along the historic New River.
The sprawling linear park features diverse native and exotic plants, creating a veritable playground for culture enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a good stroll with a view.
Other Considerations
Free Access & Parking: No fees are required for walking on the Riverwalk – exploring this captivating destination is entirely free of charge.
Parking is usually about $3-$4 per hour, with ample parking available at Stop #1 at the Riverside Hotel Parking Garage, which costs $3.00 per hour.
Best Times to Visit: Late fall through early spring offers the most comfortable weather, as summer months (June through August) can be brutally hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. Early morning visits are recommended before it gets crowded with people walking.
Family-Friendly Features: The Riverwalk caters to families with various kid-friendly activities including parks, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits.
Children will especially enjoy Hardy Park and Peter Feldman Park, which contain play equipment for the young and young at heart.
Transportation Connections: Brightline, South Florida’s privately-owned passenger rail service, provides fast and convenient access to many events in Downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale also has a bike-sharing program called Broward B-cycle with several stations dotted around downtown and along the Riverwalk.
Length & Walkability: You can walk the length of the entire Riverwalk in less than 30 minutes, though most people stop along the way to enjoy the numerous attractions. The full stretch extends over 2.5 miles along the picturesque New River, showcasing breathtaking views that encourage scenic walks.
Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk
📍 Downtown Fort Lauderdale along New River, Fort Lauderdale, FL
