Calm waters with white swan near palms.

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Bonnet House

Top choice in Fort Lauderdale


This pretty plantation-style property was once the home of artists and collectors Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. It is now open to guided tours that swing through its art-filled rooms and studios. Beyond the house, 35 acres of lush, subtropical gardens protect a pristine barrier-island ecosystem, including one of the finest orchid collections in the country.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Fort Lauderdale attractions

2. Canine Beach

0.2 MILES

This dog-friendly beach is the 100-yard swath running from E Sunrise Blvd to lifeguard station 5.

3. Fort Lauderdale Beach & Promenade

1.17 MILES

Fort Lauderdale's promenade – a wide, brick, palm-tree-dotted pathway swooping along the beach and the A1A – is a magnet for runners, in-line skaters,…

4. Stranahan House

2.39 MILES

Constructed from Dade County pine, grand Stranahan House is a fine example of Florida vernacular design, and one of the state's oldest homes. It served as…

5. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

2.65 MILES

A curvaceous Florida standout with an interesting spilled rainbow design outside, the museum is known for its William Glackens collection (among Glackens…

6. Riverwalk

2.67 MILES

Curving along the New River, the meandering Riverwalk runs from Stranahan House to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Host to culinary tastings…

7. Las Olas Riverfront

2.74 MILES

A giant alfresco boardwalk area with stores, restaurants and live entertainment nightly; it's also the place to catch many river cruises.

8. Museum of Discovery & Science

2.88 MILES

A 52ft kinetic-energy sculpture greets you here, and fun exhibits include Gizmo City and Runways to Rockets – where it actually is rocket science. Plus…