FTL!, May 2023

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FORT LAUDERDALE’S TO-DO MAGAZINE

THRILL SEEKERS

ADRENALINE PUMPING ATTRACTIONS

Plus

• RESTAURANTS WITH A VIEW

• FAMILY FRIENDLY HAPPENINGS

• LOCAL EVENTS

• AND MORE FTL FUN

MAY/JUNE 2023 FREE
iFLY, Davie
Dine In | Take Out Delivery | Party Catering 350 East Las Olas Blvd • Fort Lauderdale • 954-993-9889 Order Delivery or Takeout Online at www.skythaisushi.com Voted Best Asian Restaurant in Broward County! CONTACT INFO
The Perfect Beach Getaway tel 954-428-2850 I 2096 NE 2nd St Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 I www wyndhamdeerfieldresort com Book your stay and take advantage of all the perks we offer. Welcome Drink on Arrival Bottled Water Replenished once Daily with Housekeeping Service *Beach Chairs, Towels & Umbrellas *25% Discount on Bike Rental Access to Fitness Center Coffee in room with Coffee Maker Enhanced High-Speed Internet Access Located footsteps away from the white sands of Deerfield Beach.

MAY/JUNE 2023

Fun in the FTL

If you’re looking for something different to do, we’ve curated several enjoyable events and classes.

More than Just a Pretty Beach

South Florida is ripe with history and plenty of places to learn about our natural habitat.

Family Fun

A listing of local events and happenings for mom, dad and the kids.

Dining with a View

A restaurant round-up of spots where you can enjoy a stunning vista along with an impressive meal and a cocktail or two.

Kickin’ It Up

Sure, there’s plenty of restaurants, museums and events. But, if it’s thrills you seek, we’ve got you covered.

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FTL! | MAY/JUNE 2023 8 TEXT OR CALL! 954-299-5592 PRINT MAGAZINES • Lighthouse Point • Pompano! • Deerfield Beach! • FTL! • South Florida Family Life ANNUAL PRINT VISITOR GUIDES • The Official Pompano Beach Visitor Guide • The Official Deerfield Beach Visitor Guide ONLINE • Coastal News (email) • pointpubs.com FTL! magazine is owned and published 12 times per year by Point! Publishing, LLC. Copyright 2023 by Point! Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Point Publishing, LLC. Requests for permission should be directed to: editor@pointpubs.com. PUBLISHER Richard Rosser ADVERTSING SALES Sam Rosser SALES MANAGER Brad Bargman DISTRIBUTION National Distribution Point! Publishing, LLC 2436 N. Federal Highway #311 Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 Advertising & Editorial Inquiries: 954-299-5529 ftlmagazine@pointpubs.com

The Top of the World

more information
For
Tour the Hillsboro Lighthouse

fun in the

FTL

SundayJazz Brunch

WHEN: First Sunday of each month | 11am – 2pm

WHERE: Esplanade Park, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale

COST: Free

WHAT: The Sunday Jazz Brunch is ideal for relaxing and enjoying Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk. This free outdoor concert series features the area’s best local jazz artists. Listen to the music on three stages on the first Sunday of each month, including the Broward Center’s own Peck Courtyard. Visit parks. fortlauderdale.gov/special-events/ special-events/jazz-brunch for the entire season schedule and artist line-up.

Well-behaved leashed pets are also welcome to attend. There is plenty of room to set up chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to experience the fabulous entertainment.

Eventgoers can also stroll along the historic brick-lined walkway to enjoy live music while browsing items from local merchants and enjoying food from area restaurants.

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Sunday Good Vibes Beach Yoga

WHEN: Starts on Sunday, May 7 | 8am

WHERE: 870 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

COST: $15

WHAT: For a feel-good Sunday, head to the beach for fun and functional postures, mindful breathing, meditation, relaxation plus a good vibes musical playlist. Class duration can be 75-90 minutes. The teacher will demonstrate & give clear directions with posture modifications for all levels & newbies to enjoy. This is a beautiful wide open beach, with a cool vibe and inviting environment. Bring a large beach towel or blanket for coverage over the sand. A yoga mat is not required but can be placed beneath a blanket for more stability. Also, bring sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and something to protect your items if we get a sprinkle of rain or ocean mist. After class, enjoy a refreshing jump into the ocean!

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Pizza Class

WHEN: Wednesday, May 3 | 6:30 - 8:30pm EDT

WHERE: Sistrunk Marketplace, 115 NW Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale

COST: $49

WHAT: Learn the art of wood-fired pizza. This introductory Pizza 101 class offers guests a hands-on overview of artisan pizza making, followed by a perfectly made pizza by you and a beer/wine tasting — a perfect afternoon or evening with friends.

About The Experience

• Two-hour hands-on session

• The history and evolution of pizza

• The art of hand-stretched dough

• Correct techniques for building and topping the pizza

• Watch your pizza finish in our 900-degree wood-fire oven

• Enjoy your pizza with an included glass of wine or craft beer

• Take-home recipe cards

ABOUT THE PIZZA

The pizzas are made with only quality products, including “00” fine flour – the finest stone-milled flour in the world from Naples, Italy; the purest unfiltered extra virgin olive oil, Adriatic sea salt, fresh organic basil, fresh mozzarella, and of course, San Marzano tomato sauce.

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Mixology 101 Culinary Cocktails

WHEN: Friday, May 12 | 6:30 - 7:30pm

WHERE: Sistrunk Marketplace, 115 NW 6th St., Fort Lauderdale

COST: $35.65

WHAT: Get the basics in bar-tending! Learn the secrets to making a great cocktail and the tricks of the trade along with a staff mixologists. This fun hour session will sharpen your liquor skills, test your palette and raise your spirit to the next level.

Brews Riverwalk Rhythm &

PRESENTED BY FUNKY BUDDHA

WHEN: Saturday, May 6 | 2 – 6pm

WHERE: Esplanade Park, 400 Southwest Second St, Fort Lauderdale

WHAT: Riverwalk & Funky Buddha are back for Rhythm & Brews. Indulge in delectable dishes served by the area’s best food trucks. Grab a cold Funky Buddha Brew, your blanket and lawn chair and enjoy as Live From 05 rocks out at Esplanade Park.

When you make a donation to Riverwalk, Funky Buddha will reward you some swag.

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LGBTQ+ Sip & Paint

A SIP & PAINT EVENT FOR THE GIRLS, GAYS, & THEYS!

WHEN: Thursday, June 22 | 7 – 11pm

WHERE: Hamburger Mary’s Wilton Manors, 2426 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors

COST: $25 (incldes paint, 1 canvas and 1 drink. Food and drink available for purchase)

WHAT: Unlocked Artistry & Mrly Entertainment Present a Sip & Paint Event for the LGBTQ+ Community. Join in the fun for a night of chill vibes, creativity, joy and connection with the girls, gays, and theys!

Guests must be 21 or older to attend.

This is a safe space to be expressive, creative & enjoy building connections with people you know & dont know... yet!

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ComedyStand-Up

WHEN: Thursday, May 4 · 8:30 - 10pm

WHERE: Blue Steel Pizza Co., 2460 E Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

COST: Reserve a spot on eventbrite.com

WHAT: Enjoy live comedy shows at Blue Steel Pizza Co. every Thursday, with allnight happy hour specials. There will also be delicious food, great cocktails, friendly service and comedians that will have you laughing all night long!

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Pretty More than just a

While we do love our beaches and vibrant dining and nightlife scene, South Florida has way more to offer. For a change of pace, why not take a step into nature or experience a bit of Florida history?

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Beach The Bonnet House

Act Natural

Butterfly World

3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek

Monday – Saturday | 9am – 5pm; Sunday | 11am – 5pm

$32.50/adults, $22.50/kids

This slice of nature has caused Coconut Creek to be dubbed “The Butterfly Capital of the World” for good reason. Nestled in Tradewinds Park, Butterfly World has served the community since 1988 to much fanfare. On the property are multiple aviaries with a wide array of tropical birds and thousands of butterflies! Also, Tradewinds Park is home to a disc golf course, ensuring a full day of South Florida fun. 954-977-4434

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

1801 N Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton

Free; donations welcome

The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center has been educating locals and tourists for decades on everything there is to do with marine and coastal life. Their mission is to preserve our coasts and marine life has extended to veterinary care for sea turtles and reached into classrooms with their constant community outreach. The nature center is located a stone’s throw from the beach and have a host of aquariums, exhibits, and nature trails to fill your day with coastal life. 561-544-8604

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SHINE A LIGHT ON YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISE IN FTL! GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE’S TO-DO MAGAZINE FUN-LOVING LOCALS AND TOURISTS MARCH APRIL 2023 FREE FORT TO-DOLAUDERDALE’S MAGAZINE SHEN YUN AT THE BROWARD CENTER MIAMI GRAND PRIX BEACHSIDE SUSHI FORT LAUDERDALE AIR SHOW RETURNS MARCH APRIL 2023 FREE March 21–23 | Broward Center |May 2–3| Kravis Center 2023 FORT LAUDERDALE’S TO-DO MAGAZINE Each month we feature an eclectic mix of stories about the restaurants, shops, attractions and nightlife that make Fort Lauderdale extraordinary. LET’S START A NEW AD CAMPAIGN TOGETHER! Text or call 954-299-5592! FORT LAUDERDALE’S TO-DO MAGAZINE

Secret Woods Nature Center

2701 W. State Rd. 84, Dania Beach

Daily | 9am – 5pm; Free

This park lays alongside the New River and in the shadow of Port Everglades and the Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Multiple trails, a nature exhibit hall, and nature-oriented event programming all make for a good day in the great outdoors. Playing host to everything from school field trips to wedding parties, this spot can is fun for all ages. 954-357-8884

Shipwreck Park

26° 13.807’ N, 80° 03.807’ W

The hours and prices vary

About:The waters off of the Pompano Beach Pier have some of the best diving in the world. The waters are home to Shipwreck Park, a collection of sunken ships, submerged art installations, and tons of wildlife, of course!

Almost two dozen shipwrecks ranging in size and era litter the small area just beneath the waves. Some of the largest wrecks are hundreds of feet long and are home to thousands of living creatures. This will almost always be your first stop with any local scuba instructor!

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Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

3109 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

8am to sunset, 365 days a year; $6/per vehicle

Donated by the titular Hugh Taylor Birch, this large chunk of nature seems at odds with the highly developed metropolitan area around it. Because of its idyllic nature, Birch wished for future generations to enjoy his estate. Fort Lauderdale’s “Central Park” has everything you could need for a day outdoors; hiking trails, bike paths, beach access, paddle board rentals, more activities and guided walks on the weekends that showcase the abundant wildlife! 954-564-4521

Anne Kolb Nature Center

751 Sheridan St., Hollywood

Daily | 8am – 7:30pm; Free

Although the exhibit hall is closed for renovations and the boat tours are temporarily out of service, this 1501-acre park is the largest in the Broward County Parks system and is an amazing preservation of a coastal mangrove wetland. It has a wealth of different species, including some that are threatened or endangered. So, it is a mustsee for those with an appreciation for our natural world.

Flamingo Gardens

3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie

Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens and attractions in South Florida. Flamingo Gardens is the premier Everglades Learning Center and South Florida Wildlife and Botanical Sanctuary. Flamingo Gardens’ mission is to depict, preserve, and provide education about the natural and cultural heritage of South Florida and the Everglades. 954-473-2955

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A Little History

Sample-McDougald House

450 NE 10th St., Pompano Beach

Monday & Sunday: Closed; Tuesday – Saturday | 12 – 4pm

$10/adults, $5/kids 5-12, free for children under five

The Sample-McDougald House and Museum showcases life in Pompano during the early 1900’s. The house served as headquarters for the Sample family’s farming operation and a rest stop for travelers on their way to Miami, back when Dixie Highway was the only overland route to the city. Sample funded a road that gave the workers access to the farthest west portions of the farm. Today that strip of asphalt, Sample Road, is a major artery of the area, and still bears his name. The Colonial Georgian-revival home sits on a 5-acre park and is an idyllic scene for a picnic. samplemcdougald.org

754-307-5446

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Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

900 N Birch Roadoad, Fort Lauderdale

Monday: Closed; Tuesday – Friday | 11am – 3pm

Saturday & Sunday | 11am – 4pm

$25/adults; $8/kids (ages 6 – 17; children 5 and under are free)

The land on which the Bonnet House sits had seen human activity for over 4,000 years by the time Hugh Taylor Birch purchased it in 1895. In addition to the historical element, the Bonnet House grounds encompass one of the last examples in South Florida of a native barrier island habitat, making it a serene way to step back in time. bonnethouse.org 954-563-5393

Stranahan House

335 SE Sixth Ave., Fort Lauderdale

Must Schedule a tour starting at 1pm, 2pm or 3pm

$12/adults, $11/seniors, $7/students

Stranahan House was the home of Fort Lauderdale pioneers Frank and Ivy Stranahan. Built in 1901 as a trading post and converted into a residence for the Stranahans in 1906, the house is the oldest surviving structure in Broward County. Situated directly on the water, the property was an early hub of activity in the area. stranahanhouse.org 954-524-4736

Jungle Queen

801 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

Experiences start at $20

For more than eight decades, the Jungle Queen has roamed the Intracoastal waterways of South Florida. In 1935, Captain Al Starts brought his 60-foot riverboat to Fort Lauderdale in its infancy. He purchased a plot of land on the New River, which was turned into a Seminole Tribe Trading post where tourists could purchase handmade items from tribespeople. Serving generations of tourists and locals alike, this South Florida tradition has warranted the fourth version of the Jungle Queen, which now can safely hold more than 500 people. junglequeen.com • 954-462-5596

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ALL YOU CAN EAT Stone Crabs Every Day!* *subject to availability 400 North Ocean Drive, Hollywood | 954-923-2300 | crabs.com

Family

Family Fun

Sunny Days and Starry Nights

Thursday, May 4

Participate in free museum exploration the first Thursday of every month. 11am-7pm, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, One East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org

Full Moon Hike

Friday, May 5

Join a naturalist to explore the nature trails by the light of the full moon. $5/person. 8-9pm, Long Key Natural Area, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797, www.broward.org/parks

Make Your Own Soap

Saturday, May 6

Have a relaxing afternoon that includes tea, refreshments and all the materials required to make your own soap. $18/person.

1-2:30pm, Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., Davie, www.olddavieschool.org

The SpongeBob Musical

Sunday, May 7

Based on the animated series, this dynamic stage musical features SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom as they face the total annihilation of their undersea world. $20. 1pm & 5pm, Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, www.sunrisefl.gov

Reptile Roundup

Sunday, May 7

Meet one of Secret Woods’ reptile residents and then learn all about it from a naturalist.Free. 1pm, Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. State Rd 84, Dania Beach, 954-357-8884

www.broward.org/parks

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Sunday Jazz Brunch

Sunday, May 7

This free, live outdoor concert series features the area’s best local jazz artists performing on three different stages. 11am-2pm, Riverwalk Linear Park, 20 N. New River Dr., Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Spring Into Art & Music

Thursday, May 11

Enjoy children’s artwork, musical performances, an interactive show by Fantasy Theatre Factory and more. Free. 7pm, Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, 954-450-1060

www.ppines.com

Movie Splash Down Night

Friday, May 12

See a screening of Strange World at the pool. Free. 7-9:30pm, Bass Park, 2750 NW 19 St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-828-6019

www.fortlauderdale.gov

Tunes ‘N Trucks

Friday, May 12

Bring your lawn chairs or blanket for an evening of live music by Johnny Wild and the Delights, and a variety of food trucks. The trucks start serving at 6pm and the band begins at 7pm. Sunrise Civic Center Amphitheater, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, www.sunrisefl.gov

Family Film Fun Day

Sunday, May 14

Bring the kids to watch a free screening of Frozen 2 at the library. 3-5pm, Stirling Road Branch Library, 3151 Stirling Rd., Hollywood, www.broward.org/library

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Family Fun

Extraordinary

Friday, May 19

The Girl Choir of South Florida, with singers ages 6-18, presents a family-friendly concert that explores life’s wonders. $20-$30.

7:30pm, Miniaci Performing Arts Center, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.miniacipac.com

Canoe Race and City Birthday Celebration

Saturday, May 20

This fun-filled day begins with a canoe race at 10am followed by the city’s anniversary celebration with a barbecue, DJ and trophies for winners of the race. Starts at Colohatchee Boat

Ramp and ends at Richardson Historic Park, Wilton Manors. www.wiltonmanors.com

Savor the Sounds

Sunday, May 21

Enjoy an evening of food, music and fun at this music series that fuses food trucks and live music. 4-7pm, Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, 954-392-2116 www.ppines.com

Great American Beach Party

Saturday, May 27

Kick off the summer with a beach party with live bands, waterslides, a kids’ zone, a classic car show, art show, sand sculpting contest and more. 11am-6:30pm, Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-828-7275 www.fortlauderdale.gov

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Bike Rodeo

Saturday, May 27

Bring your wheels for a morning dedicated to bike safety with helmet fittings, giveaways, a bike rodeo course and more. 10am-noon, Suellen H. Fardelmann Sports Complex, 10300 Stirling Rd., Cooper City, 954-434-4300 www.coopercity.gov

Nature POP! Opening Weekend

Saturday-Monday, May 27-29

Explore Flamingo Gardens on opening weekend of the summerlong Nature POP! exhibit featuring 44 sculptures made from more than 800,000 LEGO bricks. 9:30am5pm, Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955

www.flamingogardens.org

Israeli Dance Festival

Sunday, May 28

Experience the excitement of the 27th edition of Festival Yachad, the largest Israeli Dance Festival in the country. $15 and up. 7pm, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Rock The Block

Saturday, June 16

Rock the Block, is a free, monthly food truck gathering held the third Saturday of every month outside in the casino’s parking lot and features a variety of South Florida food truck vendors. The familyfriendly event also includes live entertainment with a DJ and games for both adults and kids. 5-9pm, The Casino at Dania Beach, 301 E. Dania Beach Boulevard, 954-920-1511 info@daniacasino.com

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Dining with a View

A memorable meal requires more than just dependable service and fabulous food on the plate. The surroundings play a huge part in any dining experience. Luckily, we live and eat in South Florida, which boasts a plethora of restaurants offering impressively beautiful locations. Here are a few places to enjoy good food along with a gorgeous vista.

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Sparrow at The Dalmar Hotel

ARUBA BEACH CAFÉ

1 Commercial Blvd., Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

954-776-0001 arubabeachcafe.com

Do you want to kick back, let the ocean breeze wash over you and simply appreciate life in the Sunshine State? Nobody will blame you; most of them would recommend heading to Aruba to get the job done. The beach is right outside, beckoning. Eat, drink and party until you get your fill.

BEACH HOUSE

270 N Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach

954-607-6530 beachhousepompano.com

An aptly-named establishment. Views of the Ocean are truly stunning from either indoors, at an outside table or up on the rooftop bar. If you hit the roof, the menu is more concise than what is available downstairs. The Beach House is yet another destination that highlights the unique advantages of South Florida living.

BILLY’S STONE CRAB

400 N Ocean Drive, Hollywood

954-923-2300 crabs.com

Just because stone crab season won’t get underway again until October is no reason to not enjoy Billy’s ambiance and food. With the Intracoastal as a backdrop and in clear view through huge windows in the indoor dining room (there are tables outdoors, too,) seafood lovers have been calling Billy’s “home” since 1995.

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BO’S BEACH

600 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-616-8315 bosbeach.com

Bo knows beach living. At this spot, it’s all about comfort, cool cuisine and chilling out. Kick back on either the first or second floor; the Ocean looks excellent from either location. They’re open for breakfast all the way to a late-night snack. The cocktails and beers will not let you down.

CASABLANCA CAFÉ

3049 Alhambra St., Fort Lauderdale

954-764-3500 casablancacafeonline.com

Fort Lauderdale Beach takes center stage here. A one-of-a-kind twostory structure, this homage to Mediterranean architecture provides a classic dining experience like no other destination in our city. Throw a classic American menu into the mix and all the bases are covered.

CASA CALABRIA

4040 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale

954-982-2191 casacalabriaftl.com

Enjoying the delicious foods of Southern Italy at Casa Calabria — you might think you’re gazing out at the Ionian Sea. That’s the good ol’ Atlantic, though, but don’t let that affect your Mediterranean reverie. Calabria is located beachside in the Ocean Manor Beach Resort. Mangia, amici miei, mangiate.

GG’S WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL

606 N Ocean Drive, Hollywood

954-909-7030 ggswaterfront.com

Right next door to Billy’s Stone Crab, so you know the Intracoastal is a major player in the visually pleasing setting. The inside dining room is lovely; the tables outside literally kiss the Waterway — another haven for wine and seafood lovers. The cioppino is a deep-sea delight.

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KALUZ RESTAURANT

3300 E Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-772-2209 kaluzrestaurant.com

Kaluz is the perfect place to enjoy a fabulous meal and inventive craft cocktails in a stunningly modern yet inviting and laid-back atmosphere. The Intracoastal sets the tone, swaying lazily right outside Kaluz. The menu is filled with appetizers, salads and entrees, totally in keeping with the relaxed, upscale vibe.

OCEANIC

250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach

954-366-3768 oceanicpompano.com

Along with stunning ocean views, the restaurant offers a comprehensive menu emphasizing seafood. The restaurant boasts dazzling architecture inspired by the great ocean liners of years past. If you are looking for a standout salad, the watermelon arugula salad with grilled shrimp is a perfect choice. The shrimp and grits were prepared traditionally and packed with flavor. The baby back ribs were melting off the bone, and there was enough for a doggy bag.

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1RENDEZVOUS BAR & GRILL

2525 Marina Bay Drive West, Fort Lauderdale

954-797-0054 therendezvousbarandgrill.com

The New River is the star of this location, a sweet spot for a “rendezvous.” Not the easiest place to find, but well worth the effort. An interesting menu, filled with entrees, po’ boys, tacos and many fish offerings. Check out the yachts docked in the Marina and let time slowly drift on by.

SERAFINA ITALIAN RESTAURANT

& WATERFRONT

BISTRO

926 NE 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale

954-463-2566 serabythewater.com

Serafina puts the Middle River squarely in the spotlight. Intimate, candlelit and overtly romantic, sharing a meal here guarantees time well-spent. Boats docked on the River help drive home the overall So-Flo vibe. Traditional Italian delicacies and an ample wine list are at your disposal.

SPARROW – DALMAR HOTEL

299 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale

954-945-9500 thedalmar.com

No water here, just the most outstanding views offered of our town. Sparrow is the crown of the Dalmar Hotel, resting 25 stories above downtown Federal Highway. You’ll be surrounded by plant life and original abstract art. The indoor bar is also a treat, with couches and tables encouraging close contact.

SHOOTER’S WATERFRONT

3033 NE 32nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale

954-566-2855 shooterswaterfront.com

Let’s start here, then, at what could rightly be considered the jewel of the Intracoastal Waterway. To enjoy a meal here is to take in a quintessential Fort Lauderdale experience. They call our town “the Venice of America.” Spend time here and you’ll understand why.

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KICKIN’ IT up

With its beautiful weather, pristine beaches and paradise-like nights, there’s no doubt South Florida is a major “chill” area. But sometimes –sometimes, you just have to let your “cool” take a back seat, throw caution to the wind and show the world how fearless you are. Here are the top attractions in our area that will get your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing.

iFLY

11690 W State Rd 84, Davie 954-280-4359

iflyworld.com/fort-lauderdale

Voted the top Thrilling Attraction in our “Best of Broward” poll, iFLY literally picks you up off the ground and makes your dreams of flying come true. This is indoor skydiving, dear friends, and the entire family can suit up and participate. Do not miss this.

The Oculus

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel

1 Seminole Way, Hollywood 866-502-7529

seminolehardrockhollywood.com/ entertainment/the-oculus

The Guitar Hotel is widely known for its iconic shape, but prepare for a visual thrill upon entering the venue. The Oculus is a 35-foot tall central waterfall combining the elements of water, lightning and floor-to-ceiling projections for a musical attraction that runs every 20 minutes, giving guests a dynamic visual experience.

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Extreme Axe Throwing Hollywood

2046 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood 754-777-0246 extremeaxe.com

That’s right: indoor axe throwing. But this is no free-for-all; far from it. An on-site “axepert” will teach you the art of aiming at and hitting traditional and interactive targets until you get the hang of hurling a hatchet. Once you’re good enough, you can join a monthly league and take part in competitions.

Xtreme Action Park

5300 Powerline Rd, Fort Lauderdale

954-491-6265

xtremeactionpark.com

See the name of this place? It is the perfect example of “truth in advertising.” The action is most definitely extreme here. Go-Kart Racing, the Sky-High Ropes Course, Bazooka Blast (Paintball and Laser Tag combined,) the Dark Ride XD Theater and the new Virtual Reality Escape Rooms provide plenty of a-c-t-i-o-n.

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Aqua Flight

1101 Bayview Drive, Fort Lauderdale

754-300-1964 aqua-flight.com

Book an exhilarating flight above the water with a Flyboarding experience or perhaps rent a super-fast Seabob underwater scooter. They offer some very cool ways to enjoy the ocean.

Sawgrass Recreation Park

1006 US-27, Weston

954-389-0202 evergladestours.com

The landscape of Fort Lauderdale is ever-changing, but the Everglades remains a constant reminder of our area’s storied past. At Sawgrass Recreational Park, you can explore the ‘Glades on airboat rides that take you skimming over the watertop of this unique tableau. You can even get a private tour or go ‘Glading after dark. Camping and fishing are also available.

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Everglades Holiday Park

21940 Griffin Rd, Fort Lauderdale

954-434-8111 evergladesholidaypark.com

Get up close and personal with a ‘Gator -- and we don’t mean a fan of the University of Florida. Alligator Shows are all the rage here. Book yourself an exclusive Animal Encounter with a reptile or mammal or both. Various Airboat Tours are also available.

MAY/JUNE 2023 | FTL! 53 Think Escape Games 2635 E Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-233-2663 thinkescapegames.com Test yourself. There are four different rooms at Think, each one posing a different set of problems, situations and circumstances for you and your pals to solve before time runs out. It takes teamwork, brain power and the desire to have a whole mess of fun.

Cycle Party

220 SW 3rd Ave., Fort Lauderdale

954-516-2596

fortlauderdale.cycleparty.com

The fun just keeps on rolling with Cycle Party. Up to 15 of your closest friends push the pedals for various tours, not the least of which are the “Happy Hour” and “Pub Crawl” offerings. You ride, you eat; you ride, you drink. You shout out your joy to those watching you pass by. Who could ask for more?

FTL! | MAY/JUNE 2023 54

K1 Speed

2950 Stirling Road, Hollywood

954-416-0044

k1speed.com

Put the pedal to the metal and DRIVE. Indoor electric go-kart racing will give you a unique kick. If you’re new to the sport, you’ll get a quick lesson. If you’re ready to ride, hit the track and try to beat your pals with the fastest time. Your machine can go 45 MPH as you maneuver your way to victory.

Living Water Surf School

3424 NE 16th St., Pompano Beach

954-673-8933 livingwatersurfschool.com

It’s time to ride the waves here in So-Flo and the Living Water Surf School will teach you how to do just that. You can take individual lessons or you can attend classes. You’ll be under the tutelage of pros who know what it takes to paddle out and ride in. They’ll keep you safe and keep you moving.

MAY/JUNE 2023 | FTL! 55

Agua Salon Studios • Al Comp Consulting

Allstate Insurance

AT&T

Cherry Blow Dry • B-Tan Tanning Salon

Agua Salon Studios•Al Comp Consulting•Allstate Insurance•AT&T•Cherry Blow Dry

Dentists of Fort Lauderdale • Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Fred Astaire Dance Studio • Game Stop

Copper Tanning•Dentists of Fort Lauderdale•Etiquette Boutique•Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill • Great Clips Hair Salon

Hill Robinson

International Yacht Brokers Assoc.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio•Game Stop•Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill•Great Clips Hair Salon

Hill Robinson•International Yacht Brokers Assoc.•Jaguar Therapeutics•J Balcazar

Holy Smokes Tattoo Shop

Jaguar Therapeutics

J Balcazar Home & Yacht Design • Joe’s Café

Home & Yacht Design•Joe’s Café•Koi Sushi Lounge & Hibachi•LA Fitness

Koi Sushi Lounge & Hibachi • LA Fitness

La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurant

Manhattan NY Pizza

La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurant•Manhattan NY Pizza•Marcella’s Boutique

Marcella’s Boutique • Massage Envy Spa

Medical Vitality•MTSI • Nail Port Salon • Nature’s Remedy Shoppe

Massage Envy Spa•Medical Vitality•MTSI•Nail Port Salon•Nature’s Remedy Shoppe

Orange Theory Fitness • Pakmail

Persist Communications

Poké Bros. • Sunny Side Medical Dispensary

Orange Theory Fitness•Pakmail•Persist Communications•Sunny Side Medical Dispensary

Tropical Smoothie Café • TVI Construction

Coming Soon: IVX Health Infusion Center

Viking Yacht Management

Coming Soon: Willie T’s Lobster Shack

Willie T’s Lobster Shack

Tropical Smoothie Café•TVI Construction•Viking Yacht Management

Scenthound Dog Grooming Services • The Treehouse

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