The Venice of America shows its true colors after sunset. Watch million dollar yachts glide past as you sip cocktails on Las Olas, or join locals for moonlit beach parties where live music drifts across the sand. But that’s just the start of your perfect Fort Lauderdale night.
I’ve found the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale at night by leaving the tourist traps behind. Skip the beach bar crowds and dive into a world of secret waterfront lounges, candlelit canal cruises, and rooftop spots where the city sparkles like diamonds on the water. This isn’t Miami’s little sister anymore – Fort Lauderdale nights are pure Florida magic!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this champagne sunset cruise in Fort Lauderdale! They take you along Millionaires Row’s luxurious mansions and into the Atlantic Ocean for spectacular sunset views with a complimentary glass of bubbly. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a Fort Lauderdale itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to Do in Ft. Lauderdale at Night: 19 Fort Lauderdale Nighttime Activities
Are you ready to discover the most exciting things to do in Fort Lauderdale at night? As we’ve explored, Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse array of activities after the sun sets. Keep reading to find the best spots and experiences for your nocturnal adventures in this vibrant city!
1. Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard comes alive after dark with twinkling lights strung along the tree-lined street, creating that perfect Florida evening magic. I love walking this mile-long stretch from the beach to downtown because there’s always something happening – street musicians, art gallery openings, or just the energy of people enjoying outdoor dining.
The boulevard stretches from Atlantic Ocean to Andrews Avenue, packed with over 30 restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to authentic Italian. Skip the chain restaurants and head to locally-owned spots where you can grab a sidewalk table and watch the world go by. Earls Las Olas stays open until 1am on weekends, making it perfect for late-night dining.
Most shops close by 9pm, but the restaurants and bars keep the energy going well into the night. Street parking is metered until 11pm, so arrive early or use one of the private lots on side streets. During peak season (November through April), expect crowds but that’s part of the charm. Happy hour specials run from 3-6pm at most establishments, with many offering 2-for-1 drinks. The foot traffic is up 5% in 2025 compared to last year, so Las Olas is clearly having a moment.
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2. Hit Up the Fort Lauderdale Improv for Stand-Up Comedy
Fort Lauderdale Improv in Dania Beach brings the laughs every night with some seriously funny comedians. This place actually gets better acts than you’d expect for a South Florida venue – I’ve caught some big names here who were testing new material before their Netflix specials.
The club runs shows Thursday through Sunday nights, typically starting around 8 PM and 10:30 PM. Tickets usually run $20-40 depending on who’s performing, and yeah, there’s a two-drink minimum that’ll add about $15-20 to your bill. But honestly, the drinks aren’t terrible and the food’s pretty decent for a comedy club.
I’d recommend getting there early because seating is first-come, first-serve. The best tables are right up front, but if you’re worried about getting roasted by the comedian, grab something in the middle. The venue’s intimate enough that you’ll have good sightlines from anywhere. Just don’t be that person who keeps checking their phone during the show – the comedians will call you out, and it’s never pretty.
Book directly through their website at improvftl.com because they don’t honor tickets from resale sites. Shows do sell out, especially on weekends, so don’t wait until the last minute.
3. Take a nighttime riverfront cruise
Nothing beats seeing Fort Lauderdale’s mansion-lined waterways from the deck of a boat as the sun sets. Riverfront Cruises operates their popular “Venice of America” tour year-round, with evening departures perfect for catching the golden hour light on millionaire homes along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Their 90-minute tours cost $23 for adults and $13 for kids, with complimentary beer, wine, soda, and water included. I always book the sunset cruise because watching the city lights start to twinkle while you’re floating past mega-yachts never gets old. The live narration is entertaining too – guides share gossip about which celebrities own which mansions.
Tours depart from the New River near Las Olas Boulevard, with parking just a 3-minute walk away. Book online in advance, especially during peak season, as these cruises regularly sell out. The boats have both covered seating with air conditioning and open-air decks. For a splurge, their dinner cruise packages run $164 per person including tax and gratuity, combining a meal at The House on the River with dessert and coffee aboard the boat.
4. Take a Food Tour Through Downtown Las Olas
Food tours in Las Olas are way better than just wandering around hoping you’ll find good restaurants. Craft Food Tours runs evening tours that hit 4-5 spots over three hours, and you’ll actually eat enough to call it dinner.
The tours start around 6 PM and cost about $75 per person, which includes all the tastings plus two alcoholic drinks. I was skeptical about the portion sizes when I first did this, but they’re pretty generous – think appetizer-sized portions at each stop, not tiny bites. The guide knows all the insider spots and local history, so you’re getting way more than just food.
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They hit everything from upscale restaurants to local gems you’d never find on your own. When I went, we stopped at places like Gran Forno for Italian, a craft cocktail spot, and this awesome bakery that does crazy good desserts. The variety’s impressive, and they can handle most dietary restrictions if you give them advance notice.
Tours run year-round and they’ll go rain or shine, so bring an umbrella just in case. The walking’s pretty minimal – maybe a mile total over three hours with plenty of air-conditioned stops. Book online at craftfoodtours.com, and honestly, it’s perfect for date night or when you want to impress visiting friends.
5. Hit the bars at Beach Place
Beach Place transforms into Fort Lauderdale’s party central after dark, with this oceanfront complex housing some of the best nightlife spots on the strip. The Elbo Room anchors the scene – this legendary dive bar has been serving drinks for over 60 years and still draws crowds with its no-frills atmosphere and strong pours.
For something more upscale, Lulu’s Bait Shack on the second floor serves oversized cocktails in novelty containers like hand-carved coconuts and fishbowls. Their Louisiana-style seafood pairs perfectly with the beachfront views. McSorley’s Beach Pub offers three floors of entertainment with a rooftop bar, sports viewing area, and weekend dance floor with house music.
Happy hour runs 4-7pm at most venues with 2-for-1 drink specials. Beach Place is free to wander, though some bars charge cover after 10pm on weekends. Parking can be challenging, so consider rideshare or arrive early. The oceanfront location means you can step outside any bar and have your toes in the sand within 30 seconds. Thursday nights are college nights with cheaper drinks and a younger crowd.
6. Experience Glow-in-the-Dark Paddleboarding
This is one of those activities that sounds gimmicky but actually delivers. Sunrise Paddleboards offers Glow Paddle Adventures where your board lights up the water in neon colors as you paddle through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways at night.
The tours run 2-3 hours and start after sunset, usually around 7 PM in winter and 8 PM in summer. You’ll pay about $65-85 per person, and they provide everything – the glow-in-the-dark board, paddle, life jacket, and basic instruction. No experience needed, though you should be comfortable in water since you might fall in.
I did this with friends last year and it’s actually pretty magical. The boards charge up during the day and then glow bright blue, green, or purple in the dark water. You’ll paddle through calm canals and see mansions lit up from a totally different perspective. The guides are solid and keep groups small, so it doesn’t feel like a tourist cattle call.
They require at least 6 people to book, so you might need to coordinate with friends or join another group. The experience includes wine tasting after the paddle if you’re over 21. Weather’s rarely an issue since they paddle in light rain – just no lightning. Book through sunrisepaddleboards.com and expect to get a little wet.
7. Dine at waterfront restaurants
Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront dining scene shines brightest after sunset when restaurant patios light up along the Intracoastal Waterway. 15th Street Fisheries inside Lauderdale Marina serves some of the city’s best seafood with boats bobbing right outside your table. Their signature shrimp and grits are worth the splurge, and I love watching the dinner cruise boats drift by.
Boatyard brings upscale nautical vibes with their chic decor and impressive menu. Their seared scallops are perfection, though you’ll want reservations especially on weekends since this place books up fast. The combination of flickering marina lights and gentle water sounds creates an atmosphere you can’t replicate anywhere inland.
Most waterfront restaurants offer outdoor seating year-round thanks to South Florida’s perfect climate. Dinner typically starts around 5pm, with many kitchens staying open until 10pm or later. Expect to pay premium prices for the views – entrees range from $25-45 at most upscale spots. Valet parking is available at many locations, or look for street parking along the side roads. The cool breeze off the water makes dining comfortable even on warm evenings.
8. Club Hop in Himarshee Village
Himarshee Village downtown is where the real clubbing happens in Fort Lauderdale. It’s a small area with about 6-7 bars and clubs within walking distance, so you can easily bar hop without dealing with rides or parking multiple times.
SWAY Nightclub is the main attraction – a 14,000 square foot space with three VIP sections and different music in each area. Cover charges run $10-20, and drinks are typical nightclub pricing ($12-15). The crowd skews younger on weekends but it’s not exclusively college kids. Escape Lounge is another solid option with better music if you’re into hip-hop and Latin beats.
I actually prefer starting at some of the smaller bars like Waxy O’Connor’s for drinks and then hitting the clubs later. The Irish pub has live music some nights and way cheaper drinks during happy hour. Southport Raw Bar is good if you want something more chill with an older crowd.
Most places don’t charge cover before 10 PM, so start early and work your way through the scene. Parking can be brutal on weekends – there’s a garage on 2nd Street that’ll run you about $10-15 for the night. The area’s pretty safe but stick to the main strip and use rideshares if you’re drinking heavily.
9. Catch a show at Broward Center
Broward Center for the Performing Arts ranks among the top ten most-visited theaters worldwide, presenting over 700 performances annually in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Their Broadway series brings major touring productions like “Life of Pi” and “Kimberly Akimbo” to South Florida, with season tickets starting at $323 for six shows.
I’m always impressed by the acoustics and sightlines in this venue – there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. The center hosts everything from Broadway musicals and classical concerts to dance performances and comedy shows. Individual show tickets vary widely based on the production and seating, with premium orchestra seats often running $75-150 for major touring shows.
Located at 201 SW Fifth Avenue, the center offers convenient downtown parking and is walking distance from restaurants for pre-show dining. Book tickets well in advance for popular Broadway shows, as they frequently sell out. The venue’s Club Level packages include premium seating and amenities for an additional $95 per ticket. Check their website for current show schedules since programming changes frequently throughout the season.
10. Try Late-Night Dining After Midnight
Finding decent food after midnight in Fort Lauderdale isn’t impossible, but you need to know where to look. Rick’s Steakhouse & Lounge stays open until 2 AM and serves their full menu, not just bar food. It’s pricier ($30-50 for entrees) but the quality’s legit.
Big City Tavern on Las Olas has a late-night menu until 1 AM with decent burgers and apps. The atmosphere’s lively and the location’s perfect if you’re already out in the area. American Social also keeps their kitchen open late with a solid selection of shared plates and cocktails.
The Wharf and Earls Kitchen + Bar both serve late, though Earls has the better late-night happy hour deals. Most of these places cater to the after-bar crowd, so expect it to be busy on Friday and Saturday nights. Having backup options is smart because kitchens sometimes close early if they’re slow.
11. Experience the art scene
FATVillage (Flagler Arts and Technology Village) hosts monthly ArtWalks on the last Saturday of each month, transforming the arts district into a buzzing nighttime destination. These free events feature live music, food trucks, and dozens of open studios where you can meet local artists and browse their work. I always discover something unexpected wandering through the galleries.
For a unique historical perspective, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers moonlight garden tours that showcase this 1920s estate in atmospheric evening lighting. The tours provide fascinating stories about the property’s eccentric former owners while you stroll through the historic rooms and gardens.
NSU Art Museum in downtown stays open late for special exhibitions and events. Their contemporary art collections are particularly strong, with rotating shows that keep the scene fresh. Many galleries cluster along Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk area, making it easy to gallery-hop on foot. The Fat Village area has transformed dramatically in recent years, with new studios and creative spaces opening regularly. Most ArtWalk events are free, though some venues may charge for drinks or special workshops.
12. Dance at SWAY or DAER Nightclub
Fort Lauderdale’s club scene has seriously upgraded in the last few years. SWAY Nightclub downtown is the main event – 14,000 square feet with three levels and different vibes in each section. The main floor pumps EDM and hip-hop, while the upstairs Girls Gone SWAY VIP Lounge overlooks everything.
DAER Nightclub at Seminole Hard Rock is even bigger at 44,000 square feet with both indoor and outdoor areas. This place books actual big-name DJs and feels more like a Miami club. Cover charges run $20-30 on weekends, but you can sometimes get on guest lists through their websites.
Honestly, I prefer SWAY because it feels more local and less touristy. The crowd’s mixed ages, not just college kids, and the music varies between rooms so you can find your vibe. DAER’s impressive but you’re paying Miami prices for drinks ($15+ for mixed drinks).
Both places have dress codes – no flip-flops, tank tops for guys, or overly casual clothes. Ladies usually get in free before midnight at SWAY, while guys pay $10-15. Show up before 11 PM to avoid lines and higher cover charges. The Hard Rock has way more parking, but downtown Fort Lauderdale has better after-party options if you want to keep the night going.
13. Sip cocktails at rooftop bars
Rooftop @ 1WLO offers panoramic views of downtown Fort Lauderdale and the New River, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset melt into evening. The creative cocktail menu and modern atmosphere attract both locals and visitors looking for that Instagram-worthy skyline shot. I’ve spent countless evenings here watching the city transform as the lights come on.
W Fort Lauderdale’s rooftop bar brings Miami-level sophistication with stylish decor and spectacular ocean views. The combination of city skyline and Atlantic horizon creates a backdrop that feels uniquely South Florida. Craft cocktails run $15-18, but the views justify the premium pricing.
Most rooftop bars open around 4pm and stay busy until late, especially on weekends. Dress codes lean upscale casual – no flip-flops or beachwear. Many offer happy hour specials from 4-7pm with discounted drinks and small plates. Make reservations when possible, particularly for larger groups or weekend visits. The elevator ride up to these venues builds anticipation, and the payoff is always worth it when those doors open to reveal the sparkling cityscape below.
14. Take a Full Moon Kayak Tour
Full moon kayak tours are actually one of the coolest ways to see Fort Lauderdale at night. Wannado Tours runs these monthly when the moon’s bright enough to illuminate the water – no headlamps needed.
The tours cost about $50-65 per person and last 2-3 hours, starting right around sunset so you catch both the sunset colors and moonrise. You’ll paddle through calm waterways where the moonlight reflects off the water and lights up the mansions along the shore. It’s way more peaceful than the daytime boat traffic.
I did this last spring and was surprised how different the city looks at night from water level. You see all the houses lit up, hear music drifting from restaurants, and occasionally spot fish jumping. The guides know the area well and share stories about the history and wildlife.
No experience needed – they provide basic instruction and all equipment. Just wear clothes you don’t mind getting damp and bring a water bottle. Tours are weather-dependent and require at least 4 people to run. Check their website for the monthly schedule since full moon timing changes obviously. It’s definitely more romantic than the party boat scene if you’re looking for something low-key with a date.
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15. Join a ghost tour
Fort Lauderdale Ghost Tour takes you through downtown’s historic district after dark, sharing eerie tales and local legends that span over a century. The walking tour lasts about two hours and costs around $25 per person, covering the city’s oldest buildings while your guide weaves together ghost stories with legitimate historical facts.
I went in skeptical but found myself genuinely engaged by the blend of supernatural tales and actual Fort Lauderdale history. You’ll visit the Stranahan House (the city’s oldest structure from 1901) and other historic buildings while learning about the colorful characters who shaped early Fort Lauderdale. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s a fascinating way to see a different side of the city.
Tours typically start around sunset and cover about 10 blocks of downtown walking. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be on your feet for most of the experience. Book in advance through their website as tours frequently sell out, especially during tourist season. The guides are knowledgeable about local history beyond just the spooky stories, making this educational as well as entertaining. Meeting point is usually near the Riverwalk area with easy parking nearby.
16. Try your luck at Seminole Hard Rock Casino
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in nearby Hollywood delivers Las Vegas-style gaming and entertainment just 20 minutes south of Fort Lauderdale. The casino floor buzzes 24/7 with everything from penny slots to high-stakes poker tables, plus a race book for sports betting. You must be 21 to enter the gaming areas, though the restaurants and entertainment venues welcome all ages.
The entertainment lineup regularly features major concerts, comedy shows, and special events – check their schedule online when planning your visit. I’ve caught some incredible live music here over the years, from intimate club shows to arena-style concerts. The poker room hosts daily tournaments and cash games if you’re feeling competitive.
Dining options range from casual to upscale, with several restaurants staying open late to accommodate the casino crowd. The Hard Rock Café offers familiar comfort food, while Council Oak serves premium steaks and seafood. Dress code is casual for most areas, though upscale dining venues and some clubs require more formal attire. Self-parking is free, and valet service is available for a fee. The guitar-shaped hotel tower is visible from miles away, making it impossible to miss.
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17. Listen to live music
Revolution Live stands out as Fort Lauderdale’s premier live music venue, hosting everyone from up-and-coming indie bands to major touring acts. The multi-level space offers both intimate viewing areas and larger standing room sections depending on the show. I’ve seen incredible performances here across all genres – the sound system and lighting are professional-grade.
For jazz lovers, Mangos on Las Olas provides an intimate setting with local musicians performing several nights per week. The atmosphere feels authentically laid-back, perfect for sipping cocktails while talented artists showcase their skills. Culture Room offers another great option for live music in a smaller, more personal venue where you can really connect with the performers.
Most venues post their schedules online several weeks in advance, so check websites before making plans. Ticket prices vary widely based on the act, ranging from $15-20 for local bands to $50+ for major touring artists. Many venues offer both seated and standing options. The Las Olas area concentrates several music venues within walking distance, making it easy to bar-hop if one show doesn’t grab you. Get there early for popular shows as the best spots fill up quickly.
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18. Take evening beach walks
Fort Lauderdale Beach transforms into a serene escape after sunset, with the white sand extending for miles in both directions. The gentle sound of waves and the absence of daytime crowds create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection or romantic strolls. I often walk here to decompress after busy days – there’s something magical about having this beautiful beach mostly to yourself.
Dania Beach offers even darker skies for stargazing, located far enough from downtown lights to see the Milky Way on clear nights. Bring a blanket or beach chair to sit back and take in the celestial show. The beach stays open 24/7 and requires no admission fees, making it one of the city’s best free activities.
Safety is generally good along the main beach areas, though stay aware of your surroundings as with any nighttime activity. Beach access points have adequate lighting, and patrol officers make regular rounds. Pack water and snacks if you plan a longer walk, as beachfront concessions close by evening. The wide, flat sand makes walking easy even in low light. On weekends, you might encounter other beach walkers or couples enjoying the romantic setting, but weeknights offer more solitude.
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19. Watch a sporting event
DRV PNK Stadium in nearby Fort Lauderdale hosts Inter Miami CF soccer matches, with evening games creating an electric atmosphere under the lights. The stadium’s intimate 18,000-seat capacity means you’re close to the action no matter where you sit. Ticket prices start around $25 for upper-level seating, with premium locations running $75-150 depending on the opponent.
For hockey fans, the Florida Panthers play evening games at FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, about 30 minutes west. The arena also hosts concerts and other sporting events, many scheduled for nighttime. The fast-paced action and enthusiastic crowds create an energizing atmosphere that’s infectious even for casual sports fans.
Both venues offer full concession stands and bars, so you can grab dinner and drinks without leaving the stadium. Parking is available on-site for $20-30, or look for nearby lots with potentially lower rates. Check team websites for game schedules and ticket availability – popular matchups sell out weeks in advance. The energy of live sports under Friday or Saturday night lights provides a completely different vibe than daytime games, with crowds typically more animated and engaged.
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