Fort Lauderdale in 2 Days for Families - Hands-on learning at Museum of Discovery & Science
A relaxed, practical 2-day family itinerary in Fort Lauderdale tailored for families with young children. Short transfers, stroller-friendly routes, frequent breaks, and kid-friendly meals. Best visited in spring (March) for mild weather and long daylight.
Highlights
- Hands-on learning at Museum of Discovery & Science
- Stroller-friendly Las Olas Boulevard stroll with ice cream
- Beach time and playground at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
- Nature trails and wildlife at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- Butterfly World aviary experience
- Peaceful grounds at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Itinerary
Day 1
Downtown science morning, easy Las Olas lunch and stroll, afternoon park and beach time, early waterfront dinner.
Museum of Discovery and Science — morning: hands-on exhibits & IMAX (age 2+)
Interactive science exhibits, a soft-play area for little ones, and short IMAX films (check family-friendly showings). Prioritize the Hurricane Simulator and the water table for toddlers.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at opening (09:30) to avoid crowds; family restrooms and changing tables are available near the main lobby.
- Bring a lightweight stroller (museum is fully stroller-accessible); leave bulky bags in lockers if you have them to keep hands free for kids.
- Plan a 15–20 minute quiet break in the café area after exhibits for a snack — ideal for a slow transition to lunch and nap prep.
Lunch on Las Olas — family-friendly meal and high chair service
Short drive to Las Olas for a relaxed lunch at a casual spot on the boulevard with kids' options and easy stroller access.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a high chair and a kids' menu (most Las Olas restaurants accommodate allergies — mention any food allergies when ordering).
- Choose an outdoor table if possible for fresh air and space for strollers; Las Olas sidewalks are wide for a quick stroll afterward.
- If one child needs a nap, time lunch near benches or shaded spots so a caregiver can sit with a napping child in the stroller while the other adult walks briefly.
Stroll Las Olas Boulevard — window-shops, gelato and stroller-friendly sidewalks
Gentle post-lunch walk down Las Olas Boulevard. Stop for a kid-friendly treat (ice cream or sorbet) and explore small galleries and toy shops.
Tips from local experts:
- Stick to the shaded side streets mid-afternoon when sun can be stronger — stroller wheels roll smoothly on the main sidewalks.
- Stop at a local sweets shop (look for Kilwins) for a short treat break — a small sugar boost can keep littles happy between activities.
- Public restrooms are spaced along Las Olas; save time by using restroom stops in shops or cafés rather than waiting for a single public facility.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park — shaded trails, playground & easy beach access
A peaceful coastal park with stroller-friendly trails, a playground, and picnic spots — great for restless kids and a calm beach introduction.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the paved multi-use trail for strollers; the Visitor Center has clean restrooms and changing facilities.
- Bring a lightweight blanket for a quiet snack or short nap under the banyan trees — lots of shade reduces midday sun exposure.
- Check the short boardwalk to the intracoastal for possible manatee sightings in cooler months; keep a calm observation to avoid startling wildlife.
Early waterfront dinner at Coconuts — relaxed seafood with kids' options
Family-friendly waterfront restaurant with a casual atmosphere, accommodating staff, and views — a good finish to the day with early seating.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve an early table (around 18:00) to avoid evening crowds and get a waterfront spot with more space for strollers.
- Coconuts is allergy-aware — tell staff about dietary needs; kids' portions and approachable sides make ordering simple for picky eaters.
- Plan for a short post-dinner walk along the pier or seawall for wind-down time before bedtime — close parking makes transfer to car/ accommodation easy.
Day 2
Beach morning and aviary adventure, plus a gentle cultural garden visit and family dinner near the river.
Fort Lauderdale Beach Park — morning beach play & playground (ages 1–10)
Large sandy beach with an adjacent playground, restroom/changing facilities, and lifeguards on duty in spring. Morning is cooler and calmer for little ones.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early (09:00) for parking near the playground and to avoid the noon sun; bring a pop-up sunshade and reef-safe sunscreen.
- The playground and boardwalk are stroller-accessible; there's a family restroom with changing table near the park entrance.
- Pack a small picnic or snacks and a refillable water bottle; local vendors are available but can be busy at peak times.
Drive to Butterfly World — immersive aviary & insect exhibits (ages 3+)
A magical, calm space where children can see butterflies up close, watch feeding sessions, and enjoy covered walkways — perfect for curious young nature-lovers.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a 25–35 minute drive from central Fort Lauderdale; pack a small bag of essentials (water, hat) and use the on-site stroller parking near the entrance.
- Indoor and covered aviary areas are shaded and cooler — great if a child needs a quiet downtime away from bright sun.
- Bring a camera but lower the flash; the staff are used to kids and will point out safe viewing spots — check for butterfly feeding times posted at the front desk.
Afternoon visit to Bonnet House Museum & Gardens — gentle nature walk & art (family-friendly)
Historic house with shaded gardens that kids can explore; the grounds are calm and stroller-accessible in many areas — a quieter cultural stop after the aviary.
Tips from local experts:
- Timing mid-afternoon avoids the hottest sun; paths are mostly flat but some garden areas have uneven ground — a sturdy stroller or carrier is helpful.
- The guided family-friendly tour points out outdoor wildlife (birds and crabs) — ask for a short tour if younger children need an abbreviated visit.
- Use the outdoor benches for snack breaks; restrooms with changing tables are available at the visitor center before entering the grounds.
Early family dinner on Las Olas — pizza & pasta at Louie Bossi (kid-friendly)
Comfort food near the riverwalk with high chairs and pasta/pizza options kids usually like. Early dinner keeps the evening calm and ahead of bedtime.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table with room for a stroller and ask for a simple kids' pasta or pizza; staff are used to families and can adjust spice levels for children.
- If anyone has allergies, Italian kitchens here are used to altering dishes (ask to speak to a manager or chef) — simple grilled protein and veggies are reliable fallback choices.
- After dinner, take a 10–15 minute gentle Riverwalk stroll if kids have energy — benches and shaded spots allow for a calm end to the day before bed.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 6 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 9 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Restaurant, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Culture |
