Greater Fort Lauderdale is revamping its tourism offerings with new hotels, restaurants, and seasonal events

Greater Fort Lauderdale, in South Florida, is kicking off the late winter and spring travel season with a major overhaul of its tourism offerings. New accommodations, dining options, revamped urban spaces, and cultural festivals aim to attract both leisure travelers and families and couples seeking warm weather and outdoor activities.

New hotels and renovated accommodations

The destination is adding new openings and renovations geared towards a more contemporary experience. The new Omni Fort Lauderdale, inaugurated in December 2025 within the Broward County Convention Center district, features 801 rooms, six dining options, a full-service spa, an infinity pool, and a rooftop bar, in addition to its proximity to beaches, the airport, and Port Everglades.

Meanwhile, the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in early 2026 that modernized its 219 rooms, incorporating updated design and direct ocean views.

The Garden Hotel and Resort, formerly Royal Beach Palace, has also reopened, transformed into a 155-room boutique hotel with a modern coastal aesthetic, three outdoor pools and a new in-house restaurant, located a short distance from the beach.

Expanding gastronomic scene

The local culinary scene continues to diversify. In Fort Lauderdale Beach, the James Beard Award-nominated Italian aperitif bar ViceVersa is holding a temporary residency at the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, offering Italian-inspired cocktails adapted to the South Florida style.

Other new additions include Bar Betty, a speakeasy with live music; The Break House in Deerfield Beach with the city's first rooftop bar facing the Atlantic; and Lucky Lou's Raw Bar, specializing in oysters and fresh seafood.

In Pompano Beach, Lola's on the Water offers boat access and combines Middle Eastern cuisine with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Further inland, Café Bastille opened a new Parisian-inspired brunch spot in Weston, while Oakland Park added Bondi Sushi, a restaurant with a sushi bar and independent cocktail bar.

As a recreational option, Señor Frogs Fort Lauderdale incorporates the “Drag Brunch on the Beach”, a Sunday brunch with shows and a festive atmosphere by the sea.

Seasonal events and experiences

The city is also committed to cultural and family activities. Huizenga Park was renovated with a $15 million investment, becoming an urban green space with gardens, public art, a pet area, and a children's playground along the New River.

Between February 13 and 22, 2026, IGNITE Broward returns, a free festival of art, technology and immersive light installations in different locations throughout the county, including the international airport.

The Visit Lauderdale Science Festival will take place on March 7 at the Museum of Discovery and Science, featuring STEM exhibits, workshops, and environmental screenings, while on March 28 the Fort Lauderdale Beer, Wine & Spirits Fest will bring together international breweries, wineries, and spirits with live music and local cuisine.

With this combination of renovated accommodations, culinary offerings, and cultural programming, Greater Fort Lauderdale reinforces its position as a versatile destination for warm-season travel, accessible for both short getaways and extended family vacations.

Source: Visit Lauderdale