Greater Fort Lauderdale has solidified its status as a mecca for vacationers and sports enthusiasts with an array of exciting mid-year updates to take your summer experience to new heights. Among the many thrilling events, the area is set to welcome football superstar Lionel Messi, who will don his cleats for Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium. This development is a significant coup for Inter Miami CF and the Greater Fort Lauderdale community, which is eager to welcome a new wave of visitors keen on catching a glimpse of Messi in action.

The Greater Fort Lauderdale community, renowned for its world-class attractions and renowned sporting facilities, has made a significant stride in its sports tourism strategy. The area recently completed a $47 million renovation of the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and International Swimming Hall of Fame complex, which hosts Florida’s first Olympic-sized swimming pool, built-in 1926. The revamped complex comprises five swimming pools and a 27-meter dive tower with nine platform levels.

Visit Lauderdale Ale Trail Passport

But that’s not all. Greater Fort Lauderdale has introduced many summer discounts and specials to give vacationers a more bang-for-the-buck experience. Visit Lauderdale’s 101 Days of Summer campaign provides an array of 101 unforgettable local experiences. (source) In addition, the South Florida Adventure Pass offers unlimited entry to four significant attractions now through September 30, 2023, at discounted rates.

Savings don’t stop at tourist attractions. Visit Lauderdale’s “Show Your Badge” program provides special discounts at numerous local restaurants and retailers. On the culinary side, the “Dine Out Lauderdale” program offers a diverse range of three-course dining options at affordable prices throughout August.

The community has also launched the Visit Lauderdale Ale Trail. This free mobile passport lets beer lovers explore the area’s thriving brewery scene and earn discounts at 13 Ale Trail stops.

Transport-wise, Greater Fort Lauderdale has improved accessibility by expanding Brightline, Florida’s high-speed train, which now features new stations in Boca Raton and Aventura. Travellers with visual impairment can now access complimentary assistance at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) through a partnership with Aira, a graphic interpreting service.

From September 13, 2023, travellers can take advantage of El Al Israel Airlines’ new nonstop seasonal service between FLL and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. And for those seeking eco-friendly mobility solutions, LauderGo! Micro Mover offers a free, sustainable travel option around downtown Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas, and the beach.

Port Everglades has also unveiled exciting developments, with Disney Cruise Line set to launch its operations from the port starting in November.

As for special events and perks, locals and visitors can now take advantage of the Pompano Beach Toy Library, courtesy of local Girl Scout Troop 10276. Additionally, the 2023 South Florida Book Festival, themed “WORD! Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop Culture”, promises a delightful fusion of literature, visual and performing arts.

On the accommodation front, the area is seeing the renovation and expansion of some of its iconic hotels, such as Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center and the Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina. Wilton Manors, widespread among the LGBT+ community, will soon host its first-ever hotel, the Wilton Hotel & Pool Club.

Lastly, Greater Fort Lauderdale is proud to debut a host of new dining and brewery establishments, including Olive & Sea, 2ONE2 Breeze Lounge, Sweet Green, Dream State Brewing, Popilicious Popcorn, La Fuga, and the much-anticipated Cove Brewery.

With an influx of world-class sporting talent, revamped accommodations, and mouthwatering culinary offerings, Greater Fort Lauderdale is the perfect blend of fun, excitement, and luxury, providing something for everyone under the sun this summer. So why wait? Start planning your best summer ever in the sun-soaked paradise of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Find inspiration for your next trip at visitlauderdale.com.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

===================================