Best Parks for Kids in Fort Lauderdale

This waterfront park offers shaded walking trails along the Intracoastal Waterway with access to ocean beaches and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities, including turtles. The loop trail system and scattered picnic areas make it an ideal peaceful retreat from Fort Lauderdale's urban energy.

• Address: 3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
• Website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Hugh-Taylor-Birch
• Price: Free; vehicle entrance fee applies

This expansive park near downtown Fort Lauderdale offers comprehensive recreational facilities including the Jimmy Evert Tennis Center. Despite its large size and prime location, it maintains a hidden gem quality that locals appreciate.

• Address: 1150 G. Harold Martin Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
• Website: https://www.parks.fortlauderdale.gov/parks/parks/holiday-park
• Price: Free

This waterfront pathway along the New River offers scenic strolls through lush tropical landscaping with views of downtown buildings and passing boats. The walk is particularly beautiful at sunset, and visitors can catch complimentary water taxi rides to see the city from the river perspective.

• Address: 888 E Las Olas Blvd #210, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
• Website: http://www.goriverwalk.com/
• Price: Free

This expansive park near the airport offers an impressive canopy of old-growth oaks and banyan trees that provide exceptional shade, making it comfortable even during Florida's hot summers. Visitors enjoy the diverse amenities including catch-and-release fishing, disc golf, volleyball courts, hiking trails, and peaceful butterfly and edible gardens.

• Address: 3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
• Website: https://www.parks.fortlauderdale.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/62/1091
• Price: Free

This peaceful lakeside park features a paved walking trail around calm waters where visitors can spot friendly ducks and ibis birds among towering old trees. The spacious grounds include well-maintained picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of free parking, making it a favored local retreat away from tourist crowds.

• Address: 3300 N Park Rd, Hollywood, FL 33021
• Website: http://www.broward.org/Parks/Pages/Park.aspx?=37
• Price: Free; waterplay area has separate admission