Florida is known for having fair weather, even better fishing, and the best golfing in the world. Fort Lauderdale is one of those port cities that will be for the outdoors personality, nestled just north of the Everglades National Park and boasts some of the best fishing in town.
On the other hand, Miami will be the place for those looking to enjoy the nightlife, which you can not do better than South Beach or a stay at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood.
Plus, there are a few sports teams in town, including the Heat if you are in the National Basketball Association.
What are the Differences?
There are going to be stark differences between these two cities, even though they share the same Atlantic coastline. Maimi is more of an urban environment, with resorts and high-class entertainment for those craving the nightlife and a casino gambling atmosphere.
Fort Lauderdale has a more rural and outdoors men’s atmosphere, but most famously, the Everglades National Park is within reach, and the fishing between the Atlantic and Gulf currents is unmatched when with an experienced charter captain.
Not to say Miami does not have its share of picturesque sunrises and sunsets, but when you think of the gem of Florida, it would be closer to Fort Lauderdale.
Pros and Cons of Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami
The pros of staying in the beauty of Fort Lauderdale will be the amazing views and beaches, but as mentioned above, the Everglades National Park will be worth the visit. Con will be the danger of hurricane season, which will also be a con for Miami, but not for this situation.
Most recently, Hurricane Ian laid waste to the cities and towns of Southern Florida, leaving nearly a billion dollars of damage in its wake. The Pro for Miami will be the vibrant nightlife and the variety of entertainment options during the Florida evenings.
Which One has More Kids’ Entertainment?
As we mentioned earlier in the article, Miami will be geared more toward those looking to enjoy warm nights and vibrant evening entertainment. Unfortunately, that is not exactly what most families are looking for when planning a vacation.
That being said, the zoo is top-class, and the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science will be worth a visit.
Fort Lauderdale will undoubtedly be more family-friendly when it comes to the entertainment options available, including the Museum of Discovery and Science and a multitude of outdoor activities for the whole family to participate in.
Consider taking your kids on an adventure up the everglades to see the Flamingo Gardens or via airboat to see the gators.
Which one has More Things to do for Adults?
The night skies are clear, and the air is warm as you step out onto the South Beach streets. Floridians call this place Magic City, for the nightclubs in Miami rival those around the world. Musical tastes will range from salsa to reggae but do not stop at the nightlife.
Miami beach is known for its signature architecture from the throwback hotels from the thirties and forties.
Fort Lauderdale will not be without its adult recreational options, including chartered fishing trips and guided Gulf and National Parks tours.
In spring, they host the Tortuga Music Festival, also the Fort Lauderdale Air Show featuring the US Navy Blue Angels, but maybe most locally known for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, which is the largest in the world.
When is the Best Time for a Family Vacation in Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami?
The thing about Florida is that the temperature and weather are pleasant all year round, but the risk of a hurricane comes in the months between June and November, which begs the question, are you wintered in a cold place?
Of course, if you live in the fridge places of North America, visiting either of these cities would be a good idea, but maybe Miami will be the better choice as the NBA’s Miami Heat will be playing around that time of year.
As for fishing in Fort Lauderdale, the best policy is to find the catch you are seeking and research the best time of year to be on the water. Wetting your line, for example, in December, you will be behooved to fish for that Grouper, Snapper, or trophy Sailfish.
Final Thoughts on Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami for Family Vacation
You can hardly go wrong with either choice concerning a single or couple vacation. On the other hand, urban families might want to lean towards Miami and catch a basketball game or a performance at one of their entertainment halls.
If you have a rural or country family, the outdoor recreation in the Fort Lauderdale region will perfectly suit your entertainment needs.