Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk offers a delightful stretch along the New River for sightseeing, photography and romantic walks. 

Riverwalk runs along the river from about Southwest Fifth Street east toward Federal Highway, incorporating Esplanade Park.  It also serves as a scenic venue for food festivals and live jazz. 

Festivals & Events on Riverwalk

Riverwalk Jazz Brunch

Jazz Brunch on Riverwalk, features live entertainment from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on the first Sundays of the month at different points along the New River. If you’d like to nibble, pack your own picnic or purchase food from area restaurant vendors. Feel free to bring portable seats or blankets. Leashed pets are permitted. Parking fees apply. Check out directions and a parking map from the City of Fort Lauderdale. For information, call 954-828-5363 or visit the website. 

Riverwalk Photography Tips

Jason Leidy, who’s with Middle River Arts Photography and is director of photography for Go Riverwalk magazine, offered information about his favorite places for snapshots and sightseeing on Riverwalk.

“There’s a bunch of great photo moments on the Riverwalk. On the North Side, the view from the Broward Center steps looking east is tough to beat.  There’s… an oversized Adirondak chair just east of Esplanade Park that makes for a good sense of place.

“I also love the view from the landing at the West side of the Railroad tracks. You’re at a good height to take in the History District. Heading further East is one of the most Instagrammed public works of art in Fort Lauderdale. “Thrive” by artist Daniel Popper is on display at the breezeway of Society Las Olas.

“On the south side of the Riverwalk, some highlights include the view from Stranahan Landing. Looking north across the New River you can see one of the oldest buildings in Fort Lauderdale, the Stranahan House Museum. The views looking west from Smoker Park are another stunning point of view on the canyon of buildings along the river. Moving West, I’m partial to the floating docks in front of the Downtowner. The restaurant has history and a often overlooked alley to it’s East winds through some fun little courtyard moments. Walking the entire length of the North and South Side of the Riverwalk is always different.”

Rentals & Tours

• Phone or email to verify when vendor is open
• Riverwalk Recreation offers kayak, standup paddle board & bicycle rentals, and various tours
• 220 SW Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL; 954-526-5159 or info@riverwalkactivities.com

Other free & cheap things to do this weekend in South Florida

Sign up for South Florida on the Cheap newsletter. Follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Other free & inexpensive entertainment

Tuesday, May 30, 2023