Think you know Fort Lauderdale? Think again. Sure, it’s famous for its sun-drenched beaches, beautiful vacation rentals, and boat-filled canals—but this coastal Florida city has a few surprises up its (short, linen) sleeves.
From more Ferraris per square mile than you’d ever expect, to being the undisputed Yachting Capital of the World, Fort Lauderdale is bursting with quirky facts, high-end energy, and wild charm.
So buckle up—preferably in a red convertible—and discover 10 of the most unique, fun, and fabulous facts about Fort Lauderdale you didn’t know you needed.
1. Fort Lauderdale Has More Registered Yachts Than Any Other City on Earth
Move over Monaco—Fort Lauderdale is the global leader in yachts, with more than 50,000 registered vessels in its waterways. That’s more boats than people in some U.S. towns!
🛥️ It’s no wonder the city hosts the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) — the largest in the world — drawing more than 100,000 attendees and 1,000+ exhibitors each year.
📍 Want to live the yacht life without the yacht price tag? Book a Grimaldi canalfront rental and wave at passing mega-yachts from your backyard.
2. You’re Basically Vacationing in the “Venice of America”
With over 300 miles of inland waterways, Fort Lauderdale’s canal system is so vast and scenic that it’s earned the nickname: “The Venice of America.”
Locals and travelers alike use Water Taxis instead of Ubers, hopping from beach bars to rooftop brunches by boat.
🚤 PSA: There’s nothing like sipping a margarita while floating past million-dollar mansions. Do it. You deserve it.
3. Fort Lauderdale Has One of the Highest Ferrari Densities in the U.S.
Want to feel like you’ve walked into a scene from Fast & Fabulous: Coastal Edition?
You’re in luck. Las Olas Boulevard and the streets of Coral Ridge and Harbor Beach are known hotspots for Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and McLarens — often parked outside boutiques or casually idling at the valet.
📸 Pro Tip: Sunday mornings near Las Olas are the unofficial “Exotic Car Parade.” Bring your camera.
4. Fort Lauderdale Was Almost Called “New River Settlement”
Before it became the glitzy paradise we know today, the city was a humble trading post called the New River Settlement. It wasn’t until the 1830s, when Major William Lauderdale built a fort here, that the name changed.
Imagine telling your friends you’re flying to “New River” for spring break… not quite the same vibe.
5. Flamingos? Not Native. But We Love Them Anyway.
Despite being the unofficial mascot of Florida, flamingos aren’t actually native to Fort Lauderdale. But don’t tell the locals — you’ll find pink flamingo everything, from pool floats to bar signs and beach towels.
Looking for real Florida birds? Check out Flamingo Gardens — a wildlife sanctuary with actual flamingos, panthers, alligators, and more.
6. There’s a Secret Tunnel Under Las Olas (Yes, Really)
Las Olas Boulevard may be known for its shops and chic restaurants, but below all the glitz lies the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel — one of the few underwater highway tunnels in Florida.
It’s how U.S. Route 1 sneaks under the New River. Locals drive it every day. Tourists usually don’t even notice.
Now you know.
7. It’s One of the Top Cities in the U.S. for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Fort Lauderdale has been a leader in LGBTQ+ tourism for decades, and Wilton Manors, one of its neighborhoods, is often referred to as the “Second Gayest City in America” (after Provincetown, MA).
With rainbow crosswalks, inclusive bars, drag brunches, and pride events all year, it’s a city where everyone feels welcome — and celebrated.
🏳️🌈 Pro Tip: Stay in Wilton Manors with Grimaldi’s pet-friendly, walkable vacation rentals and experience the vibe for yourself.
8. There’s a Hidden Beach You Can Only Get to by Water Taxi
Forget the crowded beachfront — locals in the know head to Whiskey Creek Hideout inside Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. It’s only accessible by boat or kayak, and it’s absolutely worth the trip.
White sand, calm waters, and peace. Just the sound of birds and boats.
Pack a cooler, grab a paddleboard, and you’ll understand why locals keep this one a secret.
9. It’s a Filming Hotspot — But You’d Never Know It
Fort Lauderdale has quietly served as the backdrop for dozens of movies and TV shows, including Marley & Me, Caddyshack, The Glades, and Dexter.
But its real Hollywood moment? Where the Boys Are (1960) — the classic film that cemented Fort Lauderdale as America’s Spring Break capital.
These days, you’re more likely to spot a film crew in Victoria Park or on a luxury yacht near Sunrise Harbor.
10. Fort Lauderdale Has More Canals Than Amsterdam
True story. Amsterdam has about 60 miles of canals. Fort Lauderdale? Over 165 miles. And they’re not just scenic — they’re functional, navigable, and make boat ownership basically a city requirement.
You’re either on a boat, next to a boat, or thinking about boats.
🌊 Want to test the lifestyle? Rent a canalfront home with Grimaldi Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rentals and see what it’s like to dock a boat in your backyard.
How to Truly Experience Fort Lauderdale? Stay Local.
You could stay in a hotel that looks like every other hotel… or you could vacation in a neighborhood that locals actually live in, with your own backyard, full kitchen, and a driveway big enough for a Ferrari (no promises, though).
✨ Book direct with Grimaldi Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rentals for:
- Stunning homes in neighborhoods like Las Olas Isles, Wilton Manors, Coral Ridge, and Victoria Park
- Private pools, boat docks, chef kitchens, and tropical gardens
- Expert local recommendations and concierge-level service
- Zero booking platform fees
🎯 Ready to live the Fort Lauderdale lifestyle — yachts, flamingos, Ferraris and all?
👉 Book your stay today
