Discover the Creative Side of Fort Lauderdale
It’s easy to be swept away by Fort Lauderdale’s white sand beaches and the timeless glitz of Las Olas Boulevard. However, beyond the staples that have made this South Florida city a vacation haven, a new hip, colorful and creative side is quickly emerging. Therefore, this vibrant transformation shouldn’t be missed.
FAT times in Flagler Village
While nearby Miami is home to Wynwood, a graffiti-clad urban utopia filled with boutiques and galleries, Fort Lauderdale’s Flagler Village is well on its way to becoming an equally exciting creative hub.
Located west of US-1 (locally known as Federal Highway), the burgeoning neighborhood boasts craft breweries such as Invasive Species, Flagler Village Brewery inside the Brass Tap, and American Icon Brewery Kitchen & Taproom. Yet, it’s the unique artsy vibe that keeps Flagler Village buzzing around the clock.
The heart of this artistic enclave is the FATVillage Arts District (standing for Flagler.Arts.Technology), a vibrant area filled with art galleries, Henry’s Sandwich Station, and the popular BREW Urban Café. By day, the café attracts locals and creatives enjoying locally-roasted Wells Coffee. By night, it often hosts live music, poetry readings, and movie showings that foster community engagement.
If you want to experience the best of Flagler Village and the FATVillage Arts District, don’t miss the ArtWalk on the last Saturday of each month, where galleries and businesses open their doors to showcase local artisans, live music, food trucks, and cold beer vendors.
The MASS district: Music and Arts South of Sunrise
Just north of FATVillage is the MASS District (Music & Arts South of Sunrise), offering a strollable blend of shops, galleries, and eateries. A highlight is Glitch Bar, an arcade bar featuring free video games like Skeeball and Nintendo 64, alongside craft beers and signature cocktails, providing a unique way to enjoy the local nightlife.
In addition to Flagler Village’s primary hubs, explore nearby attractions such as Chops + Hops (axe-throwing bar), Circle House Coffee (owned by a former Miami Dolphins linebacker), and 27 Bar & Lounge, where themed cocktails pay tribute to icons of the ’27 Club.
Brews and music in Middle River
Pockets of creativity are flourishing throughout Fort Lauderdale, particularly in the Middle River area, which features Tarpon River Brewing, Grind Coffee Project, and NYSW Jazz Lounge. NYSW Jazz Lounge, in particular, offers live jazz five nights a week, showcasing top local talent in an intimate setting.
Getting there
South Florida’s sparkling inter-city rail system, Virgin Trains USA (formerly Brightline), conveniently connects West Palm Beach, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Its Fort Lauderdale station, located centrally downtown, is an excellent starting point for exploring all the city has to offer.
For unique lodging, The Dalmar features a modern-meets-mid-century design, offering 209 stylish guestrooms and 33 suites. Its rooftop bar, Sparrow, provides panoramic views of the skyline, while the infinity pool on the 6th floor is perfect for relaxation without the crowds of the beach.
