Are you on the lookout for Fort Lauderdale’s finest museums? Well, you’re in luck! This article is your ultimate companion for diving into art, science, and exploration in the Venice of America. Here, you’ll uncover exciting details about each museum, including their intriguing exhibits, opening hours, and ticket prices.But that’s not all! With our handy 🗺️ map, finding your way to each location is a breeze. And if you’ve got any burning questions, fear not! Our FAQ section has got you covered. ❓.
The 10 Best Museums in Fort Lauderdale
Visit the 10 best museums in Fort Lauderdale! Embark on an enriching journey through The Venice of America! Beyond its sun-kissed beaches and picturesque canals lies a hidden world of art, history, and exploration. Join us as we unveil the gems waiting to be discovered.
Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science is the premier museum in Fort Lauderdale and a must-visit destination, especially if you’re traveling with children. Dive into a world of wonder where dinosaurs roam, planes soar, and the mysteries of space await your exploration. You can even catch the latest releases at its incredible IMAX 3-D theater. It stands out as one of the top family activities in the Venice of America.
If you’re seeking a fun-filled experience packed with diverse and interactive moments, grab your crew and join the fun at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale.
| Museum | Museum of Discovery & Science |
| Address | 401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 |
| Working hours | Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Open 7 days a week and 362 days a year. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Bank of America Celebration Day, and during the annual gala. |
| Ticket Prices | USD $27 for adults. Discounts available for seniors and children. Infants aged 23 months or younger enter for free. |
| Top Exhibits | Otter Encounter Tank (you can even have breakfast with them), Fossil Dig alongside a representation of a massive megalodon, hands-on learning with LEGOs |
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
If you’re seeking one of Fort Lauderdale’s top cultural attractions and finest art museums, the NSU Art Museum is a destination you can’t afford to miss. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in innovative art exhibitions, educational workshops, talks, and special events.
It’s the quintessential Art Museum of Fort Lauderdale, boasting a collection of over 7,500 works. Within its permanent exhibitions, you’ll find pieces by both international and regional artists, with a focus on contemporary, Latin American, women, and Black art. There are also African artistic elements dating back to the 19th century.
| Museum | NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale |
| Address | 1 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |
| Working hours | Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Closed on Mondays. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | USD $16 for adults. Discounts available for seniors, students, and military members. Children under 12 enter for free. |
| What to See | The museum features works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Fernando Botero, and Leonora Carrington. Additionally, there are African artistic elements spanning from the 19th century to the 21st century. |
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
As one of the finest museums in Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a treasure trove of artworks collected in the lifetime of painter Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wives, along with their original creations. In fact, the house itself stands as a magnificent creation of Bartlett, envisioned and built in 1920.
The mansion’s allure is heightened by its sprawling garden, a lush sanctuary that captures the essence of Florida’s natural beauty, cocooning visitors in a serene green oasis. Perfect for couples seeking a delightful stroll amidst picturesque surroundings.
| Museum | Bonnet House Museum & Gardens |
| Address | 900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 |
| Working hours | Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Closed on Mondays. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | USD $25 for self-guided tours for adults. USD $30 for guided tours for adults. Discounts apply for visitors under 16 years old. Children under 5 years old enter for free. |
| What to See | The museum features works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Gauguin, and Georges Seurat collected by Bartlett, as well as paintings created by the latter and his wives. |
Stranahan House Museum
The Historic Stranahan House stands as a premier destination for history enthusiasts in Fort Lauderdale. This iconic mansion, built by Frank Stranahan in 1901, not only boasts classic architecture but also holds the distinction of being Broward County’s oldest surviving structure. Once the residence of the region’s inaugural schoolteacher, it serves as a poignant testament to the rich heritage of this dynamic Florida city.
| Museum | Stranaham House Museum |
| Address | 335 SE 6th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |
| Working hours | Open from Tuesday to Saturday, exclusively for scheduled tours at 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 5:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | USD $12 for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children. |
| What to See | Immerse yourself in Fort Lauderdale’s past and the key figures who shaped its development as a city. |
History Fort Lauderdale
History Fort Lauderdale is a captivating museum and historic house complex overseen by the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society. Step back in time as you discover Broward County’s oldest structures, including the charming 1905 New River Inn hotel. But that’s not all – delve deeper into the city’s past with guided tours, engaging public lectures, and hands-on workshops. It’s the perfect chance to dive into the rich history of the Venice of America!
| Museum | History Fort Laudedale |
| Address | 231 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |
| Working hours | Every day of the week, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Guided tours are available at 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Admission (for adults) is USD $10 for self-guided tours and USD $15 for guided tours. Discounts are available for seniors and children. Children under 6 years old enter for free. |
| What to See | Immerse yourself in history through guided tours showcasing documents and materials that record the city’s past. Explore both temporary and permanent exhibitions for a comprehensive understanding of our heritage. |
Girls’ Club
The Girls’ Club is not your typical art collection. It’s a treasure trove of contemporary art crafted by women, making it a standout gem among Fort Lauderdale’s museums. With over 800 pieces lovingly curated by Francie Bishop Good and David Horvitz over three decades, it’s not just a gallery – it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art and culture.
| Museum | Girls’ Club |
| Address | 330 SW 2 Street, Unit 102, Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Working hours | Fridays from 1:00 to 5:00 pm by appointment only. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Admission is free for self-guided tours. Private tours are also available, with a suggested donation of USD $10 per person. |
| What to See | Marvel at an extensive collection of artworks and diverse exhibitions showcasing art created by women. |
Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum
The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum is far more than just Broward County’s sole military museum. It stands as the sole remaining structure from a sprawling World War II naval base and a training center for TMB Avenger aircraft pilots, boasting a meticulously preserved simulator. Dive into the world of past military aviation and explore the mysteries surrounding Flight 19, lost in the Bermuda Triangle.
| Museum | Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum |
| Address | 4000 W Perimeter Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315, Estados Unidos |
| Working hours | Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Admission is free, and the duration of the tour varies based on visitor interest. A donation of USD $5 is recommended for groups of more than 5 people. |
| What to See | Discover artifacts from air and naval warfare of World War II, including an anti-aircraft gun, submarine torpedoes, and a TMB Avenger aircraft model. |
Stonewall National Museum & Archives
The Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library is a standout gem in Fort Lauderdale’s cultural landscape. Here, you’ll find captivating art exhibitions alongside a wealth of research materials and archives chronicling the LGBTQIA+ community’s rich history in the United States. But it’s not just a museum – it’s a vibrant hub of activity. This nonprofit organization hosts public programs, author talks, film screenings, and more, creating inclusive spaces for gathering, dialogue, and support.
| Museum | Stonewall National Museum & Archives |
| Address | 1300 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Estados Unidos |
| Working hours | Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Thursdays from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Admission is free. Access to their research materials is also free; however, like in other libraries, you need a membership to borrow items to take home. |
| What to See | Immerse yourself in diverse art exhibitions crafted by LGBTQIA+ individuals and delve deeper into this community and its role within American social, political, and cultural history. |
World AIDS Museum and Educational Center
At the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, you’ll find more than just a collection of exhibits. It’s a dynamic space dedicated to learning and spreading awareness about AIDS, commemorating its history, and honoring those affected by it. Beyond being a top-notch museum in Fort Lauderdale, it’s a vibrant cultural hub. From captivating art displays to book launches, poetry readings, and film screenings, there’s always something happening here. Plus, they offer a supportive community for those living with HIV/AIDS. Come explore, learn, and connect at this inspiring venue.
| Museum | World AIDS Museum and Educational Center |
| Address | 1350 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Estados Unidos |
| Working hours | Monday to Friday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. Open to the public. |
| What to See | Immerse yourself in a variety of art exhibitions created by individuals who are fighting against AIDS, raising awareness about this condition. |
International Swimming Hall Of Fame
A must-visit for all water sports enthusiasts. The International Swimming Hall of Fame (known as ISHOF) honors swimming and commemorates the great figures who have achieved fame and made their mark in this activity over the decades. It also features a shop with swimming equipment.
| Museum | International Swimming Hall Of Fame |
| Address | 4000 W Perimeter Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 |
| Working hours | Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | USD $8 for adults. USD $6 for students. Military personnel and children under 5 years old enter for free. |
| What to See | Explore the historical development of swimming, admire various related artifacts, and learn more about the greatest swimmers of the past and present. |
More Must-See Museums in Fort Lauderdale and Beyond!
There’s so much left to explore in the Venice of America! Check out these additional museums you can’t miss while visiting Fort Lauderdale. Make the most of your trip to Florida and connect with culture and learning.
Young At Art Museum
Don’t miss out on the Young At Art Museum – it’s a must-visit for families in Fort Lauderdale! Here, kids can dive into different rooms filled with hands-on activities like painting, sculpting, and crafting, perfect for sparking their creativity. With interactive exhibits offering sensory experiences and exhibitions suitable for all ages, there’s something for everyone. Plus, keep an eye out for scheduled events and holiday courses to make your visit even more exciting!
| Museum | Young At Art Museum |
| Address | 8000 W Broward Blvd Ste 1208, Plantation, FL 33388 |
| Working hours | Wednesday to Sunday, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | USD $12 for both children and adults. |
| What to See | Children can learn and practice painting, sculpting, and crafting skills. Interactive rooms and activities stimulate imagination and the senses. |
Old Dillard Museum
Step into history at the Old Dillard Museum – a true cultural gem in Fort Lauderdale. This historic institution was the very first school for African Americans in the city, dating all the way back to 1907. Inside, you’ll discover captivating art exhibitions, compelling photographs, and intriguing artifacts, all shedding light on the rich legacy of black history in Florida and across the nation.
And here’s an interesting tidbit: the museum’s current location was once home to YAA Arthouse, a community initiative by The Young at Art Museum that made waves in its day.
| Museum | Old Dillard Museum |
| Address | 1009 NW 4th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 |
| Working hours | Open from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. Accepts donations. |
| What to See | Visit the first school for African Americans in Fort Lauderdale and uncover the community’s history through artifacts and a guided exhibition. |
The Craig and Barbara Weiner Holocaust Reflection and Resource Center
Enter the immersive realm of The Craig and Barbara Weiner Holocaust Reflection and Resource Center. Explore two captivating rooms filled with artifacts, immersive audiovisual materials like films, documentaries, and recorded testimonies, all shedding light on the profound tragedy of the Holocaust during World War II. You’ll find this enlightening museum nestled on the second floor of the Alvin Sherman Library at Nova Southeastern University.
| Museum | The Craig and Barbara Weiner Holocaust Reflection and Resource Center |
| Address | Alvin Sherman Library, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314 |
| Working hours | Open seven days a week. Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Sundays from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. |
| What to See | Over 250 original artifacts from the Holocaust era. Interactive videos and images via QR codes aimed at educating and preventing scenarios of hatred, such as those experienced by the Jewish community during World War II. |
Fire & Safety Museum
The Fire & Safety Museum is housed in a historic fire station built in 1927. In 2004, it was found unnecessary for modern firefighting systems, so it was transformed into a cozy museum showcasing information about the city’s major fires. It also displays items like articles, vehicles, and vintage firefighter uniforms. Run by volunteers, admission is free, though the hours may be somewhat limited.
| Museum | Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum |
| Address | 1022 W Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 |
| Working hours | Open only on the last Saturday of each month, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. Accepts donations. |
| What to See | Featuring articles, vehicles, and vintage uniforms worn by Fort Lauderdale firefighters, some nearly a century old. It also provides an opportunity to learn about the city’s biggest and most famous fires. |
Bienes Museum of the Modern Book
The Bienes Museum of the Modern Book is the rare book division of the Broward County Library. Currently, it boasts over 15,000 items, including manuscripts, books, comics, artifacts, and reference materials. This museum library was established through the generous donation of Michael and Diane Bienes, after whom it is named.
| Museum | Bienes Museum of the Modern Book |
| Address | 100 S Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |
| Working hours | Monday and Wednesday, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed Saturdays and Sundays. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. Accepts donations. Access to reference materials requires filling out an electronic form. |
| What to See | Extensive book collection. This library has over 15,000 copies and stands out primarily in formats such as comics, illustrated books, unconventional works, press, and alphabets. |
Plantation Historical Museum
Step into the inviting Plantation Historical Museum to uncover the rich history of Plantation, the quaint city nestled west of Fort Lauderdale. Here, you’ll explore captivating dioramas showcasing the city’s architectural evolution, and you’ll find a calendar packed with exciting events happening every month. Plus, if you’re fascinated by the Seminole and Tequesta indigenous cultures, this museum is the perfect place to dive deeper into their heritage.
| Museum | Plantation Historical Museum |
| Address | 511 N Fig Tree Ln, Plantation, FL 33317 |
| Working hours | Wednesday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays. |
| Ticket Prices (in 2023) | Free admission. Accepts donations. |
| What to See | City dioramas. Learn about the history of Plantation and the Seminole and Tequesta indigenous communities. |
Map of the Top Museums in Fort Lauderdale
Frequently Asked Questions about Museums in Fort Lauderdale
What museums can I visit for free in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale offers several free museums, including the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum, Girls’ Club, and Stonewall National Museum Archive and Library. Conveniently located near each other, you can easily explore all three without spending a dime.
Which museum is considered the best in Fort Lauderdale?
According to many visitors, the Museum of Discovery and Science takes the title as the top museum in Fort Lauderdale. Loved by kids and science enthusiasts alike, it’s not just educational but also a whole lot of fun. Parents often see it as an essential part of their children’s learning experience.
What can I do for free in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale offers a plethora of free activities to enjoy! Some of the best ones are:
- Soak up the sun at the white sands of Las Olas Beach.
- Stroll along Las Olas Boulevard, the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s commerce.
- Connect with nature at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
- Explore Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale and admire the New River with the city’s canals.
What are the must-do activities in Downtown Fort Lauderdale?
Downtown Fort Lauderdale is brimming with exciting activities. Here are some you can’t miss:
- Swim or engage in water sports at the beaches near the city center, such as Las Olas Beach or Fort Lauderdale Beach.
- Indulge in fine dining or visit one of the art galleries along Las Olas Boulevard.
- Enjoy the nightlife of the Venice of America by visiting one of its numerous nightclubs.
- Treat yourself to an afternoon of shopping among the numerous stores or head to The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale mall.
- Take a tour of the canals, perhaps at sunset, and cruise along the waters of the New River under the setting sun.
Thank you for joining us in this adventure! We truly hope the tips and info shared help you dive into the vibrant museum scene of the Venice of America. And remember, there’s plenty more exciting plans and must-visit destinations in the United States and around the globe waiting for you on our blog. Discover the world with Viajemos!