For many, the Fourth of July serves as the official commencement of the summer season. Though with the recession, unemployment and gas prices at a record highs, consumers are feeling more than just a pinch to their pockets and instead sharing their experience of a few Lennox Lewis punches and Bruce Lee kicks to their finances. This only leaves families who still want to take some time off to the enjoy the glory days of summer gravitating towards pocket saving alternatives like ”Stay- or Day-cations”.
This month we kick off our month long ”Welcome to Summer” series with the perfect Day-cation destination: Ft. Lauder dale. A three week break down of all of the must see and to do when you are craving a one day get-a-way, beginning with a profile of the famous Las Olas Boulevard.
Translated from Spanish it means, “The Waves” of which you will have an unobstructed view from along almost any of its many sinuous canal interlaced east end side streets. Appropriately considered the jewel of Ft. Lauderdale by longstanding residents and visitors alike, the approximately one mile stretch of Palm lined elegance known as Las Olas Boulevard is ornamented with a bevy of world class restaurants, intimate outdoor cafes, pubs and bars to accommodate the most discerning of connoisseurs and a variety of shops and boutiques to suit every sartorical taste.
Las Olas is a bustling hub of activity day or night which makes it the perfect destination for a one day get-a-way.
To Do:
Begin your trip at the Boulevards West End with a stop at at the Museum of Art – Ft. Lauderdale, world renowned collection of modern and contemporary art. Be sure to check out the popular exhibit, ”The Art of Caring: A look at life through photography”.
Take a tour of the historic Stranahan House and Museum. Situated just on the New River and placed on the National Historic Register in 1973, it’s been praised as one of the finest examples of Florida’s vernacular architecture in a tropical or wilderness setting. Tours offered from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
To See:
Take a meander though the historic picturesque 79 year old Colee Hammock oak tree canopied neighborhood boasting its wonderful stately waterfront homes each more spectacular than the one prior.
If walking is not your idealic way to sight see then take a tour of the sights and sound of Ft. Lauderdale via water taxi. Embarking at SW 17th street, for an inexpensive all day $10.00 adult pass you can cruise your way from venue to venue with while enjoying the cool breezes of the Atlantic Ocean.
To Eat:
Mangos: A fabulous tropical and international menu along with outstanding live entertainment has made this popular eatery a Las Olas hometown favorite for locals as well as visitors.
Kilwins Chocolates and Ice-Cream: Cool off with a sweet treat at the year after year winner of the “Best candy Store” votes. this establish carries a varies of fudges, caramels, and confections sure to frustrate your dentist.
Quench Your Thirst:
Elbow room: Considered the gateway to Las Olas, the famous Establishment(features in the popular 1960 movie, “Where the Boys Are”, with Connie Francis) is just steps across the street from the Atlantic, and the ideal place to enjoy a cool sip after a refreshing dip in the ocean.
