Weekend Getaways from Fort Lauderdale: Shake Off the Week with a Quick Getaway
Fort Lauderdale’s more than just a pretty beach town it’s an amazing base for a weekend adventure. Getting around is a breeze with stunning drives, short cruises, and quick flights right on tap. So you can plan a last-minute escape with no fuss and no stress.
Weekend getaways give you the perfect chance to breathe fresh air, get a change of scenery, and shake off the week’s stress. And who doesn’t need a bit of that every now and then?
We know you’re itching for something new – maybe a relaxing weekend on the water, a crazy new city to explore, or just some peace and quiet to clear your head. This guide covers off the top weekend getaways from Fort Lauderdale to the Keys to the Caribbean, we’ve got you covered with heaps of choice to suit every taste. We’ll also share some insider tips for those in need of parking when flying out of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport or sailing out of Port Everglades.
Why Fort Lauderdale's the Ideal Spot for a Weekend Escape
If you’re lucky enough to call Fort Lauderdale home, then you already know it’s a top spot to kick off a weekend trip. Located right in the middle of South Florida, this beach town gives you easy access to highways, cruise terminals and that big airport – all within a stone’s throw of each other. Plus there are loads of parking facilities close to the airport and port, making it even easier for travelers to get on the move.
From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), you can zip off to dozens of US and Caribbean cities in the blink of an eye. Or if you’d rather get behind the wheel, those scenic routes are just begging to be explored, taking you to beach towns, nature reserves and cultural hotspots all over the state. Port Everglades also offers short cruise breaks for those who can’t resist the call of the sea.
This flexibility makes Fort Lauderdale a top pick for travelers who want to make the most of their time off without the hassle of long travel days. Whether you’re getting away with mates, the family, or just going solo, it’s all within reach.
The Best Weekend Getaways from Fort Lauderdale
The choices are endless when it comes to getting away from Fort Lauderdale for the weekend. Whether you’re up for driving, sailing or grabbing a quick flight, the options are wide open. Here are our top picks for the perfect quick trips that will help you unwind in no time. And if you need to park, there are loads of convenient spots to suit your travel plans at both the airport and cruise port.
Bahamas Break
Those short cruises from Port Everglades are a real treat – think 2- to 3-night trips to the Bahamas. You can stop off in Nassau or private islands like CocoCay and soak up those gorgeous white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and loads of downtime to relax. Perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants to get on the water without taking too much time off.
Want to book your cruise parking online in advance? Good job! You’ll get the best price for your trip that way, and you can even pick your preferred parking lot, date and time for added convenience.
Western Caribbean Mini-Cruises
Some cruise lines offer 3- or 4-night sailings that take you out to the Western Caribbean. Think Cozumel – a mix of culture, food, beach life all in one easy stop. A great way to feel like you’re a million miles from home without actually having to go too far.
Cruises from Fort Lauderdale are super easy to jump on – and often come with all the trimmings of a full-on vacation, not just a quick weekend trip. If you’re local, you can simply pull right up to a cruise parking lot near Port Everglades, then start your cruise adventure and be on that ship in no time at all – which makes a weekend sailing especially stress-free.
Weekend Flights from Fort Lauderdale
Atlanta
In no time you’re there – straight into Atlanta’s food scene, museums and live music. Whether you’re into history, sports or shopping, there’s something to keep you busy every single hour of your weekend.
New Orleans
Looking for some energy and culture? New Orleans has that in spades. Enjoy jazz, Creole cuisine and historic neighborhoods. Flights from Fort Lauderdale are quick as a flash, so you can land by lunchtime and start exploring right away.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
No need for a passport if you’re a US traveler – San Juan’s a Caribbean escape with all the trimmings: beaches, cobblestone streets in Old San Juan and loads of nightlife to keep you buzzing all weekend long.
Before you head to the airport, secure a Fort Lauderdale parking spot ahead of time. It will be one less thing you have to worry about before takeoff. There are loads of destinations just a couple of hours away, so you can spend your weekend enjoying the trip, not stuck in traffic.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Weekend Trip from Fort Lauderdale
When you’ve only got a few days to play with, every little bit of planning helps, and these tips will help you make the most of your mini-break without losing your mind.
- Pack light, think ahead. Try to stick to a carry-on or small bag, so you don’t have to hang around for your luggage to turn up. Grab your bags quickly at baggage claim to save time, and pack outfits that can be mixed and matched – it’ll save you loads of hassle.
- Book your transport early. Whether it’s a flight, a cruise, weekend travel can get pretty hectic. Booking early gives you a better schedule and less stress, trust us.
- Focus on your agenda. Pick a couple of things you really want to do and leave some space for downtime – cramming your schedule too full can end up leaving you feeling more knackered than refreshed.
- Stay close to your departure point. If you’ve got an early flight or cruise, consider staying in a hotel local to the airport or port. That way you can just roll out of bed and get going, avoiding all the traffic jams.
- Get your parking sorted. If you’re driving to the airport or cruise port, sort out your airport or cruise parking spot before you go. Make sure to confirm your arrival and departure dates when you book, or you might find you’re stuck without a spot.
Fort Lauderdale Cruise Parking and Airport Parking Reservations
A bit of planning goes a long way when it comes to weekend getaways from Fort Lauderdale, especially when it comes to booking and reservations. Getting your parking space, hotel room, and activity tickets sorted in advance means you can spend your time having fun, not frantically trying to book last-minute options or dealing with unexpected charges.
Start by reserving your parking spot as soon as you know your travel dates. Whether you need airport or cruise parking, booking online guarantees your spot and often gets you the best prices. Many facilities have easy digital payment options and if you qualify for special rates – like discounts for disabled veterans – make sure to bring the necessary proof when you arrive.
For cruise passengers, it’s especially important to reserve parking near Port Everglades in advance – spaces can fill up fast on busy weekends. Just make sure to double-check your parking lot’s hours, security features, and shuttle service details so you know what to expect on the day you travel. By taking care of your bookings in advance you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the weekend, knowing that every little detail is sorted. That way you can spend your time off making memories, not stressing about finding a parking spot or figuring out how to get to your next adventure.
Park by the Ports: Convenient Parking For Your Weekend Break
When you’re planning a weekend escape from Fort Lauderdale, having a smooth start really makes a big difference. Whether you’re flying out of Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport or embarking on a cruise from Port Everglades, Park by the Ports is the way to make Fort Lauderdale cruise or airport parking a whole lot less of a headache. Conveniently parked just a stone’s throw from both the airport and cruise terminals, it’s a secure, budget-friendly option that makes your travel life a heck of a lot easier.
The parking lot itself is a secure fenced area that’s well lit and monitored 24/7 so you can travel with a clear mind, knowing your car is being looked after. The whole check-in and shuttle process is pretty straightforward; friendly drivers will run regular shuttles to and from the airport and port all on time.
Booking in advance online gets your spot locked in and saves you the hassle on travel day of trying to find a spot. Plus, the staff will be happy to lend a hand with your luggage, and the clear parking signs make the whole process a breeze, whether you’re off to a cruise or just a short flight. Park by the Ports offers a reliable, hassle-free way to get your trip off to a great start. So why leave parking up to chance? Book your spot ahead of time and get your weekend getaway off to an stress-free start.
Where Will Your Weekend Getaway From Fort Lauderdale Take You?
Weekend breaks from Fort Lauderdale are the perfect way to get a break from the daily grind and do something exciting – and there are loads of amazing destinations just a short hop away by car, cruise or plane. With so many great destinations on your doorstep, you can plan a trip that feels like a real break without having to take a whole week off. From the peaceful beaches of Naples to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale’s got it all – and it’s the perfect base for exploring all the amazing places nearby.
Weekends are perfect for couples looking to reconnect, families who need a break or solo adventurers looking for something new. You can find hidden gems in quiet little towns, relax at a luxury resort, go hiking in the Everglades or take a sailing trip to a tropical island – all in the space of a long weekend.
The thing that really makes weekend travel so easy is that planning is a doddle, thanks to the fact that Port Everglades and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport are right on your doorstep. To that you just add some trusted Fort Lauderdale Airport parking or Port Everglades cruise parking and you’ve got a smooth travel process from start to finish.
So whether you’re feeling like relaxing or something a bit more adventurous, near or far, these weekend getaways from Fort Lauderdale are the ideal chance to hit the reset button. Grab your bag, do a bit of research and find out where you’re off to next, and take advantage of the amazing travel opportunities right on your doorstep.
