As with most any oceanside resort, the travel focus in Fort Lauderdale is the beach. The strip, from 17th Street to about Sunrise Blvd. is the most popular (most
crowded) section. There's parking along the oceanfront, which goes early. There are also some lots and metered areas in the blocks just off the beach.
Just north of the strip is an area known as the Galt Ocean Mile, which is unmistakable due to the highrise condos which, for the most part, limit public access. North of there is the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea area which is much quieter than the Fort Lauderdale beach.
To the south of Fort Lauderdale is Hollywood Beach, which has a rather traditional boardwalk and is popular with some for its less controlled or ordered atmosphere.
Besides the requisite vacation shopping and dining, one thing you have to do is see Fort Lauderdale from the water. It really gives you a new perspective on what the city is all about. There are several ways to go about it, check the Things to Do section for particulars.
As with most any oceanside resort, the travel focus in Fort Lauderdale is the beach. The strip, from 17th Street to about Sunrise Blvd. is the most popular (most 
