When you think of Florida, you think of Orlando, Miami, and the Florida Keys, but if you do not love crowds of tourists, take a look at the destination of Tamarac, Florida. A small, quiet, up and coming town that still has a lot to do, at the fraction of the theme park costs. Let’s explore and see what Tamarac, Florida has to offer.
With year-round temperatures averaging 68-84F (20-29c), it makes it a comfortable place to be outside, all of the time. The summer months can reach temperatures of 98F (37c) with winter months reaching anywhere from 88-91F (31-33c).
Tamarac is still close to other cities such as Fort Lauderdale, a 14.8-mile (23.8-kilometer) drive. The hot-spot, Miami, is only a 31-mile (50-kilometer) drive if you crave a vibrant nightlife. If you’re staying at a vacation rental or a campsite in Fort Lauderdale, why not drive up to see Tamarac’s tourist attractions and other sites nearby? Keep reading to learn about the best things to do around Tamarac, Florida.
1. Unwind and relax at Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Alongside bridges and winding trails flanked by palm trees, Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens boasts a pavilion and an amphitheatre. The latter truly comes alive in summer when live music is played for the entertainment of the locals. With plenty of benches, a playground, and a few fitness stations, this 2-acre (8-hectare) park overlooking Middle River can surely please everyone. Consider going to the park for a relaxing stroll after a full sunny day at the beach.
Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens
Address: 3831 Inverrary Boulevard, Lauderhill, FL 33319
2. Join a series of brewery tours
A popular watering hole among beer enthusiasts in the Tampa Bay Brewing Co., located in Coral Springs. This is a family-run brewery that offers a tour into the insight of how they brew their local brew. Although they do not serve food here, they do encourage you to order take-out from surrounding local restaurants.
They have their eight brews on tap and make some seasonal beers as well. The tour of their facility goes through the entire process from milling the grain to testing the final product. They offer two tours at their two locations, one at the pub brewery and the other at their production facility.
They take groups of 12 and it typically lasts around an hour. At the end of the tour, you receive a free pint of beer and a souvenir logo pint glass. Bonus!! Free souvenirs are always the best! The tours cost 10 USD per person and happen on Friday’s and Saturday’s only from 1 pm - 4 pm. You must call to make a reservation. It’s a fun afternoon to plan.
The Funky Buddha Brewery is another favorite hot spot to do a brewery tour. The Funky Buddha Brewery was founded in 2010, and produces craft beers infused with culinary flavors to bring out an intense and bold taste. You may be able to try a beer that smells and tastes like peanut butter and jelly. It has grown into one the largest craft breweries in Florida. It also has a restaurant serving lunch and dinner, with a full menu of culinary twists on the classic pub grub. If they take such pride in the brewing, they also take as much in their food.
They do tours for the public every Saturday and Sunday on the hour from 2 pm - 4 pm. They also do tours on Thursday evenings at 7 pm and 8 pm. The tour costs 5 USD per person and includes a branded glass and free samples along the way. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.
If blues and jazz are more of your scene then you should visit Blue Jeans Blues. You can enjoy jazz, blues and rock bands playing daily. Blue Jeans Blues offers a full bar and a dance floor so you can dance the night away. They offer a full menu of food with a long list of wines, cocktails and beers. A great atmosphere with great music sounds like an awesome night. This restaurant is located in Fort Lauderdale which is a 28 minute drive from Tamarac.
Tampa Bay Brewing Co.
Website: Tampa Bay Brewing Co.
Funky Buddha Brewery
Website: Funky Buddha Brewery
Blue Jeans Blues
Website: Blue Jeans Blues
3. Go on a shopping spree
What if you had a dream where you were in a mall that was 1,000,000 sqft (92,903 sqm) and it also included a movie theater and an art gallery. You probably wouldn’t wake up! But it is REAL! The Westfield Broward Mall is located in Plantation, Florida which is a 19 minute drive from Tamarac.
This one level mall includes 125 stores, 4 department stores, and a couple of casual dining restaurants. It also includes a 12 screen theater and an art gallery. The Gallery at Westfield Broward is an art gallery that exhibits local artists and sells artwork, commission-free.
You could literally spend an entire day at Westfield Broward mall.
If your style is more boutiques, outside cafes, and art galleries then Las Olas Boulevard is for you. Las Olas, Spanish for “the waves”, is unique in that it offers a little bit of everything for everyone. The shopping and dining district is truly authentic and a place that you should visit as it has over 120 eclectic shops, restaurants, cafes, spas, salons and boutiques. Back in the 1900s, Las Olas was just a dirt road to the beach, and now it has become the heart of Ft. Lauderdale.
Westfield Broward Mall
Address: 8000 W Broward Blvd
Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 9pm. Sun 11am - 6pm
Contact: +1 954 473 8100
Near by Food: Food Court & Several Near by Restaurants
Website: Westfield Broward Mall
Las Olas Blvd.
Address: 1200 E. Las Olas Blvd.
Near by Food: Several Restaurants & Cafes
Website: Las Olas Blvd
4. Dive into the cultural side of things
The Coral Springs Museum of Art showcases local and national artists that create traditional, modern, postmodern and digital art. It also hosts several classes, workshops and lectures. It brings in several exhibitions a year from various artists including students and art groups. The art here at Coral Springs Museum of Art is lively, colorful and so very different than other art galleries. This museum will not bore you in any way!
If looking at artifacts and memorabilia from times past is your thing, then head over to the Plantation Historical Museum, located in Plantation, Florida. Nestled inside the Butterfly Garden hides a little museum that preserves its roots. The Plantation Historical Museum exhibit includes artifacts from the Seminole and Tequesta tribes and historically significant families that made what Plantation what it is today. Visitors can also wander down brick-lined paths and look at the indigenous flowers and plants inside the Butterfly Garden. People just come to meditate or read books - that’s how peaceful this place is.
Coral Springs Museum of Art
Address: 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Suite A, Coral Springs, Florida 33065
Price: from 6 USD
Opening Hours: Tuesday through Saturday: 10am - 5pm. Sunday: Closed. Monday: Closed
Contact: +1 954 340 5000
Website: Coral Springs Museum of Art
Plantation Historical Museum
Address: 511 N Fig Tree Ln. Plantation, FL 33317
Opening Hours: Tue & Thurs 10am - 4:30pm, Fri 12 - 4:30pm, Sat 10am - 5pm. (closed noon-1pm Tue, Thurs & Sat), Closed Sun, Mon & Wed.
Contact: +1 954 797 2722
Website: Plantation Historical Museum
The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Barry
5. View classic cars in Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum
If you love classic cars then drop by Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum. This destination boasts a massive collection of Packard cars that date as far back as the year 1900. The vast space also displays dozens of memorabilia from centuries back, all relating to the classic Packard cars. These include hood ornaments, gas station signs, gear-shift knobs as well as vintage magazines, among others. Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum is a car enthusiast’s dream destination, holding a treasure trove of history and knowledge on the Packard automobile.
Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum
Address: 1527 SW 1st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315, United States
Website: Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
6. Admire the art in Young at Art Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Young at Art Museum encourages children to appreciate art from a young age. Their mission is to make art a major part of education and they do this by hosting exhibitions and art festivals, among other events. When you’re in the area, drop by this museum and allow your kids to appreciate the world of art. There’s always an event hosted but, if not, you can always just wander around admiring the exhibits. And when the kids start getting hungry and fussy, head over to the on-site cafe that serves a variety of snacks for both kids and adults. Finally, before you leave, make sure you visit the museum’s store where you can buy souvenirs like T-shirts, books, or even puzzles.
Young at Art Museum
Address: 751 SW 121st Ave, Davie, FL 33325, United States
Website: Young at Art Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri & Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
Price: 12 - 15 USD
7. Shop at Yellow Green Farmers Market
South Florida’s largest farmers’ market, Yellow Green, is where you head to if you want to get some shopping done. Almost all local farmers converge here to showcase their fresh produce, making this market a hub for shopping in the area. With their dedication to organic farming, you’ll always be certain that the food you buy here is safe. Other than the fresh farm produce for sale, you’ll also find artisanal products crafted by the locals. So, if you need a souvenir then make your way to Yellow Green Farmers Market, which is open every Saturday and Sunday.
Yellow Green Farmers Market
Address: 3080 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States
Website: Yellow Green Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sat & Sun: 8am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
8. Visit Butterfly World
Butterfly World is known for being the largest park of its kind in the entire world. This reputation is well deserved as the park is home to about 20,000 butterflies. Here, you’ll find out about the different butterfly species from around the world, most of which are represented in Butterfly World. There are six different aviaries where these little creatures get to fly free, creating a marvelous display of colors. Also, head to the butterfly museum and learn all you need to know about them. Butterfly World also boasts botanical gardens as well as waterfalls that make this a very serene place.
Butterfly World
Address: Tradewinds Park, 3600 W Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33073, United States
Website: Butterfly World
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: 22.50 - 32.50 USD
9. Have fun in Rebounderz Indoor Trampoline Park Sunrise
On paper, Rebounderz is a spot for kids but, in reality, adults get to live out their childhood dreams here as well. Whether you want to bring your children or come for yourself, Rebounderz Indoor Trampoline Park is a fascinating place to spend your time. This family entertainment facility offers a range of thrilling activities, like trampoline dodgeball, a bounce area for smaller children, and the popular Ninja Warrior Course. The massive space also boasts an arcade. While the kids’ minds are blown by the excitement, you can hang out in the cafe and lounge where they serve beer and wine.
Rebounderz Indoor Trampoline Park
Address: 4545 N Pine Island Rd, Sunrise, FL 33351, United States
Website: Rebounderz Indoor Trampoline Park
Opening hours: Mon, Wed - Thu: 3pm - 8pm; Fri: 3pm - 9pm; Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 10pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 15 - 17.99 USD
10. Venture into Woodmont Natural Area
Woodmont takes pride in being Tamarac’s largest remaining natural habitat. And this is evident from the rare pine flatwood community growing within the preserve. There are also numerous red maple trees that lend a stunning view to Woodmont, proving why this is a very popular destination among visitors and locals. Most people come here to explore the area by strolling the nature trails. Take your time touring this natural sanctuary tucked away in the midst of a city. There’s also a designated seating area for those who just want to escape the city’s bustle and have some time amidst nature.
Woodmont Natural Area
Address: 7250 NW 80th Ave, Tamarac, FL 33321, United States
Opening hours: 8am - 7:30pm (daily)
11. Have a picnic in Tamarac Veterans’ Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re looking for Tamarac parks and recreation, why not visit Tamarac Veterans’ Park? It may not have the exciting facilities of Water Edge, but it’s a lot more sedate and less child-oriented. This is where you come to when you need some tranquility. It’s a lovely spot that offers everything you’d expect from a park: picnic areas, gazebos, lush lawns. There’s also a boat-launching ramp from where you can set off on a boat ride in the canal. If you’re bringing your own boat, there’s parking space for boat trailers. And before you leave, make sure you head to Tamarac Veterans Memorial and pay your respects to these local heroes.
Tamarac Veterans’ Park
Address: 7825 Southgate Blvd, Tamarac, FL 33321, United States
Website: Tamarac Veterans’ Park
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 8pm; Sun: 8am - 2pm
12. Take your kids to Waters Edge Park
Waters Edge Park is a small, newly opened water park in Tamarac, along University Drive. It may be small compared to other parks - it spans just 6 ac (2.4 ha) - but there’s a lot to keep your kids busy. A fan-favorite is the massive splash pad that’s a fun place for your little ones to cool off. There’s also a 560 sqm (6000 sq ft) playground on-site, a wide-open space for your kids to run free. They also have picnic spots available. Waters Edge Park is mainly a child-centered destination, so if you’re thinking of a place to bring the family, consider this park in Tamarac.
Waters Edge Park
Address: 7465 NW 61st St, Tamarac, FL 33321, United States
13. Explore Fern Forest Nature Center
Just like its name suggests, Fern Forest Nature Center is home to 34 different types of ferns, some of which are endangered. But don’t be misled into thinking there are just ferns here. This is a nature sanctuary that preserves dozens of native plant species. It’s a forest oasis that’s set in the middle of a coastal landscape. Explore this nature center by wandering the trails charted through it. You’ll get to learn about all the native plants and will encounter some of this sanctuary’s many reptile species. The trails total about 3.2 km (2 mi), allowing you to take a walk in a side of Florida that’s quite rare, a side that was mostly lost in the early 1900s.
Fern Forest Nature Center
Address: 201 S Lyons Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33063, United States
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
14. Ride an airboat in Sawgrass Recreation Park (from USD 48.15)
Sawgrass Recreation Park is your doorway to the Florida Everglades, offering a tour of Florida’s famous swamp attraction. The chief activity is the airboat tour that is offered in different iterations. First, you can choose the private tour and explore the Everglades on your own terms. You can also experience the nighttime tour and get a chance to see this attraction after dark. If you do set off at night, you’ll get to encounter the nocturnal American Alligator, discernible by its red eyes. Whichever way you choose to explore the Florida Everglades, you’ll get to view this river’s rich flora and fauna.
The Everglades: 1-Hour Airboat Night Tour
Duration: 1.0 hour
The perfect weekend getaway!
Tamarac is one of those cities that will soon become a popular vacation destination for families and couples. There is so much to do and explore without the crowds, and you can check out the best Tamarac sightseeing spots. Make sure to make the drive to Pompano Beach Pier before you leave. This public beach is open 365 days a year with a lifeguard on duty from 9 am to 4:45 pm. It has showers, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and a children’s play area.
You can’t leave Florida without dipping your toes in the water and touching the warm sand. Add some of these best things to do around Tamarac to your itinerary!
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