Juliet Norman is a senior at J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs, Florida. This is her first article for The Current after attending NSU’s Multimedia Camp this summer.
Sharks, you’re finally here! Your campus provides a variety of lively clubs and events to keep you entertained, but you’ll want to explore what else South Florida area has to offer—besides the obvious beach and shopping scene. Set aside time for adventures with your friends in between study sessions and long weekends with exciting activities that differ from the usual. Here are ten entertaining spots to get you started. You don’t have to look too far to enjoy yourself.
Riverwalk Price varies; some activities free
Sweet Building, One River Plaza, 305 S Andrews Ave
This is a great setting for a date. It’s usually quiet and the scenery is beautiful. Free water taxi rides around the peaceful river are a bonus. It can also be relaxing to just sit back and watch the boats and yachts pass by.
NSU Art Museum Free for NSU students
1 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Get away from the heat and spend an afternoon clearing your head while gazing at notable works by Picasso and Rembrandt. With over 6,000 art pieces, the museum is known for its abundant collection of 19th century realist paintings, as well as countless rooms full of photography. An African art exhibit is currently on display until Oct. 23. The museum’s outdoor cafe is open daily, serving meals under $10.
Las Olas Boulevard Price Varies
This strip is the center of Fort Lauderdale and the ultimate nightlife destination. There is an abundance of restaurants, clubs and shopping outlets to keep you busy. Try boarding the Jungle Queen Riverboat for the best water views in South Florida.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Price Varies
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood
If you want to get away for a weekend or plan an easy, fun spring break trip without straying too far from campus, the Hard Rock is your best bet. With concerts, various dining options, a luxurious swimming pool, nightly music and a casino and spa, the hotel offers a great deal of entertainment—even for those under 21. It can be pricey, but you’ll get your money’s worth.
Improv Comedy Club $20 a ticket on average
Seminole Paradise, 5700 Seminole Way, Fort Lauderdale
Located directly inside the Hard Rock, this cozy comedy club is a hot place to see quality up-and-coming comedians. Be wined and dined while holding back tears from laughter. Tickets are relatively cheap, and there is a two drink minimum. Therefore, you’ll need to be twenty-one years old to attend except Thursdays, which are eighteen and over.
Dog Beach of Hollywood $5
4901-4999 N Surf Rd, Hollywood, FL
Soak up the sun while being bombarded with masses of adorable puppies. The only downside is that there are pretty strict regulations. The beach is only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 3-7 p.m. Entry costs $5 a day for residents and $10 a day for non-residents. Bring a credit card to the beach, as they do not accept cash.
Kingshead Pub Price Varies
2692 N University Dr, Sunrise
Have a beer or chow down on signature fish and chips at this spunky, British-themed pub and restaurant. Open-mic nights are every Tuesday, and there’s live music every Friday night. It’s also a great place to catch the latest soccer game alongside other pub patrons.
Swap Shop Price Varies
3291 W Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Peruse the many aisles in this jungle gym flea market with friends. The area is a little dirty but is an all-around fun environment. It’s actually the largest flea market in the world. You can also kick it old school and take a date to the drive-in movie theater located here. You never know what oddities you may find.
A Painting Fiesta $35 per person
1637 Bonaventure Blvd, Weston
Get artsy! This guided painting class will bring out your inner artist. By following the easy step-by-step instructions, everyone’s work comes out looking like a masterpiece, even if you aren’t generally the best at painting. The more people you bring along, the better the experience.
Extreme Rage Paintball Park $15 per person
6401 Sheridan St, Hollywood
Set your mind to something other than memorizing history facts for the next exam. Round up a few classmates to compete against each other in this thrilling sport. Players engage in a capture-the-flag scenario in the nearby woods or uniquely designed fields. The park is open to those without reservations from Friday to Sunday. Put yourself to the test in a paintball war!
