By: Brittany Eyres
If I had a dollar for every time a relative asked me, “You go to school in Florida. Why aren’t you tan?” I would be driving off in a Lamborghini. There is so much more to Florida than great beaches. Unfortunately, going to the beach every week can become boring. Below is a list of fun things to do around Broward County instead of going to the beach.
Swap Shop Drive-In Movie Theater
3291 West Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
One of the last drive-ins in the nation is located in Broward County. What could be better than parking at the drive-in with your friends, watching a movie and eating popcorn and candy, all in the comfort of your car? Be sure to bring your own blankets and snacks.
Sawgrass Mills Mall
12801 West Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise, FL 33323
Sawgrass Mills holds the title of the eighth-largest mall in the nation and the largest single-story mall in the nation. You could easily kill at least five hours here. Be sure to make a list of stores you would absolutely cry over if you missed, then figure out the best route and parking. You might get lost or run out of time otherwise.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts
201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
The center always has great shows running. Be sure to purchase your tickets at the student price.
To see shows and ticket options, visit broward.centerfortlauderdale.com.
Revolution Live
100 Southwest Third Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Local artists and major bands play here. It’s always great to go to a live concert and see your favorite band. Get to Revolution Live a little before the show and you might meet an artist or musician that you love. For a list of upcoming events, go to jointherevolution.net/events.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
1 Seminole Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314
There is so much to do at the Hard Rock in Hollywood. You can shop, dine and attend a concert or comedic performance. While you are there, visit Paradise, which is the outside area of the hotel that has the best restaurants.
Laser Quest
2101 North University Drive, Sunrise, FL 33322
This laser tag arena is bi-level, glow-in-the-dark and fog-filled. Move over kiddies, college students enjoy this way more. Grab a group of friends or one of your organizations and experience the fun. It makes for the best team bonding and is a great time.
K1 Speed
2950 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL 33020
Who doesn’t love go-karts? Although they’re electric, these go-karts reach speeds of 45 mph. Visit k1speed.com to figure out what time and day the course is the least crowded.
Petland
356 North University Drive, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
11482 West State Road 84, Davie, FL 33325
801 South University Drive, Plantation, FL 33324
Petland, the pet store, allows you to play with up to two different puppies during each visit because playing is good human interaction for the dogs and a great stress reliever for the humans. Pick the cutest dogs to play with and relieve some of your college stress.
Treetops Park
3900 Southwest 100th Avenue, Davie, FL 33328
This park has a viewing tower, which is really cool to walk up. It also has a playground, beach volleyball court, horseback riding stables and a small town for kids to learn about safety. My suggestion? Go to the viewing tower. It is the coolest thing about the park, other than the lake, where you might be able to spot an alligator.
Vista View Park
4001 Southwest 142nd Avenue, Davie, FL 33330
They say Florida is flat, but this park proves there’re some hills in Florida’s landscape. Sunsets are breathtakingly beautiful at this hilly park, which is popular amongst cyclists, model airplane pilots and hang-gliders.
Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson State Park
6503 North Ocean Drive, Dania Beach, FL 33004
Watching cruise ships leave port may sound boring, but it is definitely an experience I recommend. Ships usually leave around 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Be sure to have your cell phone ready to take pictures.
Flamingo Gardens
3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330
Flamingo Gardens is a local historic site with flamingos, turtles, alligators, river otters, tortoises and eagles, as well as thousands of trees native to Florida. During your visit, take a ride on the tram. It’s fun and educational.
