The trendy boulevard in Fort Lauderdale offers exclusive art, flagship retailers, sidewalk bistros, and Riverwalk jaunts.
The district around Las Olas Boulevard is a destination all on its own and makes for a lovely long weekend. Las Olas is known for its galleries and there are a bunch to browse, many with international leanings or pop art sensibilities.
The Galleries: Start at New River Fine Art, End at Chic Evolution in Art
There may be no finer place to idle away a morning than at New River Fine Art. It’s a gorgeous white gallery with breathtaking art and sculpture from contemporary artists as well as those considered masters. Their team acts as both agents and curators to locate exactly what you’re dreaming of adding to your portfolio.
ABRA Gallery hangs collections from living artists producing colorful work designed for interiors. Nearby Effusion Gallery leans towards pop art; its playful approach belies sought-after artists, and Marco Magdaluyo can guide you towards a thoughtful purchase. Daniels Antiques showcases model boats, restored telescopes, and maritime goods ready to grace a tasteful room.
Chic Evolution In Art showcases renowned international art, from the playful to the controversial. Time spent here offers fantastic selfies and thoughtful repose. They also have two galleries in Georgia.
The Shops: Start at Ann’s, End at Tommy’s 
A florist shop called Ann’s includes gifts for the home, a coffee bar, a cocktail bar and a Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine. Grab a split with a cup of joe and perch on the patio like a local.
The Las Olas Yeti store offers every Yeti product, by color block, and is an Instagram-worthy stop. Across the street sits Candle Land, with its trendy candle making stations and hands on approach. Carroll’s, open since 1937, carries impressive estate jewelry and sterling serving pieces. Ask for the expertise of gemologist Emily Borens to nab your next heirloom.
A flagship location of Tommy Bahama will rebrand the shopping experience; the corner retailer includes a fresh café and a very fun indoor/outdoor bar with live music daily.
Visit Fort Lauderdale’s First Home on Las Olas
The Stranahan House is a historic home museum. Set on the river, it offers a glimpse into the history of Fort Lauderdale and its dependence on trade utilizing its riverways. Frank Stranahan is considered the town’s founding father, and his wife Ivy Cromartie was its first schoolteacher. The two-story home is the oldest surviving structure in Broward County and its architecture and gardens are well worth a visit.
In front of the Stranahan House is one of the free LauderGO Water Trolley stops on The Riverwalk. Hop on to see the Las Olas district by water 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sleep, Eat, Sip, Repeat
The Hyatt Centric Las Olas is art-centered and reads modern Florida chic. The boutique hotel is an easy walk to galleries and the riverfront. The property includes impressive murals by artist Danny Doya, including a pair of sirens on the eighth-story pool deck. Chef Greg McGowan is at the helm of its restaurant, Harborwood Urban Kitchen + Bar; it may only be topped by Room 901, a secret cocktail club by reservation only, with three seatings Thursday through Sunday nights. Fine spirits lovers, start drooling now.
A great day on Las Olas Boulevard starts at Pan’E Dolci for pistachio cannoli and espresso or head to LBC for massive crepes with traditional crisp edges for brunch or lunch. Happy hour is a convivial scene at Louie Bossi’s. Come here for an Aperol Spritz, delicious happy hour pizza, or traditional pasta dishes. Lobster Bar Sea Grille is a treat for the seafood-leaning, and its gilded interior is gorgeous, perfect for date night.
