Plantation: where the grass is greener and the fun bigger (2024)

The grass is greener – and the fun bigger in Plantation

Get ready for green space – and lots of it! The city of Plantation prides itself on its many outdoor areas and recreational activities. That’s great news for visitors looking to enjoy the Florida sunshine. But there’s a lot more here that makes your visit special: like tempting shopping, interesting history and unique dining delights.

Go golfing

Plantation Preserve Golf Course and Club is open to the public, with an 18-hole course that challenges beginners and pros. Play alongside Everglades-inspired wetlands that surround a 55-acre linear park and 1.5-mile trail. The clubhouse serves lunch, has a full liquor bar with multiple TVs and gorgeous sunset views from the open-air terrace.

Not into golf? No worries.

How about perfecting your backhand, backstroke or horseback riding skills? Frank Veltri Tennis Center,Central Park Aquatics Center andThe Equestrian Center all welcome visitors to explore their world-class facilities and services. Plantation Heritage Park is dog friendly, offers a 1.25-mile fitness trail, paddleboat rentals and an 18-hole disc golf course.

Relax and recharge

Plantation Historical Museum is a small, well-curated museum with botanical and butterfly gardens. Outside is a beautiful, tranquil place for reading and relaxing. Inside are Seminole and Tequesta tribe artifacts, Fire and Police department memorabilia, and exhibits about the city’s historically significant founding families. The museum also brings in rotating exhibits and hosts events and speakers. Free admission: a donation is always appreciated.

Enjoy shopping in and around Plantation

Westfield Broward delivers a full day of deals, dining and blockbuster fun: 73 specialty andthree department stores, Regal Broward 12 & RPX theaters, plus sit-down and casual dining.

Then, there’s the Big Kahuna of Florida shopping: 2.1 million-square-footSawgrass Mills in nearby Sunrise – the nation’s biggest luxury and designer outlet destination. Among its 350 stores are GUCCI, Jimmy Choo, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo Company Store, Tory Burch, Versace, Nike, David Yurman, Ralph Laurenand Saks OFF 5th. Fuel up between the bargains at many on-site eateries, from chic bistros to fast food court treats.

Dine like a local

The best bubble tea you’ve ever sipped is atSovereign, along with poke. EnjoyMustard Seed Bistro’s yummy Chipotle Mac and Cheese or Chicken & Brie – but don’t even think about leaving without one of their legendary cupcakes. Taste Cuban food the way abuelita made it: three generations of Padrino family members serve her authentic recipes. Maybe comfort food is what you’re after? Locals flock toPlantation Diner for a hot cup of joe, fresh eggs, biscuits, crispy bacon, juicy burgers and daily specials. Experience excellent craft co*cktails and wood-fired specialties in the elegant ambiance of J Alexanders.

For Instagram-worthy lattes and cappuccinos, visit Ella Cafe. Vegans and non-vegans alike will find mouth-watering empanadas, sandwiches, cookies and cakes at Parlour Vegan Bakery. Ovlo Eats offers made-from-scratch, crave-worthy creations; the diverse menu features Banh Mi sandwiches, curried lentils, and the fan favorite brussel sprouts. Looking to cool off? N7ice Cream features daily handcrafted nitrogen ice cream, including keto and vegan options. Craft brew lovers will find the cozy environment and self-serve coolers at Riverside Market oh-so inviting.

A great stay in the city

There are almost two dozen well-rated lodging chains in Plantation, includingtwo of the highest-rated, Renaissance Fort Lauderdale-Plantation Hoteland Sheraton Suites Fort Lauderdale Plantation. Other strong choices include: Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Plantation, and Staybridge Suites Ft. Lauderdale Plantation.

Start planning your Plantation visit today!