Getting Around Fort Lauderdale. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Broward County Transit (BCT) operates a bus network covering Fort Lauderdale and wider Broward County. This system offers a cost-effective way to travel between major attractions, shopping centers, residential areas, and transportation hubs. Buses are air-conditioned.

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers an unique and scenic way to explore the city’s extensive waterways. It provides hop-on, hop-off service with multiple stops along the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River. This is not just transport; it is a sightseeing experience, offering views of waterfront mansions, yachts, and the city skyline.

BCT Bus & Water Taxi Basics

BCT Buses: The Broward Central Terminal in downtown serves as the main transfer hub. Route maps and schedules are on the BCT website.
BCT Fares: Single Ride: $2.00. 1-Day Pass: $5.00. 7-Day Pass: $20.00. Pay with cash (exact change) or the Flamingo Fares app/card.
Water Taxi Route: Connects downtown (Riverwalk), Las Olas Boulevard, the beach, Galleria Mall, and Port Everglades.
Water Taxi Fares: All-day pass is typically $35 for adults, $20 for children (5-11). Purchase online, at kiosks, or on board.

BCT Bus Access

BCT buses generally operate from early morning until late evening. Major routes run every 15-30 minutes. All buses are wheelchair accessible.

Water Taxi Hours

Operates daily, generally from 9 AM to 10 PM. Boats typically arrive every 30-45 minutes. Check official site for current schedule.

Tri-Rail Commuter

Commuter rail connecting Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties. Zone-based fares ($2.50-$8.75).

Efficient Public Transport Navigation

BCT Bus Tips

Download the BCT app or use Google Maps for real-time bus tracking.
Arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early.
Have exact fare ready or your Flamingo Fares card/app open.

Water Taxi Tips

Use it for both sightseeing and practical transport to attractions.
Enjoy the onboard commentary on local history.
Consider a multi-day pass if you plan extensive use.

Water Transit Images

Water Trolley

Free water transport along New River in downtown. Ideal for short hops within arts and entertainment district.

Tri-Rail Train

Commuter rail for regional transport between counties, connecting to FLL via shuttle.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, on-demand transportation throughout Fort Lauderdale. They are good for short distances or when convenience is paramount.

Licensed Taxis

Traditional yellow cabs with meters, company names, and official markings.
Hail on street in busy areas or find at designated stands at hotels, FLL, Port Everglades.
Fares are metered (start fee ~$2.50-$3.00, plus ~$2.50-$3.00 per mile).
Most taxis accept cash and major credit cards; confirm credit card acceptance with driver.

Ride-Sharing Uber & Lyft

Widely available and popular in Fort Lauderdale. App-based service.
Competitive pricing, transparent fare estimates, cashless payment.
Many service levels, from economy to luxury, are available.
For safety, confirm driver’s name, vehicle, and license plate match app details. Share trip details.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Book in advance. Valid driver's license, credit card required. Under 25 may incur surcharge.
Tolls: Florida has many toll roads; inquire about rental car company toll management options.
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Limited availability; valid motorcycle license endorsement needed.

Bicycle Sharing/Rentals: City Bikes/BCycle (dock-based system) or independent bike shops for daily/weekly rentals.
Driving Laws: Drive on right, seatbelts mandatory. Right turn on red permitted after stopping (unless signed otherwise).
Parking: Challenging/expensive in popular areas (beach, Las Olas). Use public garages or metered street parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Las Olas Boulevard (wide sidewalks), Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade (paved path), Riverwalk (scenic promenade downtown).

Walking Tours

Guided tours on history, architecture, culinary scene. Self-guided tours with mapping apps or downloadable guides.

Cycling Safety

Designated bike lanes exist. Wear a Helmet (required under 16). Be aware of traffic, use hand signals, ride defensively.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Fort Lauderdale offers unique transportation experiences that are attractions in themselves.

Unique Water Adventures

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and Water Trolley: Scenic boat services that also function as transport (detailed in 5.1).
Other Boat Rentals: Rent powerboats, pontoons, sailboats for self-drive excursions on the Intracoastal or ocean.
Yacht & Fishing Charters: Widely available from marinas for guided experiences.
Gondola Rides: Experience a romantic gondola ride through the canals for a unique perspective.

Alternative City Tours

Segway Tours: Guided Segway tours in areas like the beach or downtown.
Scooter Rentals: Rent scooters for a nimble way to move around urban areas.
Trolley Services: Some neighborhoods or districts may offer local trolley services.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours: Double-decker bus tours cover major city landmarks.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport

Broward County Transit (BCT) buses are all wheelchair accessible, complying with ADA standards.

Wheelchair accessible.

Ride-Sharing Options

Uber and Lyft offer accessible vehicle options (e.g., Uber WAV) for travelers needing wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Accessible vehicle options.

Attractions & Hotels

Many major attractions, hotels, and public buildings comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

ADA compliant.

Driving & Parking Flexibility

A rental car is ideal for day trips to the Everglades, Miami, or Palm Beach.
For exploring within Fort Lauderdale, a mix of walking, public transport, and ride-sharing is good.
This approach helps avoid parking hassles, especially in busy tourist areas.

Walking and cycling offer immersive ways to experience Fort Lauderdale's charm.
They also help save on transportation costs and allow for spontaneous discovery.
Be aware of "no-go" areas for pedestrians/cyclists, like major highways or poorly lit areas.

Important Safety Reminders

Road Safety

Always confirm driver details for ride-sharing services before entering the vehicle.
Adhere to speed limits and traffic laws.
Seek shelter during thunderstorms; lightning is common in summer.

Water Safety

Only swim at beaches with lifeguards and observe all posted warnings/flags.
If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore to escape.
Be aware of marine life in ocean waters (jellyfish, stingrays).

Walking & Cycling in Detail

Fort Lauderdale offers several areas pleasant for walking and cycling, providing a different way to experience the city's charm and beauty.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Las Olas Boulevard: Highly walkable, wide sidewalks for shops, restaurants, art galleries.
Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade: Wide, paved path along beachfront for walking, jogging, leisurely strolls.
Riverwalk: Scenic pedestrian promenade along the New River downtown, connecting cultural attractions.
Galt Ocean Mile: Walkable stretch north of Oakland Park Boulevard with shops, restaurants, beachfront access.

Walking Tour Options & Cycling Safety

Guided Tours: Several companies offer guided walking tours focused on history, architecture, or culinary scenes.
Self-Guided Tours: Use mapping apps or download guides from Visit Fort Lauderdale.
Bicycle Infrastructure: Designated bike lanes and multi-use paths in parks and along the waterfront.
Cycling Safety: Always wear a helmet (required under 16). Be aware of traffic, use hand signals, ride defensively.

No-Go Areas

Avoid walking/cycling on major highways (I-95, Florida's Turnpike) or busy arterial roads without adequate paths, especially at night.

Accessibility Services for Travelers

Public Transit Accessibility

BCT Buses: All Broward County Transit buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated seating.
Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft offer accessible vehicle options (e.g., Uber WAV) for travelers needing wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Attractions & Hotels: Many major attractions, hotels, and public buildings comply with ADA standards, offering ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Water Taxi Accessibility

Water Taxi: Generally accessible, but some smaller Water Taxi stops or older boats may have minor limitations.
It is wise to check with the Water Taxi company directly for specific accessibility concerns before boarding.
The Water Trolley along the New River is generally accessible for short downtown hops.

Navigating Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale's diverse transportation network ensures comfortable movement, whether you prefer efficiency, sightseeing, or a budget-friendly approach. Choose the mode that best suits your daily plans.

Embrace the uniqueness of water taxis for sightseeing or opt for public buses for economical transit. Rental cars are available for broader regional exploration.

Getting Around Fort Lauderdale