Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about the sun and sand; it’s also a city bursting with diverse dinner experiences that suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re craving a relaxed cruise with stunning waterfront views or an energetic food crawl along lively streets, Fort Lauderdale delivers.
We particularly love the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour for its local flavor and lively atmosphere, and the All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle for a fun-filled evening of food, entertainment, and sightseeing.
Both tours offer authentic tastes of South Florida’s vibrant scene, making them perfect for anyone eager to combine good food with a bit of adventure.
If you’re after a straightforward waterfront meal, the Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner will satisfy your craving for scenery and seafood alike.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of evening tours to enjoy in Fort Lauderdale, from walking food tours along Las Olas Boulevard to lively boat excursions with dinner and entertainment.
Each experience offers a unique way to explore the city’s culinary scene and coastal charm:
– An immersive walking dinner and drinks tour along Las Olas (see more)
– An all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner combined with a scenic riverboat cruise and lively show (see more)
– A craft cocktail and local restaurant hop through downtown (see more)
– A speedboat cruise with dinner at Bokampers Sports Bar & Grille (see more)
– The speedy Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise offering a scenic ride and relaxed dining (see more)
- Quick Overview
- 1. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour
- 2. All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise
- 3. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour
- 4. Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner
- 5. Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise
- How to Choose Your Perfect Fort Lauderdale Dinner Experience
- Final thoughts
1. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour
At number 1, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour stands out for its focus on local flavor and vibrant atmosphere. This tour is perfect if you like a mix of walking and tasting, taking you along Las Olas Boulevard, one of the city’s most lively streets. The tour kicks off at 5:00 pm, starting at SALT7500 E Las Olas Blvd, and makes multiple stops in favorite local restaurants and bars.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy small bites featuring locally sourced ingredients, crafted to reflect the city’s eclectic culture.
The tour also includes a stroll through the Las Olas Riverfront, where the lush Waterfront Park and Riverwalk District showcase Fort Lauderdale’s scenic beauty.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on community and authenticity. Guests often mention the friendliness of guides and the chance to try places they wouldn’t find on their own. The tour costs $114 per person and lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening outing.
Reviewers praise the delicious food, lively atmosphere, and Howie, the tour guide, for making it fun and memorable. If you love exploring neighborhoods on foot with good eats and local insights, this tour is a great choice.
Bottom Line: A lively, food-focused walk through downtown Fort Lauderdale that mixes culture, cuisine, and great company.
2. All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise
Number 2 on our list is the All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle, which combines a scenic cruise with a hearty barbecue and lively entertainment. For about $80, the 4-hour experience offers a full evening of fun, starting with a narrated cruise on the New River aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat.
This cruise takes you past Millionaire’s Row, where multimillion-dollar mansions and yachts line the shoreline—perfect for architecture buffs or anyone who appreciates luxury views.
After the cruise, you’ll dock at a tropical island for a buffet-style barbecue featuring ribs, chicken, and all the classic fixings. The dinner is complemented by an entertaining variety show—think comedians, jugglers, and Polynesian revues—that keeps the energy high.
The only real downside? Some reviews mention the menu could include more vegetarian options, but overall, the experience delivers a lively mix of sightseeing, feasting, and entertainment. With over 1,000 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it’s clear this tour offers exceptional value for a full evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or groups wanting a lively cruise combined with generous barbecue and a stage show.
3. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour
For those seeking a lively downtown experience, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour is a solid pick. At $109, it offers a 2.5-hour guided exploration of local bars and hidden restaurants that aren’t on every tourist’s radar. It includes enough food for dinner along with three alcoholic beverages, making it a satisfying evening with a social vibe.
The tour is ideal for travelers eager to meet new people while sampling a variety of craft cocktails and creative bites.
The tour’s strength is its focus on local craft beers, inventive cocktails, and small plates served in intimate, quirky venues. It’s well-suited for those who want a more relaxed, social experience, rather than a sit-down dinner. While some reviews highlight the fun and friendly guides, the main appeal is discovering forgotten downtown spots while enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A fun, social way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s craft bar scene with plenty of food and drinks included.
4. Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner
At number 4, the Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner offers a relaxed, scenic evening on the water. For around $80, you’ll embark on a cruise along the coastline, with the opportunity to see luxury mansions and mega-yachts lining the Intracoastal Waterway.
The cruise lasts about 3 hours and features lively commentary from the crew, along with a chance to purchase alcoholic beverages and take professional photos.
After the cruise, you enjoy a dinner at Bokampers Sports Bar & Grille, where you can indulge in seafood, wings, or classic pub fare. The combination of a scenic boat ride with a casual waterfront meal makes this tour a good pick for those who want a laid-back evening with a view.
It is especially suited for travelers who enjoy fast-paced boat rides and casual dining. Some reviews note that the experience is fun and entertaining, although the menu could be more diverse for vegetarians.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers wanting a scenic cruise plus a casual waterfront dinner.
5. Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise
Finally, the Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise offers a similar scenic experience on the Sea Rocket Speed Boat, combining a high-speed ride with dinner at Bokampers Sports Bar & Grille.
With a price of approximately $64, this 3-hour cruise showcases the city’s luxurious coastline, passing the cruise port and opulent mansions along the waterway. The engaging narration and lively music onboard make for an energetic atmosphere.
Afterward, guests enjoy a relaxed meal with options like wings and ribs at Bokampers, perfect for sports fans or groups seeking a quick, fun evening. While this tour is more budget-friendly, it’s best for those comfortable with a faster, more dynamic boat ride rather than a slow cruise. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting scenic views without the longer time commitment.
Bottom Line: A quick, energetic cruise that pairs well with casual waterfront dining, especially if you’re on a tighter schedule.
How to Choose Your Perfect Fort Lauderdale Dinner Experience
When selecting your ideal dinner outing, consider your priorities: Are you after a scenic boat ride? If so, the Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner (see here) offers picturesque views with casual dining.
For a more immersive local experience, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour (see here) provides a lively walk through Las Olas. Budget travelers may prefer the Speedboat & Dinner combo (see here), which is quick and affordable.
Those wanting a family-friendly evening with entertainment can’t go wrong with the BBQ cruise at Tropical Isle (see here), offering a hearty dinner and lively show. If you enjoy craft cocktails and hidden bars, the downtown Dinner & Drinks Tour is perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season from winter to early spring when demand is high. Consider your interests: scenic views, local culture, or lively entertainment—and choose the experience that best fits your style.
Final thoughts
Fort Lauderdale’s dinner options are as diverse as its waterways. Whether you prefer a relaxed waterfront meal, an energetic boat cruise, or a walking food tour, there’s something to suit your taste. For a more casual, lively experience, the BBQ dinner cruise offers a fun combination of sightseeing and eating. For those who love exploring neighborhoods, the Las Olas food and drink tour is perfect.
If you’re short on time but want to enjoy views and good food, the Intracoastal speedboat cruise provides a quick, scenic ride with a casual dinner afterward. We recommend booking early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and make the most of your evening in Fort Lauderdale.
Whatever your style, these tours promise a memorable way to enjoy the city’s culinary and scenic delights.