Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/725964
DREAMSCAPES FALL 2016 16 W ith more than 2,630 hectares of Broward County parks (1,416 of which are preserved for native and endangered species), 37 kilometres of clean, sparkling coastline, and countless animal and plant species, Greater Fort Laud- erdale is the perfect destination for visitors to explore some of the world's most diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Since 1982, the county has installed more than 112 artificial reefs that have created new underwater habitats while protecting existing reefs from boats, anchors and other dangers. Shipwreck Park at Pompano Beach offers divers an opportunity to explore a sunken ship less than a mile from shore. The venue even includes rotating exhibits of underwater art! At least 16 other ship- wrecks are in the vicinity, making this one of the most easily accessible major dive sites in the nation. Also, while in the area, check out Flamingo Gardens & Wray Botanical Col- lection, Butterfly World and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park where visitors can rent canoes and paddle a freshwater lagoon, fish from the seawall, hike, bike, Segway or relax in a hammock. With nearly 30 sta- tions throughout Broward County, the B-Cycle bike-sharing program is a great way to get around. NOW, THIS IS ENTERTAINMENT! Renowned for its stage performances, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, a 5,455-seat, multi-venue waterfront theatre and entertainment complex, is undergoing a US$56-million renovation to include the addition of a waterside restaurant, a glass- walled pavilion, intermezzo lounge, education centre, and luxurious premium upgrades to seating and facilities. The Casino @ Dania Beach has reopened after a US$60-million complete makeover, and the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, a brand new 1,143-seat theatre, opened in January 2016. Movie buffs should check out the International Film Festival, mid-October to mid-November; the Gay & Lesbian Film Fes- tival in October; and the Women's International Film Festival in March 2017. Families love the Greater Fort Lauderdale area. The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau lists a selection of kid- friendly "FUNtinerary" programs, which highlight activities, attractions and top-notch family programs and amenities at a variety of resorts and hotels. If you're visiting in February 2017, be sure to check out the A1A Kid's Fun Run. Or for some peace and quiet, drop the kids off at Funky Fish Kids Day, a "liquid playground" day camp (overnight options available) for kids ages four to 14, FLIP FLOP Chic THE GOOD LIFE COMES EASY IN GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE. BY BRYEN DUNN