Known to many as the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale is home to myriad attractions, not the least of which are its 3,000 hours of reputed annual sunshine. Still, while it's famous for its sunshine, sand and surf, Fort Lauderdale offers travelers and locals alike much more than a healthy tan. For starters, there's world-renowned Las Olas Boulevard, which has more than 100 restaurants, shops and galleries where both locals and tourists can spend many enjoyable hours window-shopping and dining. There's even an outdoor urban gourmet market, not to mention a wine and food festival for Florida-bound foodies. Of course, if you enjoy wine, you don't have to wait for the festival: Seventh Street Wine will let you sample wine before you buy it, if you're so inclined. Meanwhile, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts provides a cultural respite for those who've had their fill of food and drink. Or, for those who have the shopping bug, there's also Sawgrass Mills Mall. The fourth largest mall in the country, it includes multiple designer outlets. If staying on land shopping is not your thing, Fort Lauderdale hosts an international boat show every October and is home to both the International Swimming Hall of Fame and the famous Bahia Mar Marina, where you can enjoy a glass bottom boat, dive and or snorkel to your heart's content.

Land games more your style? There's Jai-Lai, the Hollywood Greyhound Track and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Or, if there's a sports fan in your party, there's the American Airlines Arena, home to the NBA's Miami Heat; the Office Depot Center, home to the NHL's Florida Panthers; and the Miami Dolphins Stadium, home to both the NFL's Miami Dolphins and MLB's Florida Marlins. If you'd rather take it slow, watching nature instead of the big game, there's the International Fishing Hall of Fame, Billie Swamp Safari, the Anne Kolb Nature Center and the Bueheler Planetarium and Observatory. The Everglades are not far away, either; bring earplugs, though, for those airboat rides, as they can wreak havoc on your hearing. Of course, if all of this tires you out, there's always the beautiful Atlantic on Florida's Gold Coast, which draws more than 7 million visitors every year to the fascinating city. There's something for everyone in this versatile city. Enjoy!