It’s easy to think of Fort Lauderdale, Florida as a destination for the young and "hip." After all, Ft. Lauderdale is centered around its bikini-and-beefcake beach-loving culture, thriving nightlife and celebrity worship, but Fort Lauderdale, FL visitors and residents quickly learn that this coastal kingdom is home to a wide array of historic landmarks.
Actually, Fort Lauderdale has long boasted a rich blend of cultural and historical "must-see" exhibits, attractions and neighborhoods. It’s only natural, as over the past millennia, these Fort Lauderdale historical landmarks and sites were shaped by the area’s long-time native inhabitants. And more recently, Spain, England, and the United States added their cultural influence to the historical landmarks of the "New River Settlement" (the area’s pre-20th Century name). But for those who may have trouble deciding where to head, here is an overview of some leading historical landmarks.
The Fort Lauderdale History Center
There may be no better historical landmark than the all-inclusive community of the Fort Lauderdale History Center, which presents the entire Fort Lauderdale, FL experience, from the early pioneer days to today. This historic landmark houses various historic structures. These include the 1905 New River Inn, Broward County’s first building to be listed on the National Register of Historic. This historical landmark is also the site of the Fort Lauderdale Museum of History. This site is also home to many examples of classic architecture, as well as a public research library boasting the largest Fort Lauderdale-related collection of material.
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum means "a place to learn." This 60-acre, 5,000 square-foot museum/community is dedicated to the heritage and culture of the Florida Seminole Indian tribe. Considered one of the leading American and Fort Lauderdale historical landmarks, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki includes rare artifacts, exhibits and cultural displays, such as authentic clothing, cookware, and hunting, gardening, cooking equipment. Visitors will also find jewelry, art, and a boardwalk offering up-close natural access.
Stranahan House
One of the most famous historic landmarks in Fort Lauderdale, Stranahan House (formerly known as The Pioneer House), is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This historic landmark was named after Frank Stranahan, who along with his wife, Ivy, helped to establish the city of Fort Lauderdale. Stranahan House, located within the city’s mega-popular Riverwalk Complex, and offers authentic furnishings, clothing and equipment, making it a fascinating historical landmark.
