“Walkable” and “South Florida” aren’t exactly two things that go together. While we’re definitely more car-centric, being that everything is so far away and it’s simply too hot to be outside, there are several roads that stand out for a leisurely stroll. Assisted Living Magazine recently published a study analyzing the 100 most walkable streets in the U.S., and landing a surprising third place on that list was none other than Fort Lauderdale’s East Las Olas Boulevard!
The senior living concierge carried out a survey of over 3,000 residents to name the most lovable spots where walking feels like a pleasure, not a task. And to be clear, these are just as pleasant whether you’re in assisted living or not. Topping the list were Lake Placid’s Main Street in NY (No. 1) and State Street in Santa Barbara, CA (No. 2).
What makes Las Olas Boulevard so special?
“East Las Olas Boulevard feels more like a breeze than a street, lined with palms, flanked by fountains, and always touched by the scent of salt air and tropical blooms,” the ranking reads. “It’s a flat, walkable stretch with enough beauty and movement to lift your mood—and enough stops along the way to keep you fueled and inspired.”
Stretching for about 2.5 miles, from Andrews Avenue in downtown Fort Lauderdale to the beach, Las Olas Blvd is one of the city’s most vibrant streets and famous for its boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Lined with breezy palm trees and Mediterranean-inspired buildings, it is often described as the “heart and soul” of Fort Lauderdale’s social scene.
What to do on E Las Olas Boulevard
The popular stretch of road features local shops and a few fantastic spots for a bite to eat, from fine dining to casual eateries. You’ll find Elba, OL’DAYS, Catch & Cut and YOLO Restaurant, among others.
Other spots worth visiting along Las Olas Boulevard are the NSU Art Museum — which houses more than 7,500 artworks — and Bubier Park, featuring a beautiful fountain and incredible views of the waterfront. Strolling this boulevard is as much about shopping and dining as it is about soaking in the lively water views!
To see the complete list of walkable main streets in the country, you can check out the full study here.