Where to Stay

Family Travel in a NutShell

Keeping the kids entertained is no problem in this city. When they get tired of the pool or beach, try visiting the Museum of Discovery and Science, which has lots of hands-on exhibits and a go-wild play area for the small fry, and the five-story 3D IMAX Theater. Go-cart racing, mini-golf, arcade complexes featuring virtual reality games and a Seminole Indian village with alligator wrestling shows are all high on the list of the city's family-oriented activities.
Unless it's off season, staying near the beach can prove pricey for most household budgets. A good rule of thumb is the farther north along the beach and the smaller the hotel, the more affordable. These establishments also tend to cater to a more sedate clientele than ones on the beach road south of Oakland Park Boulevard.

Another good bet during the winter months might be to try one of the many hotels and motels that dot U.S. Highway 1, mainly in the north end of town or State Road #7 further inland. Look for places like The River Inn Hotel, just north of Sunrise Boulevard on the west bank of the Intracoastal , or a strategically located chain like the La Quinta or Holiday Inn near the turnpike and interstate entrances.