Surroundings
Welcome to beautiful southeast Florida, a paradise that stretches southward from sunny Palm Beach County to eclectic Key West. With some of Florida’s finest beaches, unique shopping districts and a vast array of cultural opportunities, there’s something for every vacationer here. Explore the elegant stores and Mediterranean Revival architecture of Palm Beach, and the trendy cafes and sleek boutiques of Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. Delight in the fascinating South Beach section of Miami and chic shops and restaurants in Coconut Grove. Relax by the shining waters of the Florida Keys and revel in that funky, far-our jewel of the south – Key West.
Broward County, with its 23 miles of golden sands, is popular vacation spot. The spectacular beachfront promenade, ringed with palm trees, draws locals and visitors to rollerblade, cycle and stroll beside the sparkling Atlantic.
During the real estate boom of the 1920s, developer Charles G. Rodes was instrumental in creating many of the area’s canals. Rodes studied the parallel canal system in Venice, Italy and applied it here. Using a technique called "finger islanding," he alternated strips of land with channels of water to create waterfront property that would also afford residents a bit of privacy. Rodes named his development of peninsulas the "Isles of Venice."
With more than 300 miles of inland waterways in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area to explore, the water taxi provides a terrific mode of transportation, as well as a relaxing way to see the sights and sounds of this prime resort city, nicknamed "The Venice of America."
Whether it’s time for a leisurely lunch or stint of boutique shopping, charming Las Olas Boulevard is the place to be, with its great variety of restaurants, cafes and clubs.
Before or after the convention a trip to Orlando, FL offers plenty of fun for the whole family including Disneyworld, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Universal Studios to name a few. For a more relaxing time, travel south to the Florida Keys. The Keys offer plenty of outdoor fun including snorkeling, boating, diving, or relaxing in the sun.
