We're planning on a weekend in Ft. Lauderdale in July after a 3 night stay in South Beach.

We like to be very central as we like to leave the car parked when bar/restaurant hopping. Since we'll be coming from South Beach, a more laid-back area is Ok, but we'll still want places to go out. We prefer mid-sized hotels with balconies (high rises make for a crowded beach). A row back is OK if it's a good property with a good price.

Not stuck on Ft. Lauderdale proper, but figured it would have the most concentrated area.

Any ideas? Thanks.

Lago Mar is an excellent resort hotel with balconies overlooking ocean & pool. Private beach in a more secluded area. For more action try Marriott at Beach Place.

Maybe what you're looking for is The Riverside Hotel. It's where I stay when I have to spend the night over there on business (I'm only a 2 hour drive away). It is right on Las Olas, the main shopping and dining street of Ft. Lauderdale. Two blocks away is Mark's Las Olas, my favorite restaurant in all of Florida. It has parking, and I believe some rooms (not many) have balconies. It was built in the 1920's(?) but lovingly restored, Mexican tile floors in the halls, antique or reproduction furniture, and a very friendly staff. They have two excellent restaurants both with sidewalk seating on Las Olas. Across the back small street is a lovely pool area that is on the New River, where you watch the huge yachts pass by constantly. It's a very long walk to the beach, one I wouldn't really want to do, but other than that, it's in the heart of everything. Their phone is 1-800-325-3280. Why not call them and ask them to send you a brochure, find out about their rates, and maybe they have a website they can give you the address of?

Yes i can help stay at the Beautiful Marriott Beach Place Towers balconies over looking a very romantic inter coastal water way the moonlite over it.
stay in a villa with a jacussie.Even better right on the Beach and save 80% saveing or more. Just call Vicky Berry at 1 888 800 4352ext.6151.take a look www.MarriottVacationClub.com clik suitcase then location map.

GO AWAY

Brian,

I live in fort lauderdale right off of "Las Olas" where the Riverside Hotel is located. It is located only about 2 - 2.5 miles from the beach ($8) cab ride, and has bars and restaurants on the street where you can stroll and shop, eat or drink. This area is considered the premier spot in fort lauderdale. Additionally, you are also next to Riverwalk (more bars, restauarants, movies) and Beach Placem which is on the beach and has more bars, restaurants. As the other person told you, it is a great "Key West" style hotel. This is the hotel to stay at if you want to walk everywhere and take a quick cab or free shuttle which constantly runs on las olas all day.