Explore Fort Lauderdale for Free: Take a Scenic Ride on the LauderGO! Water Trolley

Looking for an enjoyable way to explore Fort Lauderdale without spending a dime? Hop aboard the LauderGO! Water Trolley, a free boat service that offers one of the city’s most scenic rides along the historic New River.

Often called the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is home to more than 300 miles of waterways, and the Water Trolley provides a unique opportunity to experience them from the water. Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for a relaxing afternoon, this free ride showcases the city’s beauty from a different perspective.

Operating daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., the Water Trolley makes eight convenient stops along the New River, including Riverwalk, Esplanade Park, Tarpon River, Riverfront Plaza, and Smoker Park. Riders can board and exit at any designated stop, making it easy to explore restaurants, parks, museums, and Las Olas Boulevard at their own pace. (Fort Lauderdale)

As the boat glides through downtown, passengers enjoy views of luxury waterfront homes, impressive yachts, tropical landscapes, and some of Fort Lauderdale’s most recognizable landmarks. The peaceful ride is perfect for families, couples, photographers, or anyone wanting to escape the traffic and experience the city from the river.

Unlike the paid Water Taxi, the LauderGO! Water Trolley is completely free, thanks to a partnership between the City of Fort Lauderdale, Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, and Water Taxi. While there is no fare, passengers are welcome to tip the captain if they wish. (South Florida on the Cheap)

To make your trip even easier, visitors can use the LauderGO! app or the city’s online tracker to see the boat’s real-time location and estimated arrival times. Boats typically arrive every 20 to 30 minutes, although schedules may vary depending on river traffic and bridge openings. (Fort Lauderdale)

Whether you’re planning a relaxing afternoon, a family outing, or simply looking for one of South Florida’s best free attractions, the LauderGO! Water Trolley offers an unforgettable way to discover Fort Lauderdale—one stop at a time.