Sunrise Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sunrise, Florida with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink recommendations, accommodation options and local tips.


Introduction to Sunrise

Sunrise is located in Broward County, Greater Miami, Florida, United States of America, in North America. It is home to an array of attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Sunrise is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

List of Places to Visit in Sunrise

Here is a list of the top attractions in Sunrise that every visitor should see during their stay.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sawgrass Mills Mall: One of the largest shopping centers in the world with over 350 stores and restaurants.
  • Markham Park: A beautiful park with hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities, as well as a gun range.
  • Flamingo Gardens: A botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary that features exotic animals, a butterfly exhibit, and a tram tour.
  • Young At Art Museum: A unique museum offering interactive exhibits, art classes, and programs for children.

Natural Attractions of Sunrise: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Everglades Holiday Park: A chance to get up close with alligators and other wild animals on an airboat tour.
  • Sawgrass Recreation Park: Another opportunity for an airboat tour and a chance to see Florida’s wildlife.
  • Welleby Park: A great place for a picnic, walking, or a game of frisbee golf.
  • BB&T Center: Home of the NHL’s Florida Panthers and host to concerts and entertainment events throughout the year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunrise

Sunrise is home to several parks and reserves that are perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular options include:

  • Markham Park: With 10 miles of mountain biking trails and a large lake for fishing and boating opportunities.
  • Sawgrass Recreational Park: With a 2.5-mile paved trail around the park and the Everglades on your doorstep.
  • Welleby Park: An excellent place for picnics and leisurely strolls amongst nature.

Best Things to Do in Sunrise: Activities and Tours

Sunrise offers plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained during their stay. Here are some top options:

  • Airboat Tours: A chance to see the Everglades and Florida’s wildlife from a unique perspective.
  • Shopping: Sunrise is home to the massive Sawgrass Mills Mall and plenty of other shopping opportunities.
  • Sports Events: BB&T Center is the home of the NHL’s Florida Panthers, and concerts and shows happen throughout the year.
  • Arts and Culture: Young At Art Museum offers interactive exhibits and art classes for children.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunrise

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Sunrise:

Day Activity
1 Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tour and Flamingo Gardens
2 Sawgrass Mills Shopping and BB&T Center sports or concert event
3 Markham Park hiking and gun range
4 Young At Art Museum
5 Welleby Park picnic and frisbee golf
6 Sawgrass Recreational Park airboat tour and wildlife encounters
7 Relaxation day with food and drink in Sunrise

Food and Drink Scene of Sunrise

Sunrise is rich in culinary experiences with a diverse range of ethnic cuisine and local favorites. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try during your stay:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuban Sandwich: A South Florida favorite in Sunrise, this sandwich is loaded with pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
  • Conch Fritters: A Bahamian-inspired dish featuring deep-fried conch
  • Key Lime Pie: A delicious dessert featuring a tangy lime filling on a buttery crust.
  • Fish Tacos: Fresh fish, grilled or fried, in a soft tortilla with toppings like avocado, salsa, and slaw.

Local Beverages

  • Mojito: A classic Cuban cocktail featuring rum, mint, and lime juice.
  • Cuban Coffee: A sweet and strong coffee typically served in tiny espresso cups.
  • Key Lime Martini: A twist on the classic martini with key lime juice and vodka.

Where to Stay in Sunrise: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sunrise offers plenty of options for every budget. Here are some options to consider:

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Sunrise - A luxury hotel located in the heart of Sunrise with a pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites Sunrise Sawgrass Mills - A budget-friendly hotel with a pool, free breakfast, and pet-friendly policy.
  • Private Guest Room - For those looking for a social and budget-friendly way to stay, check out Airbnb for private guest rooms located around town.

What to Buy in Sunrise: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking to bring home a keepsake from your time in Sunrise? Here are some suggestions:

  • Cuban Cigars: With Cuba just an hour away by plane, Sunrise is the perfect place to pick up a box of authentic Cuban cigars.
  • Beachwear and Surf Gear: The warm weather in Sunrise means shopping for beachwear and surf gear is a must.
  • Local Art: Young At Art Museum and local galleries around town offer unique pieces to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunrise

Florida is known for being a friendly and laid-back state, and Sunrise is no exception. Visitors should follow local customs like tipping at restaurants, beach and pool etiquette, and casual dress.

Best Time to Visit Sunrise

Sunrise is a year-round destination with warm weather nearly all year. However, the best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is mild and less humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunrise

Here are some tips on things to do and avoid while visiting Sunrise:

Do:

  • Do enjoy the outdoors - Just do not forget to apply sunblock!
  • Do try the local delicacies such as a Cuban sandwich or key lime pie.
  • Do tip the servers with at least 15% of the total bill.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks or beaches.
  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for the walking trails.
  • Don’t leave without trying the airboat ride through the Everglades.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Sunrise should be aware of the safety and health risks, as with any international travel. Here are some tips to ensure a safe trip:

Safety in Sunrise

  • Exercise caution when walking after dark.
  • Avoid leaving valuables in your car when parked.
  • Stay away from alligators and snakes when hiking or boating.

Health in Sunrise

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in warm weather.
  • Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against sunburns.
  • Wear appropriate clothing to prevent mosquito bites when hiking through the Everglades.

Getting to Sunrise: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to consider when traveling to Sunrise:

  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): Sunrise is just a 20-minute drive from FLL airport.
  • Miami International Airport (MIA): Sunrise is about a 45-minute drive from MIA airport.
  • Buses: Buses are available throughout Sunrise and the surrounding area, the closest bus station is in Fort Lauderdale.

How to Get Around in Sunrise

The best way to get around Sunrise is by car. There are also bike lanes along some streets and sidewalks to explore on foot.

Where to Go Next from Sunrise: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sunrise is a great place to start a Florida trip, here are some destinations to consider near Sunrise:

  • Fort Lauderdale - Just a 15-minute drive from Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale offers beautiful beaches, shopping, and dining.
  • Miami - Only a 40-minute drive from Sunrise, Miami offers a vibrant nightlife, multicultural dining options, and plenty of attractions.
  • Everglades National Park - Sunrise is just a short drive away from the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, the Everglades National Park.

Conclusion

Sunrise, Florida is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for warm weather, outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. With so much to do, it’s easy to see why Sunrise is a top destination in Florida. Plan your trip now and make your stay in Sunrise one to remember.