Fort Lauderdale is a tourist town, offering a port that sends Discovery cruise ships to the Bahamas on a daily basis. You can either take a day trip there, or take advantage of the cruise line's packages, treating the ship as a kind of commuter ferry. Either way, several hotels within one and a half miles of Port Everglades, the cruise line's port on Eller Drive, can set you up while you wait for your ship.
America's Best Inn on 6th Avenue offers a free breakfast, free local calls and a historic venue. Originally a 1930s road motel, it's now been swallowed by the city. The hotel offers standard, handicapped-accessible and eco-rooms--which use fewer resources and less energy. Each room features a TV, coffee machine and a few extras, such as an iron and ironing board. Some rooms also have a microwave and freezer. Hotel amenities include barbecue grills, business services, an outdoor pool and wireless Internet access.
America's Best Inn
3001 Southeast 6th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-462-9175
americasbestinnftlauderdalesouth.com
Part of the Marriott family, Renaissance Fort Lauderdale is a luxury hotel on 17th Street. Its decor is tropical, right down to the bistro restaurant. This hotel describes itself as "boutique," though it still has 225 rooms and 11 suites on 12 floors. Each room features a coffeemaker, work desk, wireless Internet access, data jack, TV, safe, mini-bar, soundproof windows and a free newspaper on request. The entire hotel is smoke-free. Amenities include a pool, business center, free coffee in the lobby, and even a notary public. Local restaurants deliver to this hotel and room service is available most of the day.
Renaissance Fort Lauderdale-Port Everglades Hotel
1617 Southeast 17th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-626-1700
marriott.com
The name of this hotel reflects its close proximity to Port Everglades. Hotel amenities include a fitness and business center, free wireless Internet and an outdoor pool. Parking is not free and pets aren't allowed, though service animals are permitted. The hotel is laid out on six floors with nearly 150 rooms, both smoking and nonsmoking. Each room features blackout curtains, a balcony, work desk and chair, plus a TV with movies. You'll also find a coffee machine, fridge and microwave.
Crowne Plaza Fort Lauderdale Airport / Cruise Port
455 Southeast 24th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-523-8080
crowneplaza.com
