Historic Stranahan House Museum
Step back in time at Broward County's oldest home, a 1901 trading post turned family residence, offering a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale's origins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Historic Stranahan House Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Broward County's oldest home, a 1901 trading post turned family residence, offering a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale's origins.
"This place is fascinating!!! The curator who walked us in had the most interesting stories!"
🎧 Audio Tour is Key
Don't skip the self-guided audio tour; it's packed with fascinating stories and details!
🪑 Relax on the Porch
Take a break on the second-floor veranda to enjoy the New River views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Stranahan House
Main House
Step into Broward County's oldest home, a 1901 trading post turned family residence.
New River Porch
Second Floor Veranda
Relax and watch boats glide by on the New River from this charming, historic porch.
Audio History Tour
Throughout the House
An informative self-guided audio tour brings the Stranahan family and local history to life.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Audio Tour is Key
Don't skip the self-guided audio tour; it's packed with fascinating stories and details!
🪑 Relax on the Porch
Take a break on the second-floor veranda to enjoy the New River views.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot! Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located right by Water Taxi Stop One, making it super convenient.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Audio Tour is Key
Don't skip the self-guided audio tour; it's packed with fascinating stories and details!
🪑 Relax on the Porch
Take a break on the second-floor veranda to enjoy the New River views.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida can be hot! Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located right by Water Taxi Stop One, making it super convenient.
🕰️ Allow an Hour
The tour typically takes about an hour, giving you ample time to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Historic Stranahan House Museum for its immersive historical experience and the informative self-guided audio tour. Many appreciate the opportunity to relax on the New River porch and connect with Fort Lauderdale's origins. While some note that student docents could be more engaging, the overall sentiment is that it's a fascinating, affordable, and enriching visit.
"Go back in time to when Ft. Lauderdale first began with a trip to the Stranahan House. The self-guided audio tour gives you more than enough information about the Stranahans, the town, each room, and the people of the area from the early 1900’s up through Ivy’s death in 1971. This is a great tour for both locals and tourists. Be sure to take a break and sit on the outdoor porch for a bit to appreciate the beauty of the New River. While many of the artifacts in the house are “of the period”, there are a few gems that actually belonged to and were used by the Stranahans themselves. It’s a great affordable way to take in the quieter side of the city."
Heather Emery
"A Step Back Time! This House is a delight and it's right in the midst of busy and modern Las Olas facing the beautiful New River. The house itself is a stunning example of simple yet beautiful design. Our guide, Missi, was very nice and very knowledgeable, sharing fascinating stories about the Stranahan family's history.
The self-guided audio tour was true ingenuity - it allowed us to explore the house at our own pace while still gaining a deeper understanding of its significance.
What truly impressed us was how the museum transported us back in time. The carefully preserved interior and artifacts created an immersive experience.
This was definitely a unique and enriching experience in Ft. Lauderdale, the Stranahan House Museum is an absolute must-visit."
Lexi Woon
"This place is fascinating!!! The curator who walked us in had the most interesting stories! I love the audio history of the house and area. I was pleasantly surprised that there are chairs to sit in on the balcony and you're encouraged to do so!"
Ginny Venable
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stranahan House Museum is easily accessible via Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi, located at Stop One. If driving, be aware that parking in the Las Olas area can be challenging. Ride-sharing services or public transport are good alternatives.
Parking near the Stranahan House can be limited and is often paid. It's recommended to check for nearby public parking garages or consider using the Water Taxi for a hassle-free arrival.
If you are staying in the Las Olas area or along the Riverwalk, the Stranahan House is within walking distance and offers a pleasant stroll along the New River.
From the beach, you can take the Water Taxi directly to Stop One, which is conveniently located next to the Stranahan House. This offers scenic views along the way.
Several Broward County Transit bus routes serve the downtown Fort Lauderdale area, which is a short walk from the Stranahan House. Check the BCT website for specific route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable, making it a great value for experiencing local history. Check the official Stranahan House website for the most current admission fees and any potential discounts.
While walk-ins are often accommodated, booking your Stranahan House tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred tour time.
The Stranahan House Museum typically operates during specific hours, often Tuesday through Saturday. It's best to verify the exact opening and closing times on their official website before your visit.
The primary way to experience the Stranahan House is through its self-guided audio tour, which is included with admission. Some special events may offer guided tours.
Admission to the Historic Stranahan House Museum requires a ticket. The ticket grants you access to the house and the informative audio tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The self-guided audio tour is highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the house's history and the Stranahan family. Take your time to explore each room and enjoy the New River views from the porch.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the Stranahan House and listening to the audio tour. You're welcome to linger on the porch and soak in the atmosphere.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors within the Stranahan House Museum.
Yes, the Stranahan House can be interesting for children, especially with the audio tour. It offers a glimpse into early Florida life.
Inside the Stranahan House, you'll find preserved rooms with furnishings from the early 1900s, showcasing the lifestyle of Frank and Ivy Stranahan. Some original artifacts are on display.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted inside the Stranahan House. It's always best to check for any posted signs or ask a staff member.
The second-floor veranda overlooking the New River offers beautiful scenic photo opportunities. The exterior of the historic house itself is also very photogenic.
Flash photography is typically not allowed inside historic buildings like the Stranahan House to protect the artifacts and interiors.
You can capture images of the historic architecture, period furnishings, and the picturesque New River. It's a great spot for historical and scenic shots.
Drone usage is generally prohibited over historic sites and private property. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to listen to the audio guide and imagine life in the early 1900s. The New River porch provides a nice spot for a family break, offering a scenic view. While the house is historic, it's generally manageable for children to explore respectfully. Consider it a unique educational outing that's both fun and informative.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the period furnishings and any original artifacts that remain. The audio tour delves deep into the historical context, providing rich details about the Stranahan family's influence and the community's growth. The location itself, overlooking the New River, is also historically significant, having been a vital waterway for trade and transportation.
📸 Photographers
The second-floor veranda is a prime spot for capturing picturesque shots of the New River, with boats often passing by. The natural light filtering through the porch columns can create beautiful photographic moments. Remember to check photography guidelines regarding interior shots, but the exterior and veranda views are typically very photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Stranahan Legacy
The house itself is a testament to early 20th-century Florida architecture, a simple yet elegant wood-frame structure. After Frank's passing, Ivy continued to live in the house until her death in 1971, preserving its history. The museum now showcases the home with period furnishings and artifacts, offering a tangible connection to the lives of its original inhabitants and the early days of Fort Lauderdale.
Visitors often praise the self-guided audio tour for its depth and engaging narrative. It allows you to explore at your own pace, learning about the Stranahans, the local Seminole tribe, and the evolution of the town. The museum also highlights Ivy's significant contributions, including her efforts to preserve the house and its history for future generations.
Experiencing the Stranahan House
Beyond the interior, the second-floor veranda is a highly recommended spot. Visitors are encouraged to sit and relax here, taking in the picturesque views of the New River. It's a peaceful escape from the modern city bustle and a perfect place to reflect on the historical significance of the location.
While the house itself is the main attraction, the museum also features a small gift shop. The overall experience is often described as fascinating, enriching, and an affordable way to connect with the local heritage. The curators and staff are frequently commended for their knowledge and passion, adding a personal touch to the visit.
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