Near Fort Lauderdale Is A Small Town Day Trip With Idyllic Nature Escapes, Local Eats, And Rural Charm

Spend a day in Southwest Ranches, Florida, and you might believe you're in the heart of Ocala's horse country. The difference? The busy South Florida beaches are 25 minutes away. Sitting just over 20 miles southwest of Fort Lauderdale near the Everglades, this small Florida town is defined by its rural way of life. Instead of bustling commercial strips and ocean views, visitors will find quiet country roads and open pastures tucked between luxury estates. This peaceful part of the Sunshine State boasts local eateries and enough outdoor recreation to keep you entertained before making your way back to the coastline.

Southwest Ranches was incorporated in 2000, and roughly 7,900 people call it home. In 1996, a bill was presented to merge the unincorporated communities in the southwest region of Broward County. Rather than becoming part of a neighboring city, the citizens organized to protect the community's rural character within its 13-square-mile border. Today, the town's motto, "Preserving Our Rural Lifestyle," is central to its identity. When you visit, you'll find residents raising livestock, caring for horses, and farming land, all while enjoying a slower pace of life just minutes from the coast.

Getting to Southwest Ranches by car is easy. That said, the town has few pedestrian-friendly spots and sidewalks, so having a vehicle is the best way to get around. Given that it's within minutes of Interstate 75, Interstate 595, and Interstate 95, it makes a convenient stop for a day trip. And it's also a quick detour for anyone traveling on Florida's scenic US Highway 27. As for the nearby airports, both Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International, America's most affordable major airport, and Miami International Airport are less than 30 miles away.

Similar to Indiantown, a laid-back village between Orlando and Miami, Southwest Ranches is known for its equestrian lifestyle. Whether you're a professional rider, a novice, or you simply love horses, start your day at Sunshine Ranches Equestrian Park. With peaceful wetlands, multi-use trails, large horse riding rings, shaded picnic spots, and a cute farm-themed playground, it's a lovely outdoor space. One Google reviewer had this to say: "Sunshine Ranches Equestrian Park is a delightful park that offers walking trails for both humans and their four-legged companions. The horses are a sight to behold, whether you're strolling along the trails or watching them train."

If you're interested in hopping on a horse yourself, saddle up at Fireline Farms. Offering trail rides, riding lessons, and seasonal camps, the farm is fun for visitors of all ages. A reviewer said, "A magnificent equestrian center — very family-friendly and highly professional." You can also book a guided trail ride with A&A Adventure Horse Trail Rides to escape into the peaceful South Florida woodlands. One Google user remarked, "The BEST EXPERIENCE EVER!!!! The horses are beautiful." They later added, "I had the best time; you feel like you are transported into another world when you go riding with them."

When you're ready to meet the locals and pick up some homemade goodies, stop by the Southwest Ranches Farmers Market. This year-round market is family-owned, offering a wide selection of locally-sourced meats, eggs, honey, milk, produce, lotions, soaps, and more. Whether you're shopping for fresh ingredients or looking for a taste of local life, it's a great stop on your day trip to the area.

Surprisingly, for a rural community, Southwest Ranches boasts a wide variety of local eateries – from laid-back outdoor hangouts to Latin American eats to intimate Italian restaurants. At Cafe 27 Bar and Grill, diners can dive into American classics, like juicy burgers and wings, or try the deep-fried gator bites, a local delight. You'll experience ultimate South Florida vibes at this open-air, tiki-style bar. The live entertainment is a highlight for visitors, with a Facebook user saying, "If you support great local music, this is where you'll find it."

Described by a patron as an "authentic Colombian and Venezuelan countryside-style dining experience," Sancocho y Leña Steak and Grill (which also has a Miami location) is a favorite with over 1,600 reviews and a 4.8-star rating on Google. This casual joint is dishing up classic Latin American wood-fired barbecue platters and hearty stews in a food truck park with picnic-style seating and live music, making it a wonderful spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. If your day trip extends into the evening hours, Prosecco22 Ristorante Italiano boasts homemade pastas and Italian specialties, including gnocchi pesto, seared branzino, and tiramisu.

Other eateries worth a visit include Adrian Fish Market and Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood, and you can satisfy your ramen cravings at Shimuja Ramen. These two spots receive high praise from locals for delicious food and friendly service. If after your day in Southwest Ranches you want to continue exploring the area, check out more beaches, parks, and vibrant cities in Broward County.