Uncover the fascinating history of Fort Lauderdale at the Historic Stranahan House Museum through a flexible self-guided audio tour that brings early 20th-century Florida to life. Discover stories of the city's founders and architectural beauty at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no special physical preparation needed
Wildlife
History
The Stranahan House is the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale, dating back to 1901 and central to the city’s early development.
Conservation
The museum actively maintains its historic structures and gardens with sustainability in mind, ensuring the site’s preservation for future generations.
Historic Stranahan House Museum
Uncover the fascinating history of Fort Lauderdale at the Historic Stranahan House Museum through a flexible self-guided audio tour that brings early 20th-century Florida to life. Discover stories of the city's founders and architectural beauty at your own pace.
Historic Stranahan House Museum preserves and interprets the story of Fort Lauderdale’s early pioneers and the family who shaped the city’s beginnings: Frank and Ivy Stranahan. Located on the New River, the museum operates the original early-1900s structure and offers guided tours, seasonal programs, and community-focused events led by knowledgeable docents.
Docents present intimate guided tours (limited to 10 guests) that trace the Stranahans’ trading post, civic leadership, and domestic life, using primary sources and period interpretation to create engaging, accurate narratives. Ticketed experiences include Victorian Christmas Tours with costumed interpreters, Cookies with Santa family photo sessions, the Founding Families Fall Festival, themed History Happy Hours, a Stranahan Speakeasy evening, craft fairs with vendor participation, and signature fundraisers such as Pineapple Jam.
An active Capital Campaign supports construction of a state-of-the-art education center, upgraded public facilities, and a welcoming courtyard to expand school programs, accessible exhibits, and community gatherings. As a nonprofit steward of local heritage, the museum partners with historians, educators, and preservationists to maintain the site and deliver educational programming for families, students, and history enthusiasts.
Advance booking is recommended for limited-capacity tours and ticketed events. Visitors can expect an authentic period setting, thoughtful interpretation, a curated gift shop, and opportunities to support preservation through donations and event participation.
Oldest Site
Fort Lauderdale’s oldest
Historic landmark on the New River
Guided Tours
Intimate groups of 10
Advance booking recommended
Annual Events
Seasonal & special events
Victorian Christmas, Fall Festival, more
Capital Campaign
Active fundraising
Expanding educational facilities
Reserve guided tours, buy event tickets, or support the Capital Campaign to help preserve the city’s oldest historic site.
Bring headphones for a better listening experience
Using headphones will help you focus on the audio narration without distraction, enhancing your understanding of the stories.
Plan for at least an hour
Allow enough time to leisurely walk through the house and gardens while listening to the detailed audio tour.
Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds
To enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience, consider touring when fewer visitors are present.
Check the weather forecast
Since part of the tour involves outdoor gardens, good weather will enhance your visit experience.
Smartphone with charged battery
Your smartphone is necessary to access the audio tour and navigate the site comfortably.
Comfortable walking shoes
Comfortable shoes will help you enjoy the tour's indoor and outdoor components without discomfort.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Protection from the sun is important during outdoor sections in warmer months.
summer
Light jacket or layers
Light layers can keep you comfortable during cooler outdoor temperatures.
winter|spring|fall