Celebrate the holidays with a special Victorian Christmas tour at the Historic Stranahan House Museum. Discover pioneer traditions and enjoy a festive, educational outing in Fort Lauderdale.
Celebrate the holidays with a special Victorian Christmas tour at the Historic Stranahan House Museum. Discover pioneer traditions and enjoy a festive, educational outing in Fort Lauderdale.
Book with Historic Stranahan House Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Historic Stranahan House Museum · Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Experience a unique holiday tradition with the Victorian Christmas Tours at the Historic Stranahan House Museum in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Step back in time to the late 19th century with costumed docents who bring the Victorian era alive by sharing stories of pioneer Christmas celebrations and the origins of many holiday customs still cherished today. This immersive tour offers visitors a glimpse into the life and culture of early Fort Lauderdale settlers, highlighting their festivities and seasonal traditions in a historical home preserved to reflect its original state.
Beyond the guided storytelling, guests can explore the beautifully decorated rooms adorned with period furnishings and decorations, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The museum’s gift shop offers thoughtful holiday gifts that reflect the spirit of the season — perfect for finding unique and meaningful presents. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply in search of a festive outing, this tour provides a rich cultural experience accented by holiday cheer. The Historic Stranahan House’s intimate setting makes it perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to enjoy a charming, educational holiday event in South Florida.
easy.
1–1.5 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking and standing involved.
Yes, the tours are family-friendly and provide engaging historical stories that children enjoy.
The museum has limited wheelchair accessibility due to its historic structure; contact the museum for specific accommodations.
Tickets often sell out during the holiday season, so advance booking is highly recommended.
Yes, limited free parking is available nearby; public transportation and rideshare are also convenient options.
Pets are not allowed inside the museum, except for service animals.
The gift shop offers unique holiday items, local crafts, and historical memorabilia perfect for Christmas gifts.
The Stranahan House is Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure and was originally built as a trading post in 1901 by the city’s founder, Frank Stranahan.
The museum promotes preservation of local history and uses sustainable practices to maintain the historic site with minimal environmental impact.
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.
Book with Historic Stranahan House Museum