FORT LAUDERDALE — The urban oasis known as Huizenga Park isn’t quite ready to show off its $15 million makeover — but the grand unveiling is only a few weeks away.
The park, currently fenced off in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale at 32 E. Las Olas Blvd., is expected to draw crowds when it officially reopens on Jan. 24 after a two-year redesign.
Those who stroll through the popular gathering spot along the New River will find a modern new 3.6-acre space with 88 new shade trees, lush landscaping and a series of distinctive outdoor “rooms” that have something for everyone.
The long-awaited transformation includes a fenced dog run, a play area with rolling, climbable hills and Sweetwaters, a stylish two-story restaurant.
The restaurant, built by the same group that owns the Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne, is currently under construction and expected to open in fall 2026.
A special grand opening for the park is planned with a weekend of activities on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25. Alongside the grand reopening, the park plans to host a year of free events.
Fort Lauderdale’s Downtown Development Authority, owner of the park, spearheaded the transformation, leveraging its ownership of the land and securing public, private and philanthropic support for the $15 million makeover.
Fort Lauderdale chipped in $5 million. The state contributed $1 million. Private donors and the DDA provided the rest.
Huizenga Park, first built by the Downtown Development Authority in the late 1990s, has been a key downtown destination for decades. In 2003, the park was named after the legendary entrepreneur and philanthropist Wayne Huizenga, former owner of the Miami Dolphins. A self-made billionaire, Huizenga built his fortune by turning Waste Management, Blockbuster Video and AutoNation into corporate giants.
Developer Charlie Ladd, DDA board member and owner of Barron Real Estate, says the new Huizenga Park is just what downtown needs.
“As someone who has lived and worked downtown for years, I’ve seen how vital public spaces are to the life of our community,” Ladd said. “The renewed Huizenga Park brings fresh energy to the heart of the city, with lush green spaces that invite people to linger, connect and enjoy the riverfront. That vibrancy supports nearby restaurants, shops, and offices, strengthening our local economy and reflecting the bright future of our city.”
The DDA will manage the park, Ladd told the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
“There will be on-site security and an attendant in the restrooms,” he said. “There will be a groundskeeper there daily to keep the park clean, similar to Bryant Park in New York City.”
The park is filled with intimate spots where you can sit and relax in the shade, Ladd said. But he thinks the waterfront restaurant Sweetwaters will be the crowd favorite.
The DDA plans to lease land to the restaurant. The 20-year lease — with two five-year extension options — will help finance the makeover of the park as well as ongoing operations and maintenance.
Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis said he also thinks the restaurant will be a major draw.
“When the park is opened and the new design revealed, we’ll find an open space with new amenities and a world-class restaurant there for everyone to appreciate,” he said. “Its reopening is a clear example of how strategic investment in public spaces enhances community life and preserves the energy, spirit, and character that make Fort Lauderdale unique.”
Crews work Tuesday on a two-story restaurant expected to open in late 2026 at the newly redesigned Huizenga Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Grand opening activities
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24. The ceremony will be followed by guided park tours and a programming showcase until 2 p.m.
The showcase will spotlight the park’s three programming pillars: Arts & Culture, Health & Wellness, and Dogs & Pets, developed in partnership with local organizations and sponsors. Visitors are invited to return in the evening for a movie on the lawn at 6 p.m.
The festivities will continue on Sunday, Jan. 25, with the Sunny Side Up Market from noon to 4 p.m. along with an 11 a.m. yoga session and a guided meditation at sunset to officially welcome the community back to the park.
Huizenga Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale, shown on Tuesday, has been fenced off to the public during a two-year redesign. The park will reopen on Jan. 24. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
What you’ll find at the redesigned park:
Sweetwaters: A modern, two-story waterfront restaurant is expected to open in late 2026.
Poppy’s Play Patch: A landscape of rolling, climbable hills that invites children to explore, jump and let their imaginations run wild. Please note: Adults are permitted in the play mounds only when accompanied by a child. The following items are not allowed: Bikes, rollerblades, skates, food and chairs. Pets are also not permitted in the children’s play area.
The Dog Spot: A haven for dogs, perfect for playtime and outdoor fun. There will be some rules to follow, however. Pet owners will be expected to remain in control of their dog to prevent biting, fighting and excessive barking. Dogs that are sick, unvaccinated, in heat or have a history of dangerous behavior should be kept home.
Civic Lawn: Huizenga Park’s central greenspace.
Head with Butterflies Sculpture: A whimsical sculpture by artist Manolo Valdes that showcases the natural beauty of the park.
LOVE Mural: Painted by renowned graphic artist Cey Adams, the mural encourages park visitors to lead with love.
Spirit of Fort Lauderdale Fountain: Iconic cascading jets surrounded by benches make this corner of the park a great spot for respite and relaxation.
The Nook: Currently under construction, The Nook will open in 2026 as a hub for outdoor dining and impromptu meetups.
The park will open at 7 a.m. and close at 10 p.m.
Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com . Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan