Oakland Park is a city located in Broward County, Florida. The municipality, which was incorporated on January 29, 1929, is approximately ten miles from Fort Lauderdale, and sits at the intersection of the Florida East coast railway and North Andrews Avenue. This city has seen a great deal of growth over the years, and today it is home to more than 43,000 residents. It offers a wide range of attractions, amenities, and quality of life for its residents. These include parks, golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants, cultural centers, and more. Additionally, Oakland Park offers some of the best schools in the county, with educational options that focus on preparing students to excel in the future. The city is also home to the world-famous Oakland Park Speedway, which is a premier racing venue in south Florida. In recent years, the area has seen an influx of development, with new businesses, restaurants, and other attractions coming to the city. Oakland Park is truly a great place to call home, offering something for everyone.
Oakland Park is a city in Broward County, Florida. It is located north of Fort Lauderdale and south of Wilton Manors, just west of I-95. It is sometimes referred to as “the Gateway to Broward County.” The City of Oakland Park is divided into eight districts: Central – containing the commercial area, North West – containing mostly residential properties, North East – containing mostly residential properties, South East – containing mostly residential properties, South West – containing mostly residential properties, West – containing mostly residential properties, East – containing mostly residential properties, and Pompano Beach – containing mostly beach and tourism areas.
The best way to get to Oakland Park in Florida is by car. However, there are other options as well. You can also take public transportation such as a bus or train, or you could hire a taxi or ride sharing service.
1. Oakland Park Historic District – This historic residential area, located southwest of downtown Oakland Park, encompasses an area roughly bounded by Johnson Street, Federal Highway, Commercial Boulevard, and 5th Avenue. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. The district contains a variety of architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Shingle Style, Tudor Revival, Miami Modern (MiMo), Tudor Moderne, and Neo-Mediterranean, among others. The district is significant for its historic architecture, landscape elements, and its role in the development of Oakland Park.
2. Oakland Park Post Office – This historic post office, located at 1299 East Oakland Park Boulevard, was constructed in 1936-37. The Mediterranean Revival-style building was designed by local architect E. G. Combs, who also designed the post office in Pompano Beach, Florida. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
3. El Prado Theater – This historic theater, located at the southwest corner of Federal Highway and 15th Street, was built in 1948. It was designed by Thomas McKearney, and features an exterior of pink and green stucco with red tile and a distinctive Cuban period-inspired interior. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
4. MCA Plaza – This Mediterranean Revival-style commercial building was constructed in 1931 as the First Federal Savings and Loan Association. The building is distinguished by its brick pilasters, limestone sills and lintels, tile roof, and intricate terracotta and stucco detailing. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
5. Cheesman Park Building – The Cheesman Park Building, located at 845 Oakland Park Boulevard, was built in the mid-twentieth century as a commercial building. The building is an example of the Moderne style, which was popular in the 1930s and 1940s. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
1. Jaco Pastorius Park – This lush park offers a variety of activities, from biking and running to tennis, volleyball, and basketball. There’s also a playground, fishing pier, and nature trails. Pets are welcome too!
2. Funky Buddha Brewery – Enjoy a great night out drinking some of the best local brews. The brewery regularly hosts events and offers food trucks, live performances, art displays, and more.
3. Arts and Culture Center of Hollywood – A great place to explore the city’s vibrant art and culture scene, this center features art exhibitions by regional artists, film screenings, comedy shows, and lots of great music.
4. Sandalfoot Cove Park – An ideal spot for hikers, this park features over three acres worth of trails, boardwalks, and open grassy areas. There’s also a playground and plenty of wildlife to observe.
5. Plantation Heritage Park – This 320-acre park has a little something for everyone, from bird-watching at the lake to canoeing, walking trails, and playgrounds. There’s even an event center for weddings, meetings, and more.
1. Visit the Oakland Park Flea Market: Established in 1973, the Oakland Park Flea Market is a great way to explore the locals’ favorite pastime – shopping and collecting. With over 135 vendors and 25,000 visitors a weekend, you can find great deals on jewelry, clothes, furniture, and antiques.
2. Visit the Oakland Nature Preserve: Enjoy the natural beauty at Oakland Nature Preserve, with over 400 acres of wetlands, pine flatwood, scrub, and uplands that support a variety of wildlife from birds and butterflies to live Oak trees and wildflowers. The preserve also offers trails, programs, and educational classes on the environment.
3. Browse the Arts & Entertainment District: With its vibrant street art, galleries, theaters, and music venues, Oakland Park has become a go-to spot for art and culture. Take a stroll down NW 38th Street for entertainment and dining.
4. Tour the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey: This nature center offers a variety of programs and activities to appreciate the beauty of birds of prey. The center is home to a variety of species of hawks, owls, and bald eagles, as well as educational classes and events.
5. Tour the Funky Buddha Brewery: Sample some of the best craft beers in South Florida made right here in Oakland Park. Tours of their state-of-the-art facility are available and tastings are free.