Fort Lauderdale / United States

This canal-laced city is a far cry from its spring break party image of the past. Following renovation and renewal, upscale stores and restaurants have replaced fast-food stands and T-shirt shops. But the stretch of gorgeous beaches, great swimming, nearly year-round sunshine and close-to-ideal climate are the city's biggest draws. For great shopping and dining, stroll down Las Olas Boulevard, which is lined with top-notch boutiques and restaurants. Nightlife lovers flock to the nearby Riverfront area, packed with bars and free entertainment. The city has a host of family-friendly options, such as Everglades Holiday Park and the Museum of Discovery and Science. With the network of canals and waterways, boats are part of the Lauderdale lifestyle, and tourists can get in on the act by renting a boat or hailing a water taxi. There's a lot to do here, but be sure to spend some quiet time just soaking up the sun or strolling along the beach at dusk.