Smoker Family Park

I had jury duty. At lunchtime, I walked to the park. People were walking around, some with their dogs. Lots of nice big trees, and benches to sit on. Nice breeze blowing that afternoon. Very enjoyable.

Smoker Family Park is located on the South bank of the New River. While small, the views of the water, downtown Ft. Lauderdale, ands the historic Stranahan House across the River are breathtaking. The park was named in honor of Sanford Smoker, a Ft. Lauderdale resident who saved historic homes and oak trees in the area. The park has a walkway, a few benches, public art, and a water fountain. The most well known piece of art is the Seminole Girl statue made of bronze. There are a few parking spaces. The park has long been a bone of contention between the city and developers who wanted to build high rises on the land. Local protesters helped to secure the land as a park but it was reduced from 4 acres to the current 1.7 acres. The City Commission allowed housing and dining to be built on a portion of the park. Legend has that there is paranormal activity associated with the large oak tree in the park. Drumming has been heard and people have claimed to have been touched by unseen hands. Whether you are coming for ghostly exploration or to take in the scenic view of the boats cruising the New River, Smoker Park is a stunning piece of historic Ft. Lauderdale.

I took a stroll to the park during lunch break. There were folks out walking, a few with their pups enjoying the day. The big shady trees and plenty of benches made it easy to relax. That afternoon breeze rolling through was just what I needed. All in all, a peaceful and refreshing little getaway in the middle of the day.

10 years ago when I was going to first come here I was gonna get a dog and I researched the states largest dog park alot changes through the years now it's cut in half it still a nice slice of heaven for fur parents and their babies please remember to pick up after your puppers

This park is beautifully located and is convenient to the Water Taxi and so many other things that make downtown Ft. Lauderdale so cool. However, the entire area is covered in dog poop and it smells horrific on most days. Watch your step!