Fort Lauderdale is full of surprises—and not just the ones you find on the beach. From snow days in the ’70s to python-hunting competitions, the city’s history is packed with stories that are as strange as they are fascinating. And now, there’s a book that celebrates all of it.
Secret Fort Lauderdale: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by award-winning journalist Christiana Lilly is a treasure trove of local lore. Whether you’re a lifelong Broward resident or just visiting for the weekend, this book invites you to explore the city’s hidden corners and unexpected past.
Did you know the first woman to get her concealed carry license in Broward County was an archaeologist? Or that a popular concert venue used to be a slaughterhouse? These are just a few of the juicy tidbits you’ll find in this engaging guide. Lilly’s storytelling takes readers beyond the tourist spots and into the archives, back rooms, and forgotten landmarks that make Fort Lauderdale truly unique.
Meet the Author at Bonnet House
Join us for a special Meet & Greet and Book Signing with Christiana Lilly at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens:
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $10 (registration required) Click here to register.
During the event, you’ll learn more about the eccentric Evelyn Fortune Bartlett—Bonnet House’s original hostess and one of the many colorful characters featured in the book. You might even leave with the recipe for her iconic cocktail!
This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Fort Lauderdale’s quirky side, meet a celebrated local author, and enjoy the beauty of Bonnet House after hours.
About the Author
Christiana Lilly is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories that make South Florida special. She’s written for local publications and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, and her work has been recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists Florida chapter, the Florida Press Club, and the Florida Magazine Association. She’s also the author of 100 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale Before You Die.
