Once known as “Colohatchee”, Wilton Manors originated as a railway stop on the Florida East Coast Railroad. It lies on an island in the branching Middle River, with its current name coined by a land developer in 1925. Wilton Manors is known for its large LGBTQIA+ population, with an abundance of gay-friendly businesses and clubs and for being home to the Pride Center at Equality Park.
Things to do in Wilton Manors
South of Wilton Manors is the Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve, a riverside green space with meandering trails and an observation pier. It encompasses one of Wilton Manors’ oldest buildings, the Carriage House, which is now a popular event and wedding venue. Also within the park is the charming Manor House and a photogenic pavilion.
Dominating the north of Wilton Manors is the striking spire of St Clement's Catholic Church, which was constructed in the 1950s. It serves the area’s Creole and Spanish-speaking communities, with services held throughout the week. A short stroll east is the Island City Park Preserve, where you’ll find a waterfront boardwalk and a children’s playground. Sporting fields and recreational facilities are available at nearby Mickel Park.
Wilton Manors makes an ideal base for visiting the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, which celebrates the stories and culture of Florida’s LGBTQIA+ communities. It features two galleries where changing exhibitions take place and displays historical artefacts and information that promotes understanding. Stonewall also hosts film screenings, book clubs and author talks throughout the year.
Getting around Wilton Manors
Wilton Manors is around 10 minutes’ drive from Fort Lauderdale and 20 minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Buses travel through Wilton Manors, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.