5 /5 Ariel W.: 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.
