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CONCH TOUR TRAIN

SEE THE BEST OF KEY WEST ON THE TOUR THAT’S BEEN ENTERTAINING GUESTS SINCE 1958

TICKETS & PACKAGES

Buy online & save, 1-day conch tour train.

Conch Tour Train and Key West Lighthouse

1-day tour of the Conch Republic
One full loop through Old Town Key West
Includes three stops
FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included
FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures

2-Day Conch Tour Train

2-day tour of the Conch Republic

Conch Train and Ghosts & Gravestones Package

Conch Tour Train and Ghosts & Gravestones package

Conch Tour Train:
Ghosts & Gravestones Night Tour:
Explore Some of Key West’s Most Haunted Sites…
1 stop at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

conch tour train at key west shipwreck treasure museum

Locals Get FREE* Admission

September 3-30, 2024

During the month of September, after Labor Day, Key West residents can enjoy free admission to several tours and attractions*.

ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR KEY WEST ATTRACTIONS

The world famous conch tour train in key west.

All aboard and welcome to 400 years of history, family fun and excitement! The Conch Train is one of Florida’s most popular attractions and for good reason. Our expert ‘engineers’ and friendly staff have delighted over 15 million guests with legends such as Ernest Hemingway and lores of this charming tropical paradise. Your tour of Key West will give you a conch’s eye view of all the wonderful Key West attractions. No Key West vacation is complete without The World Famous Conch Tour Train.

100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum is included with ticket.
Full-color map and discount coupons for Key West attractions, restaurants, and shopping with every ticket.
Stops at Truval Village: Steps away from the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, the Southernmost Point, and Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Rated 4.5 stars on Google

284 reviews

Conch Tour Train 4.3

conch tour train driving past mallory square

HOW OUR TOUR WORKS

An amazing 75 minute adventure.

This Key West tour begins at the 303 Front Street Depot and ends right behind it in Mallory Square. Once you have your ticket, climb on board and take your seat, as you are about to embark on a terrific 75-minute journey through time. During the tour, the train will make one loop through Old Town Key West.

How Our Tour Works

Enjoy 3 stops.

First Stop (B): Stop B is at Truval Village , corner of Duval St. and Truman Ave. From Truval Village you are just minutes away from the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, the Southernmost Point, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and the many fine art galleries, shops and restaurants of upper Duval Street.

Second Stop (C): The second stop is at Station Depot , corner of Front St. and Duval St., allowing for a 10-minute rest break where you will find refreshments and shopping.

Third Stop (D): The third stop is at the Sails to Rails Museum (Flagler Station), corner of Caroline St. and Margaret St. This stop is also where those who wish to can disembark to see the sights of the Historic Key West Seaport and choose to catch a later train.

Where to board the Conch Tour Train

The best place to board the train is at Front Street; you may also board at Truval Village or Sails to Rails Museum if there are still seats available. If you are closest to the Roosevelt Depot, you can take advantage of our complimentary transportation down to the Station Depot. It takes approximately an hour to get to Mallory Square where you will then board a train.

Boarding every 30 minutes

9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

First tour starts at 9:00 am.
The last tour departs from Front Street at 4:30 pm.
Tour length: 75 minutes.
Closed the last Saturday in October (Fantasy Fest).
All schedules are subject to change. Please call (305) 707-5775 for the most current information.

Key West Attractions

Points of Interest

Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places including Mallory Square, Sails to Rails Museum, the Key West Aquarium and more.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Things to do with Kids

Mallory Square

Featured Attractions

What are the must-see places in key west.

Duval Street: The street is lined with perfectly preserved 19th-century buildings that have now been lovingly restored and repurposed. From the local boutiques to the charming cafes and top-rated restaurants, Duval Street is filled with something for everyone..
Mallory Square: No trip to Key West is complete without experiencing the famous Mallory Square Sunset Celebration. Every evening, locals and tourists gather to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy live music, street performers, and food vendors while taking in the breathtaking views. It’s a great way to end a day of exploring and relaxing with friends and family.
Truman Little White House Museum: Visit the winter residence of President Harry Truman and get a glimpse into his life on the island. You can explore the house’s historic rooms, including the office where the president spent his time and you’ll find a gallery filled with photos and memorabilia of Truman’s presidency. The museum has knowledgeable guides that can take you through the house and provide you with fascinating insights.
Key West Aquarium: Home to a wide variety of marine life, the Key West Aquarium is a must-visit attraction that’s fun for all ages. You can see sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and other fascinating creatures up close. Don’t miss the interactive touch tanks where you can hold a starfish or sea urchin. The aquarium is committed to marine conservation and education, so you’ll not only have fun but also learn about the issues affecting our oceans.
Key West Shipwreck Museum: Discover the dangers and adventures of shipwreck salvage in the 1800s at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. You’ll learn about the island’s unique maritime culture and see artifacts from shipwrecks around the world. Check out the lookout tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding area and a chance to ring the lookout bell.
Sails To Rails Museum: Explore the history of the railroad, the story of Henry Flagler, and his ambitious project to connect Key West to the mainland via the Overseas Railroad. You’ll see vintage railcars, historic photographs, and learn about the train’s construction and destruction in the 1935 Labor Day hurricane.

Enjoy visiting Key West as the Conch Tour train journey takes you through the city’s historic streets, beautiful architecture, and breathtaking sights. The knowledgeable guides will offer interesting insights into the city’s history and culture, pointing out the most architecturally inspiring buildings.

How many days do I need to visit Key West?

Whether you have one day or several to visit Key West, there is a fantastic way to see Key West in one day by taking the Conch Tour Train. There are several popular attractions and activities that you won’t want to miss, including exploring the historic Old Town, visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and experiencing the legendary sunset at Mallory Square. Make sure you see it all by hopping on one of our Conch Tour Trains. It’s a fun and convenient way to see the most popular sights, and you can customize your journey to fit your preferences.

How can I explore Key West without a car?

Yes! The city is incredibly walk-friendly, boasting numerous sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets. For an immersive experience, you can hop on a Conch Tour Train tour, which delves into the history and culture of Old Town Key West. With knowledgeable guides and picturesque scenery, this train journey takes you through the charming Old Town, passing by delightful houses and enchanting landscapes. The tour gets you close to all major highlights, including the renowned Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the fascinating Key West Aquarium, the famous Mallory Square, and the adventures in the Key West Shipwreck Museum.

Where is Mallory Square?

Mallory Square is most famous for its sunset celebration. It has become synonymous with Key West and draws more than a million tourists and locals every year. Every evening, hundreds of tourists gather here to experience the vibrant culture of Key West and watch the beautiful sunset. During the sunset celebration, visitors can enjoy live music, street performers, and food vendors offering tasty local cuisine.

What is the Sunset Celebration in Key West?

The Sunset Celebration is a daily event that has become a staple of the island’s culture and a must-see for any traveler. It all started with a group of local street performers who would gather at Mallory Square to entertain crowds during sunset. You can find everything from musicians and jugglers to artists and tarot card readers, all showcasing their talents against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset.

What famous houses are in Key West?

One of the biggest attractions of Key West is its historic houses that reflect the architectural style of different eras.

Harry S. Truman Little White House: The Harry S. Truman Little White House, located at Front Street, was the residence of the US President during his frequent visits to Key West in the 1940s and 1950s.The house is now a museum and hosts a collection of presidential artifacts and photographs.

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum : This house, located at Whitehead Street, was the residence of Hemingway from 1931 to 1961. Hemingway wrote some of his best-known works in this house, including “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “The Snows of Kilimanjaro.” The house has a colonial-style architecture and is surrounded by lush green gardens. The highlight of the house is the polydactyl cats, also known as Hemingway cats, which are descendants of the cats that Hemingway kept as pets during his stay.

Audubon House and Tropical Gardens : John James Audubon, the famous naturalist, and painter, visited Key West in the 1830s. During his stay, he painted a collection of 22 birds that are specific to the island. The Audubon House and Tropical Gardens, located at Whitehead Street, was built in the 1840s and is a historical landmark in Key West. The house has colonial architecture and hosts a collection of original Audubon prints, furniture, and artifacts.

The Oldest House Museum and Gardens: Located at Duval Street, is the oldest house in Key West, built in 1829. The house is a perfect example of the Bahamian architectural style that was prevalent in Key West during that time. The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, including household items, documents, and photographs.

Southernmost House : Located at Duval Street, is a beautiful house that exudes the elegance of the Victorian era. The house was built in 1896 and has a unique combination of architectural styles, featuring both Victorian and Caribbean elements. The house has hosted many important dignitaries, including President William Howard Taft, and is now a luxury hotel.

A visit to these notable houses of Key West is not just a fascinating journey through time but also an opportunity to explore the rich history of this beautiful island.

What's the best way to see Duval Street?

The Conch Tour Train is an authentic way to experience the history and culture of Key West. This 90-minute tour takes you through Old Town Key West, Duval Street, and other popular attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and the Southernmost Point. Sitting atop the train’s open-air seats, you’ll be able to see the sights and sounds of Duval Street up close while enjoying the breeze. Along the way, you’ll learn about the island’s fascinating history and colorful characters from your expert tour guide.

What attractions are near Duval Street?

Duval Street is undoubtedly one of the most popular and bustling strips in Key West. It brings together great food, unique shopping experiences, and fantastic nightlife. There are plenty of attractions near Duval Street that are worth checking out.

One of the most popular attractions near Duval Street is the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square . Every night, locals and tourists alike gather to watch the sunset over the horizon. It’s a beautiful sight to behold, and it’s a great way to end the day.

If you’re looking for something interactive, the Key West Aquarium and Key West Shipwreck Museum are both great options. The Aquarium is home to a variety of marine life and a great way to learn about marine conservation, and the Shipwreck Museum offers a fascinating look into the history of dangers and adventures of shipwreck salvage in Key West.

For a unique experience, be sure to check out the Truman Little White House . This historic building was once the home of President Harry S. Truman, and it’s now open to the public for tours. It’s a great way to learn more about the history of Key West and the United States.

Duval Street is an amazing place to explore, but there are plenty of attractions near Duval Street that are worth checking out. From the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square to the Truman Little White House, there’s something for everyone. So don’t miss out on all the fun and excitement that Key West has to offer.

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Tours of Key West

Key West is an island paradise that offers visitors a nearly endless list of fun and exciting activities. Between the bustling city streets, the classic architecture and lush tropical foliage, the white sand beaches, the offshore Atlantic depths, and the crystal blue waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, you are sure to find your perfect personal adventure. Key West truly does have something for all ages and tastes; the only difficulty is choosing what to do and making time to fit it all in!

Dolphin Tours in Key West

Of course, the gentle turquoise sea takes pride of place when it comes to Key West adventure. Thrill-seekers of all ages enjoy getting underwater with snorkel, fins and mask to take a close look at an incredible variety of marine species and explore North America’s only living coral reef. Whether you are looking for an all-day trip or a quick afternoon dip, Tours of Key West has a selection of the island’s best snorkeling tours. And those who love marine life will also want to try out a dolphin tour. Get friendly with the pod of more than 200 bottle-nose dolphins that make their home near Key West, and enjoy the tour guilt-free knowing that your guides are trained to protect the dolphins while letting visitors enjoy the beauty of nature.

Eco-Tours in Key West

Or maybe you would like to head into the Backcountry by sailing schooner to paddle sea kayaks among the remote mangrove islands and get a feel for the Keys the way they were 100 years ago. Choose one of our eco-tours to really get in touch with the natural side of Key West. You can spend a full day on the water, with expert guide service and a delicious picnic lunch and beverages included. These tours will combine snorkeling and kayaking with exploring deserted beaches and islands to offer you a real local experience.

Adventure Tours in Key West

Interested in a little more action? Tours of Key West has jet ski tours short and long, wild or mild. Ride freestyle in a protected area, or take a tour completely around the island. Catch the rush of skimming across the water with the wind and spray in your face. We are your connection to new, top-of-the-line watercraft, the most experienced tour operators, and the best rates. And for a real thrill, go for a parasail flight. See the island and look down on the water from heights up to 300 feet as you fly behind a modern parasail boat. Don’t forget your camera because you will definitely want pictures for the folks back home.

The #1 Key West Tour Company

Whatever your pleasure, it is all right here. Go out for a do-it-all tour the combines all the best of the island watersports into one long, fun-filled day at sea. Get on board for a day of legendary Key West big game fishing in the deep Atlantic. Head into the shallows of the Backcountry Flats in pursuit of Permit, Bonefish, Tarpon, or dozens of other hard-fighting sport fish species. It is all right here at your fingertips with Tours of Key West. Let us do the leg work while you have all the fun. Tours of Key West gives you easy access and secure booking for the island’s top attractions. Browse through our site and enjoy an inside look at the tours and sports that put Key West on the map as a world-renowned travel destination. Then take your pick and let Tours of Key West be your key to paradise.

Things To Do In Key West

Key West 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
Key West Air, Helicopter & Balloon Tours
Key West Airplane Tours
Key West Airport & Ground Transfers
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Key West Bar, Club & Pub Tours
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Key West Kid Friendly Tours & Activities
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Key West Tours & Sightseeing
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Key West Walking Tours
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View all Things To Do In Key West

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This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use, and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You.

We use Your Personal data to provide and improve the Service. By using the Service, You agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

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Detailed Information on the Processing of Your Personal Data

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Tours of Key West Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

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September 19, 2024

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Key West Travel Guide

Courtesy of NAPA74 | Getty Images

17 Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Like other vacation locales in Florida, Key West offers plenty of ways for nature lovers to enjoy its coastal seat, including several clean beaches, sailing and kayaking tours, fishing charters, and eco-tours like snorkeling excursions with tropical

All Things To Do

Duval Street Duval Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Fuel your day of sightseeing with strong, sweet espresso from Cuban Coffee Queen. There are multiple locations near or along Duval Street, including the original truck by the waterfront. If it's a hot day (which it always is), get an iced cafe con leche with coffee ice cubes. - Lyssa Goldberg

A visit to Key West isn't complete without taking a stroll down Duval Street. Lined with restaurants, bars, art galleries and souvenir shops, this popular thoroughfare stretches a little more than a mile and is near many of the city's most well-known attractions. Grab a slice of Key lime pie from Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe a few blocks over, sign up for a ghost tour or catch some live music at the legendary Sloppy Joe's bar. Best of all, you can people-watch here free of charge.

Mallory Square Mallory Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A Mallory Square sunset is a must during your trip, but don't miss out on sunset views at dinner, too. Plan ahead and book a table at a waterfront restaurant like nearby Hot Tin Roof or Latitudes . These reservations can fill up months in advance. - Lyssa Goldberg

For a great view of the Key West sunset, head to Mallory Square at the northwest tip of the island. During the Sunset Celebration (a free, nightly arts festival that starts about two hours before sunset), this is one of the best spots on the island to catch the sun's last moments and revel in the end of the day. But because it's one of the best vantage points for watching a sunset, it's also extremely crowded, especially with cruise passengers when ships are in port.

Southernmost Point Southernmost Point free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you're here, laugh to yourself about the self-proclaimed southernmost everything, from the historic Southernmost House mansion and Southernmost Beach Cafe to the Southernmost Grocery Store & Deli and Southernmost Trolley Stop gift shop. - Lyssa Goldberg

One of the most popular things to do in Key West is to snap a photo with the colorful buoy marking the southernmost point of the United States. Sitting at the intersection of Whitehead and South streets, the striped buoy is just 90 miles north of Cuba. Next to it, you'll find a plaque dedicated to Cubans who have lost their lives trying to reach America, and a plaque detailing the history of the Black community on the Southernmost Point.

Popular Tours

Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music and Hors D'oeuvres

(2839 reviews)

from $ 79.00

Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner and Drinks Included

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from $ 92.95

Key West Full-Day Ocean Adventure: Kayak, Snorkel, Sail

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from $ 163.46

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Combine this stop with the Key West Lighthouse across the street. Then, visit nearby Blue Heaven in the quirky, colorful Bahama Village neighborhood for the best backyard vibes (and Key lime pie) in town. - Lyssa Goldberg

Literary icon and journalist Ernest Hemingway is one of Key West's best-known and well-loved "freshwater Conchs" (a resident who was not born on the island). His former home – which he lived in for less than 10 years, but owned until his death in 1961 – is located in Old Town and is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Literature buffs take note: Hemingway penned parts of some of his most famous works, including "A Farewell to Arms" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls," in this very residence. The grand house itself is interesting, as it was one of the first in Key West to have indoor plumbing and a pool. Inside, the rooms contain memorabilia about Hemingway's life and work.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

For the cleanest beach and best waters in Key West, you should head for the westernmost point of the island to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. There, you can sunbathe, hike, bike, fish and get a dose of history all in one place. Recent visitors noted the clear waters, making it an ideal snorkeling spot, but travelers also warn that the sand is not soft and that beach shoes are needed to traverse the rocky terrain safely. While the beach might not be as powdery soft as some other Florida beaches , it does offer some great snorkeling opportunities, according to recent visitors. You can either bring your own or rent equipment on-site. Along with your water gear, pack some food and charcoal: This beach has plenty of barbecue grills.

If you get tired of hanging out beachside, stop by the historic fort located within the park. The fort was built in the mid-1800s and was used during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Daily guided tours are available at 11 a.m. or you can follow the self-guided tour.

Take a Key West boat tour Take a Key West boat tour

When you're not admiring the waters that surround Key West from the beach, enjoy them from the deck of a boat. Several companies offer sailing, snorkeling and kayaking tours, not to mention sunset cruises and fishing charters . Danger Charters , Classic Harbor Line and Sebago Key West all receive favorable reviews from recent travelers. There are also several tours designed exclusively for dolphin watching (the Florida Keys are home to bottlenose dolphins year-round, along with six other dolphin species that pass through the area) – Wild About Dolphins and Honest Eco are among the most popular, according to recent travelers.

If you sign up for a snorkeling tour , you'll likely sail to the Florida Keys Reef – the only living coral barrier reef in North America. Located approximately 6 miles off the coast of Key West, the reef has shallow waters ideal for beginners. Travelers can also sign up for kayaking tours and paddle through the uninhabited mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge.

Smathers Beach Smathers Beach free

Key West isn't known for its beaches. However, the largest and most bustling one on this island is Smathers Beach, which is particularly popular during spring break. Recent travelers say the beach is clean with calm waters, plenty of shade under the palms and amenities, including bathrooms, food trucks, and chair and umbrella rentals. Visitors also say the views are great and praise the beach's soft white sand. In recent months, several visitors noted an abundance of sargassum (smelly seaweed).

You'll find Smathers Beach on the southern shore of the island, stretching half a mile along the Atlantic Ocean and State Road A1A. It's close to the airport, which can be a pro if you enjoy watching the planes take off and land, or a con if you're not a fan of the noise.

Harry S. Truman Little White House Harry S. Truman Little White House

Originally built by the U.S. Navy in 1890, the Little White House served as naval command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, and also played roles in both World Wars and the Cold War. From 1946 through 1952, President Harry Truman used this house as his winter vacation home and because he spent 175 days of his presidency here, it became known as the Little White House. The name is fitting: Since Truman's days, many other presidents have also vacationed here, including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. Today, the Little White House has been restored and turned into a museum. Exhibits document Key West's role in naval conflicts, as well as the house's history – the Marshall Plan and Truman Doctrine were both discussed here.

Recent travelers highly recommend a visit to the Little White House, especially for self-identified history buffs. The guides and exhibits both earn high marks from reviewers. The only gripe among recent visitors concerned the admission cost, which some felt was too high for a one-hour experience.

Key West Afternoon Snorkel Sail with Unlimited Cocktails!

(1421 reviews)

from $ 59.00

Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West

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from $ 149.95

Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure in Key West

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Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum

If you can fend off the claustrophobia and don't mind heights, the climb up the tiny and constricting 88 spiral steps to the top of the Key West Lighthouse is worth it for the views, say recent visitors. Once you're up there though, be patient: According to past travelers, the viewing balcony at the top is very narrow. After taking in the views, take a look around the keeper's quarters, which have been around since 1887. The cozy house is now a museum that surveys the history of lighthouses in the Keys, with photographs and various artifacts. The gift shop is also a great place to find regional art.

One ticket gets you access to both the lighthouse and the museum. Admission for adults costs $17; kids ages 7 to 18 get in for $9, while children younger than 7 can enter for free. Discounts are available when you purchase your tickets online. Visitors are divided on whether the admission price is worth the local history provided in the museum, but most agree that the panoramic views seen from the top of the lighthouse are unbeatable. The lighthouse and museum are open daily (except Christmas) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Situated across the street from the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , you can easily visit both sites in one day. Reviewers say there is some street parking, but most recommend walking in from town.

Conch Tour Train Conch Tour Train

Operating for more than 50 years, the Conch Tour Train is an ideal option for travelers interested in learning the history of Key West, but who don't have a lot of time to spend meandering through different attractions. This 75-minute narrated tour loops through Key West's famous Old Town, focusing on the city's rich history. The tour departs from Front Street and makes three stops along the way for visitors to grab refreshments and stretch their legs, and then wraps at Mallory Square . Passengers can also choose to hop off at a stop to visit nearby attractions and catch a later train.

Recent visitors praised the excellent tour guides, calling them knowledgeable and entertaining. They also said the train was a great way to see Old Town while giving your feet a break from walking. While some travelers thought the tickets were a bit overpriced, others appreciated the tour's convenient hop-on, hop-off structure.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

If you love butterflies, this is the spot for you. The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is filled with 50 to 60 species of colorful winged creatures that seemingly float through the air in an enclosed, glass-domed aviary. Plant enthusiasts will also find much they'll love here, as the butterflies share their home with a wide variety of plants, along with more than 20 species of birds including two famed flamingos.

Past visitors highly recommend a stop here, describing the conservatory as a serene place to get away from the crowds or impending rain. Those traveling with kids said the kaleidoscopic butterflies and birds were a hit with the younger crowd, and the outing proved educational, too, thanks to a short film on butterfly metamorphosis.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Whether you're interested in colonial furniture, period architecture, tropical greenery or artist and naturalist John James Audubon, you'll find a host of curiosities at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens. Located in Old Town a block away from Duval Street , the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens dates back to the 1840s. The house was built by Captain John Huling Geiger, but it's named after well-known ornithologist John James Audubon, who visited the Keys in 1832. Twenty-eight of his works can be found in the house. While you're here, take a look at the house's decor and then head outside to the lush and colorful garden, which includes orchids, bromeliads and other tropical plants. For some, the garden was their favorite part of the house, noting that the vibrantly colored flowers make for prime photography subjects. Other reviewers remarked on the careful restoration of the house and its period-specific antiques.

When you walk into the house, you'll be greeted by a staff member who will offer a brief introduction. Many visitors remark on how friendly and knowledgeable the docents are. From there, you can embark on your own self-guided tour. The Audubon House is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Admission for adults costs $15; students (of any age) pay $10; tickets for kids ages 6 to 12 cost $5; children younger than 6 get in for free. You can purchase Audubon prints (and other souvenirs) in the on-site gift shop. For more information, visit the official website .

Key West Aquarium Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is proof that good things come in small packages. More small-scale than your typical aquarium, this indoor-outdoor attraction is a historic facility that first opened in 1935. Although it might be lacking in elaborate exhibits, this one-story aquarium still has a good range of creatures for the entire family to see. Take your kids to the touch pools to see if a sea cucumber is as slimy as it looks. The museum also hosts several tours and presentations throughout the day. If you're lucky, you may get to feed a gentle nurse shark if you attend the shark presentation.

The aquarium is home to several rescued sea turtles that are native to Florida waters.

Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

(1136 reviews)

from $ 55.60

Key West Island Adventure Jet Ski Tour: Bring a Partner for Free

(1130 reviews)

from $ 162.95

Key West Snorkeling with Breakfast and Unlimited Mimosas

(458 reviews)

from $ 46.94

Higgs Beach Higgs Beach free

Located on the south side of the island along the Atlantic Ocean, Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park encompasses 16.5 acres of oceanfront, two piers (one on each end), a Civil War-era fort and the site of what's believed to be the only known African refugee cemetery in the U.S. Beachgoers can enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or paddle boarding in the ocean, plus land activities ranging from sunbathing to beach volleyball, tennis and pickleball.

Higgs Beach is known for its fine, white sand and shallow water, making it an ideal beach for families with small children. However, when you first enter the water, the sand can be rocky, recent travelers warn, so bring water shoes. You can avoid the rocks entirely by walking down the Reynolds Street Pier past the rocky shore to a ladder, where you can step down into the water. Beach chairs and umbrella rentals are available, or you can set up shop at one of several tiki huts, permanent wooden umbrellas, or picnic tables with barbecues. The park also offers visitors a bike path, a children's playground, a dog park, plus public restrooms and showers.

Key West Cemetery Key West Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For more of the macabre, take an evening Ghosts & Gravestones tour to learn about the spooky tales of other Key West sites, where you'll meet the legendary (but haunted) Robert the Doll. – Lyssa Goldberg

Located in Old Town, the Key West Cemetery has been around since 1847 and is well worth at least a walk-through. The quirkiness of the city's residents extends even to the grave. Tombstones in this 19-acre cemetery don't bear the typical inscriptions. Instead, you'll find epitaphs that reflect the island's casual lifestyle. Some of the more well-known inscriptions include "I told you I was sick" and "I'm just resting my eyes." One tombstone for a captain is actually topped with a ship's mast. Notable Conchs buried here include Ellen Mallory, whose name you'll recognize from Mallory Square ; William Curry, Florida's first millionaire; and "Sloppy" Joe Russell, who was Ernest Hemingway's fishing guide and a bartender at the famed Sloppy Joe's bar on Duval Street .

Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Key West First Legal Rum Distillery free

Key West's First Legal Rum Distillery opened its doors in 2012 and is the first since the end of Prohibition. Here, visitors can tour a working rum distillery, learn how to make a killer mojito or try a free sample of the establishment's specialty white and dark rums, which are made with Florida cane sugar and infused with flavors of coconut, vanilla creme brulee and Key lime. The distillery also sells flasks, shot glasses and rum cake.

Past visitors praised the distillery's delicious drinks and informative staff members, but noted that the tour was limited to one room. Even so, many recommended visiting for the wide selection of rums and rum drinks alone (including piña coladas).

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center free

With more than 6,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery center seeks to inspire visitors to preserve the marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys and enjoy this natural resource responsibly. Here, guests can learn about the native plants and animals of the Florida Keys through exhibits highlighting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, four national wildlife refuges and three national parks, including Dry Tortugas, which is on an island about 70 miles from Key West.

Visitors can watch a 20-minute movie about the Keys' fragile ecosystems and then explore the center on a self-paced tour. Staff and volunteers are also on-site to answer questions. Notable exhibits include a replica of NOAA's Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world, and a spotlight on the long maritime history of shipwrecks inside the sanctuary's waters. After completing renovations in late 2022, there are even more hands-on activities, such as a mangrove exhibit where guests can play animal noises and guess which animal made the sound, an area with microscopes so you can watch coral close-up, and a paddleboard photo-op that looks like you’re paddling through the mangroves. The center has been certified by KultureCity as a sensory inclusive facility for people with sensory sensitivities; it offers a separate room where people can take a break from the exhibits. Sensory kits are also available.

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11 of the Best Key West Tours

02/15/2023 by Nicole Edwards 1 Comment

This post was written by Nicole Edwards, a solo-sailing freelance writer for BMTM.

When I first got to Key West, I was overwhelmed. This tiny , seven-square-mile island seemed packed with hundreds of excursions and things to do, all expensive and somewhat touristy. I also tend to shy away from the crowds and try to do my own thing; however, Key West has a history and culture that is more easily accessible via guided tours. It only made sense to try at least one of the many different types available.

I handle a city better when I first have a zoomed-out perspective and then can zoom in on what I’d like to explore further. With this in mind, and to help prevent Key West from overwhelming you, here are my top 11 guided tour recommendations, including big-picture ones and then more niche tours like those focusing on food, gardens, and ghosts:

Table of Contents

Walking Tours

My preferred way to explore a city, especially when I first arrive, is to stretch my legs and walk around. While Key West is compact enough to discover on foot, I’d hop on a bike or train for the lay of the land and reserve my walking muscles for niche tours, like the two below:

1. Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour

I splurged for a slice of Key West key lime pie, but the place is much richer than the dessert (which is actually in the midst of a controversy over its origin). For starters, this “Caribbean” island is only 90 miles from Cuba, which explains why there’s a lot of Cuban influence. Many Cuban businesses are still around today: cigar shops line Duval Street, and Pepe’s, the oldest restaurant on Key West, is still serving hearty and healthy breakfast dishes.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Cuban and Caribbean cultural influences on Key West, your best bet is the Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour . As your guide introduces you to the forces behind Key West culture, you’ll get to taste authentic food and drink from five restaurants. If you’re itching for more, the tour includes a map and coupon booklet that you can use to plan the rest of your stay.

Where: El Siboney Restaurant
Duration: 3 hours
What’s included: four food tastings and one alcoholic beverage
Price: $85.63. Book the tour here .

2. Ghost Tour

If haunted history is more your scene, there are plenty of ghost stories about this bone island, which means “Cayo Hueso” in Spanish. The Spanish settlers named it such because of all the human bones scattered around. It was later decided that these were skeletons of the natives. Eventually, the English came along and thought Cayo Hueso sounded like Key West. The name stuck.

The historically accurate ghost walking tour will introduce you to Key West’s deceased population at sites and cemeteries that have been featured on shows like Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures . You’ll visit Casa Antigua, the oldest graveyard in Key West, the Artist House, and other sites. Even if you can’t see the spirits with your naked eye, they recommend that you take pictures, as the ghosts might show up in your photos.

Where: 401 Duval St.
Duration: 1.5 hours
What’s included: walking tour and guide
Price: $24.99. Book the tour here .

Until I arrived, I had no idea that there was a short period of time when Key West was independent from the United States. In the early 1980s, patrol officers blocked the road to Key West in an attempt to stop drug traffic from entering the country. The city responded by seceding from the union and naming itself the Conch Republic. Independence celebrations are still held every April.

If you want to learn more about the history of Key West, you can hop on any of the following tours:

3. Old Town Key West Guided Key Lime Bike Ride

This leisurely bike ride through the city streets takes you to common tourist destinations, like the southernmost point of the Continental United States (I had to wait in line for 30 minutes to get my picture taken), Mile Marker 0, and Mallory Square. It’s the best land overview of Key West that you’ll find, simultaneously providing a geographical context to the city and a brief overview of its history.

Where: 122 Ann St.
What’s included: bike, helmet, water bottle
Price: $54. Book the tour here .

4. Conch Train Tour

The Conch Train Tour is unique in that it relates some of legends of influential people. I was surprised to learn just how many historical figures either made Key West their home or also left a legacy here: Tennessee Williams and his A Streetcar Named Desire , Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville , and President Truman’s remodeling of the naval station into the Little White House. It’s rather heavy on the audio, which syncs up with whichever landmark you’re driving past, but it’s one of the most popular Key West tours on the market.

Where: 303 Front St.
What’s included: narrated train tour
Price: $39.85. Book the tour here .

National Park Tours

Key West is home to the most inaccessible national park in the United States: the Dry Tortugas, which got its name from the hundred turtles ( tortugas in Spanish) that explorer Ponce de León discovered (and it’s “dry” because there is absolutely no fresh water on the island). I tried to sail out to the national park on my own boat, but I ran into too many crab pots and had to be towed back from the Marquesas Keys. This was a blessing, because a few days later, 300 Cuban immigrants made landfall and the park was closed.

From reviews, however, the Dry Tortugas is definitely worth a visit. There are two ways you can reach the park: by plane and by reliable boat. If you absolutely cannot make the trip, you can check out the Sails to Rails museum in Key West, which gives you a tour from a distance.

5. Seaplane Tour

You’ll fly so low over an extremely shallow part of the National Marine Sanctuary that you’ll be able to spot rays and sharks from your chair. A little past the Marquesas (one of the tour’s highlights) is a sea turtle haven and also a wreck. Once you land at Dry Tortugas, you’ll have some time to walk around and take beautiful pictures of this protected little island at the end of the Florida Keys .

Where: Key West International Airport
Duration: 4 or 8 hours
What’s included: headset, window seat, coolers and ice, drinks, snorkel equipment
Price: starting at $371. Book the tour here .

6. Boat Tour

Because the Dry Tortugas is over 70 miles away, a good bit of your day will consist of a boat ride past the islands that dot the way. Included in your tour is a naturalist, who will brief you on the history of Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson National Park. When you arrive, you’ll get to snorkel the reefs, relax at the beach, and enjoy a 45-minute tour of the fort. Then it’ll be time for the ride back home.

Where: 100 Grinnell St.
Duration: 10 hours
What’s included: round-trip ferry, Fort Jefferson narrated tour, dive equipment, breakfast and lunch, National Park service Fee ($15 value)
Price: $190. Book the tour here .

I personally don’t drink, but if you do, you’re in luck, because Key West has drinks and bars that were favorites among famous figures such as Hemingway. I’ve included two of the most popular tours below, which take you to some of the bars and restaurants where you can taste their offerings.

7. Dinghy Tour

Key West is home to a big community of people who live on sailboats anchored in the harbor. We “liveaboards” get to and from shore in smaller boats called dinghies, which is essentially the marine version of a car. On a dinghy tour , you will use this “car” to visit the more popular waterfront bars and restaurants, and also explore the coastline, much like the locals do. If you don’t drink that’s okay. This tour is still a good opportunity to tour the mangrove tunnels, and plus, it’s really fun to go on a dinghy ride (just bring a dry bag for any valuables)! It’s also group-specific, so your party may prefer to look for birds rather than drink a beer.

Where: Garrison Bight Marina
Duration: 3
What’s included: coolers
Price: $75. Book the tour here .

8. Cocktail Crawl

On this cocktail crawl tour , a local will take you away from Duval Street to hidden places, like the First Flight Island Restaurant and Brewery, that serve the Hemingway daiquiri and other famous people’s signature drinks. While you’ll only walk about half a mile, it should be enough to discover for yourself the essence of the tiki era. Bring your ID!

Where: Mary Ellen’s Bar
What’s included: five beverages and snacks
Price: $96.38. Book the tour here .

One of my favorite things to do is to nestle into the mangroves and be as quiet as I possibly can, and to notice the tiny movements of life that surround me. In Key West, there is an area called “the backcountry,” which is full of little mangrove islands and sandbars, including Woman Key Island, Man Key Island, Mule Island, Boca Grande Key Island, Barracouta Key Island, and so many more. The only way to access the backcountry is by boat, and the only way to really explore is by kayak or mask and snorkel. Here are several tours that allow you to do just that:

9. Mangrove Kayak Tours

This half-day tour will take you through the Florida Marine Sanctuary and then lead you on a kayak through the mangroves, full of over 500 species of marine wildlife. The goal is to spot as many creatures as possible. You’ll spend some time in the water, so if you don’t want to wear reef-friendly sunscreen , you can opt for some sun-protective clothing instead. You’ll eat lunch after your kayak tour and then hang out on a remote sandbar before heading back to port.

Where: 201 William St.
Duration: 5 hours
What’s included: kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, lunch
Price: $129.95, but it’s recommended to tip the crew. Book the tour here .

10. Snorkeling and Sailing Tour

When I go snorkeling, I prefer to wear a wetsuit, because I always get a little chilled, especially when I’m in the water for longer periods of time. I have my own, but many tour companies will provide rentals for a small fee. I would recommend renting one if you are going in the water for longer than 15 minutes, because I prefer to focus on the wildlife rather than how cold I’m getting.

On this tour you’ll sail on a catamaran to the only living barrier reef in North America, home to sea turtles, dolphins, eels, tropical fish, urchins, anemones, and other marine creatures.The boat will tie up to a mooring ball (so as to not damage the reef with the anchor), and you’ll need to bring your own reef-friendly sunscreen , towel, water (save the environment with a reusable water bottle ), hat, sunglasses, and underwater camera. The crew will give you a snorkeling orientation, but you should already know how to swim and be comfortable going in the ocean.

Where: Schooner Wharf
What’s included: snorkel gear and instruction, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
Price: $59.07, but it’s recommended to tip the crew. Book the tour here .

11. Snorkeling & Dolphin Watch

This powercat will take you to the Key West National Wildlife Refuge at Cottrel Key, where dolphins like to play. You’ll snorkel in the shallows at some of the small mangrove island chains that have the best reefs, depending on the weather and visibility conditions. The tour guide on board will talk to you about the places you’re seeing, and on the way back, you’ll get to catch the sunset.

What’s included: snorkel gear and safety equipment, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
Price: $74, but it’s recommended to tip the crew. Book the tour here .

Hopefully this collection of tours helps you decide which parts of Key West you’d like to explore and how!

If you had to pick three, which would they be?

About the author: Nicole Edwards is a solo sailor who is currently cruising around the world on her 1968 Columbia 26, the S/V Arta . She has visited Costa Rica, Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Poland, and about half of the United States, including Alaska. Her favorite part about traveling is making connections with locals who share inside knowledge, in addition to being introduced to another part of her home on planet earth and adding it all to her heart.

About Nicole Edwards

Nicole is a single-handed sailor sailing the world and sharing her journey on her YouTube Channel, Sailing Artha. She prefers the type of travel that gets her into nature, and she actively seeks out farm and trash pick-up volunteering opportunities.

Destination Daydreamer

8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money

I spent a summer living and working in Key West spending all my free time eating as much as possible and doing as much as possible. I spent each day off of work exploring a new part of the island and booking new experiences. So, from all of my research and experience, here are my top 8 excursions/tours in Key West I recommend!

*There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my privacy/disclosure policy to learn more.

Things to Know About My Favorite Excursions in Key West

The island of Key West is such a unique place and where (in my opinion) you should spend the most amount of time in the Florida Keys. You can find fun watersports and activities all throughout the keys, however, if you are looking for some amazing Florida Keys excursions, Key West is sure to offer what you are looking for.

One of the most beautiful things about Key West is the open water surrounding the island. To truly get to appreciate the beauty of the area, I highly suggest getting out on the water via one of the amazing Key West excursions. You can do that by a relaxing Key West sunset cruise , a beautiful Key West backcountry tour or even a tour including loads of watersports .

And to get the most well-rounded experience in Key West, you’ll also want to book a tour on land to learn more about the history and culture of the area and hopefully try some amazing food (if a guided food tour isn’t your thing, be sure to check out my ultimate Key West foodie guide for your own self-led guided tour 😉).

You will find below that a few of my favorite and best Key West excursions I’ve done include snorkeling. This is because Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in the continental United States which is one of the best Key West snorkeling spots. However, the reef is located a few miles offshore, so you will need a guided boat tour of some kind to get there (the other great spot is the beach of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park ).

Best Time to Visit for Key West Water Tours

The great thing about Key West is that you will have great weather almost the entire year. Shoulder season (spring and fall) are generally the best times to visit for the most moderate weather (in the 80’s) and fewer crowds. In the winter, you can expect the most crowds and temperatures to drop to highs around 75° F and lows around 65° F. This could potentially mean chilly weather for when you’re wanting to be laying out on a catamaran in the middle of the ocean, or it could potentially be very pleasant.

Summertime in Key West brings high humidity and high temperatures around 90° F, which can definitely be super hot (speaking from experience living in Key West for an entire summer) but makes the water very welcoming. Hurricane season generally runs from June-November with higher chances of hurricanes forming towards the latter end.

Obviously, large storms and hurricanes don’t hit the Florida Keys every year, but it’s something good to keep in mind. My husband and I returned to Key West on a Florida road trip one early November and the weather was perfectly beautiful making it a great time to visit.

Check out this post: 17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida

Are these excursions good things to do in key west with kids.

One great thing about most, if not all of these excursions and tours is that they are family friendly! You can find if there are any specific age requirements within the listing, however, many say from age zero and up. Even tours you may not expect to be family-friendly (like a sunset sail) usually are.

However, be sure to always check specific requirements and reach out to them if you have specific needs for your kids. If a tour provides alcoholic drinks, they will give wristbands to those who show a valid I.D and provide soft drinks for anyone who can’t have or doesn’t want alcohol.

Quick Guide to the Best Excursions in Key West

1. sunset cruise in key west with live local music and drinks/appetizers.

One of the things Key West is most known for is its famous sunsets and nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square. You definitely need to make time to attend the sunset celebration (along with booking a sunset sail on a different night). The sunset celebration usually begins about two hours before sunset and is free to attend, full of local artists, live music, performers, and food carts. It happens right along the water in Mallory Square with a perfect view of the sun setting into the Gulf of Mexico, everyone might even clap once the sun has set!

Once you’ve experienced that, then it’s time to book a sunset sail for a different night of your stay! When I was in Key West, I booked the sunset sail on a large catamaran that included drinks (both alcoholic and soda) and live local music. We cruised around the island getting to see different points of interest all while relaxing and watching the sunset.

There are many different types of sunset sails you can choose from, for example, you can book a cruise on a large catamaran (like I did), sail on a traditional sailboat , or even climb aboard a replica 1851 Schooner ! Or if you are looking for an even more intimate experience (for in my opinion what is quite a reasonable price), you can even book a private sunset cruise on a smaller boat with a local Key West guide! These are all bound to be the best sunset cruises in Key West. If you are interested in other places to watch the sunset in Key West, check out my 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West post!

Since are so many different cruise options, you are sure to find what you are looking for no matter the type of group you have (including kids).

2. Key West Jet Ski Tours

For my birthday in Key West, I booked a jet ski tour around the island and it’s one of my favorite birthday memories to this day! We rode completely around the island on both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico side. One side was shallow with crystal clear water and we needed to follow our guides track specifically to ensure we didn’t bottom out. The other side of the island was much deeper water with larger swells and a totally different but fun experience.

Jetskiing is a great way to experience the water and see parts of Key West you may not otherwise see. Plus it’s a quick experience lasting just about two hours meaning you’ll still have plenty of time to do other activities you’d like! To save money you can book multiple riders on one jetski, or you can each drive your own.

There are so many Key West excursions, jets skiing being one of them

check out this post: 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida

3. backcountry island adventure snorkel and kayak tour.

If you are looking for one of the most unique excursions you can take in Key West, a Key West backcountry tour is definitely it. Some of the prettiest places in Key West can only be reached by boat and this tour takes you there. Take a boat ride out to a local sandbar to paddleboard, kayak, snorkel or just hang out and relax with provided lunch! This tour boasts taking you to a local-favorite area which is totally true because when I experienced a Key West sandbar, I was with a group of locals!

While hanging out at the sandbar, you may see dolphins, stingrays, conch shells and more! This backcountry tour in Key West is a perfect way to spend a few hours relaxing in the warm water away from the crowds and getting to see some beautiful wildlife. It’s definitely a different vibe than what you’ll find at the beaches on the island. You’ll feel more connected with nature and have beautiful photos from your day.

5. Ultimate Adventure Tour with Breakfast, Lunch, and Drinks

The Ultimate Adventure Tour really is what it sounds like. You’ll spend six hours out on the water with breakfast nd lunch doing almost as many watersports you can do in Key West as possible. You’ll get to sail on a large catamaran out to the Florida reef to snorkel then later you can parasail, play with bouncy water toys and even go jetskiing!

The Ultimate Adventure Tour is perfect if you have only one day to spend on the water and you want to experience as many activities as possible. If some of the activities don’t interest you, you can stay on the catamaran and sunbathe the day away.

They split the boat up into different groups and assign a timeframe to each group to ensure that everyone gets an equal opportunity to try each activity. It was a smooth process and we felt like we had a sufficient amount of time trying out each new thing.

6. Half-Day Key West Reef Snorkeling Excursion

Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in the continental United States known as Florida’s Coral Reef , however, it is located a few miles off shore requiring a boat ride to get there. This makes a snorkeling excursion in Key West the only way to get to this snorkeling spot and a great way to spend the day out on the water.

You’ll get to enjoy an hour boat ride out to the reef, an hour of snorkeling and an hour back to shore. Snorkeling equipment is provided, including life vests and floaties, making it a fun, safe experience for everyone (however knowing how to swim is still a requirement). If you have an underwater camera, definitely bring it along with you for some fun snorkeling pics! You may even consider buying an inexpensive one just for this trip.

7. Key West Food and Cultural Walking Tour

Key West has some super yummy food joints rich with culture and history. You’ll find delicious Cuban spots, tasty local treats (aka Key Lime Pie) and more. To make sure you don’t miss a single place, be sure to book the Key West food and culture walking tour !

However, if you are someone who wants to hit up these spots on your own rather than a tour, check out my Ultimate Key West Food Guide and my 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West Guide for some great recommendations!

check out this post: Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try

8. deepsea sportfishing excursion in key west.

One tour I unfortunately did not get to participate in during my time in Key West (but I wish I had) is a Key West deepsea fishing excursion . After a summer of doing as much as possible in Key West, I guess I just ran out of time and money 😆. However, even though I did not go deepsea fishing, I definitely think it’s a great activity to do while in the area.

Choose between a four, six or eight hour excursion with the chance to catch Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Sailfish, Marlin and other local Key West fish. Plus you can pay for a group of up to six people and have the boat all to yourselves. Be sure to try any of the fish dishes at the restaurants in Key West for some of the freshest fish you’ll ever have! I’m not generally a fish eater, but when I spent time in Key West I definitely order it. My go-to favorite is Mahi Mahi.

And those are my top 8 favorite excursions/tours that are definitely worth the money in Key West! Please let me know if you have any questions about any of these excursions or about visiting Key West in general. I’m a real person that loves to talk travel.

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

The Ultimate Itinerary for a Day Trip to Key West

Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try
The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West
10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida
17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida
8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West
10 Amazing Florida Roadtrip Stops with Kids
5 Reasons You Need to Rent Jet Skis in Key West + How to Rent

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Lloyd Mager

My name is Lloyd and I have owned and operated my own personalized bike tour for over 30 years. I’ve lived in key west for 50 years. I seen all the changes. Key west has rushed it self into tourist town USA. The Commercialization and corporatization has grabbed hold of key west like so many other cool artist havens throughout the world. I’m sure the author of this itinerary worked hard to put it together. I mean no offense but this list of things to do falls short of showing off the uniqueness of this island. Key lime pie, a bike tour of tourist attractions, jet ski tours( which have become a plague), catamarans that carry 100 passengers to an ailing reef are the list of the most popular activities perceived by the mainstream. This author needs to dig a little deeper into the soul of key west

Hey Lloyd! Thanks for checking out my site. I’m sure over the last 30-50 years you have seen SO many changes in Key West (the good, bad and ugly!). Sounds like you have a great bike tour company and I hope you all the best! This article is not meant to be an itinerary of things to do during a day in Key West, but rather a highlight of some top excursions and tours that I enjoyed while I spent a few months on the island. I hope you were able to also see my Key West bucket list article (of almost 100 things to do on the island) among various other Key West articles that highlight (in my opinion) more of Key West’s hidden gems 🙂 Best of luck to you!

The Ultimate Cheap Eats Copenhagen Food Guide

United States

64 Fun Things to Do in Key West (Florida)

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Get a taste for the fabulous food scene, soar above the area in a seaplane, see dolphins up close on a cruise, or snorkel through the crystal clear waters — with so many fun things to do in Key West, you’ll truly be spoiled for choice.

A perfect mix of watersports, historic sightings, impressive art galleries, and beach-style architecture, Key West calls out to various interests, no matter what they may be.

Offering an average of 104 days of clear, sunny skies, a heavenly high average temperature of 91 degrees Fahrenheit, and a low of 67 degrees Fahrenheit, the year-round warmth is definitely a plus for many visiting this beautiful destination.

Whether you’re after thrills, relaxation, or anything in between, Key West is a fantastic destination year-round.

From Duval Street’s lively nightlife and bar hopping, the fresh seafood scene beachside, to trying key lime pie (which has origins in Key West!), your appetite will surely be satisfied with the best of Key West.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best things to do in Key West !

1 – Snorkel along North America’s only living coral reef

With close to 800 islands big and small dotted around the Florida Keys, this part of the US is home to some of the country’s – scratch that, the world’s – premier snorkeling opportunities.

And if you’re looking for a fun day out in the water, then Key West – known for its colorful marine life, underwater shipwrecks and warm waters – is no exception.

Whether you rent your own boat and make your way out to the Keys’ clear blue waters, or join a more official snorkeling tour that whisks you out to sea on a modern catamaran, the outcome will remain the same: you can expect an amazing time exploring North America’s only living coral reef.

But with so many islands and beaches, where do we begin? Only accessible by boat, Cottrell Key is one of the prime snorkeling spots in the area. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins, (small, friendly) sharks, stingrays and Goliath groupers swimming around these waters — and being a calm, shallow area, it’s suitable for families and kids too! If you do have a boat at your disposal, the Marquesas Keys, the Sambo Reef, the Dry Tortugas National Park, and the Avanti Dutch Wreck are worth considering as well.

But if you prefer to stay closer to shore, you’ll find no shortage of terrific beach and bay spots for snorkeling too. Home to the country’s only shore-accessible underwater marine park, Higgs Beach is terrific for beginners with its shallow, clear waters teeming with vibrantly colored fish, while Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Smathers Beach boast diverse marine life without the crowds.

No matter which area of the Key you feel like exploring, you can expect to find yourself face-to-face with a wide variety of marine life, from sea turtles to parrotfish, angelfish, and so many more.

snorkeling trips in Key West

Hot tip : Despite the weather being warm year-round, the best time to snorkel in Key West is generally between December and May, when the risk of tropical storms is much lower.

2 – Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West, Florida

Built-in 1866 to defend the nation’s southeastern coastline, the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park played essential roles in the Civil War and Spanish-American War — and there’s no better way to learn the ins and outs of US history than with a guided tour of the well-preserved fortress.

Located on the westernmost tip of Key West, this historic landmark also offers some fantastic snorkeling opportunities and excellent cycling trails.

3 – Set sail to watch the sunset over Key West from the deck of the schooner America 2.0

Schooner America 2.0 sunset sailing tour, Key West, Florida

Get ready for an enchanting evening like none other!

With a stunning sunset sailing cruise aboard a classic schooner, you’ll be able to admire iconic Key West landmarks from the water, including Mallory Square, Fort Zachary, and the Sand Key Lighthouse, to name a few.

For that extra special touch, drinks and appetizers are served throughout the cruise.

sailing tours in Key West

4 – Kayaking through the Key West mangroves

Spot Florida wildlife in their natural habitat, learn more about why the mangroves are essential for the local ecosystem, and discuss how to become more sustainable in today’s world with your tour guide — all on an exciting kayak tour through the Key West mangroves!

With warm waters year-round, there’s never a bad time to give it a try.

kayaking trips in Key West

5 – Take a dolphin-watching cruise!

If you’re a wildlife lover, then a cruise to the Key West National Wildlife Refuge should sit high atop the Florida bucket list!

The dolphins often come within arm’s reach of the modern catamaran, more than happy to say hello from the comfort of their natural environment.

With an expert marine biologist, there’s plenty to be learned about the local ecosystem too.

dolphin watching in Key West

6 – Discover Key West on a hop-on hop-off trolley bus tour

Old Town trolley tour in Key West, Florida

The simple solution to seeing as many of Key West’s 100+ points of interest as possible, the trolley offers 13 convenient stops perfect for exploring the best that Key West has to offer.

With both 1-day and 2-day tickets available, there’s a hassle-free option to suit every schedule.

Be sure to hop off at Clinton Square Market, a historic U.S. Navy coal depot, which today houses some of the best shopping and coffee locals.

trolley tours in Key West

7 – Discover the wonders of Key West by bike

Despite being the most populated city in the Keys, Key West still barely has any traffic, making it one of the most bike-friendly areas in the state. Sure, you can walk around town, hitting up Key West hotspots like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and Mallory Square, but if you’d rather squeeze a bit more adventure into your day, hop on a bike and explore Key West like a local instead.

Led by Key West residents who know the hidden gems of this sun-kissed town, not only do bike tours allow you to cover more ground in less time, but you’ll also get to see a side of the island that most run-of-the-mill sightseeing tours overlook.

While every bike tour is a little different, you’ll usually pass by notable attractions like Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, the Southernmost Point Buoy, and Duval Street – the epicenter of Key West’s nightlife. And with a couple stops along the way to try some of the region’s most famous treats, like key lime pie and conch fritters, you’ll get to experience a slice of the local culture too.

Prefer to explore independently? Plenty of storefronts offer bike rentals on the cheap, so you can chart your own course without being constrained by a tour group’s schedule. If you’re not sure where to begin, simply head down Duval Street, which runs north to south through the entire island, and make stops at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, the Key West Lighthouse and The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory – that’ll be more than enough to get you started.

bike tours in Key West

8 – Visit the famous U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Museum, Key West, Florida

Serving in active duty from 1936 to 1988, the Cutter Ingham is a quintessential portrait of U.S. coast guard history, a must-visit site for every history buff.

So why not explore the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham museum and learn about one of the country’s most decorated ships?

9 – Slather up some sunscreen before heading to the Best Beaches

Head to Smathers Beach, considered to be Key West’s best and largest beach. Equipped with proper changing rooms, volleyball nets, and water activity rentals.

Take a walk through the scenic wooden pier at Higgs Memorial Beach Park a pristine turquoise blue beach with access to Key West Garden Club , a former Civil War fort turned tropical garden and education space.

For the best snorkeling spot, check out Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, and for the best family beaches, check out South Beach for its calm waters.

10 – Feel the thrill of a jet ski

Looking for a genuine adrenaline-pumping experience?

Book a jet ski tour, ride around on Florida’s tropical waters, and see some of the most unique scenery in the country — it’s a surefire way to add some high-speed thrills to your Key West holiday, and it’s fun for all ages!

jet ski in Key West

11 – Step inside The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea

The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea, Florida Keys

Soak in the quaint and meditative ambiance at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea , one of the oldest catholic churches in Florida, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and adored by various sailors.

Built on an oolitic limestone rock, and built with limestone dug from the beach sand, the church has an American Victorian style.

Walk around to view the Grotto where the statues of Our Lady of Lourdes and Bernadette are, as well as its gorgeous vegetation.

12 – Enjoy a culinary adventure through the Key West Historic Seaport

Ready to fall in love with the city’s flavors? Then make a beeline for Key West’s charming Seaport neighborhood, where the sights, sounds, and, of course, indulgent flavors regularly take visitors on unforgettable culinary journeys!

Besides the seafood, Cuban cuisine, and the decadent key lime pie, the seaport also sports a riveting history.

food tours in Key West

13 – Discover the wonder of the aquatic animal world at Key West Aquarium

Located in Mallory Square, Key West Aquarium is one of the city’s most beloved attractions, offering the perfect outing for families and animal lovers.

With the opportunity to feed sharks, touch cow nose rays, meet alligators, and learn why sea turtles are endangered, it’s sure to satisfy any traveler’s curiosity.

Key West Aquarium tickets

14 – See turtles up close on a glass bottom boat

Beneath the surface, the waters around the Florida Keys come alive with diverse, fascinating, and incredibly colorful marine life. And while snorkeling and scuba diving are always a hot ticket, you can just as easily get your fill of the underwater world without actually getting wet.

Enter: glass bottom boat tours! With a friendly crew alongside you the whole time (who know the best spots to hit), you’ll get an up-close look at the underwater reefs, their corals, and the creatures that call this part of Florida home — and learn all about their habitats, life cycles, and more along the way.

While every day welcomes a different find, you could get lucky and spot sea turtles, sharks, stingrays or even the odd manatee or two. At the very least, you can expect to witness dozens of the 600+ species of tropical fish that swim through these waters daily.

An educational and mesmerizing experience — what more could you ask for?

glass bottom boat tours in Key West

15 – Spice things up with a romantic dinner at Latitude’s

Latitude's Restaurant, Key West, Florida

No visit to Key West is truly complete without a dinner at the award-winning Latitude’s Restaurant .

While the wide range of delicious dishes is second to none, the 5-star service and breathtaking sunset views combine to make these dinners truly special.

Since it’s so popular, advanced reservations are usually required.

16 – Find an art piece for your home at Wyland Gallery of the Florida Keys

Wyland Gallery of the Florida Keys, Key West

Art lovers this one is for you! Pay a visit to Wyland Gallery of the Florida Keys , a space where artists and collectors come together to showcase the best of local art, from paintings to glass, bronze, and lucite sculptures.

All pieces follow a marine theme, serving as the perfect reminder of the beauty of Key West, from dolphins to other marine animals, and scenes of the beach.

Visit the art gallery anytime, or during a special event.

17 – Parasail above the Keys’ shimmering waters

Thinking of trying something totally unique during your time in Key West? Well, look no further!

With a thrilling (yet oddly relaxing) parasailing ride, travelers are greeted by unparalleled views of the Florida Keys below.

It’s one of the most exciting adventure activities in Key West, without a doubt.

parasailing in Key West

18 – Watch an independent film at the Tropic Cinema

One for the Hollywood film buffs, the Tropic Cinema arthouse promises to provide the ultimate movie fix, with rotating films of every genre, old and new.

Screenings are usually limited, so check the calendar in advance to guarantee your seat at the latest independent blockbuster.

19 – Venture off the beaten path with a day of “Island T’ing”

If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a day, and fully immerse yourself in nature, then a day trip of “Island T’ing” might be just what the doctor ordered.

A local way of describing “island hopping”, Island T’ing is all about venturing well and truly off the beaten track, and discovering the protected wildlife areas in the Gulf of Mexico.

Typically, you’ll set sail on a catamaran, making your way over around the Gulf and to different parts of the Florida Reef. Throughout the day, you’ll have time to jump in a kayak and explore a natural mangrove island; take a dip in the warm, clear waters; snorkel alongside the colorful wildlife, and learn all about the area’s diverse animals from your friendly, experienced guides.

Alongside plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitats, you’ll also get to dig into a delicious lunch on board the boat, packed full of local seafood specialties. And in typical Key West fashion, there’ll be plenty of beer, wine and sangria available so you can really embody what vacation is all about – letting your hair down!

Island T’ing day trips from Key West

20 – Immerse yourself in hundreds of colorful butterflies

Stroll through a magical environment filled with hundreds of the most beautiful winged creatures in nature — featuring 60 types of butterflies in a truly enchanting setting, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the island’s most popular attractions for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

21 – Rent your very own hydrobike

One of the hottest activities to hit the Florida Keys in recent years, hydro biking is part cycling, part kayaking, and 100% a good time.

With no prior experience required, these beginner-friendly waterbikes are perfect for checkout out the islands at your own pace. Pedal casually along the coastline, past the crowds at Mallory Square; crack open a cold one (with a mini cooler included, you can BYO) and simply enjoy the views; or jump into the water and cool off.

If you opt for a tour, you’ll have a local guide show you all the spots. On the flip side, you can always hire your own tandem bike (at twilight, if possible!) and go at your own pace. Either way, you’re in for top-notch views and an unexpected workout to boot.

hydrobike tours in Key West

22 – Take a ride on the historic Key West Conch Train

A longstanding family favorite, having welcomed tourists for over 65 years (having made its first ride way back in 1958), the Key West Conch Train is a truly one-of-a-kind way to learn all about the island’s rich history and culture.

Departing from the 303 Front Street Depot (next to Mallory Square) every 30 minutes (with the first tour starting at 10:15 am), these slow-moving but fully narrated tours take you on a 75-minute journey through Old Town Key West’s most famous landmarks, chugging past the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, the Southernmost Point, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, to name just a few. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Truval Village, the Station Depot, and Flagler Station, and get to wander around the different areas on foot, soaking up the scenery.

Once your ride comes to an end, don’t forget to pop into the Sails to Rails Museum – a wonderful insight into the history of seafarers and railroads in this part of the world. Entry is included with your Conch Train ticket, so you won’t have to send another dine.

Money-saving tip: If possible, grab your tickets online and in advance to save a few bucks compared to buying tickets on the day.

Key West Conch Train

23 – Visit the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Key West, Florida

Step back into time as you learn all about the region’s maritime past with a trip to the fantastic Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum .

Besides seeing real treasures salvaged from sinking ships, guests are also told daring tales of ‘wrecking’ — the foundation of Key West’s economy during the 18th century. It’s a fun experience for the entire family!

Shipwreck Treasure Museum tickets

24 – Tour the historic Harry S. Truman Little White House

Harry S. Truman Little White House, Key West, Florida

For history aficionados (particularly presidential history), this place should sit high atop any list of things to do in Key West.

With a visit to the Harry S. Truman Little White House , intrigued guests can explore the rooms where Truman held meetings and discussed government matters, discover an essential part of Florida’s history, and learn the ins and outs of Truman’s years as president.

Truman Little White House tickets

25 – Say hello to the Keys’ friendly sea turtles

Who doesn’t love turtles, right?

At the Key West Turtle Museum , besides unforgettable meet-and-greet opportunities, visitors are taught all about the protection efforts to save the endangered sea turtles.

This is one of the best places to dive into Key West’ unique maritime history.

26 – Fly in style in a helicopter over the Florida Keys

Fly like a rockstar above Florida’s most beautiful landscape in a luxurious helicopter!

Camera at the ready, people; from thousands of feet above the ground you’ll be able to spot the Keys’ best beaches, admire the mangrove maze, spot dolphins, and discover parts of the island that are only accessible by air.

For the ultimate adventure, book your experience with either Fly-KeyWest or Key West Helicopters , offering a good mix of experiences, budget options, and even schedules.

helicopter tours in Key West

27 – Experience a world-class fishing day trip

Key West is nothing short of an angler’s paradise, and its fishing charters have built up a strong reputation among anglers from around the globe as a result.

With so many fantastic fishing trips to choose from — set on beautiful boats with expert crews — there are plenty of opportunities to catch all kinds of species, including sailfish, marlin, mako sharks, red snappers, and giant groupers.

fishing tours in Key West

28 – Visit the Fort East Martello Museum

Fort East Martello Museum. Key West, Florida

Fort East Martello is nowadays the home of the Fort East Martello Museum , featuring historical exhibits spanning the 19th and 20th centuries.

Discover the fantastic collection of Civil War artifacts, admire Stanley Papio’s unique metal sculptures, learn about the wrecking industry that shaped the Florida Keys, and (if you’re brave enough) meet the Ghosts of East Martello, none more famous than Robert the Doll.

29 – Head out on a shark and wildlife viewing adventure

It’s not exactly a secret that the warm waters off of the Florida Keys are teeming with wildlife — from dolphins and sea turtles to stingrays and hundreds of types of colorful tropical fish, not to mention the myriad bird species that call this place home too.

But if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, and a chance to see some of the southeastern US’s most incredible creatures up close, then a shark and wildlife viewing adventure is an absolute must!

Generally lasting around 2 hours, these wildlife-focused adventures send you out on a fancy catamaran into the open ocean, where your knowledgeable crew will drop bait into the waters to lure sharks within viewing distance.

The Florida Keys is home to over half a dozen species of shark, but it’s the docile lemon and nurse sharks that most frequently make an appearance. No matter which species you see on any given day, you’re guaranteed to walk away having learned a thing or two – not just about the ocean’s predators, but about the entire Keys underwater ecosystem too.

Shark spotting in Key West

30 – Grab a seat on the Trolley of the Doomed!

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West, Florida

Believe it or not, Key West has a dark side; with a number of haunted sites scattering the island, there’s plenty of spooky tales to be told.

Eager to learn all about Key West’s supernatural history then?

Just Hop aboard the Trolley of the Doomed, where local experts share frightening tales of years gone by as you traverse the dark and narrow streets of Old Town.

Key West Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

31 – Pamper your better half at the Better Than Sex dessert restaurant

Better Than Sex dessert restaurant, Key West

Looking for a romantic dining experience? Then pay a visit to Better Than Sex , the perfect spot for celebrating Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, or even a first date!

To say that your sweet tooth will be satisfied is an understatement — to truly appreciate the romantic flavors and atmosphere, you’ve got to experience it for yourself.

32 – Enjoy a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park day trip from Key West, Florida

Experience the day trip of a lifetime, filled with beachcombing, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and plenty of sightseeing!

Only accessible via boat or seaplane , the secluded islands of Dry Tortugas National Park offer an unforgettable day trip for the entire family.

Dry Tortugas boat tours

33 – Visit the San Carlos Institute

Established in 1871 by Cuban exiles, the San Carlos Institute aims to preserve the Cuban people’s language, culture, and traditions.

It also helped unite the exiled Cuban community and has been considered the cradle of Cuba’s independence movement.

Simply put, this place is a Key West must-visit for any history buff.

34 – Have a swashbuckling good time on a pirate ship cruise

A family favorite, with cannons, swashbucklers, and treasure maps ahoy, this sunset sail is the perfect way to add a bit of adventure to your holiday.

From Key West’s Historic Seaport, you’ll climb aboard the Schooner Jolly II Rover in search of lost riches (read: dolphins, turtles, flying fish and pelicans) as you traverse the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Far more interactive than your typical sunset sail, you’ll get to help the crew pull up the anchor, raise the sails, steer the ship, and(for all you 21+ pirates) down a couple of swigs of good old-fashioned pirate rum.

Most adventures make their way past Sunset Key (famous for its multi-million dollar celebrity homes) and points of interest like The Navy Mole, the Truman Annex, and Christmas Tree Island – as you pass by each, your friendly crew will share all kinds of fun facts about the area.

pirate ship cruises in Key West

35 – Dine at the legendary Hard Rock Cafe Key West

Visit the iconic Hard Rock Cafe Key West for great American food and thirst-quenching drinks wrapped in a unique musical experience.

Set within a beautiful historical building on the historic Duval Street, Hard Rock Cafe Key West is the perfect place to dine in style and feel like a star.

Hard Rock Cafe in Key West

36 – Watch the thrilling Key West Offshore Racing World Championships

Key West Offshore Racing World Championships, Florida

Speed, power, and fun come to Key West every year for the area’s most exciting water event on the calendar: the roaring Offshore Racing World Championships, where the world’s top offshore boat racers fly across the harbor!

If the dates line up with your vacation, then buckle up for an unforgettable spectacle. To keep up with all the latest news, visit Race World Offshore .

37 – See the nightly Key West’s Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

show of street artists, Mallory Square, Key West, Florida

Arguably the best way to transition a relaxing afternoon into a lively evening, gather at Mallory Square just as the sun goes down.

Making the famous Key West sunset all the more special, extraordinary jugglers, local musicians, clowns, and magicians create a bustling atmosphere unmatched by anywhere else in the region.

It’s a quintessential cultural experience and fun for all ages.

Walk for 3 minutes to Sunset Pier, to continue the laid-back vibes with more restaurants, bars, entertainment, and extraordinary water and sunset views.

38 – Step back in time and visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West, Florida

Nestled among towering palm trees on the western end of the island in Old Town, Hemingway’s former home is one of Key West’s most popular attractions (and a must-see for literary buffs visiting the Keys!).

After wandering around the lush garden, head inside to discover the well-preserved rooms filled with Hemingway memorabilia including photos, books, and furniture.

39 – Dial up the romance with a sunset cruise

By day, the southernmost city in the continental United States is known for its relaxing atmosphere and bounty of outdoor activities. But by night, it transforms into a romantic haven, especially during sunset.

And what better way to experience this magical moment than on a sunset dinner cruise? As you sail through the crystal-clear waters of Key West, with a glass of bubbly (or two) in hand, you’ll get to take in all kinds of beautiful hues as the sun dips below the horizon, casting an ethereal glow onto the hundreds of islands that make up the Florida Keys.

From romantic sunset sails to more upbeat cruises with live music and hors d’oeuvres, as well as party boats that spice things up a bit, there’s something for everyone. For what is arguably the most romantic activity of all, however, consider booking one of the many sunset dinner cruises in Key West . Whether you dig into a multi-course set menu, or feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet, you’ll get to indulge in fresh seafood, lip-smacking BBQ (like Caribbean pulled pork), and plenty of margaritas, wines, and rum runners to wash it all down.

Sunset cruises typically last a couple of hours; that said, there’s nothing stopping you from booking a private boat and staying out until the stars come out.

sunset cruises in Key West

40 – Visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum and let out your inner treasure hunter

Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, Key West, Florida

Any Pirates of the Caribbean fans in the house?

At the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum , curious visitors learn how Mel Fisher and his crew found the biggest prize in treasure-hunting history: $450 million worth of gold, jewels, coins, and artifacts.

It’s a fascinating story, but not the only one; the museum also showcases other ancient Spanish ships’ treasures.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum tickets

41 – Help rescued birds at the Key West Wildlife Center

A hidden gem for animal lovers and anyone traveling with kids in tow, the Key West Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization that specializes in the care of injured and rescued animals (particularly birds, treating roughly 1,400 wild birds annually).

Open from 11 AM to 2 PM, the Center features a lovely nature trail with a freshwater pond and a couple of aviaries — perfect for a leisurely stroll — as well as a small number of animals on show. This isn’t a zoo though; the animals are also on display for education purposes, and to help them heal back to full strength, the majority of the feathery residents are kept behind closed doors.

The Center is tucked away inside the seven-acre Indigenous Park, where you’ll find a relaxing picnic area and a handful of bocce courts too. It’s free to enter, but being a non-profit, donations are always appreciated.

When you’re done, make sure to check out Higgs Beach next door, considered one of if not the best shoreline snorkeling spots in the Keys.

42 – Attend a music concert at the Tennessee Williams Theatre

Settled around 10 minutes from the center of Key West on Stock Island is the Tennessee Williams Theatre , named after the famous American dramatist.

Mainly showing live music concerts, from symphony concerts to Big Band music, to acrobatics and classic rock and roll, the programming at the theater is one worth checking out.

Consider their Encore Series 2023, an offer that includes attending 5 shows for one payment, guaranteeing your same seats for the 5 shows.

Tennessee Williams Theatre tickets

43 – Taste some of Florida Keys finest rums

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not have a drink or two and unwind?

At the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery , not only are guests welcome to try a selection of exquisite rums, but they’re also taught how the venue uses centuries-old distillation techniques to transform sugarcane into smooth white rum.

Can’t decide what to drink? Opt for a tasting flight, with various award-winning rums, or learn how to make a Cuban mojito!

44 – Enjoy a beautiful sunset and concert at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater

Check out a musical concert taking place at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater , where the musical experience is complemented by the outstandingly beautiful concert venue.

Book tickets for the grassy general admission section, and witness a true Key West sunset setting behind the palm trees.

Check out the list of items permitted to bring and what is not to avoid issues at the door.

Coffee Butler Amphitheater tickets

45 – Have fun at Key West’s world-famous Fantasy Fest

Held annually in the last week of October, Fantasy Fest is the biggest event of the year in the Florida Keys, attracting thousands of fun-loving party-goers from all corners of the globe.

With a parade tradition stretching as far back as 1979, everyone gets decked out in the most colorful, creative, and outrageous costumes they can cobble together — a lot of fun is guaranteed!

46 – Check out the iconic Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, Key West, Florida

Dating back to the 1840s and named after well-known ornithologist John James Audubon, the Audubon House Gallery offers an impressive collection of Audubon artworks.

For nature lovers, stroll the lush grounds and admire beautiful orchids and other tropical plants.

47 – Encounter chatty parrots at Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, Key West

Nancy, an environmental artist, has created a magical bird sanctuary that is quickly becoming a popular tourist attraction.

Here, travelers are blessed with the opportunity to meet and interact with rescued parrots and macaws, some of which can talk!

The reviews say it all: Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden is an unbelievable place that all holidaymakers in Key West should visit.

48 – Scuba dive through a Cold War-era ship

Vandenberg wreck diving, Key West, Florida

Key West is home to world-class diving, scattered all over the island’s shores.

One of the undisputed highlights, however, is the USNS Vandenberg — located off the coast of Key West, this wreck has become a popular site for divers from all over the world.

Considered the world’s second-largest artificial reef, the Vandenberg wreck is a fantastic oceanic playground to explore.

scuba diving in Key West

49 – Get to know native plants and animals at the Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, Key West, Florida

Located in the heart of Key West, the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center features exhibits that cover the plants and animals of both Florida’s underwater and above-ground worlds.

With plenty of hands-on activities, it’s a fantastic place to bring the kids — not only will they have a blast, but they’ll also learn the importance of protecting and conserving Florida’s ecosystem.

50 – Chill out at the best beach bars

The Florida Keys stereotype is all about beaches, beers, and a go-slow attitude, and there’s no better place to embrace this laid-back vibe than at one of Key West’s many beach bars. Toes in the sand, umbrella drinks in hand – what more could you ask for?

But with a handful of different options to choose from, which beach bar should you hit up first?

Grab a drink and stay for incredible sunsets at Southernmost Beach Cafe , located on the southern coast of the island. Famous for being just 105 miles away from Cuba – making it the closest American bar to the Caribbean nation – it serves up a thirst-quenching Rum Runner and a deliciously fruity Piña Colada.

Not too far away, you’ll find the Schooner Wharf Bar , dubbed the “last little piece of Old Key West” thanks to its vintage decor and classic hometown atmosphere. Located on the northern side of the island, around the corner from Mallory Square, the waterfront hangout is the go-to place for local vibes, strong drinks, and fresh-as-can-be seafood – not to mention a healthy list of frozen drinks, wines, and beers.

If you’re after more luxurious beach vibes, then make a beeline for the Hot Tin Roof . Found inside the Ocean Key Resort & Spa, also next to Mallory Square, this beloved locale pays homage to the late, great playwright, Tennessee Williams (the bar itself is named after one of his famous works, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof). Charming and upscale with top-notch ocean views, it’s one of the best spots in town to enjoy a glass of wine alongside a Floridi-inspired meal at sunset.

Despite being a more low-key haunt, Lagerheads Beach Bar & Grill shouldn’t be overlooked. Sitting right on the sand, Lagerheads is renowned for its mouthwatering ceviche and quesadillas, its affordable drinks, and its relaxing, open-air vibe.

51 – Stand at the southernmost point in America

Southernmost point buoy, Key West, Florida

Visited by thousands of people each day, the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy is a must-visit landmark for every Key West first-time visitor.

If you squint hard enough, you *might* (read: with some imagination) be able to see Cuba.

Of course, don’t forget to snap a photo with the colorful buoy

52 – Taste Floridian-Caribbean cuisine at the quirky Blue Heaven

Blue Heaven restaurant, Key West, Florida

Filled with rich Key West history, Blue Heaven is a local staple and one of Key West’s most unique restaurants.

Grab a seat under the shaded canopy, let the live music whisk you away, keep an eye on the roaming chickens, and dig into one of many delectable dishes.

Don’t miss the chance to order their famous key lime pie — an iconic dessert featured on countless TV shows over the years.

53 – Eat your way through Key West’s best restaurants

Foodies, listen up. Key West isn’t just about stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking sunsets – it’s also a top-notch culinary destination. With an eclectic mix of cuisines influenced by its diverse population (including flavors inspired by Caribbean destinations like Cuba and the Bahamas), there’s something for every palate in this little slice of paradise.

Start your foodie journey with a visit to Blue Heaven , one of the most popular restaurants in Key West. Located in an old Bahamian house in the Bahama Village, you’ll feel right at home as you tuck into their famous key lime pie and fresh seafood dishes (don’t miss the Caribbean BBQ Shrimp). If you’ve partied a little too hard on a Saturday night, the Sunday brunch menu (plus a little hair the dog) will get you right back on track.

For a truly unique dining experience, head to the award-winning Latitude’s Restaurant on Sunset Key. While the wide range of delicious dishes is second to none, the 5-star service and breathtaking sunset views combine to make these dinners truly special. Since it’s so popular, advanced reservations are usually required.

A comparatively no-frills establishment, but one that’s steeped in history, being over 111 years old, Pepe’s Café is billed as the oldest eaterie in the Florida Keys. Situated in the Old Town neighborhood of Key West, the restaurant is known to dish up excellent island cuisine and delicious cocktails to match — but even if you’re not a diehard foodie, the funky atmosphere alone is worthy of an afternoon visit.

Looking for more of a romantic dining experience? Then pay a visit to Better Than Sex , a cheekily-themed speakeasy-style dessert spot for celebrating Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and birthdays. Whether it’s a first date or a 50th, the delectable desserts (think mouth-watering peanut butter silk pies and a chocolate and brie grilled cheese sandwich) and quirky cocktail list are sure to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Still hungry? It might be a chain, but that doesn’t mean that the iconic Hard Rock Cafe Key West isn’t worthy of a lunch or dinner reservation. Set within a beautiful historical building on the historic Duval Street, it serves up great (and large) American food and all kinds of thirst-quenching drinks – made all the more enjoyable by unique music decor and live shows.

Honorable mentions: The Flaming Buoy Filet Co. , Cafe Sole , the Conch Republic Seafood Company , Garbo’s Grill , and Little Pearl are all top-rated establishments worth checking out.

54 – Climb the top of Key West lighthouse

Built back in 1825 to help the ships navigate the Lower Keys’ shallow and hazardous reefs, the Key West lighthouse is one of the oldest structures and an important island attraction.

Today, guests are given the chance to climb the 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the breathtaking views.

55 – Practice your drive at the Key West Golf Club

Being such a skinny island in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, Key West might not be synonymous with golf courses. But leave it to this quirky little town to host the only Caribbean-style golf course in the United States!

A wonderful option for a day on the green, the Key West Golf Club is an 18-hole course designed by Rees Jones that’s open to both members and non-members alike. Spread across no less than 200 acres of beautiful Florida Keys greenery you’ll find a 6,500-yard course flanked by towering palm trees; one full of large fairways, obstacle bunkers, and deceptively challenging greens.

Plus, with a restaurant and bar on-site, you can easily make a day of it. While you’re there: the Key West Golf Club is located on the eastern side of the island – on Stock Island, technically. Given that it’s about a 15-minute drive from the Key West Old Town, you might as well check off the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden around the corner – a lovely slice of nature.

56 – Laugh your socks off at the Comedy Key West comedy club

The reputation of Duval Street proceeds it — with its high-energy nightlife and bounty of bars and pubs, it’s the go-to for a dose of debauchery after dinner.

But take off the tunnel-vision glasses and you’ll discover that there’s a lot more to the Key West nightlife than just Duval Street. Case in point: Comedy Key West .

Found over on Whitehead St (right next door to the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens) and calling itself “The 1st and Last Comedy Club on US 1”, this laugh factory welcomes a slew of local performers (names like Steven Crane, Gwen Filosa, Joe Madaus, Ian Lauritzen and Pony Charvet), as well as the occasional celebrity guest.

Serving up a cocktail of stand-up comedy acts, as well as improv nights, comedy contests, paint and chug sessions, and more shows (all peppered with plenty of Key West flavor), this locally adored late-night spot is an ideal place to spend an evening after dinner or before heading out for a big night on the town.

Shows typically start at 8:30 PM. Simply check the website to see who’s gracing the stage when you’re in town.

57 – Have a boat party with your friends

It wouldn’t be Florida without at least a few parties, now would it? Cut loose on one of Key West’s most exciting party boats, where tasty cocktails, pumping music, stunning coastal views, and hours of rowdy fun with your friends await.

Boat parties are perfect for celebrating a special moment, as well as for meeting fellow like-minded travelers.

party boats in Key West

58 – Visit Key West’s oldest wood-frame vernacular house

The Oldest House Museum, Key West, Florida

Located on Duval Street, the Oldest House Museum is (akin to its name) the oldest house in South Florida that still stands today. Built back in 1829 by a ship’s captain, it’s a true hidden gem — and one architecture lovers are sure to drool over.

If you’re thinking about hosting an event — a wedding, a birthday, or a private party — Oldest House offers the perfect backdrop for creating a memorable scene.

59 – Sing along to a musical performance at Key West Theater

Book tickets for the next show at the award-winning Key West Theater , a church-turned-theater originally built in 1848.

Offering a variety of entertaining acts, from musical, and comedy specials, to skits, and concerts, head over to their website to check the next show, and plan ahead for which one you’d want to attend!

Tickets start as low as $40 USD depending on the show.

Key West Theater tickets

60 – Enjoy a unique floating Tiki bar cruise

Looking for something unique, something with a little bit of flair to add that extra fun twist to your Key West holiday? Then book a Tiki bar boat , an experience beloved by locals and tourists alike.

The departure points are ‘Mellow Ventures Café’ and ‘Hurricane Hole Marina.’

tiki cruises in Key West

61 – Explore the Key West Museum of Art & History

Key West Museum of Art & History, Florida

No visit to the Keys would be complete without a visit to the award-winning Key West Museum of Art & History .

Located in Mallory Square, formerly the city’s post office, this four-story red brick building features an impressive collection of artworks centered on the Florida Keys’ fascinating history.

62 – Gaze at the colorful blossoms at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

With the claim to fame of being the continental USA’s only sub-tropical conservation habitat, this natural Key West oasis has been delighting travelers for over 85 years.

However, it’s so much more than just a peaceful slice of nature: Besides flora and fauna galore, visitors can also admire the art and sculptures displayed all over Stock Island — or, take it one step further and create the art yourself with a student artist workshop at the Garden Exhibit.

Bring your walking shoes; there are countless boardwalks and nature trails (as well as nearby marina piers) throughout the 15-acre living museum!

63 – Wet your whistle with a social pub crawl!

Looking to meet people? Keen to sample the best brews from the Keys’ finest watering holes? Then a locally-led pub crawl may be just what the doctor ordered!

Hope between Key West’s trendiest bars — including cocktails bars, music bars, local breweries, and historical lounges — and make plenty of new friends along the way.

Some places to keep an eye out for include Ernest Hemingway’s old stomping grounds at Sloppy Joe’s , for a Sloppy Rita drink, and the “Last bar on U.S. Highway 1” – The Green Parrot , decorated with funky items, and especially good live music.

Try the Key Lime Pie Pina Colada at the Tipsy Rooster , and soak in the never-ending fun vibes on the open-air terrace.

pub-crawls in Key West

64 – Pamper yourself at one of the area’s top spas (because you deserve it)

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not treat yourself to some much-deserved pampering? While it might be small in size, Key West is home to a plethora of top-notch spas inviting you to get that R&R with everything from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures.

Nothing quite says relaxation like a private island, so for the ultimate in relaxation, head over to The Spa at Sunset Key . Located on the eponymous island, just a 5-minute boat ride from the hustle and bustle of the main island, this luxurious spa offers treatments in private suites — facials, massages, and body wraps — along with stunning views of the ocean. And if you’re traveling with your better half, then look no further than the Sunset Romance Package.

For a historical twist on your spa experience, check out the Ocean Key Resort’s very own SpaTerre . A slice of quiet among the busy Duval Street precinct, this Asian-inspired spa boasts all sorts of indulgent treatments including Balinese and Thai massages, rice and turmeric body scrubs, and exotic flower petal baths.

Prefer something more affordable? Found on Roosevelt Avenue just outside the Old Town, Tranquility Spa is considered one of the more reasonably priced spas in Key West. Besides the typical spa treatments, the body contouring wraps and the calorie-burning steam sauna are both worth a try.

On the flip side, if money’s no object and you want straight-up high-end luxury, then the Pier House Resort & Spa — located on a private beach that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico — and the Jala Spa at the Hyatt Centric Key West are hard to beat.

Where to stay in Key West?

Wake up to palm tree and ocean views right from your balcony at Hampton Inn Key West , featuring continental breakfast for all its guests. Equipped with a poolside restaurant and coffee bar, guests will also relish the complimentary two alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, water, and a shuttle to downtown Key West, daily.

Feel relaxed and taken care of at Pier House Resort & Spa , offering beach access, a complete spa facility where you can book indoor or outdoor massages, and more treatments. Enjoy the flavorful and fresh seafood dishes at the on-site restaurants, and celebrate each night with a well-made cocktail at Beach Bar.

For the budget-conscious, don’t sacrifice quality for the price, and consider a stay at Southwinds Motel – a renovated and quaint hotel with a kitchenette, patio, laundry facilities, and luggage storage. Continental breakfast is served daily, perfect before heading to Higgs Memorial Beach Park, only a 3-minute drive away.

best hotels in Key West

Where to go next?

Okay, so you’ve ticked off all of the things to do in Key West. Great. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the long list of things to do in the Florida Keys as a whole.

If you drive back en route to the mainland, you’ll find yourself at the largest of the 800 or so keys: Key Largo. Being approximately 30 miles long, Key Largo is renowned for its bounty of beaches and plethora of aquatic activities. From snorkeling at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to visiting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for an up-close encounter with sea turtles, you’ll find that most of the things to do in Key Largo revolve around the great outdoors.

Keep driving for about an hour more (or 3 hours direct from Key West) and you’ll find yourself at the Magic City; none other than the high-energy, cultural melting pot that is Miami.

Iconically known for its flashy nightlife, eclectic Cuban influence in Little Havana (it’s highly recommended to do a food tour here!), and amazing art scene in the Wynwood district, there’s an endless list of things to do in Miami . But if you’re not sure where to start, then make a beeline for Miami’s most famous suburb: South Beach.

With its infamous Art Deco buildings and white sandy shores, as well as its laid-back vibes and never-ending array of bars, restaurants, and boutique shops to explore, South Beach is the epitome of Miami’s famous beach culture. Pro tip: one of the more underrated things to do in South Beach is to rent a bike and cruise along the boardwalk.

About another 40 minutes up the coast from Miami (about 4 hours from Key West by car), you’ll find another one of Florida’s most beautiful beach destinations: Fort Lauderdale.

Known for its miles of golden sandy beaches and its intricate canal system, Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the “Venice of America”. And when it comes to things to do in Fort Lauderdale , take your pick from oceanfront dining, water sports, museums and art galleries, or nature-focused attractions like the Flamingo Gardens.

Final thoughts

Have you explored all the things to do in Key West yet? We hope our list got your inspiration going!

Offering one of the best sunset spots in the country and serving as inspiration for various creatives in the past, like Ernest Hemingway, the U.S.’ southernmost city deserves a visit at least once.

While you’re there, have some key lime pie for us!

Happy travels!

Key West Tours

Conch Tour Train

The Conch Tour Train in Key West offers a delightful journey through the rich history and vibrant streets of Key West. This tour, approximately 90 minutes long, is a tribute to the pioneering spirit o...

Half Day Charter Sandbar Snorkeling and EcoTour Adventure

Dive into a World of Wonder on Key West Waters! Prepare for an exhilarating four-hour journey with our Half Day Charter Sandbar Snorkeling and EcoTour Adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or...

Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl

Discover the Hidden Gems of Key West: Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl Overview Embark on a unique journey through Key West with the Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl. This immersive tour takes you off the ...

Key West Ghost and Mysteries Guided Tour

Explore the Haunting Beauty of Key West with Our Ghost and Mysteries Guided Tour Overview Dive into the eerie charm of one of America's most haunted cities with our 90-minute walking tour. Traverse ...

Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

Discover the Haunting Secrets of Key West Join the Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour for a spine-chilling adventure through the eerie streets and haunted landmarks of Key West! What to Ex...

Old Town Trolley

The Old Town Trolley Tours in Key West offer a unique and comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing visitors to explore the city's major attractions with ease. The tours are known for their conve...

The Dark Side of Key West Ghost Tour

Discover the Dark Side of Key West: A Haunting Adventure Awaits Key West is renowned for its vibrant, fun-loving atmosphere, but lurking beneath the surface is a darker, spookier side just waiting to...

Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour

The Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl & Ghost Tours in Key West offers a nightly adventure into the eerie and paranormal side of this historic island. Known as "Cayo Hueso" (Bone Key) in the past, Key...

Bone Island Helicopters Key West

Bone Island Helicopters in Key West offers a variety of helicopter tours, each providing a unique aerial perspective of the region's stunning landscapes and rich history. Their tours range from a brie...

East Martello Tower

Discover East Martello Tower Museum in Key West, Florida! Step Back in Time at East Martello Tower Museum Hey there, history buffs and curious minds! Ready for an adventure through time? Come explor...

Fly Key West - Helicopter Tours

Fly-KeyWest offers an exciting helicopter tour experience in Key West, Florida. These tours provide an extraordinary bird’s-eye view of Key West's beautiful waters, allowing you to spot wildlife...

Key Lime Bike Tours

Key Lime Bike Tours in Key West offers a unique and engaging way to explore the city's landmarks and history. The tours are designed to provide a close-up, personal experience of Key West, different f...

30+ Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

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Welcome to Key West — one of my favorite places on the planet! There are so many fun things to do in Key West, Florida, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States. This town is a lively place with something for everyone.

Whether you’re here for Key West’s legendary festivals or nightlife, snorkeling and kayaking adventures, historic sites and museums, or all of the key lime pie (raises hand), you are going to love Key West as much as I do!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Key West is super-popular year round. Be sure to book ahead!

🐚 Top Experiences and Tours in Key West:

Sunset Cruise with Open Bar (I LOVED this cruise!)
Bicycle Tour of Old Key West (Most popular tour in town!)
Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Easy way to get around)

🛌 Top-Rated Hotels in Key West:

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas (So luxurious!)
Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages (Cute, modern, super central)
Blue Marlin Motel (Great budget option)

🚗 Renting a car on your Florida Keys trip? Find deals on car rental rates here.

I adore Key West and I find something new to do every time I visit.

From following in Hemingway’s footsteps to celebrating the sunset every night, let me show you my favorite things to do in this little slice of heaven in South Florida.

This post was published in January 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.

Table of Contents

People gathering at outdoor booths for the sunset celebration on the edge of the water in Key West.

Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Catch the sunset celebration at mallory square.

The Sunset Celebration was the first thing that I ever did in Key West — and it made me fall in love with the place immediately! Two hours before sunset, locals and visitors gather at Mallory Square for a big party. Enjoy live music and street performers, take in a comedy show, shop from local vendors, and grab a bite (or a frozen cocktail!) from the food trucks on site.

Be sure to check out my favorite — the cat man! He performs an acrobatics show with his cats!

As the sun starts to sink into the Gulf of Mexico, lighting up the sky in pinks and oranges, everyone gathers to take in the view, just like frequent Key West visitors Mark Twain and Tennessee Williams once did. They don’t call Key West “Home of the Sunset” for nothing!

The Bull, a bar on Duval Street with people sitting out on the balconies and waving to the camera.

Stroll Duval Street

Duval Street is Key West’s main drag, where you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink and shop. Yes, this place is extremely touristy — but that’s the charm of it all. You’ll see plenty of Key West locals and visitors hanging out in the bars, no matter what time of day it is!

Many of Key West’s festivals and parades go down Duval Street, including Fantasy Fest in October and Hemingway Days in July. This street is also where you’ll find the Hemingway House, Mallory Square and the Conch Tour Train, all some of the best things to do in Key West.

Grab a drink at famous bars like Sloppy Joe’s or Captain Tony’s Saloon, buy a souvenir from one of the many gift shops, enjoy a drag show, browse a local art gallery, and snap a photo of the 1920’s Strand Theater. And you can walk all the way down to Pocket Park and its small beach, a block from the Southernmost Point. Speaking of that…

Kate wears a bright blue knee-length 50s housewife style dress and has long blonde straight hair, standing in front of the red, black, and yellow stone monument marking the southernmost point in the continental United States.

Visit the Southernmost Point

The southernmost point of the continental United States is found in Key West, where Duval Street meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s marked by a large red and yellow concrete buoy and you can’t leave Key West without taking a photo next to it. The buoy even has its own live webcam !

While the Southernmost Point Buoy claims to be the southernmost point of the continental US, that might not technically be the truth. Points on Fort Zachary Taylor, Truman Annex US Navy property, and Ballast Key all appear to be a bit farther south — but none of them have a large buoy for a photo op!

A key lime pie with a narrow layer of lime curd topped with lots of whipped cream.

Try all the key lime pie

Every time I’m in the Florida Keys, I eat my way through the key lime pies , all the way from Key Largo to Key West. You might think that might get boring, but there is so much variation to them!

While the exact origin of key lime pie is up for debate, what’s not up for debate is how delicious this dessert is and how well it showcases the tiny key limes indigenous to the Florida Keys.

Some of the most beloved key lime pies in Key West come from Key Lime Pie Bakery , Kermit’s Key Lime Shop , Blue Heaven , and The Cafe . Go ahead and try them all!

And at the Key West Key Lime Pie Company , you can try their delicious pies, or even make a tiny key lime pie of your own! They offer classes on Thursday and Friday mornings (though it’s most of an assemble-your-own-pie class than a bake-everything-from-scratch class).

Hemgingway's house, a big White House with yellow shutters and wraparound porches in Key West.

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (and say hi to the cats!)

Ernest Hemingway, one of the greatest 20th Century writers, was once a Key West resident. He first visited the island in 1928 and finished his WWI novel, A Farewell To Arms , while in Key West.

Hemingway and his then-wife, Pauline, fell in love with Key West and decided to settle down in what is now a National Historic Landmark: the Hemingway Home and Museum .

The Hemingway House is full of personal touches from the Hemingway family, such as antiques collected during their time in Europe and the studio where Ernest Hemingway did some of his best writing — when he wasn’t out fishing off Key West, a favorite pastime of his.

It’s also home to the famous six-toed polydactyl cats. Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a sea captain during his time in Key West and descendants of that cat — many of whom also have six toes — still roam around the house today. If you’re a cat person like me, you must come here!

The home and museum are open daily from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Tickets cost $18 per adult or $7 per child ages 6-12 (kids under five are free). Tickets include a guided tour.

Want a deeper dive into Hemingway? There’s a Hemingway-themed food and history tour you can join! (And if you come visit for Hemingway Days in July, BOY is that a fun festival! The Hemingway lookalike contest is one of my favorite festivals I’ve ever attended while traveling!)

Truman's Little White House in Key West -- a sitting room with wooden chairs with green cushions, and a poker table in the corner.

Visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House

I expected the Hemingway house to be my favorite historic site in Key West — but it was actually the Little White House ! I loved my visit to this little time capsule from the mid-20th century. After serving as a naval base in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, this house was used as a winter residence for President Truman, who loved Key West.

Many other presidents and distinguished guests have stayed in the house over the years, such as Thomas Edison during WWI, President John F. Kennedy during the Bay of Pigs incident, and President Eisenhower while recovering from a heart attack. More recently, in 2001 Colin Powell held talks between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan .

I loved the mid-century designs, and how the furnishings were surprisingly modest for a president. And I especially loved the poker table — Truman loved playing poker with his cabinet, but it had to be kept secret because it would be a scandal if the public knew the president was gambling!

Today, the house is still used for presidential functions, but otherwise operates as a museum for the public. Guided tours leave every 20 minutes and the guides do an incredible job bringing the history of the building to life.

The Little White House is open daily from 9:30 AM-4:30 PM. Tickets cost $24.67/adult, $10.75/child aged 4-12, and children under four are free. You can buy tickets here.

A pole topped with several wooden small signs pointing to different cities around the world.

Take a walking tour of Key West

Going on a walking tour is an excellent way to get to know a new place, and Key West has all kinds of themed tours you can take. In fact, I’d say a walking tour is one of the best things to do in Key West, as there’s truly one for every interest.

A few noteworthy walking tours include the top-rated Hemingway Food and Walking Tour , where you can follow in Ernest Hemingway’s footsteps as you learn about Key West history and sample chicken street tacos, conch fritters and key lime pie.

If you’re into architecture or just enjoy looking at cool homes like I do, you will LOVE Key West — and this Key West Historic Homes and Island History walking tour is a lot of fun!

And of course, I can’t not mention the Jimmy Buffet tour of Key West ! For die-hard Parrotheads and anyone who has “Margaritaville” stuck on a loop in their head, discover all of the places that inspired Jimmy Buffett’s songs in Key West, including the site of his first gig, his favorite bars, and even his recording studio.

Key West also has a pretty spooky history, and a collection of ghost tours to match. Join a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s spooky history , get to know famous ghosts and graveyards when you ride the Trolley of the Doomed , and if you like your boos with a side of booze — or your spirits with a side of, well, spirits? — there’s a ghost tour pub crawl .

Tour Key West by train or trolley

Another great way to get to know Key West is by train or trolley. This is an especially good choice if someone you’re traveling with has limited mobility or doesn’t want to spend the whole day on their feet.

The Key West Conch Tour Train has run through Key West since 1958 and has transported more than 15 million people in that time. It’s not a train on tracks; it’s more of a long line of seats pulled by a train-shaped engine. On this 75-minute train tour through the Conch Republic, you can learn about Key West’s history and famous residents.

Another good option for getting around Key West without having to walk too far is the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour. A one- or two-day pass takes you around more than 100 Key West attractions — with interesting narration along the way.

And if you’d rather tour Key West with private guide, check out the private pedi-cab tour , which can be customized to your preferences.

A group of people on a bike tour in Key West, all on lime green bicycles.

Explore Key West by Bike

Key West is an excellent destination to explore by bike, even if you’re not ordinarily a bike tour kind of person. The island is extremely flat, and most of the areas have limited traffic rather than a constant terrifying stream of cars.

You can discover the highlights of Old Town Key West on this three-hour guided bike tour , which takes in sights like Mallory Square, the Southernmost Point, Mile Marker Zero, and the White Street Pier. Helmets and water are provided.

Kate and a group of 50-something folks, most of them wearing Boston sports gear, grinning in the sun on a sunset booze cruise

Go on a sunset boat tour

I do think you should spend one sunset at Mallory Square — and another sunset out on a boat! On my first trip to Key West, I did a sunset sailing cruise with an open bar , and BOY was that a fun night!

(Amusingly, that boat happened to be full of Boston sports fans decked out in Red Sox and Patriots gear. I’m from Boston, Gronk was apparently on a boat nearby, and it led to a LOT of bonding and we finished the night at Kevin’s Irish Pub! I’m still Facebook friends with some of those people!)

There is a huge variety of sunset cruises in Key West. Some are booze cruises, while others are more relaxed. It’s important to find the right cruise for you.

If you’re interested in an open bar sunset catamaran cruise like mine, take a look at this one . It includes live music and appetizers as well.

A similar option is the Key West Sunset Sail , which is also a catamaran with an open bar, but also has live music by local musicians, and hearty appetizers like peel-and-eat shrimp.

The tiki bar boat cruise is BYOB — any booze you want, you must bring, and it’s a small boat with a maximum of six people. A fun choice if your group wants the boat to yourselves (but book early for that).

The sunset sail and dolphin watching cruise is a more relaxed option, and it includes wine and tapas.

And if you’d like to combine snorkeling and sunset, check out the Rum n’ Reggae snorkel and sail .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Books & Books @ The Studios (@booksandbookskw)

Visit Judy Blume’s Bookstore

Did you know that beloved children’s author Judy Blume lives in Key West — AND co-founded a bookstore here? Books & Books is an independent, nonprofit bookstore located on the corner of Eaton and Simonton Streets, right in the heart of Key West.

At Books & Books you’ll find a wide selection of books across all kinds of genres, as well as a full schedule of events, literary and otherwise. I often enjoy picking up a book by a local author as a souvenir, and this couldn’t be a better place to do it!

And of course — if you do happen to run into the fabulous Ms. Blume herself, please be respectful.

A pier jutting out into the bright blue water in Key West, lots of people standing on it to view the sunset.

Explore Key West by water

Your water adventures in Key West don’t have to stop with boat tours and cruises. There are lots of water sports and aquatic activities you can enjoy.

How about snorkeling? So much underwater wildlife lurks just off shore! You can try a half-day snorkeling excursion on a reef just off Key West. There’s also a snorkeling tour with breakfast and unlimited mimosas .

Anything else? You can explore the Florida coast on a 90 minute guided jet ski tour or spend the day on a water sports catamaran and try kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing.

You can also learn to SNUBA — a cross between scuba diving and snorkeling with no prior experience required — which is definitely one of the cooler things to do in Key West.

Multicolored kayaks moored on shore at a canal. The sky is a pink, purple and blue sunset.

Go kayaking or paddling

If you’re interested in doing a bit of paddling, Key West offers lots of opportunities to kayak through the mangroves, along sandy beaches or in the clear waters at night.

Head out on a two-hour guided Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour , paddle further on a three-hour mangrove maze guided tour , or spend a half-day sipping drinks on the sandbar, snorkeling with sea turtles and kayaking through the mangroves during Key West’s Ultimate Sandbar Adventure .

And if you’d rather do your own thing without a guide, you can always book a half-day kayak rental — ideal for people who would rather explore independently.

Now if you want to do something REALLY cool, sign up for a Night Glow Kayak Paddle Session ! I did this in Key West and it was so cool! You float on the water in a glass-bottomed kayak lit up with LED lights, so you can see the underwater wildlife that you never get to see by day! It’s one of the most unique things to do in Key West.

A gorgeous white sand beach with palm trees and a few people sitting beneath umbrellas.

Visit Key West beaches

How have we come this far in the post and not talked about Key West’s beaches? There are, as you’d expect, some really nice beaches in town. Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach especially deserve a visit.

Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West and perfect for swimming or relaxing under a palm tree. There are lots of facilities, food vendors and water activities to enjoy. Being such a beautiful and accessible beach, Smathers can get crowded, especially during spring break.

Higgs Beach, on the other hand, is much less popular, despite being closer to Old Town Key West. In addition to a sandy beach and palm trees, Higgs Beach is also home to picturesque piers, a civil war era fort, and the African Refugee Memorial and burial site.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, located in the westernmost part of the island, also has a lovely beach to explore, with some snorkeling just off shore. There are also walking paths, bicycle trails, and a cafe.

View from the Key West Lighthouse: rows of immaculately built houses interspersed with vegetation, leading to the sea.

Climb the Key West Lighthouse

The Key West Lighthouse was first opened in 1848 to guide military and commercial vessels through the coral reefs. Fun fact: the first lighthouse keeper was a woman named Barbara Mabrity! This was extremely rare in the 19th Century.

Today, the lighthouse operates as a museum showcasing the area’s maritime history and offering a beautiful view off the coast. The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Entrance costs $17 for adults, $13 for seniors, locals, college students with ID and retired military service members, $9 for youth ages 7-18, and free for children under seven or active military service members. Discounts are available if you book your tickets online.

A wall filled with butterflies enclosed in glass cases.

Visit more cultural sights in Key West

There is lots more culture, history and natural beauty to explore in Key West. Here are a few more places to add to your Key West itinerary:

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to over 50 butterfly species plus exotic birds and more, while the Audubon House and Gardens features a 1840s home filled antiques and the lush gardens that surround it.

The Key West Aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life, with a Touch Tank, lots of aquatic wildlife, and regular conservation talks. The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is another great place to learn about tropical plants and animals.

For something a bit different, head to the Key West Cemetery. I’m a big fan of the quirky headstones! You can also tour the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery and enjoy rum tastings and a mojito making class.

And if you’re into shipwrecks, you’re in luck. You can visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and see what they’ve recovered from 17th Century shipwrecks and then head over to the Key West Shipwreck Museum to discover 400 years of shipwrecks off the coast of the Florida Keys.

A Bloody Mary and a screwdriver cocktail on a bar in a key west restaurant.

Go on a Key West food tour

Key West cuisine is about more than just key lime pie! It’s also well known for its fresh seafood, Bahamian food, and Cuban food. Food tours are one of my favorite activities to do anywhere, and Key West is no exception.

Explore the mom and pop eateries of Old Town Key West on a three-hour food and culture tour , sample tasty seafood and get a history lesson on this three-hour food tour through the Key West Historic Seaport , or figure out where the locals eat on this 2.5-hour secret food tour .

A man fishing off a boat, a strong fish caught by his pole. The fish is so strong it's bending the fishing pole.

Take part in one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite Key West pastimes and head out on a fishing expedition. Whether you’re fishing for fun or for your dinner, this is a Florida Keys must-do activity.

Set sail on a 64′ catamaran for a half day fishing tour through the Florida Keys, perfect for the whole family, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing on this six hour Gulfstream Fishing Tour .

For experienced anglers, join a sportfishing charter for you and five friends to see who can reel in the biggest catch of the day.

Kate chugging a Guinness in an Irish pub in the Florida Keys.

Enjoy Key West’s legendary nightlife

Just because Key West is the “Home of the Sunset ,” that doesn’t mean the party stops when the sun goes down. In fact, for many Key West visitors, it’s just getting started!

Duval Street is the main drag for nightlife, and you might find yourself singing along with Parrotheads at Margaritaville or dancing at Sloppy Joe’s. Or, if you meet a rollicking group of Bostonians on your sunset cruise, you might end up at Irish Kevin’s, just in time for the Guinness chugging contest.

Want to meet new friends on your nightlife journey? Check out a Key West craft cocktail crawl .

You can even get on the other side of the bar in a tiki cocktail class , where you’ll learn to make four different drinks and enjoy a rum tasting!

Kate lying on a paddle board, surrounded by mangroves in the water.

Take a SUP Yoga Class

On one of my trips to Key West, one of the surprising highlights was a SUP yoga class, done on a paddleboard out on the water, surrounded by mangroves. Lazy Dog Yoga offers both yoga classes and eco tours, on Stock Island, just east of Key West.

You don’t have to be a hardcore yogi to enjoy this class — it’s for all levels. Even if you’re new to yoga, you’ll appreciate how much holding poses on a paddle board helps your core strength!

This is a great option for a morning class, before it gets too hot for the day — but you might not want to plan it for the morning after your booze cruise.

A very calm white sand beach with clear aquamarine water.

Take a Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a collection of small islands just west of Key West, accessible only by boat or air. These islands make up a unique national park in the US, thanks to their remote location, and access is limited.

Once at Dry Tortugas, you can spend your time exploring Fort Jefferson, snorkeling off the keys, swimming and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The white sand beaches at Dry Tortugas are gorgeous — some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys .

There is only one public ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park and one seaplane company that flies there, so you’ll want to book as soon as you have your trip dates. (Trust me — I’ve wanted to go to Dry Tortugas every time I’ve been in Key West, and they’ve always been sold out.) You can find the ferry information here.

Around 12 Hemingway lookalikes, with white beards, dressed in khaki shorts, on stage at the Hemingway lookalike contest in Key West!

Attend one of Key West’s legendary festivals

Key West is one of the most festival-driven cities in the United States, and it’s so worth coming to celebrate! Just keep in mind that festival times bring sky-high prices and limited availability. Book early, because a lot of regulars book their accommodation a full year out.

So what festivals should you know about? Here are a few:

Key West Songwriters’ Festival (May) — Did you know that Key West is home to the largest songwriters’ festival in the world? Expect performances from all kinds of genres here!

Key West Pride (June) — Key West is one of the most fabulously queer destinations in the United States, and Pride is off the hook! There’s a huge parade here, along with plenty of drag shows, performances, and even a vibrator race (don’t ask).

Hemingway Days (July) — I attended Hemingway Days, a tribute to Ernest Hemingway, including the Hemingway Lookalike Contest, which is one of the funniest events I have ever witnessed. There’s also a bull run!

Fantasy Fest (October) — The 10 days leading up to Halloween are filled with parades, balls, and all kinds of costumed events — most of them VERY much adults-only. Expect elaborate costumes, more than a bit of nudity, and sharing the island with 75,000 of your new best friends.

The Bight Before Christmas (late November through December) — The month leading up to Christmas is filled with all kinds of events from people who know that you don’t need it to be a White Christmas to enjoy it! The Lighted Boat Parade is the major event of the season.

People sitting at the bar outside at Blue Heaven, a restaurant in Key West.

How Much Time to Spend in Key West

I recommend giving yourself a minimum of three days in Key West to enjoy all of the sights. There are so many cool things to do in Key West, as you by now surely know, but this isn’t a destination where you want to run yourself ragged checking every attraction off your list. Part of the fun here is the chilling out.

That said, if you want to spend longer than three days here, you absolutely can. (And enough people spend the whole winter season here!)

I would happily visit Key West for a week or so, and that gives you time to do more day trips — not just Dry Tortugas, but perhaps up the Overseas Highway toward Marathon and back.

Personally, I think the best Florida Keys trip would split a few days in Key West with a few days in the Upper Keys — both Key Largo and Islamorada are great options.

A pretty orange house with wooden balconies and an old gnarled oak tree in front.

How to Get to Key West

The easiest way to get to Key West is to fly into Key West International Airport, which has direct flights from many cities in the Eastern US. If you don’t have a direct flight, there are plenty of connections.

Otherwise, you can fly into Miami International Airport, which has extensive connections both nationally and internationally. From Miami it’s a 3.5-hour drive to Key West, and if you have a rental car , I definitely recommend spending time in Keys along the way.

If you don’t have a rental car and want transportation from Miami to Key West, this private shuttle from Miami to Key West comes highly rated.

A white cottage with a porch and dark wooden front door in Key West

Where to Stay in Key West

Key West has no shortage of hotels, motels, inns and resorts for your stay. Accommodation here can get quite expensive, thanks to Key West being a small geographic area with a lot of tourism.

Here are the top-rated places to stay in Key West:

Top-Rated Luxury Hotel in Key West — Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a gorgeous resort on Florida Bay featuring four pools, on-site dining, and activities like kayaking and massages. They also offer a complimentary shuttle to Old Town Key West.

Top-Rated Mid-range Hotel in Key West — Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages is an adults-only inn with tons of character, just minutes from Key West’s top attractions. There are four on-site pools and all rooms have a balcony or patio.

Top-Rated Budget Hotel in Key West — Blue Marlin Motel is a simple motel with clean rooms a short walk from the action on Duval Street, and offers a continental breakfast and heated outdoor pool for guests.

Find deals on places to stay in Key West here.

Best Time to Visit Key West

In my opinion, the best time to visit Key West is the spring: think March, April and May. At this time you have warm, summery days without the overbearing humidity of the summer months, and the weather is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Key West can be very busy in the winter months, and it can get chilly at night — don’t forget a light jacket! Summer can be incredibly hot and humid, and if I hadn’t been visiting for Hemingway Days in July, I would not have wanted to go at that time of year at all. But it depends on your personal tolerance for heat and humidity.

I strongly recommend being very careful about fall trips to Key West, as this coincides with hurricane season. While hurricane season technically runs from June to November, most hurricanes tend to hit Key West in September and early October. If you are in Key West during a severe storm, listen to the authorities and do what they say .

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Key West, book everything on the early side. This is not a destination where you want to rock up last minute with nowhere to stay.

You may also want to visit Key West during one of its famed festivals or special events. You can check out Key West Pride (June), Hemingway Days (July), Fantasy Fest (October), or The Bight Before Christmas (December). Note that prices and crowds surge during any big festivals in Key West, so plan accordingly.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Key West

Kate holds a plush stuffed animal of a slice of key lime with a smile on its face.

Is Key West Worth It?

I mean, do you think Key West is worth it after reading all these words about how madly in love I am with this destination? Key West is the best! It’s so fun and so friendly and everyone seems to be in the best mood!

Whether you’re visiting on a Florida Keys road trip or just a quick getaway, I think you’ll really love your time in Key West.

I hope you have the best trip ever! Then come back and tell me all about it!

20 Best Things To Do In Key West, FL You Shouldn’t Miss

January 6, 2022 // by Florida Trippers

There are so many exciting and unique things to do in Key West, Florida. This town is found at the southern tip of the Florida Keys and is known for its nightlife, entertainment, and relaxing island vibes.

Driving down from Miami to Key West is one of the best Florida road trips . You will pass many beautiful sights along the way!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Key West!

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

Dolphin Watching And Snorkeling Eco Tour (Top pick!)
Schooner Sunset Sail (2 hours)
Reef Snorkel From Key West (Includes breakfast and mimosas)
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great way to see the city)

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

Margaritaville Beach House Key West (Modern mid-range)
Blue Marlin Motel (Affordable in downtown)
Hampton Inn Key West (Waterfront with pool)
Wicker Guesthouse (Great location!)

Along with a party atmosphere, Key West offers a lot of history and adventures. Whether you are here for a day trip , weekend getaway , or even longer, there are plenty of fun Key West activities to keep everyone entertained.

Are you a history buff? Explore the home of a great American author or the winter getaways of former U.S. Presidents! Maybe you want to live life more on the edge? Key West is filled with dives and rentals that will keep you going!

This Florida beach town is perfect for everyone in the family, and this list will help you decide what to do in Key West, Florida!

If you are looking for places to stay in Key West, there are a ton of cute Airbnbs and hotels that range from budget to luxury !

Before you plan your trip, make sure to check out The Best Times To Visit The Keys where we break down each month and talk all things weather!

Beach with kayaks, beach chairs, and palm trees in Key West, Florida.

Get a Drink on Duval Street

It’s not a trip to Key West if you don’t spend time on Duval Street! This lively and colorful area is one of the most popular things to do in Key West for adults.

Make sure to check out the best bars and nightlife in Key West!

This is the best place in Key West to take in some sights and enjoy local food and drinks. You will also enjoy the sounds of live music and street performers while you embrace the city! This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!

The bar crawling scene is notorious on Duval and is a great way to spend a day or two. Even if you don’t drink, you can come for the fun atmosphere. Hanging out on Duval Street is easily one of the best things to do in Key West at night .

Sloppy Joe’s Bar is a staple in Key West and is a great stop for a drink or history. It has been around since 1937 and many famous people have ordered a drink here. It was allegedly Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar. They even have a “Papa” Hemingway look-alike contest every year.

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Palm tree lined Duval Street with many brightly colored bars and restaurants.

Celebrate Sunset at Mallory Square

Mallory Square is one of the most notable Key West attractions! This location is famous for its beautiful Florida sunsets and is the perfect place to unwind from your busy day.

Located on the water in the Old Town, Mallory Square is full of family fun. The Square has shops and restaurants that the whole family can enjoy!

The fun doesn’t stop there! While you’re walking through the Square, you will enjoy the entertainment of musicians and street performers, and you can even buy something unique from a street vendor!

Make sure to come for the nightly Sunset Celebration. This tradition has been happening for decades and should not be missed! Crowds fill the Square to watch the sun sink over the Gulf and watch street performers such as jugglers and magicians. This is one of the best free things to do in Key West !

Mallory Square lined with shops and palm trees is one of the best things to do in Key West.

Tour Harry S. Truman’s Little White House

You can learn a little bit about American history by stopping into Harry Truman’s Little White House. This is Florida’s only presidential museum and is one of the best places to visit in Key West for American history.

The home was built in 1890 and was originally used as housing for naval officers. During his presidency, Harry Truman used this house in Key West as his winter getaway when D.C. got too cold to bear. He use the house from 1946 through 1952.

It may be named after President Truman, but he is not the only president to seek the warm weather of Key West. Presidents Taft, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Carter, and Clinton have all visited as well.

For $20 per adult and $10 per child, you can tour the house and the grounds and see how the presidents lived while they were visiting Key West.

Book Here: Truman Little White House: Key West

Exterior of Harry S. Truman's Little White House with trees, benches, and bushes.

Visit the Ernest Hemingway House

Another place to visit in Key West for history buffs is the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. Nestled just a block from Duval street, the Hemingway House is a great way to take in some beauty and local history.

The beautiful Spanish Colonial-style mansion is full of the famous writer’s personal items, historic furnishings, photographs, paintings, and more. This is a must-see Key West destination for anyone who loves history, architecture, or literature. Make sure to put this on your list when doing a Florida Keys Road Trip!

Hemingway and his wife were gifted the home in 1931 from his uncle-in-law. They lived here from 1931 to 1939 and the deed stayed in his name until his death in 1961.

As you walk through the grounds, you will see stunning decor, lush gardens, and even some feline friends prowling around! These famous cats are descendants of cats that roamed the grounds while Hemingway himself lived in the house. Interestingly, they all have six toes like their ancestors.

Book Here: Key West Conch Train Tour

A woman in a dress and sun hat smiles on the front steps of the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

Find Great Views at the Key West Lighthouse

If you’re going to pop into the Hemmingway House, you might as well cross the street and take in the sights at the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum!

Lighthouses always bring an extra bit of history, and this one is no exception. This black and white structure was built in 1848 to protect ships from the surrounding shallow water and coral reefs.

If you take a tour of the lighthouse, you will learn about the first lighthouse keeper, who was a woman, and you will see historic photos from when the lighthouse was operational.

Climb 88 stairs to the top of the 65-foot lighthouse to be greeted by amazing sights. You will have a 360-degree view of the island of Key West and the surrounding ocean! Don’t forget your camera!

View of the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum sitting on a green lawn.

Dive to Discover Vandenberg

Key West is one of the best places in Florida for scuba diving . One of the most stunning dives you can take is down to the Vandenberg.

This retired Navy ship was sunk seven miles off the coast of Key West in 2009 to become an artificial reef to help aquatic wildlife. The skeletal ship can be explored 150 feet below the surface if you have an up-to-date scuba certification.

The ship is found in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary which offers many other places to dive. You can find North America’s only coral barrier reef and many shipwrecks. Some attractions are not as deep underwater as the Vandenburg and can be explored by snorkeling if you are not scuba certified.

Book Here: Key West: SNUBA Experience

Viewing the Vandenberg coral reef in the deep blue of the ocean.

Admire Wildlife at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Key West with kids who love animals and nature. This is truly a tropical paradise that will cause visitors of all ages to gaze in wonder.

If you like butterflies, this place will be your heaven! There are between fifty and sixty species of butterfly housed here and over twenty species of exotic birds. Stroll through the climate-controlled, enclosed habitat and try to spot as many creatures as possible.

The conservatory has a learning center where you can learn all about the butterfly’s anatomy, life cycles, and migratory patterns. There is also an art gallery where you can see tons of art inspired by the butterflies and birds of the conservatory.

The Nature Conservatory is located right near Duval Street and is in the heart of Key West.

Taste Test at Some Rum Distilleries

Key West is known for its rum and the Rum Runner is said to be the island’s official drink. This cocktail dates back to the 1950s and is named after the rum runners who would illegally bring alcohol to the U.S. during Prohibition.

If you are interested in the production of rum, or just drinking it, there are actually three locations in Key West that may be of interest. Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery, Papa’s Pilar, and Key West Distilling are all excellent places to pop in and learn about the distilling process of delicious rum and other liquors.

Each distillery has its own unique taste, so you have to tour each one, right? These distilleries are also a great place to learn how to whip up some new recipes!

Take a Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

If you have the time, taking a tour to Dry Tortugas National Park is worth it! Exploring Dry Tortugas is definitely one of the most unique things to do near Key West. If you love checking off the U.S. National Parks , make time for this activity.

Technically Dry Tortugas is not on the island of Key West. It’s seventy miles off the coast, and while it’s not the easiest excursion to get to, it is so worth the trip.

Once on the island, you are free to explore the grounds, relax by the beach, and even go snorkeling! It is a fantastic opportunity to take in history and adventure at the same time!

The biggest attraction of the park is Fort Jefferson, which was built between 1846 and 1875. Take a guided tour to learn the complete history of this place and see how soldiers lived.

Unfortunately, visiting Dry Tortugas is not the cheapest or easiest thing to do. To get here, you have three options.

You can take the ferry for $190 per adult and $135 per child. The seaplane is the fastest and most scenic option, but it will set you back anywhere from $361 to $634 per person depending on how long you plan to stay. You can also charter a boat or take your own.

If you want to stay longer than a day trip, this is one of the best places to camp in Florida .

Book Here: Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West

Aerial view of Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas National Park surrounded by pristine, blue water.

Learn at the Coast Guard Museum

American history can be found all over Key West, especially tied into the ocean. One of the best Key West activities to entertain history buffs is the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum.

Take a tour of the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham and learn all about what life was like on board while it was in service and after. This ship was in service from 1936 to 1988 and helped save lives during both World Wars.

You will be immersed in testimonials from those who served aboard. You will also see equipment, weapons, and uniforms used by the servicemen at the time.

Exterior of the Coast Guard Museum ship in Key West.

Step Back in Time at the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

The Audubon House is a beautiful historic site, allowing us to catch a glimpse of the wealthy lifestyle of the mid-1800s. Built by Captain John Huling Geiger in 1840, the home was made to fit his family’s wealthy lifestyle in the heart of Key West.

In 1958, the house was saved from demolition and renovated to reflect its heyday. The house has become a beautiful destination for tourists to enjoy. Inside, you will find decor and art dating back to the home’s beginnings.

The outside is just as intriguing as the inside. The gardens are landscaped with picturesque flowers and greenery. Stroll the winding paths and admire the blooming flowers and tropical plants.

Book Here: Key West Historic Homes and Island History – Small Group Walking Tour

Exterior of the historic, white and green, Audubon House, one of the best things to do in Key West.

Stroll the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

Taking a walk down the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk is one of the top things to do in Key West because there is so much to experience along the way. The seaport is lined with restaurants and happy hour’s to enjoy. There are also great gift shops and picturesque, Instagram spots.

If you make your way down the Harbor Walk, you are sure to find fishermen coming in with their catches of the day and some of the expensive private boats parked by wealthy people from around the world.

This area has been a cultural and economic hotspot for almost two hundred years! This is a great place for a relaxing walk away from the larger tourist crowds, even more so when you are taking in the sunset! Bring your significant other for one of the most romantic things to do in Key West for couples

A pelican sitting on a boat among many other white boats at the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk in Key West, Florida.

Rent a Kayak or Jet Ski

Seeing Key West from the water is such a fun experience, and it can be yours with a simple jet ski or kayak rental. You are in Florida; you have to get out on the water!

If you prefer high-octane water sports then there are a variety of locations you can choose from to rent jet skis and tour around the island. Get your heart pumping as you zoom through the bright, blue ocean water.

Kayaking is also a popular way to explore the surrounding ocean waters. Take a solo or a tandem kayak beyond the break of the waves and enjoy a relaxing day out on the water. This is a great way to spot wildlife as well. There are also guided tours to take that are both entertaining and informative!

Book Here: Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider

Book Here: Florida Keys: Key West Kayak Eco Tour with Nature Guide

Enjoy Nature at the Key West Garden Club

The beautiful grounds of the Key West Garden Club are stunning for so many reasons.

This garden has the goal of teaching guests about tropical gardening. You will be amazed as you along the brick paths and through gorgeous courtyards all the while surrounded by amazing greenery and colorful flowers. There is a pretty water lily pond and waterfall as well.

Within the garden, you will also find the West Martello Tower. Built in 1862 during the Civil War, this tower is now listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The Garden Club also sits right near Higgs Beach. The edges of the gardens overlook the ocean making for a serene experience.

This attraction is great for the wallet, too, because this is one of the best free things to do in Key West, Florida!

A rock pond surrounded by green plants and flowers at the Key West Garden Club.

Take an Old Town Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tours have always been a popular way to take in scenery and history while traveling.

Luckily, Key West has implemented Old Town Trolley Tours into their city so you can see all of the hidden and not so hidden gems this city has to offer!

The trolley is a great way to see a lot of the city without having to walk all over, especially in the Florida heat. If you have kids, this is an easy way to see the city without fear of them getting lost or tired.

If you want to add a bit of a spook factor to your trip, take the trolley after dark when it transforms into the Ghosts and Gravestone’s Tour where you can learn about the creepy history and present of Key West!

Book Here: Key West: Old Town Trolley 12-Stop Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Book Here: Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West

Dine at Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier is one of the best restaurants in Key West , not just for the food, but for the view!

Located at the Ocean Key Resort near Mallory Square, Sunset Pier is everything you can expect from Key West. Dine at a colorful table right on the pier and look out over the water.

They do not take reservations, so make sure you get there in time to snag a seat for the sunset. The seafood is delicious, especially the seasonal oysters!

Since it is part of the resort, there is much less bustle than at Duval Street or Mallory Square, but the atmosphere and views are everything you would expect from Key West!

Colorful stools and tables with collapsed umbrellas lining Sunset Pier with string lights overhead during the day.

Take a Selfie at the Southernmost Point

One of the best attractions in Key West is the one that can only be seen here. Did you know Key West is the southernmost point of the continental U.S.?

At the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street, you’ll find a big, brightly colored buoy that marks this claim to fame. The buoy was placed in 1983 and has been a popular tourist spot since. If you want to take a picture with the monument, make sure to get there early because the line can get long.

There are also plenty of other things to do in this area. Take a picture of the Southernmost House Hotel with its pretty, pastel colors or eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

Book Here: Key West: History and Culture Southernmost Walking Tour

The buoy for the southernmost point in front of a beautiful ocean scene.

Try Key Lime Pie

You cannot come to the Florida Keys and miss an opportunity to eat some genuine key lime pie! No one knows exactly when or where this Southern delicacy was first created, but the first written recipe dates back to the early 1930s.

Key West offers the perfect climate for growing key lime trees and the famous pie is the signature dessert here. Almost all restaurants have some sort of version for you to try. If you want to do a tasting to find your favorite, you can check out our list of best places to get key lime pie in Key West .

Key lime pie is a light and refreshing dessert with a crumbly graham cracker crust and a fluffy, sweet, and tart filling. Pie is not the only way to enjoy key limes. You can try key lime ice cream, fudge, cocktails, and more! Satisfy your sweet tooth with the best of Key West desserts!

Book Here: Key West: 3-Hour Guided Bicycle Tour with Key Lime Pie

A slice of key lime pie and a fork on a white plate.

Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park at the southern tip of the island is one of the best activities in Key West for the whole family. If you have the time, this is an awesome place to spend a couple of hours relaxing.

Explore the Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor and learn about the significance of this location. Come for one of the monthly historic reenactments to see history come alive.

The beach here is one of the best beaches in Key West , especially for snorkeling. Just off the beach, you will find amazing tropical marine life. Don’t have snorkel gear? You can rent some at Chickee Hut Beach Rentals. You can also get umbrellas, chairs, and rafts here.

Bring water shoes to protect your feet from the coral beach. This is a great place for fishing and birdwatching, too. Stop by the Cayo Hueso Café for a snack.

Inside Fort Zachary Taylor with brick arches and cannons.

Relax at Smathers Beach

If you want more beach time, head to Smathers Beach . While it is a manmade beach with imported sand, it is just as beautiful as any of the natural beaches in Florida .

This is the largest beach in Key West and has a half-mile of soft sand. This beach is known for its clear water and calm waves. It is the perfect place to swim with your kids. This is also a great place for snorkeling , parasailing, and playing beach volleyball.

This beach is free to access, so it should be on your list of best places to go in Key West if you are looking to save money. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit!

A boardwalk leading down to Smathers Beach with palm trees and golden hour light.

There are so many fun things to do in Key West that everyone can enjoy! It’s a location rooted in fun and relaxation, so it is virtually impossible not to have a good time!

There is history and adventure sprinkled throughout all of Key West. That coupled with the natural beauty of the island is what keeps tourists coming back year after year.

Add some of these locations to your list of places to visit in Florida and your next trip will surely be a vacation you will never forget.

The beautiful blue water of Destin Beach with grass in the foreground

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Key West (Florida)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: July 31, 2024

If you’re looking for some of the best vacation spots in the world , you simply cannot miss Key West, an island city located in the Florida Keys.

Famous for its gorgeous marine life, whimsical houses, and interesting history, the best of Key West offers fascinating must-see points of interest that will ensure you’re never at a loss for what to do.

We’ve compiled a list of the best attractions and fun activities in Key West for your convenience.

Table of Contents

1. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most historically rich tourist attractions in Key West, Florida.

Encompassing seven little islands and large expanses of water, it is just 50 miles off the land, so it won’t take too long to get there.

The journey requires a boat, ferry, or seaplane, but the moment you see the brilliant blue waters that flow across the park, you’ll know that it was more than worth it.

Its most popular spot is likely Fort Jefferson, built in the 19th century and teeming with a fascinating past that you can uncover through a guided tour of the structure.

But it’s not just history that you’ll find here.

The surrounding coral reefs are packed with gorgeous plant and animal life.

Within certain areas, you can even go swimming and snorkeling.

Bird watching is also a great option, as large groups of exotic birds call this area their home.

2. Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

Historic seaport Harbor Walk on Key West

Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

The Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk is one of the most popular things to see in this side of Florida.

Located on the famous Key West Bright Marina, it boasts plenty of eateries, shops, and attractions to enjoy for a short trip.

This seaport has a good amount of history to it, being one of the region’s main sources of economic and cultural life over the past 2 centuries.

Up until the 1990s, it was used as a stop for shipping and fishing boats.

Known also by the name Inner Harbor, it attracts countless tourists all year round who want to get a taste of the seaside life.

Delicious, fresh dishes of seafood are common fare among the many restaurants facing the waterfront.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of exciting activities like parasailing, snorkeling, dolphin watching, scuba diving, jet-skiing, kayaking, and more.

Address: 201 William St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

3. Key West Seaplane Adventures

Key West Seaplane Adventures

The Key West Seaplane Adventures is one of the most loved ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park (and the only air service to go there in the first place!).

But it’s more than just a convenient mode of transportation.

You can find it sitting on the South Roosevelt Boulevard, within the international airport housed in this state.

Those who venture onboard will receive a seat by a window and a headset for a narrated sightseeing tour.

You’ll be able to view the incredible islands in this region of Florida from above.

Narrators will show you famed Key West shipwrecks that you can spot from your vantage point, such as the Patricia and the Arbutus.

If you’re lucky, you may even see a variety of animals outside, including sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and porpoises.

The sheer novelty of the experience makes this flying experience one of the best things to do in Key West.

Address: 3471 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

4. Mallory Square

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is one of the most popular areas in Florida.

Located in the Old Town area, right on Wall Street, this plaza is situated on a waterfront and is a mix of modern delights and historic richness.

The square faces the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for some truly astonishing views and lending itself to the Sunset Celebration, one of Key West’s most iconic recreational things to do.

This celebration begins on a daily basis, two hours prior to the setting of the sun.

The tradition began back in the 1960s and is still going strong!

Visitors flock to the area during that time to watch street performances from magicians, clowns, and more.

They buy food from street carts and vendors, check out local arts and crafts exhibits, and finally, gather to watch the sun go down.

Address: 400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Planning to travel to other parts of Florida soon? Be sure to check out our lists detailing the things to do in Pensacola and things to do in Fort Lauderdale !

5. Higgs Beach

Higgs Beach

Not many people think of Key West, Florida as a location full of good beaches, but some of the best that Key West has to offer still make decent places to visit over a weekend!

One of the most popular of these beaches is the Clarence Higgs Beach Park , known simply as Higgs Beach.

This beach boasts an incredible underwater marina park, deemed the only one of its shore-accessible kind in the entire country.

This makes it among the best Key West attractions for snorkelers who want to get a glimpse of some of the most beautiful flora and fauna underwater.

There is also a somber location on Higgs Beach – an African Burial Ground that serves as a sobering reminder of the lost lives and cruelty of the transatlantic slave trade.

You can visit it to pay your respects.

Address: 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

6. Key West Aquarium

Key West Aquarium

Approximately 7 hours from Orlando , Florida, the Key West Aquarium is very close to Mallory Square, making the general area one of the greatest places to take a trip to in order to enjoy must-see points of interest.

Sitting on Whitehead Street, this aquarium was first built somewhere in the early 1930s.

In the beginning, it was an open-air aquarium, and it is now among the oldest aquariums in the state of Florida.

Today, the Key West Aquarium houses countless interesting exhibits and animals.

There’s everyone’s favorite Touch Tank and Aquarium, which is perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.

There’s the Atlantic Shores Exhibit, a Sea Turtles Conservation Tour, and even an American Alligator Exhibit.

In addition, visitors can even take part in interactive feedings with stingrays and sharks or join in on different kinds of tours.

If you’re going to the state for a special occasion, you can even rent parts of the aquarium for events!

Address: 1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

7. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is easily one of the top 10 things to do in Key West, Florida.

Built with stunning Spanish Colonial architecture and design, this mansion was first completed in 1851, carved out of native rock.

The house became well-known when Ernest Hemingway moved into the home with his wife in the year 1931.

Even today, decades and decades later, many of the personal effects of the famed author remain behind, including a wide range of antiques from across Europe, each one purchased during holidays and trips.

Today, you can wander around the home and have fun taking a look at the various animal skins and trophies displayed across the mansion, left behind from Hemingway’s many hunting trips.

You can even take a look around his studio – the same one where he wrote ‘To Have and Have Not’, a tale of the Great Depression’s effect on the Key West.

It also still houses a cat that is directly descended from Hemingway’s own!

Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

8. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best places to visit in Florida if you love nature and, of course, the beautiful titular insect in question.

It spans 5000 square feet and takes the shape of a gigantic dome.

Between 50 and 60 different butterfly species live in this glass enclosure, so if you love these flying creatures, visiting this is one of the must-do activities in Florida.

But it’s not just butterflies that you can see here!

About 3,500 plants live here, and over 20 bird species also share the environment with the insects.

This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a break from the crowds outside.

It’s a calm and relaxing spot that offers educational material on the animals that live within.

Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Planning to visit other parts of Florida? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Destin, FL & things to do in Sarasota !

9. Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens was first built in the 1840s, and it sits in the Old Town part of Key West, Florida – just a short distance away from the famous Duval Street.

It originally served as a home to Captain John Huling Geiger, a Key West ship captain, but was named after John James Audubon, an ornithologist.

Within the home, you can find Audubon’s numerous curiosities, including twenty-eight of his works and a mix of colonial furniture and knick-knacks that are beyond fascinating.

The house is also surrounded by a lush garden full of flowers that shine in different bright colors.

Every inch of the home has been cautiously restored to bring it to its full glory for visitors.

You will have to pay to enter the home itself, but children and students are entitled to a discount from the standard price for adults.

If you can spare the time, drop by the gift shop afterward, too, and purchase a lovely Audubon print.

It’s one of the best things to do in Key West!

Address: 205 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

10. Southernmost Point

Southernmost Point

If you’re in Key West for a weekend, the Southernmost Point is one of the many great things to see.

It is located just 90 miles away from Cuba and is named because it was once the lowest point in all of America due to Florida’s location, though Hawaii has since changed that fact.

A gigantic buoy made from concrete marks the exact location.

Built in 1983 to honor this Key West landmark, it is one of the most photographed spots in the whole region.

There’s a charming novelty about taking a selfie at such a cool spot, so get your phone or camera ready for action if you’re heading here!

Address: Whitehead St & South Street, Key West, FL 33040, United States

11. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center / Haydn Blackey from Cardiff, Wales [ CC BY-SA 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

It sits on East Quay Road, where it spans across 6,000 square feet.

It is a marine sanctuary and houses numerous flora and fauna native to the Key West area.

Within its walls, there are plenty of activities for visitors.

You can view the contents of a massive gallon reef tank containing 2,500 gallons of water or enjoy numerous interactive exhibits that aim to educate visitors on marine ecology and other issues.

You can also find a full-scale model of Aquarius, which is the only ocean laboratory underwater in the entire world.

While you’re walking around, enjoy the sights of some habitats on display, like pine lands, beach dunes, grass flats, shorelines, and more!

Address: 35 E Quay Rd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

12. Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden is a more quiet location in Key West, and it’s lesser-known than most of the other activities you may enjoy while in Florida.

But who, exactly, is Nancy Forrester?

She’s an environmental artist and is pretty well-known among the community in the region.

This secret garden is just as whimsical and mystical as it sounds.

In a special backyard, she hosts macaws and parrots, all rescued and all who love to talk and chirp and chat with those they meet!

These very smart and lovely animals live happily in this yard, and visiting them is easily among the top things to do in Key West.

If you go at the right time, you’ll be able to listen to Nancy’s special Parrot 101 talk, which she gives at 10 am every single day.

It’s a wonderful place for kids, and also for musicians – if you bring your instruments, you can play music for the birds, who love it!

Address: 518 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

13. Key West Garden Club

Key West Garden Club

The Key West Garden Club actually sits on Higgs Beach, within Atlantic Boulevard.

It is also often called the West Martello Tower.

It’s a free garden that anyone can go into as they desire, and its upkeep is entirely performed by volunteers.

It sounds relatively tame, but it’s among the points of interest in Key West, Florida.

The purpose of this garden club is to educate visitors regarding tropical gardening.

Stroll through the lovely brick pathways that seem to have jumped right out of a fantasy book.

Gasp in awe at the lush greenery and wide range of fauna – orchids, lilies in a lily pond, bromeliads, and even a waterfall!

Plus, the West Martello Tower itself has some interesting history. It was once a citadel in the Civil War.

This means this location is actually on the National Register of Historic Places.

So if you’re looking for where to go that is relaxing but interesting, this is a great spot to visit!

Address: 1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Going on a road trip around Florida? Check out our list of things to do in Miami !

14. Duval Street

Duval Street

Duval Street is one of the coolest Key West attractions to visit.

It is as famous as it is infamous in Florida, and no trip to Key West would be complete without it.

It wouldn’t take longer than a weekend for you to get your fill of all that this street has to offer.

Plenty of quaint cafes line this street, and interesting art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and plenty of other lovely shops that you can walk into and scrutinize.

There’s a reason this place is home to so many Key West artists – you may just get inspired!

Meanwhile, adults can enjoy numerous drinking establishments and party at the many nightlife hotspots that are perfect for having an incredible time.

It can get quite rowdy, so take heed!

15. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

The Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is one of the more popular places to go in Key West.

You can find it along the southern side of Key West in the Truman Annex, and it is actually an official Florida State Park and a National Historic Landmark.

This park’s must-see popular features are its beach and its titular fort, which dates back to the times of the Civil War.

There are many different events that you can enjoy, including reenactments of the war era that span across the entire weeks.

Explore the fort area and take in all that rich history!

If you’re not much of a history buff, you can still head down to the beach, which is often hailed as the greatest that Key West has to offer.

It has plenty of equipment for water sports like snorkeling, and there are beach chairs to lounge on.

You can also stroll through the park and try out the different eating spots!

Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040, USA

16. Harry S. Truman Little White House

Harry S. Truman Little White House

The Harry S. Truman Little White House is one of the best Key West attractions to visit if you’re a fan of history and politics.

It was first built in the year 1890, during the Spanish-American War and became host to the naval station’s command headquarters.

It continued to serve this purpose throughout both of the World Wars.

Then, in 1946, this building earned its name because none other than President Harry S. Truman used it as a White House during the winter months.

From then, this spot became an unofficial resting place for presidents to take a break from the stressful rush of running a country during test times.

Today, this house is still used by many national leaders, who often come down to this quaint Florida location for business or as short vacation homes.

But it’s also now open to tourists as a museum with some brilliant adventures and activities to do.

You can check out the official logs of the house and find out exactly what President Truman did when he visited this home 11 times!

Address: 8311, 111 Front St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

17. Sebago Boat Tours

Sebago Boat Tours

If you want to see the top tourist attractions in Key West just to view them, the Sebago Boat Tours are a great option.

You’ll hop onto one of the six available boats, which are all brilliant and equally lovely, to be brought along a little tour of the most loved parts of the waters.

If you’re just in Florida for a weekend and want to spot some fascinating places to consider taking a trip to later, these boat tours can help you make that decision.

More importantly, they give you the chance to take a sunset cruise and sip a delicious drink while you luxuriously lounge.

You also have the option of going for a Power Adventure package, where you’re able to play a variety of water sports.

Whichever one you go for, all tours come with gourmet fare to eat and drink, so you’ll live in the lap of luxury for the length of the tour!

Address: 205 Elizabeth St i, Key West, FL 33040, USA

18. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters

The Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters is a neat place to drop by in Florida if you’re okay with heights and don’t mind clambering up 88 steps!

It is a unique structure with a very narrow viewing balcony that you can look out from to state longingly out over the waves above.

But it’s not just the lighthouse that makes this among the top things to do in Key West.

It’s also the keeper’s quarters, which was completed all the way back in 1848 and, today has been turned into a museum where you can find out more about the history of the lighthouse.

You can also see some cool artifacts and photos that you won’t find elsewhere in Florida!

There’s also a gift shop in the museum that sells beautiful and intricate pieces of art made locally.

There is a fee to enter the lighthouse or its museum, but many consider it worth it thanks to the breathtaking view and the rich historical value!

Address: 938 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

19. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

The Key West First Legal Rum Distillery is one of the best places in Florida if you love your alcohol!

You can tour the whole are for free and even enjoy special rum tastings and snacks made from rum.

There’s also an exciting class that is offered on how to make mojitos if you’re interested!

Think this is a trip just for adults? Think again!

Kids are welcomed on the property and there are non-boozy snacks that they can sample while you kick back and relax on this quiet and strangely beautiful Florida location, with lots of things to see!

Address: 105 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

20. Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

The Ghosts & Gravestones Tour is rather interesting and unusual compared to many other points of interest in Key West.

It’s not quite the same as the other Key West attractions you may be interested in while you’re in Florida, but if you’re into horror, ghosts, and the supernatural, this is the tour for you!

According to Haunted American Tours, Key West is the 4th most haunted location in the whole country.

That’s what makes these mini-adventures so exciting!

Tours will take you through Old Town, bringing you into rustic wooden houses built back in the 19th century.

And even allow you into the East Martello Civil War Fort, which is believed to be haunted by the dozens of soldiers who passed away in its walls from yellow fever.

Address: 501 Front St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

21. Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach

If you’re in Key West, Florida, over a weekend, chances are you aren’t focusing much on beaches.

But Smathers Beach is easily one of the most beautiful places in the United States as well as the most popular one in all of Key West, becoming extremely crowded during the spring break period.

With the right timing, you’ll be able to head over there during the less crowded periods and enjoy the clean, white sand and the peaceful lapping of waves against the shores.

It’s also packed with food trucks, shady spots to lie down under, and great, high-quality amenities that make the entire experience adorable.

Located next to Highway A1A, Smathers Beach is easily accessible.

You can rent jet skis, catamarans, or paddleboards, and even umbrellas and chairs are available for you to lease for a given period of time.

The waters are calm and great to swim in, too!

So if you’re looking for what to do in Key West, consider adding Smathers Beach to your schedule.

Address: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

22. Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier

Key West is famous for its gorgeous sunsets, and that’s why visiting Sunset Pier , even if you reside in Jacksonville , is one of the top best things to do in Key West.

It is located very near to Mallory Square, and it’s one of the most loved locations in this region of Florida due to the sheer beauty of the sunset that is to come.

A large bar awaits on the pier, as well as plenty of seats to sit on, and there are some food-related activities to enjoy.

Fresh oysters (and other seafood options) are available to purchase with the delicious, bold taste of Caribbean inspired Key West cuisine.

Alcoholic drinks in vibrant colors are also ready to down, and live music is usually playing within the Sunset Pier restaurant!

Address: 0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

23. Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea

Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea at Key West

Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea

The Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea is among the places to visit in Key West, whether you’re religious or not.

It is a Catholic cathedral with a stunning interior that shows some stunning and incandescent architecture with a maritime influence.

Once you’re done looking around the Key West, Florida cathedral, you can step outside of the building and into its grounds.

These grounds are lush and well-kept, and they are, of course, totally free to roam around.

You may even spot a chicken or two, or even a cat!

Address: 1010 Windsor Ln, Key West, FL 33040, USA

24. Key West Cemetery

Key West Cemetery

Not everyone would consider a cemetery a good place to go to avail of a holiday in Florida, but for those who are interested in some spookiness mixed with melancholy history, the Key West Cemetery is the place to go.

This cemetery first began being used in 1847 and covers 19 acres.

One of the most interesting facts about the Key West Cemetery, which can be found in Old Town, is that its tombstones do not all have somber, eerie, or inspirational messages etched onto them.

Instead, quite a few of them are tongue in cheek, with famous ironic and humorous inscriptions like “I told you I was sick”.

There’s also a ship’s mast tombstone in the Key West Cemetery that you can spot if you’re eagle-eyed enough.

As you wander through the large grounds, think about the fact that some of these plots actually have more than one person in them, stacked over each other.

It’s a good representation of the funny and eclectic people who call this area their home.

Address: 701 Pauline St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

25. Shipwreck Treasures Museum

Shipwreck Treasures Museum

If you’re trying to figure out what to see in Key West when you have kids in tow, look no further than the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum .

But adults can enjoy it too – who doesn’t love a mix of history and fun things that you can do!

A lot of educational history can be discovered as you walk through the structure.

Kids can enjoy going on a scavenger hunt, and they can try their best to hold up a gigantic, heavy silver bar.

If you’d like, you can join a guided tour that gives you a good introduction to the museum.

There’s also a movie that you can head downstairs to the basement beneath sea level to watch, and there’s the best part of this Key West museum – the tower!

When you climb to the top of the tower, you’ll be able to see an incredible view of this Florida region at its finest.

26. Wild About Dolphins

Wild About Dolphins

Wild About Dolphins is definitely among the top activities you can take a trip to while you’re in Key West, Florida.

Located on the Key West Harbour Marina, and about 8 hours from St. Augustine , it’s the perfect place to go if you love dolphins and want to learn more about them.

Head on a boat tour on the Amazing Grace ship and find out about bottle-nosed dolphins that are local to the region.

Stare in awe at the dolphins swimming by and enjoy snorkeling or swimming to interact with marine life up close.

You can also stop by the mangrove islands and habitats which are part of Key West attractions to spot exotic bird species.

Address: 6000 Peninsular Ave, Key West, Florida, USA

27. Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad

Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad

The Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad isn’t the kind of place you’ll typically stop at and make a day trip out of.

Still, stopping briefly to observe it is among the best unique things to do in Key West.

If you happen to be passing through the Overseas Highway one weekend, on your way to Key West from the rest of Florida, you’ll be able to spot the ruined railroads.

This railroad was finished in the 1910s by Henry Flagler, who was a rich railroad magnate back in the day.

But just around two decades later, a hurricane ripped through it and ruined it irreparably.

It was then abandoned, and now you can see it from the highway in Key West.

28. Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour

Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour

Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour is one of the must-do ways to go sightseeing through Key West, Florida.

At 9:45, the tours begin, starting from Truman Avenue’s Moped Hospital and lasting for around two hours.

None other than Lloyd himself leads these tours, and he makes them truly enjoyable!

It is a relatively easy biking trip, so anyone can take part in it, and you’ll go on an entertaining and exciting tour of Key West and its most interesting locations packed with information.

You’ll see a botanical garden, the Key West Wildlife Center, old houses of Florida celebrities, and, most unexpectedly, private gardens of Lloyd’s own acquaintances!

Address: 601 Truman Ave, Key West, FL 33040, USA

29. The Vandenberg Wreck

The Vandenberg Wreck

The Vandenberg wreck is one of the fun places to see in Key West.

It is actually a Navy ship belonging to the United States, and you may wonder what terrifying fate befell this shipwreck – but the truth is much happier!

The Vandenberg was purposefully set to sink back in 2009 in order to prompt the growth of a coral reef.

Back in its serving days, the Vandenberg worked to track missiles and transported troops.

Today, it sits in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which is seven miles off the Key West coast.

This artificial reef was made to create marine animal habitats and boost scuba diving tourism, and it certainly succeeded!

Start Planning Your Trip To Key West

Whether you’re here for a day trip, a weekend, or longer, there’s no shortage of fun places to visit across this little island city.

There’s so much to do and see, and there’s a type of attraction for everyone due to the rich history, nature, and even beaches.

Hopefully, this list of the top things to do in Key West will lead you to the most fun Key West attractions while you’re in Florida!

Don’t forget to check out some of the fun things to do in Gainesville , Tallahassee , and Tampa !

5 Unique Key West Sandbar Excursions

The tranquil sandbars around Key West are one of Florida’s most unique natural features – take a tour to discover what these secret spots of relaxation.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Visiting the sandbars around Key West can be a unique experience. These sandbars are formed by an accumulation of sand in the ocean and are distinctive places to wade, swim, and relax in the shallow waters. The waters around Key West are particularly clear meaning that it can feel like walking in a giant natural swimming pool, albeit with the chance to catch exotic marine life. There are plenty of sandbar trips and tours available – we decided to have a look at what is on offer.

Key West: Sandbar Excursion & Kayak Tour with Lunch & Drinks

At five hours long, this tour is the best part of the day, and included in the price are several Key West classic activities. You’ll be exploring Key West’s Florida Marine Sanctuary on a boat tour, as well as paddling through the lush mangroves on a guided kayaking excursion. The highlight of the day – a welcome after all that kayaking – is the chance to relax on a sandbar, where you are treated to a delicious lunch. On the menu are fresh local Cuban sandwiches, fried chicken tenders, veggie wraps, fruit and veggie trays, cheese, and cracker platters, and pita and hummus platters, all washed down with unlimited draft beer, wine, and soft drinks. From €125.13.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling

This is a short trip at just 2.5 hours long but it is a memorable experience. It starts at Cow Key Marina on Stock Island where you’ll get your very own small speedboat – aka a pistol boat – to cruise into the backcountry of Key West. As this isn’t a large boat cruise you feel like you can get a little closer to the wildlife, with ospreys easy to spot, as well as sharks swimming beneath you and manatees feeding on mangroves. Mud Key is the destination, a small but beautiful sandbar nestled in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here you can get out, wade, and explore in this tranquil setting. From €159.15 (per group of up to two).

Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West

For anyone who wants to combine dedicated dolphin spotting with the chance to relax at a secluded sandbar, this is the tour for you. It’s a nice mix of learning about the area and just kicking back at the sandbar, with expert guides giving insights into the history and ecology of the area, plus the bonus of mimosas and unlimited draft beer. The second part of the five-hour trip is about dolphin watching, venturing to the dolphin playground in the Florida Marine Sanctuary. A hearty lunch is included with the tour price too. From €136.59.

Book at Viator.com

Key West: 4-Hour Private Sandbar Cruise on a Tiki Bar Boat

As travel accessories go, bringing your own bar with you on a boat trip is pretty unique. You’ll be heading out to one of Key West’s sandbars on a private excursion – the vessel is a tiki bar boat, basically a thatched floating bar. There is a chance to see rays, turtles, fish, and even dolphins on the way, as well as wade and swim in the clear waters. A bar it may be, but the drinks aren’t included in this tour – instead, you can bring your own, alcohol included, and cosplay as Tom Cruise in Cocktail to your heart’s content. A floating mat, foam noodles, bottled water, and ice, and a Bluetooth speaker are all included. From €504.61 per group up to six.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Private Secret Sandbar Escape

If you fancy something private and a little romantic, this is the perfect sandbar tour. With this half-day experience, you’ll escape the crowds and discover a secret, private paradise. This private trip takes you to secluded sandbars and uninhabited islands, with pristine beaches and beautiful, crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect excursion whether you want to explore tide pools full of marine life, tuck into a tasty picnic, or just do some sunbathing. Snacks, bottled water, ice, and a cooler are all included. From €906.36 per group up to six.

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Key West Boat Tours Compared — Picking the Right Excursion for Your Florida Keys Vacation

Newsflash: Key West is an island! Ok, hardly newsworthy. But many visitors like to come to our beautiful piece of rock and then spend all their time crawling around Duvall. That’s fun, but Key West is all about getting out on the water. Seeing dolphins, manatees, fish, and stuff. What are you waiting for? Here’s a look at six different types of Key West boat tours you could book today.

6 Key West Boat Tours to Get You Out On the Water

You might have noticed that all the top must-do Key West excursions involve getting on a boat. There is no shortage of different kinds of boat tours in Key West. Here’s a breakdown of the six most popular Key West boat tours.

Fishing Charters

People come from all over the world to fish in the Keys. While other seaside towns have great offshore fishing, Key West is unique in that there are multiple types of fishing you can do here. The trick with any fishing charter is to find the best. You can pick from private or shared fishing charters in Key West .

Deep-sea anglers will want to head offshore in a big charter boat for a half or full-day charter. Once out past the reef line, these boats will troll heavy tackle for big fish — marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and whatever else they might hook into. The Kraken? Maybe.

Flats fishermen will want to find someone with a skinny water skiff to take them into the backcountry. Here, they’ll stalk the shy and not-so-shy: bonefish, tarpon, snook, permit, and others.

In between the two, there are about a million variations of light and medium tackle fishing. Lots of charters take you out to try your luck bottom fishing along the reef line, wrecks, or mangrove creeks. Snapper, grouper, hogfish,

Snorkeling and Diving Trips

If you want to see the only living coral reef in the contiguous US, you’ll want one of the Key West boat tours that offer snorkeling , diving, or both.

Snorkel tours are geared toward beginners. They usually favor shallow reefs that have little current and good visibility. Be sure to check out my ultimate first-timer’s guide to Key West coral reef snorkeling .

Diving tours, on the other hand, tend to find deeper spots where the divers will have more room to play. While some of these may allow snorkelers to come along, they’re usually less than spectacular since the water will be deeper, and it will be harder to see anything. Diving charters are best left to certified divers, and snorkel charters are better if you don’t want to deal with all that gear.

Most snorkel and dive trips last 3–4 hours and hit up two spots. If you’re really into the reefs, it’s worth stopping and taking tours from a few islands on your way to Key West. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Looe Key have excellent snorkeling and dive sites, too.

Sunset Sails

Finding the absolute best places to watch the sunset in Key West is the name of the game down here. For my money, I think that getting out on a boat is the tops. You get away from the crowds at Mallory Square, and you stand the best chance of getting a glimpse of the elusive Green Flash.

There are many flavors of sunset cruises in Key West. Several old-timey sailing schooners offer tours during the season, plus the more run-of-the-mill sailboats and power boats. You can charter any sort of small boat to take small groups out, from sailboats to catamarans to pontoon boats.

Sunset cruises may be champagne sails or BYOB — be sure to check before you book. Some are all-inclusive, and some are bare-bones.

Dinner Cruises

Several big boats leave Key West harbor every evening for buffet-style dinner cruises. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal at sea and catch the sunset. Be sure to read the reviews and understand what you’re getting. Some of these boats are “party boats,” where the vibe is more ‘spring break beach club’ than a classy dinner out. Some even have live music and space to dance, even. No matter which one you book, check what’s included in the bar and what costs extra!

Many people who have taken dinner cruises admit that it would have been better to take a nice sunset cruise and then find a nice restaurant for dinner afterward. Combining the two activities reduces your enjoyment of both.

Eco-tours describe anything from group dolphin-watching cruises to quiet birdwatching and snorkeling trips. No one ever promises you’ll see wildlife on these trips, but most captains know where to go for the best chances. There’s a lot of wildlife in the waters surrounding Key West.

Some of the best eco-tours are done from kayak or paddleboard. To find a good one, you’ll want to head out of town towards some of the quieter Keys to the north . You want to be able to do your paddling away from town in the real backcountry.

Sandbar Trips

One way to get a little taste of everything the Key West boat tours can offer is to take a sandbar charter . Like fishing and snorkeling trips, you can go on crowded “headboats” or a private small boat . Either way, you’ll spend some time cruising around the islands. There’s a little bit of eco-tour since you’ll very likely see dolphins, birds, and maybe manatees or sharks.

Sandbars are our best beaches. Far away from town, these incredible sandbars in Key West are uncovered at low tide. They’re the perfect place to escape and relax like you’re on your own private island. But, on busy weekends, the party comes to you!

Can't Decide? Build Your Own and Do All the Best Key West Boat Tours

Before booking any of these Key West boat trips, be sure to check out my top tips for picking Florida Keys boat charters . One of the best ways to do it all is to book a private charter and tailor it to meet your needs. Want to do a little ecotouring, snorkeling, and sandbar hopping in one afternoon? We can do that! Call Captain Zak at Casual Monday, and I’ll hook you up.

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Come Enjoy our smooth riding ocean going 25 ft Hydrasports center console upgraded with twin 200 EFI engines. Whether you’re looking to jump in the water at the sandbar and turn up the JL Audio system while you enjoy a cold one or make a quick and comfortable ride out to the reef our boat is just right for the occasion.

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14 Best Things to Do in Key West with Kids

K ey West Florida has been on my radar for a long time. This tropical island is the southernmost city in the United States and is known for its laid-back vibe, interesting history, and beautiful sunsets.

Key West is a town, but it’s also the main island of the Florida Keys. The island’s compact size makes navigating all the amazing things to do in Key West with kids easy!

You can spend your days exploring the historic sites of charming Old Town or visiting one of the family-friendly museums. There are plenty of great tours that will take you to all the main attractions on Key West, and there are plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

I am excited to have Craig and Bryanna from Crazy Family Adventure sharing the best things to do in Key West with kids. I’ve never been, but their list makes me want to visit!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

When to Plan a Family Vacation to Key West

While the weather is amazing most of the year in the Keys, you should still think about when in the year you will be visiting.

During the summer or early fall offer the best deals and extra space that comes during off-peak times. However, this time of year also brings hotter temperatures and hurricane season, so you will need to plan accordingly.

Especially if you’re traveling with kids, we suggest visiting Key West between March and May. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, with fewer crowds compared to the busy winter months.

In the spring, you can enjoy perfect conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling, boating, and walking the island. It’s also a great time to experience local festivals, such as the Conch Republic Independence Celebration in April.

If you want to come during winter break, December to February is another popular time to visit. Many visitors come during this time of year, especially to escape colder climates. This is also a peak season, so plan for higher prices and plenty of people.

What To Do in Key West with Kids

Key West may be best known for its hopping nightlife, especially along Duval Street, but it also delivers a ton of family fun. While the party scene is there, it’s easy to avoid if you’re traveling with children.

We’ve been there multiple times for the sunset and always felt comfortable and safe. We knew after dark wasn’t the best time for kids, so we would head home once the sun has set.

Also, Key West is very walkable. So just focus on amazing family-friendly daytime activities, both on and off the water. Keep in mind as well that many of the most popular attractions, restaurants, and hotels cater specifically to families, making it a fun and safe destination for the whole family.

Ready to plan your family trip to the Conch Republic? Here are our 13 top things to do in Key West with kids:

1. Explore Old Town

Hands down, Old Town Key West should be your first stop once you’ve dropped off your stuff at your hotel! A walk through Old Town is like stepping into a colorful, tropical adventure that’s perfect for families.

The vibe here is so laid-back and welcoming. There’s something about the friendly locals, the vibrant colors, and the smell of the ocean in the air that makes this place magical for visitors of all ages.

Imagine strolling down streets lined with pastel-colored houses! The sidewalks are shaded by palm trees, making it a comfortable walk even on a warm day. Plus, Old Town is home to some of Key West’s most iconic attractions. They’re all close enough to explore on foot or by bike, which just adds to the fun!

You can go shopping for souvenirs on Duval Street or explore Mallory Square. There are also plenty of family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops to stop by when you get hungry.

2. Attend the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration

The Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is one of the most famous events in Key West and a must-see for families. It happens every evening at Mallory Square, a large, open space right on the waterfront.

About two hours before sunset, the square is transformed into a mini festival complete with art vendors and free shows! Our kids loved watching the shows at the sunset celebration. They range from jugglers to tightrope walkers to sword swallowers. Sometimes the performers ask for tips, so come prepared.

Come hungry, too. It varies nightly who will be there, but there are a bunch of food carts. You can try things like popcorn, nachos, smoothies, or a coconut to drink, fresh off the tree!

When the sun is setting everyone gets really quiet and watches the sunset together. You can see why they chose this spot for a nightly event! You can see all the sunset cruise sailboats out on the water, so it’s a great picture opportunity.

3. Old Town Trolley Tours

Taking an Old Town Trolley Tour through Key West is a great way to get a feel for the island. Learn about the city’s history and see all the main attractions without the hassle of navigating on your own!

This hop-on hop-off tour aboard an open-air trolley car includes 13 different stops with over 100 points of interest. As you ride, your knowledgeable tour guide will share fun facts, interesting stories, and documented history about Key West.

Pass by iconic spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home and the Key West Lighthouse. A highlight is a stop at the Southernmost Point, where you can hop off the trolley to take pictures at this famous landmark.

When purchasing the 1 Day ticket, you get 24-hour reboarding. That means you can take the full 90-minute tour all around downtown Key West or hop off early and choose when you want to finish your introduction to Old Town later on.

4. Go On a Conch Train Tour

The Conch Train Tour in Key West is another delightful way to discover Key West with kids. If you have locomotive-obsessed little ones, this will be a hit with them!

You will board an adorable train that takes you on a 75-minute journey through the heart of Old Town, winding through narrow streets and past historic landmarks.

It’s a perfect introduction to Key West, especially for first-time visitors. The train’s open-air design offers great views, and the relaxed pace makes it easy to take in the island’s charm.

As you ride, your guide will share the colorful history of Key West, from its days as a bustling seaport to its unique role in American history. Expect to see famous sights like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the historic seaport, and the Southernmost Point in the continental United States.

5. Eat Key Lime Pie in Old Town

There is plenty of good food in Key West, but if there’s one thing everyone in the family should have to try, it’s the Key Lime Pie! The iconic dessert is said to have first appeared in the late 1800s when local cooks made a delicious no-bake pie starring the island’s tart Key limes.

The creamy, tangy dessert quickly became a favorite. Over time, Key Lime Pie became synonymous with Key West, and today, it’s considered the island’s official dessert.

In Key West, there are plenty of spots to choose from. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe is where everyone will tell you to go. (The original shop is at 200 Elizabeth Street.) Or go to the restaurant, Blue Heaven . Here, you can enjoy your pie in a laid-back, tropical setting and their own take on Key Lime Pie piled high with meringue.

6. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a magical experience for anyone, but especially for families looking for things to do in Key West with kids. This indoor paradise is home to hundreds of butterflies fluttering freely in a beautifully designed natural habitat.

Walking through the indoor gardens, you will be surrounded by tropical flowers, flowing waterfalls, and colorful butterflies. Some even land on you! The whole family will love all the exotic birds that also call the conservatory home.

The conservatory is small, so you could easily plan for an hour or two here. There’s also a great gift shop and gallery that you won’t want to miss filled with butterfly-themed items.

7. Visit the Key West Aquarium

In true Key West style, the Key West Aquarium has an open shark tank where you could literally reach in and touch them. Of course they don’t recommend that, but it is both scary and cool to be so close to sharks!

They also have a touch tank and a sting ray tank where you can pet the rays. There are multiple programs throughout the day where you can learn about the wildlife and watch them feed a shark. If your kids are brave enough, there is an opportunity for them to feed the sharks as well!

The aquarium isn’t very large, but with the programs and the sea life you can see and touch (plus being able to feed the sharks), it is totally worth it!

8. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

If your crew is really into sea-themed attractions, also check out the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center . It’s an educational center operated by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

You can explore interactive exhibits and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys. They are free to visit and are open Wednesday through Saturday.

9. Spend the Day at a Museum

When it’s time to get out of the heat, there are a few museums that kids will love in Key West: the Mel Fisher Maritime Museu m and the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum . Both are essential visits for those interested in pirates, shiny things, and colorful Florida history!

Mel Fisher’s Maritime Museum showcases treasures recovered from shipwrecks by the famous treasure hunter Mel Fisher. The museum’s exhibits bring the tales of pirates and shipwrecks to life, making it an exciting way to learn about the Keys’ maritime past.

And then there’s the Key West Shipwreck Museum, where kids can learn about the island’s shipwreck history through real-life artifacts of all sizes and fun, interactive exhibits. The museum spotlights the daring lives of shipwreck salvagers and features a 60-foot tower with panoramic views of Key West.

10. Visit Fort Zachary Taylor

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a fun place where you can spend a full day with the family. Start by walking the grounds of the Civil War-era fort and learn all about the history of Key West. If you’re there at 11 AM, you have the option of joining a guided group tour.

Afterward, head to the beach area to hang out in the sand and swim in the ocean. Mind you, Key West beaches have sand that’s more sand/rock, so it’s not the best for sandcastle building. But you can go snorkeling at the coral reef in the shallow water just off the beach!

There’s a cafe at the Fort Zachary Taylor Beach area and a concession stand that sells last-minute items like sunscreen and water. You can grab lunch, take showers, and rent snorkeling gear, umbrellas, and beach chairs. Or bring your kayak and use the public launch here.

There is plenty of room to walk up and down the beach to take in the beauty that is Key West. It’s also a great location to catch the sunset.

11. Snorkeling and Kayaking in Key West

One of the best things to do in Key West with kids is to enjoy the water! There are a ton of opportunities to go snorkeling and kayaking. Both are a great way to see native marine life and experience the best of the island.

You can rent snorkeling gear or kayaks at several shops in town. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach has a kiosk right off the beach with snorkel gear. There’s also a shop near Higgs Beach for kayaks.

If you have your own equipment, you’re all set! There are several great spots to check out. For beginners and younger kids, Higgs and Smathers are both soft, sandy beaches with shallow waters.

If you have more experienced swimmers, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a great spot for snorkeling, with its clear waters, sea stars, and coral reefs!

For kayaking, just head to a beach and walk in! Head to the mangrove trails around Key West, where you can spot native birds, crabs, and fish.

12. Best Beaches in Key West for Families

The whole Florida Keys stretch over 100 miles and you are surrounded by beautiful blue, green, and turquoise water the whole way! Be sure to allow time for all of the best beaches in Florida Keys .

For kids, we’re fans of Smathers Beach. It’s one of the largest and most popular beaches in Key West, with palm trees, soft, white sand, and calm waves. You can go swimming, play volleyball, and picnic in the shade.

Higgs Beach is a close runner-up. It has a central location, a sandy beach, and a shaded playground. Plus, there are great amenities, like restrooms, showers, chair and water sports rentals, and a restaurant.

13. Book a Charter

We recommend Danger Charters if you prefer a guided experience. They offer a few different boat tours, including sunset tours and private excursions. They welcome families with kids of all ages, although you will need to double check age limits for the specific tour you’re interested in.

If you prefer, they also have a great trip that will take you out on a sailboat to a location where you can snorkel and then kayak. We saw a Hawksbill Sea Turtle on our snorkel trip!

Next up, they take you to one of the many small islands in the Keys where you can take a kayak and explore around the island. If you have multiple young children, don’t worry! They let me and my husband kayak with two kids each. You see so many amazing birds and may even see an old washed-up boat or two.

The crystal clear waters mean you can also view tropical fish and barracuda swimming right under your boat! Danger Charters offers unlimited soda and water, and you can bring your own snacks. This is always important with kids. Plus, the staff was awesome, and they even let the kids drive the boat.

14. Fury Water Adventures

If you can only do one thing while you’re here, make it Fury Water Adventures ! This is another company that offers a variety of water sports trips, from a glass bottom boat tour to parasailing adventures. It all depends on what the family is up for.

We love their Ultimate Adventure H2.O trip. You’re on a large catamaran boat where you can enjoy fresh fruit and beverages, including all the beer and wine you want. The total adventure is about 3.5 hours long.

We loved all of the activities but also enjoyed being out on the beautiful waters of Key West. It’s about an hour’s boat ride out to the water park.

During the half-day trip, you will snorkel, drive jet skis, parasail, and play in an inflatable water park in the middle of the ocean. The day totally flies by and when it is done, you aren’t ready to return to land!

The staff is amazing with kids and are super helpful with making sure everyone is comfortable on the jet skis and parasailing. You have to be 6 years old to parasail, so keep that in mind. And they don’t recommend the trip if you have kids younger than 3 years.

Where to Stay in Key West with Kids

If you’re looking to stay overnight in Key West with kids, we recommend heading to the east side, closer to the southernmost point of the US. It definitely seemed quieter and less busy.

A few Key West resorts that we recommend include Opal Key Resort & Marina, Key West , Ocean Key Resor t , and the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa .

About this post : This article was originally written by Bryanna Royal, but was edited by Elizabeth Ramos and Kirsten Maxwell.

The post 14 Best Things to Do in Key West with Kids appeared first on .

Key West has amazing things for families to experience both on and off the water. We're sharing the top things to do in Key West with kids.

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The 10 Best Key West Shore Excursions and Tours
Key West Attractions and Things to do
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Watch sunset over Key West—without the crowds—on this catamaran sailing cruise that includes fresh appetizers, full liquor…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 92% of travelers. from. $79. per adult. 2. Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West. 35.
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Key West tours provide plenty of fun ways to discover the island city, known for its dreamy sunsets, laid-back nightlife, and generous slices of Key lime pie. Explore the colorful houses on a walking tour, ride the Conch Train around town, or take an after-dark ghost walk. Naturally, this tropical getaway has many ways to get on the water, too ...
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The tour narrative also includes local history and fun facts about Key West, which tourists appreciate. The walking tour covers almost 1 1/2 miles with stops at five different venues. Tours ...
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Enjoy a narrated tour on the way down, and island music on the way back…. 9. Key West's Old Town Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. See Key West's top attractions from the Lighthouse to the Little White House at your own pace with this affordable walking…. 10. Miami to Key West Roundtrip Bus Tour with Narration.
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Key West is such a fun place to visit with some of the best weather around! Taking a walking tour, sunset cruise, or kayaking tour is a great way to enhance your trip. Booking any one of these tours will allow you to sit back enjoy your visit. Just show up and enjoy the entertainment! 14 Best Key West Tours (Snorkeling, Walking Tours, & More!)
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#1 Key West Tours on The World Famous Conch Tour Train. Our 75-minute sightseeing adventure has been entertaining visitors since 1958. (305) 707-5775. ... Make sure you see it all by hopping on one of our Conch Tour Trains. It's a fun and convenient way to see the most popular sights, and you can customize your journey to fit your preferences
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5. Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure in Key West. 1,392. Catamaran Cruises. 2 hours. See wild sharks, dolphins, stingrays and other marine life in action on this Key West boat tour that lets you get up close…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 99% of travellers. from.
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164. Millionaire Homes Miami Favorite Boat Cruise. City Tours 1-2 hours English +1. Miami's Favorite Boat ride of the Miami Skyline, Star Island and Millionaire Homes departs from Biscayne Bay in the heart of Downtown. Pass the famous Star Island known for Al Capone's Mansion.
Key West Tour Company ~ Tours Of Key West
Tours of Key West. Key West is an island paradise that offers visitors a nearly endless list of fun and exciting activities. Between the bustling city streets, the classic architecture and lush tropical foliage, the white sand beaches, the offshore Atlantic depths, and the crystal blue waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, you are sure to find your perfect personal adventure.
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Big Pine Key (30 miles): It's easy to visit multiple Keys in one trip. The closest to Key West, Big Pine Key, is home to Bahia Honda State Park. Marathon (51 miles away): Top attractions in ...
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Top Things to Do in Key West, Florida: See Tripadvisor's 732,172 traveller reviews and photos of Key West tourist attractions. ... Personalized Key West JetSki Tour for Small Groups Nearly Private. 33. Adventure Tours. from . C$223. per adult. ... Dolphin Morning Watching & Snorkeling + open bar + 1 day Hop-On Hop-Off Fun. 1. Spring Break. from ...
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11. Snorkeling & Dolphin Watch. This powercat will take you to the Key West National Wildlife Refuge at Cottrel Key, where dolphins like to play. You'll snorkel in the shallows at some of the small mangrove island chains that have the best reefs, depending on the weather and visibility conditions.
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check out this post: 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida 3. Backcountry Island Adventure Snorkel and Kayak Tour. If you are looking for one of the most unique excursions you can take in Key West, a Key West backcountry tour is definitely it. Some of the prettiest places in Key West can only be reached by boat and this tour takes you there.
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2024. 5. Mallory Square. 14,955. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Welcome to Mallory Square where the fun starts and the sun sets. Everything Key West is famous for comes together in this one special place set on historic waterfront. Mallory Square is home to shops….
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The best tours in Key West are: From Miami: Key West Day Trip with Pickup at Selected Hotels. Key West: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Eco Cruise Tour. Key West: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Sunset Cruise. Key West: Sunset Sailing Trip with Open Bar, Food and Music. Key West: Afternoon Reef Snorkel Tour with Open Bar.
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24 - Tour the historic Harry S. Truman Little White House. The exterior of the Harry S. Truman Little White House, which has been used by American presidents for official state business. For history aficionados (particularly presidential history), this place should sit high atop any list of things to do in Key West.
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The Old Town Trolley Tours in Key West offer a unique and comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing visitors to explore the city's major attractions with ease. ... Read More » The Dark Side of Key West Ghost Tour. Discover the Dark Side of Key West: A Haunting Adventure Awaits Key West is renowned for its vibrant, fun-loving atmosphere ...
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1-2 hours. The Ghosts of Key West Tour is our family-friendly option and is very rich in Key West's history, hauntings, and ghost stories…. Free cancellation. from. $25. per adult. 93. Small Group Key West Snorkel Adventure. 10.
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There are so many fun things to do in Key West, Florida, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States. ... And if you'd rather tour Key West with private guide, check out the private pedi-cab tour, which can be customized to your preferences. Key West bike tour, via Just Dance on Shutterstock. Explore Key West by Bike.
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Hanging out on Duval Street is easily one of the best things to do in Key West at night. Sloppy Joe's Bar is a staple in Key West and is a great stop for a drink or history. It has been around since 1937 and many famous people have ordered a drink here. It was allegedly Ernest Hemingway's favorite bar.
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Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA. 8. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best places to visit in Florida if you love nature and, of course, the beautiful titular insect in question.
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Key West: Sandbar Excursion & Kayak Tour with Lunch & Drinks. At five hours long, this tour is the best part of the day, and included in the price are several Key West classic activities. You'll be exploring Key West's Florida Marine Sanctuary on a boat tour, as well as paddling through the lush mangroves on a guided kayaking excursion. ...
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That's fun, but Key West is all about getting out on the water. Seeing dolphins, manatees, fish, and stuff. ... One way to get a little taste of everything the Key West boat tours can offer is to take a sandbar charter. Like fishing and snorkeling trips, you can go on crowded "headboats" or a private small boat. Either way, you'll spend ...
14 Best Things to Do in Key West with Kids
Taking an Old Town Trolley Tour through Key West is a great way to get a feel for the island. Learn about the city's history and see all the main attractions without the hassle of navigating on ...
Things to Do in Key West, FL
5. Mallory Square. 14,955. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Welcome to Mallory Square where the fun starts and the sun sets. Everything Key West is famous for comes together in this one special place set on historic waterfront. Mallory Square is home to shops…. See ways to experience (32) 2024.

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