Key West is an island city in the Florida Keys, located off the southern tip of the state. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal blue waters, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach all day or explore some of Key West’s most iconic attractions, there’s something here for everyone. This blog post will cover some of the best things to do in Key West– from visiting Ernest Hemingway’s house to taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat. Read on for our list of 20 awesome activities that you won’t want to miss when visiting this beautiful island paradise!
Key West is the United States’ southernmost city and a popular tourist destination in South Florida, having some of the best things to do in Florida.
The small island is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, with a plethora of activities. It is known for its tropical breezes, peaceful blue waters, and laid-back Caribbean feel.
Despite being only 6.4 kilometres long and 1.6 kilometres wide at its widest point, Key West Florida is full of eccentric salty locals known as “Conchs” and has a very unique history.
According to legend, pirates exploited the island as a smuggling location in the 1700s. In addition, there is a considerable Caribbean and Cuban influence in Key West.
Some say you can see the moon from here.
Best Things To Do in Key West
If you’re looking for some of the top vacation places in the world, Key West, an island community in the Florida Keys, is a must-see.
The best of Key West offers fascinating must-see areas of interest that will ensure you’re never at a loss for something to do. It’s famous for its magnificent marine life, eccentric houses, and rich history.
For your convenience, we’ve created a list of the greatest attractions and entertaining activities in Key West.
Key West Boat Tours
Key West Boat Tours
If you’re looking for a unique way to see Key West, then consider taking a boat tour. There are many different types of boat tours available, from sightseeing tours to sunset cruises. No matter what type of tour you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery and get a different perspective of the island.
Snorkeling and Diving
Key West is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, making it easy to spot colorful fish and other marine life. There are many different companies that offer snorkeling and diving trips, so be sure to do some research to find one that best suits your needs.
Kayaking
Kayaking is another great way to explore Key West’s waterways. Whether you want to paddle around the mangroves or go for a leisurely paddle down the coastline, there’s sure to be a kayaking trip that’s perfect for you. There are many rental companies that offer kayaks, so be sure to shop around for the best deal.
Fishing Charters
If you’re an avid fisherman, then you’ll definitely want to take advantage of Key West’s fishing charters. The island is home to several charter companies that offer half-day or full-day trips out on the water. You can book a charter for just yourself or with a
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Key West. The museum is located in the home where Hemingway lived and wrote for more than ten years. Visitors can tour the home, which has been restored to its original condition, and see Hemingway’s personal belongings, including his typewriter and fishing gear. The museum also features a collection of Hemingway’s writings, letters, and photographs.
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See the Key West Lighthouse
The Key West Lighthouse is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Key West. Situated on the southernmost tip of the island, the lighthouse offers stunning views of the ocean and the nearby islands. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of Key West and the surrounding area. The lighthouse is also home to a museum which chronicles the history of Key West and its lighthouses.
Key West Shipwreck Museum
- The Key West Shipwreck Museum is a must-see for any history buff or maritime enthusiast. Located on the island of Key West, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to shipwrecks that have occurred in the Florida Keys. Visitors can see firsthand how these wrecks have impacted the local environment and economy, and learn about the efforts to preserve them.
- The museum is home to a number of unique artifacts, including the remains of the HMS Titanic. This shipwreck is particularly significant as it was one of the first major maritime disasters in modern history. Other notable exhibits include the USS Maine, which sank in 1898, and the SS Monterey, which went down in 1925.
- In addition to shipwrecks, the museum also chronicles the stories of some of the people who have been lost at sea. These tales are both tragic and inspiring, and provide a glimpse into the lives of those who perished in these accidents.
- The Key West Shipwreck Museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12.
Go to Mallory Square
Mallory Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Key West. Located in the heart of the city, it is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Stroll Down Duval Street
Duval Street is the main street in Key West, Florida. It is a historic street with many old buildings and sites. Many people stroll down Duval Street to see the sights and to shop. There are also many restaurants and bars on Duval Street.
Take a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is one of the best things to do in Key West. You can take a leisurely cruise around the island, enjoy the beautiful views, and relax with a drink in hand. There are many different companies that offer sunset cruises, so you can choose one that suits your needs.
Swim with the Dolphins
- Swim with dolphins in Key West!
- Take a dolphin-watching tour.
- Visit the Dolphin Research Center.
- Go snorkeling or diving with dolphins.
- Watch a dolphin show or presentation.
Visit Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of the best things to do in Key West. The park is located on the southernmost point of the island and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort, which was built in 1845, or relax on the beach. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park also offers a variety of activities such as fishing, picnicking, and kayaking.
Do the Conch Tour Train
The Conch Tour Train is a must-do activity when visiting Key West. This historic train has been providing tours of the island since 1958 and is the perfect way to see all the key sights in a short amount of time. The one-hour train tour takes you through the downtown area, past historic homes and sites, and out to the beautiful beaches on the southern tip of the island. You’ll learn about the history and culture of Key West as you go, and there’s even a stop for photos at the famous Southernmost Point marker.
Rent a Bike or Moped
Renting a bike or moped is a great way to get around Key West. There are many places to rent bikes and mopeds, and they are relatively inexpensive. You can also find maps of the island that show bike trails.
Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the best things to do in Key West. The clear, warm waters offer visibility of up to 100 feet, making it perfect for seeing all the amazing marine life that the Florida Keys have to offer. There are many dive sites to choose from, including reefs, shipwrecks, and walls.
For snorkelers, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-see. This park is home to the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Visitors can take a glass bottom boat tour or go snorkeling right from the shore. Another great spot for snorkeling is Dry Tortugas National Park, which is home to beautiful coral gardens as well as some of the best shipwreck diving in the world.
Scuba divers will find plenty to explore in Key West as well. The wrecks of three Spanish galleons from the 1600s – El Cazador, Nuestra Señora de Atocha, and Santa Margarita – lie just off shore and are popular dive spots. Other popular dive sites include Molasses Reef, Looe Key Reef, and Carysfort Reef.
Take a Glass Bottom Boat Ride
A glass bottom boat ride is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of Key West. The clear waters offer a great view of the colorful coral reefs and the diverse marine life. You can also learn about the history and culture of Key West on a glass bottom boat ride.
Duval Street
Duval Street is the main street in Key West, and it is full of bars, restaurants, and shops. There is also a lot of live music on Duval Street. You can find something to do at any time of day or night on Duval Street.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is located on the southernmost tip of Key West and is a great place to explore if you’re interested in the history of the area. The fort was built in 1845 and served as an important defense point during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.
Nowadays, the park is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the fort’s history, with guided tours available throughout the day.
Mallory Square
If you find yourself in Key West with some time to kill, head on over to Mallory Square. This open-air marketplace is the perfect place to find souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or people watch.
When the sun goes down, Mallory Square becomes the place to be. Every night, there is a Sunset Celebration complete with food vendors, live music, and street performers. As the sun sets over the water, it’s truly a sight to behold.
Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is one of the best places to see butterflies in all of Florida. This conservatory is home to over 50 different species of butterflies, as well as other types of wildlife. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the conservatory to learn more about these beautiful creatures. The conservatory also offers educational programs for children and adults.
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Key West. It is located on the south side of the island and is known for its beautiful white sand and clear blue waters. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy at Smathers Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, windsurfing, and more.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
The Harry S. Truman Little White House is the original Key West residence of the United States’ 33rd president, Harry S. Truman. The house is now a museum and public attraction, offering tours led by knowledgeable guides. Visitors can see where President Truman and his wife, First Lady Bess Wallace Truman, slept, ate, relaxed, and worked while in Key West. The museum also features exhibits on the Trumans’ time in Key West, as well as on the history of Key West itself.
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum
The Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum is one of the best things to do in Key West. The museum is located in the old keeper’s quarters of the lighthouse, and it tells the story of Key West’s maritime history. The museum is open daily from 9:00am to 4:30pm, and admission is $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under.
The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1848 to guide ships into the harbor. The lightkeeper’s quarters were added in 1886. The museum tells the story of the people who lived and worked at the lighthouse, as well as the history of shipwrecks in the area. Visitors can see artifacts from shipwrecks, including a cannon from the 1733 wreck of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha.
Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is a must-see for any nature lover visiting Key West. This beautiful property was once the home of John James Audubon, the famous ornithologist, and now houses a museum dedicated to his life and work. The gardens are full of tropical plants and birds, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Key West.
Key West First Legal Rum Distillery
In 1821, Key West was the first legal rum distillery in the United States. The island’s hot climate and rich soil made it the perfect place to grow sugar cane, which was used to make rum. Today, Key West is home to several rum distilleries, including the oldest one in the country. Visitors can tour the distilleries and learn about the rum-making process. They can also sample different types of rum and purchase bottles to take home with them.
Key West Historic Seaport
The Key West Historic Seaport is one of the best places to visit in West. This area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. One of the most popular attractions in the seaport is the Key West Aquarium. This facility features a variety of sea life exhibits, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The aquarium also offers a hands-on stingray encounter where visitors can touch and feed these amazing creatures.
In addition to the aquarium, the seaport also contains a number of historic buildings and sites. One of the most popular historic sites is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This property was once home to famed author Ernest Hemingway and contains a number of artifacts from his life and work. Another popular historic site is the Truman Little White House Museum. This museum is located in an actual house that was used as a winter White House by President Harry S Truman.
The Key West Historic Seaport is also home to a number of shops and restaurants. Visitors can find everything from souvenirs to beachwear at the many shops in this area. There are also several great places to eat, including Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina, which features live music and tropical drinks.
Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour
The Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour is one of the best things to do in West! This tour takes you through the island’s most haunted locations, and you’ll learn about the eerie history of each place. The trolley makes several stops, including at the gravesite of Ernest Hemingway, where you’ll hear stories about his ghost. You’ll also visit the old Fort East Martello Museum, which is said to be home to many ghosts. This tour is a must-do for anyone who wants to experience Key West’s dark side!
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is one of the best things to do in West. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of world-famous treasure hunter Mel Fisher. Visitors can see some of the treasures that he found, including gold coins, jewelry, and artifacts from shipwrecks. The museum also has a research library and an education center.
Final Word
West is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. The beaches are beautiful, the restaurants are top-notch, and the nightlife is second to none. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when planning your trip. First and foremost, West is a very popular destination, so be sure to book your hotel room well in advance. Secondly, Key West is a relatively small island, so getting around by foot or bike is the best way to see everything that it has to offer. Lastly, West is known for its laid-back atmosphere, so don’t hesitate to relax and enjoy your time in this stunning corner of the world.