Planning a trip can be hard. Key West is a famous spot in Florida. This blog will show you the best places to visit there. Keep reading to learn more!
Key Takeaways
- Key West has beautiful beaches like Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor Beach. Each beach offers something special, from activities to historic sites.
- Historic landmarks such as the Ernest Hemingway House and Truman Little White House are must-sees. They show Key West’s rich history.
- The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and Key West Shipwreck Museum offer a peek into maritime history. They have treasures from shipwrecks.
- For outdoor fun, there are water adventures like Fury Water Adventures and Glass Bottom Boat Tours. These activities let visitors explore the ocean.
- Sunset Celebrations at Mallory Square happen every evening. It is a lively event with music, food stalls, and performers that attract both locals and travelers.
Beaches in Key West
Key West is famous for its stunning beaches, each offering something unique. From the soft sands at Smathers Beach to the historic charm of Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, there’s a perfect spot by the sea for everyone.
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach is a big beach in Key West. It stretches for about half a mile. Many people come here to relax and play. The sand is soft, and the water is clear. You can rent chairs and water sports gear.
It’s free to visit Smathers Beach. This makes it popular for both travelers and locals. People enjoy swimming, volleyball, and sunbathing here. There are also food trucks nearby if you get hungry.
Higgs Beach
Moving along from Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach offers its own unique charm for travelers. This beach is a must-see spot in Key West with plenty to do and see. It has a pier, a dog park, and even tennis courts.
People love coming here because it’s not just about the sand and water. You can also find historical sites nearby like the African Slave Memorial.
Higgs Beach is great for families too. There’s a playground where kids can have fun while adults enjoy the view or take a swim in the clear waters. The beach also has picnic areas making it perfect for spending the whole day outside.
With its beautiful views and calm atmosphere, Higgs Beach stands out as a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a must-see spot near Key West. It has some of the prettiest beaches in the area. The park offers clear waters and soft sands which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
People can also camp, snorkel, and kayak here. The old railroad bridge gives a great view of the sunset.
This place is also good for seeing birds and marine life. Visitors love to walk on the trails or relax by the water. Bahia Honda State Park is great for families looking for outdoor fun or anyone who enjoys nature.
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
Moving from the natural beauty of Bahia Honda State Park, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach offers a unique mix. This beach sits at Key West’s southern tip. It is famous for its clear water and rich history.
People come here to swim, snorkel, and enjoy picnics.
The park has an old fort that dates back to 1866. Visitors can tour this historic site. The beach also has places to eat and rent gear for water sports. It is a great spot for watching sunsets too.
Historic Landmarks
Key West is packed with historic landmarks that tell the stories of its past. Read on to discover these treasures and see what makes Key West so special.
Ernest Hemingway House
The Ernest Hemingway House is a famous historic site in Key West. This was where the writer, Ernest Hemingway, lived in the 1930s. Now, it’s open for tours. People can see his home and learn about his life.
The house also has many cats. These cats are special because they have six toes.
Visitors love this place for its stories and beautiful garden. You can walk through Hemingway’s rooms and see his writing desk. It feels like stepping back in time. The house shows how he lived and worked.
It’s a must-see for fans of history or Hemingway’s books.
Truman Little White House
Truman Little White House has been a big part of Key West history since 1890. It started as the naval station’s command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, World War I and II.
Later, it became President Harry S. Truman’s winter White House from 1945 to 1952. Here, Truman spent many winters working away from Washington D.C.
Today, this house is a museum where visitors can learn about Truman’s life and work. They also see how other presidents used this place for meetings and rest. The rooms are kept like they were in Truman’s time, giving you a real feel for history.
Key West Lighthouse
The Key West Lighthouse stands tall as one of the island’s must-see historic sites. Built in 1847, it guided sailors safely to shore for years. Now, it opens its doors to visitors who want to step back in time.
You can climb up the 88 steps to the top. From there, enjoy a stunning view of Key West and the ocean.
Inside, find a keeper’s quarters museum. It shows how lighthouse keepers lived long ago. The lighthouse and museum share stories of storms, ships, and the people who kept them running.
It’s a peek into history that ties together sea adventures with everyday life on land.
West Martello Fort
West Martello Fort is a historic site in Key West. Built during the Civil War, it never saw battle. Now, it’s home to beautiful gardens and offers tours for visitors. People come here to learn about history and see the amazing ocean views.
The fort has thick walls and old cannons. The Key West Garden Club takes care of the gardens inside. They have many tropical plants. You can walk through for free, but donations are welcome to help keep the place nice.
Unique Museums
Key West is not just about sunny beaches and lively streets. Its unique museums offer a peek into the rich history and maritime mysteries of the area.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is a place where you can see real treasures from shipwrecks. Mel Fisher was a treasure hunter who found the Atocha and Santa Margarita shipwrecks. These ships sank in 1622.
The museum has gold, silver, and emerald artifacts from these wrecks.
Visitors can learn about life at sea in the past. The museum also talks about slavery as it saved items from the slave ship Henrietta Marie that sank in 1700. This makes the museum not just about treasure but also history and culture.
Key West Shipwreck Museum
Key West Shipwreck Museum takes you back to the 1850s. It shows how Key West became rich from shipwrecks. Actors tell stories of old shipwrecks and treasures found at sea. You can see real artifacts pulled from wrecks.
It’s like stepping into history.
Visitors climb a lookout tower here, too. They get a view just like the wreckers did long ago, looking for ships in trouble on the reef. Next up, let’s learn about Audubon House & Tropical Gardens and its beauty.
Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is a must-see in Key West. It shows the art of John James Audubon, who painted birds in the 1800s. Visitors can see his works and learn about his time in Key West.
The house also has beautiful gardens with tropical plants.
This place takes you back to old Key West. You can walk through rooms filled with antique furniture and art. Outside, the gardens are peaceful with rare tropical plants. It’s a good spot for photos and relaxing away from busy streets.
Custom House Museum
Custom House Museum stands out with its bright red brick. This place is part of Key West’s history since the late 1800s. It was once a post office, court house, and government center.
Now, it shows art and tells stories of Key West’s past.
Visitors can see works by famous artists and learn about local legends. The museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year. It’s a must-see spot for anyone interested in art and history.
Outdoor Adventures
Key West is a playground for outdoor adventure lovers. From water sports to exploring historic sites, there’s an activity for everyone.
Key West Fury Water Adventures
Fury Water Adventures in Key West is a top pick for thrill-seekers. They offer water sports that get your heart pumping. Think jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling on the coral reef.
Guests love the sunset cruises too, mixing adventure with stunning views.
This company makes exploring the ocean fun and easy. Whether you want to glide above the water or swim among fish, they have you covered. Plus, their crew ensures everyone stays safe while having a great time.
It’s perfect for families or anyone looking to add excitement to their trip.
Key West Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Key West Glass Bottom Boat Tours let you see the ocean floor without getting wet. You can look at coral reefs and fish through a clear bottom boat. This trip is good for families and anyone who likes the ocean.
It’s like snorkeling but easier.
These tours are popular in Key West. They take you over shallow reefs, so sunlight makes everything easy to see. Guides tell interesting facts about sea life and reefs during the ride.
You learn a lot while having fun on the water.
White Street Pier
White Street Pier is a long walkway that sticks out into the ocean. People love it for fishing, walking, and watching sunrises. It’s also known as the “unfinished road to Havana.” This spot gives you great views of the water all around.
The pier is cool because it goes far enough out that you feel like you’re in the middle of the sea.
After visiting White Street Pier, many head over to Key West Historic Seaport. This place is full of boats, shops, and places to eat.
Key West Historic Seaport
Key West Historic Seaport is a must-see spot. It’s full of boats, shops, and places to eat. People visit for the water sports and cruises. They also enjoy looking at the old ships.
The seaport has a long history that goes back over 200 years. Today, it is where many fishing trips start. Tourists love taking pictures here too because of the beautiful sea views.
Arts and Entertainment
For those who love arts and entertainment, Key West offers unique theaters and cinemas that promise memorable experiences. Keep reading to explore more exciting features of this vibrant city.
Tropic Cinema
Tropic Cinema is a special place in Key West for movie lovers. It shows unique and interesting films. You won’t find just the usual movies here. They play independent, foreign, and local films too.
This cinema also hosts events and film festivals. People who enjoy arts and entertainment choose Tropic Cinema for a fun night out. It stands out in Key West for its cool vibe and good movies.
San Carlos Theater
San Carlos Theater is a big part of Key West’s arts scene. It opened in 1924. This place has seen many events, from plays to concerts and more. People call it the “Cultural Gem of Key West.” The theater sits in the Old Town area, making it easy for travelers to find.
Over the years, San Carlos Theater has shown shows from local and outside groups. Its history makes it stand out as a must-see spot for visitors who love entertainment. The building itself tells stories of past times in Key West.
Waterfront Playhouse Theater
Moving on from the San Carlos Theater, we find another gem in Key West’s arts scene, the Waterfront Playhouse Theater. This place is right by the water, making it a great spot to enjoy plays and shows.
It has been around since 1939. People say it’s one of the best theaters in the U.S.
The theater offers different kinds of performances all year long. From musicals to comedies, there’s always something fun to see here. Locals and visitors alike love coming here for a night out.
The setting is cozy, and every seat feels close to the stage. The Waterfront Playhouse Theater turns any evening into a special event with its charming atmosphere and great entertainment.
Sunset Celebrations
Sunset Celebrations in Key West are a must-do for visitors. Each evening, people gather at places like Mallory Square to watch the sun dip below the horizon, enjoying street performers and local art.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is a big event in Key West. Every evening, people gather at Mallory Square to see the sunset. This tradition has music, street performers, and food stalls.
Artists sell their work while visitors watch the sun go down over the ocean.
This celebration is a must-see for travelers. It shows Key West’s fun side with jugglers, magicians, and musicians making it lively. The view of the sun setting is beautiful and makes for great photos.
Plus, you can try tasty local food from vendors as you enjoy the show.
Southernmost Point Views
The Southernmost Point in Key West is renowned. It’s a large buoy designating the location. People mention it’s a mere 90 miles to Cuba from that place. Visitors enjoy capturing images with the buoy.
The panoramas of the ocean are also striking. One can view transparent blue water and occasionally even distant ships.
Numerous visit during sunrise or sunset for superior views. The sky adopts breathtaking shades at these times. Everyone desires a photo to recall their journey, positioned alongside the vibrant buoy with the ocean as their backdrop.
Visiting the Southernmost Point is highly recommended when you’re in Key West.
Family-Friendly Activities
Key West is full of fun for families. Explore underwater wonders at the Key West Aquarium or walk through a magical world of butterflies at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.
Key West Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium is a must-see for families visiting Key West. It’s one of the oldest aquariums in Florida, opening its doors in 1934. Here, visitors can get up close with marine life from the Atlantic Ocean.
They offer touch tanks where you can feel sea stars and conchs. The guides are friendly and know a lot about sea creatures.
This place also has feeding times for sharks and turtles, making it exciting to watch. You learn how they care for injured sea turtles before releasing them back into the ocean. The Key West Aquarium helps protect coral reefs too by teaching people why they are important.
Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
At Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, visitors see hundreds of butterflies. They fly around in a special area full of colorful plants and flowers. This place is also home to many bird species.
People walk through a path to watch these creatures up close.
Next up, let’s talk about family-friendly places like the Oldest House Museum.
Oldest House Museum
After exploring the wonders of the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, families can step back in time at the Oldest House Museum. This place is special because it shows what life was like in Key West long ago.
The house has been standing since 1829. It holds a lot of history inside its walls.
Visitors to the museum will see old furniture and artifacts from the 1800s. They also learn about the people who lived there. The garden outside is beautiful and peaceful, adding to the charm of this historic spot.
It’s a good way for kids and adults to see how families lived in Key West nearly 200 years ago.
Dining and Nightlife
Key West is known for its vibrant dining scene and exciting nightlife. From classic seafood joints to lively bars, there’s something for everyone after the sun goes down.
Sloppy Joe’s
Sloppy Joe’s is a famous bar in Key West. It has been around since 1933. This place was a favorite of the writer Ernest Hemingway. People come here to enjoy live music, good food, and drinks.
It’s on Duval Street, which is very busy with nightlife.
The bar got its name from another place in Havana, Cuba that Hemingway liked. Over the years, Sloppy Joe’s has become a big part of Key West’s history and culture. Visitors love to take pictures here and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Hogs Breath Saloon
Hogs Breath Saloon is a highly recommended spot in Key West for dining and nightlife. It features live music, delicious cuisine, and refreshing beverages. This establishment is renowned for its relaxed mood.
Visitors frequent this locale to unwind and be merry post city exploration.
The saloon holds a profound history and is recognized for its lively events. It’s situated amidst the lively streets of Key West. Guests appreciate the al fresco dining space, perfect for the warm weather.
For those who relish entertainment alongside their meals, this is the ideal venue for you.
Rick’s Bar
After talking about Hogs Breath Saloon, let’s move to Rick’s Bar. This place is known for its lively atmosphere. People come here for good music and fun nights. Rick’s Bar sits on the famous Duval Street in Key West.
Here, you can enjoy live bands or DJs almost every night.
Rick’s offers a range of drinks and often has special events. You might find a theme party happening if you visit at the right time. It’s a go-to spot for both locals and travelers looking for nightlife in Key West.
Hidden Gems
Discover Key West’s hidden gems for an unforgettable adventure away from the usual tourist spots.
Bahama Village
Bahama Village is a colorful part of Key West. It’s famous for its lively market, good food, and music. The area is about 16 square blocks. It has a strong Bahamian influence because people from the Bahamas came to live here long ago.
Visitors love checking out the shops and trying conch fritters at local eateries. There’s also a big festival in October that brings music, dance, and food together. This place shows off the island’s mix of cultures well.
African American Memorial
The African American Memorial in Key West is a place to visit. It shows the struggle and strength of African Americans. This memorial has statues and plaques that tell stories of their journey.
Visitors learn about history and honor those who fought for freedom.
Located at the foot of Whitehead Street, this spot reminds people of an important part of Key West’s past. It is open to everyone every day. People come here to pay respect and learn something new about African American heritage.
Key West Cemetery
Key West Cemetery is a unique spot in the city. It sits at the heart of Old Town, where over 100,000 people are buried. This place is not just about rest; it’s full of stories from Key West’s past.
You’ll find gravestones that are more than 100 years old mixed with new ones. Some have funny sayings like “I told you I was sick.” People come to see this mix of history and humor.
Next, visitors often move from the quiet paths of the cemetery to enjoy pet-friendly activities around town.
Pet-Friendly Activities
Key West loves pets, and there are plenty of spots where you can enjoy the day with your furry friend. From dog-friendly beaches to welcoming parks, everyone in the family can have fun in the sun.
Dog-friendly beaches
Dog lovers have great spots in Key West for fun with their pets. One of these places is Higgs Beach Dog Park. Dogs can play off-leash here. They have a lot of space to run and swim.
The beach also has areas where dogs must be on a leash.
Another spot is Smathers Beach, but dogs need to stay on leashes. It’s still a good place for a walk by the water. Both places welcome dogs all day, making them perfect for pet owners visiting Key West.
Pet-friendly parks
Key West loves pets and has parks where they can have fun. Higgs Beach Dog Park is one top spot. It has a fence, so dogs can run free safely. There are areas for big and small dogs to play separate or together.
Another great place is the Indigenous Park. This park does not allow dogs to run free but it’s nice for walks. Dogs must be on leashes here. Both places offer fresh water for pets to drink and lots of space for exercise and fun under the sun.
Nearby Attractions
Exploring Key West leads to more adventures just a short trip away. Places like Key Largo and Dry Tortugas National Park promise unique experiences with nature and history.
Key Largo
Key Largo is close to Key West and offers its own adventures. It’s known for beautiful coral reefs. Tourists come here for snorkeling and water sports. They see colorful fish and underwater life at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Next, people visit Islamorada for more fun on the water.
Islamorada
Islamorada is known as the “Village of Islands.” It stretches over six islands in the Florida Keys. This place is famous for its clear blue waters and coral reefs. People come here to snorkel, fish, and enjoy water sports.
Islamorada also has nice restaurants and shops.
The area is great for dolphin encounters too. Tourists can visit Theater of the Sea to see marine animals up close. The history lovers might like Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park.
It shows what the Keys looked like before people lived there full time.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote park west of Key West. It’s known for its crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and rich history. The park includes seven small islands and famous Fort Jefferson.
Visitors enjoy snorkeling to see colorful fish and exploring the massive fort.
Getting to Dry Tortugas takes a boat or seaplane since it’s 70 miles from Key West. People come here for bird watching, camping, and learning about the past. It’s a unique place where nature meets history.
Next up is how to get around in Key West…
Travel Tips for Key West
To enjoy Key West to its fullest, knowing how to get around is key. The best times to visit are keys for planning your trip right.
Getting around Key West
Key West is easy to move around in. Bikes and scooters are popular ways to see the sights. They let you explore places cars can’t go. You can also walk around Duval Street and other areas close by.
Another way is by bus or trolley tours. These take you to key spots like beaches, museums, and landmarks without worrying about parking. For a fun ride, try the Conch Tour Train or the Old Town Trolley.
Both give you a good look at Key West’s best places with stories and facts along the way.
Best times to visit
After finding out how to get around Key West, the next step is figuring out the best times to visit. The ideal time is between March and May. During these months, the weather is perfect for beach days and outdoor activities.
There are fewer tourists, too, which makes it easier to enjoy all the attractions without big crowds.
The late fall from September to November also offers good weather. But you might find better deals on hotels during this period. Keep in mind that summer can be very hot and humid.
Plus, there’s a higher risk of hurricanes from June through November.
Conclusion
Key West is full of fun for everyone. From sunny beaches to cool museums, there’s lots to do. You can see amazing sunsets and enjoy tasty food. Don’t miss the adventures in the water and on land.
Key West waits with many memories to make.
FAQs
1. What are some popular attractions in Key West?
Key West, a gem of an island city in Florida, is famous for its many attractions. These include the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the vibrant Duval Street with its lively bars and shops, the stunning beaches like Smathers Beach, and the beautiful sunset views at Mallory Square.
2. Are there any unique activities to do in Key West?
Absolutely! Besides exploring historical sites and relaxing on beaches, you can also enjoy snorkeling or diving at Dry Tortugas National Park…or maybe embark on a fishing adventure in clear blue waters…and don’t forget about tasting local delicacies such as key lime pie!
3. Is it worth visiting Key West for nature lovers?
Definitely! Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love—from seeing unique wildlife at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory to admiring tropical plants at Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden…or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll through Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
4. How can I make my visit to Key West more enjoyable?
Plan your itinerary well—ensure you have enough time for each attraction…wear comfortable shoes as there’s much walking involved…stay hydrated under Florida’s sun…and most importantly—immerse yourself fully into the laid-back vibe of this charming island city!
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