Things to Do in Key West
Key West, the southernmost point in the continental US, offers an unmatched blend of history, culture, nightlife, and outdoor adventure.
Pro Tip
Popular activities like Dry Tortugas ferry trips, Hemingway Home tours, and sunset cruises sell out weeks in advance during peak season (January-April). Book early to secure your spot.
Duval Street
The iconic main drag of Key West, Duval Street runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, lined with shops, bars, restaurants, galleries, and live music venues. It is the heart of the island's vibrant social scene, where visitors and locals alike can experience everything from casual beach bars to upscale dining. A stroll down Duval is a quintessential Key West experience.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Every evening, locals and visitors gather at Mallory Square to watch the sun dip below the Gulf of Mexico. The Sunset Celebration features street performers, musicians, artisans, and food vendors, creating a festive atmosphere that has become a Key West tradition. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the spectacle.
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Tour the historic Spanish Colonial home where Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote for more than a decade. Located at 907 Whitehead Street, the property features lush tropical gardens, the famous six-toed cats, and the author's writing studio. Guided tours bring Hemingway's Key West years to life for literature lovers and history buffs alike.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
This Civil War-era fort is one of the best-preserved in the country and sits at the southwestern tip of Key West. The park also features one of the island's best beaches with excellent snorkeling in clear, shallow waters. Walk the battlements, explore the underground gunpowder magazines, and swim in the calm waters at the base of the fort.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Walk through a breathtaking tropical butterfly habitat at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. With hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world, a cascading waterfall, and lush tropical plants, this is a serene escape from the bustle of Duval Street. Educational displays explain the butterfly life cycle and conservation efforts.
Southernmost Point Buoy
The iconic red, black, and yellow buoy at the corner of Whitehead and South Streets marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, just 90 miles from Cuba. It is one of the most photographed spots in Key West. Go early in the morning to beat the queue and get a clear photo without the crowds.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West. The centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine coral reefs. Day trips depart from Key West and include snorkeling, birdwatching, and guided tours of the fort. Book well in advance as spaces fill quickly. See our guide to the best beaches in the Florida Keys.
Snorkeling and Diving on the Reef
Key West sits at the western edge of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. Snorkeling and diving charters depart daily, taking visitors to vibrant reef sites teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral formations. The reef is accessible from shallow snorkel spots to deeper wall dives, making it a world-class underwater experience. Learn about living in the Florida Keys.
Bike or Walk Through Old Town
Old Town Key West is a walkable, bikeable historic district filled with charming Conch-style architecture, pastel-painted Victorian homes, and tree-lined streets. Rent a bicycle or take a guided walking tour to explore landmarks like the Key West Cemetery, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, and the Key West Lighthouse. It is the best way to soak in the island's unique architectural and cultural character.
Key West Harbor Cruise
Sunset sails and reef trips depart from the Key West Historic Seaport. Choose from a range of options including catamaran sunset cruises with champagne, eco-tours through the mangroves, and full-day sailing excursions to the outer reefs. The harbor itself is a lively spot with restaurants, bars, and the legendary Schooner Wharf Bar.
Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
This beautifully restored 19th-century home at 205 Whitehead Street showcases the work of naturalist John James Audubon, who visited the Keys in 1832. The house museum features original Audubon engravings, period furnishings, and lush tropical gardens. A peaceful historical stop that blends art, nature, and Keys history.
Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Key West's history is built on shipwreck salvage, and this interactive museum at 1 Whitehead Street tells the story. Climb the 65-foot lookout tower for panoramic views, explore full-scale replica shipwreck exhibits, and see authentic artifacts recovered from the waters around the Keys. A fascinating look at the maritime history that shaped the island. Read our guide to the best fishing charters in the Florida Keys.
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