Exploring Key West: The Top Attractions

When you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, Key West offers an enticing blend of sun, sand, and tropical vibes. Home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and unique attractions, Key West is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or family vacation, there is something for everyone in Key West. From historic sites and museums to outdoor activities and cultural attractions, here are some of the best things to do when you’re exploring Key West.

1. Take a Sunset Cruise

One of the most popular things to do in Key West is taking a sunset cruise. Get a front row seat to the gorgeous pink and orange hues of the setting sun as you sail along the coast. You can also enjoy some snacks and drinks on board while you take in the views. There are a variety of sunset cruises available, from private charters to large party boats.

For an extra special experience, you can even take a sunset cruise on a classic schooner, which is a type of sailing vessel with two or more masts. The experience is unforgettable, and you’ll get to see some of the most stunning sunsets in the world.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt for a Key West fishing charter. You’ll get to experience the thrill of sport fishing while you soak in the beautiful views of the coast.

2. Visit the Hemingway Home and Museum

The Hemingway Home and Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Key West. It was the home of legendary author Ernest Hemingway from 1931 to 1940, and it has been preserved as a museum since then. Take a guided tour of the home and learn about Hemingway’s life and works. You can also explore the grounds and admire the six-toed cats that call the estate home.

The Hemingway Home and Museum is a great place to explore for any culture and literature enthusiast. It’s also a popular spot for photography, as the home and grounds provide a unique backdrop for photos.

The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and tours are available throughout the day. You can also purchase tickets in advance for a more convenient experience.

3. Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities in Key West. The park was a military fort during the Civil War, and you can still explore the historic ruins and learn about the fort’s history. The park also features a beach, picnic areas, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

You can also take a guided tour of the fort to learn more about the history and architecture. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, art shows, and festivals.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is open daily from 8am to sunset, and admission is free.

4. Visit the Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is a must-see for any animal lover. You’ll get to explore an underwater world of sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures. You can also take part in interactive activities, such as feeding the fish or touching a shark. There are also educational exhibits about different species that live in the ocean.

The aquarium is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and admission is affordable. You’ll also get to take home a souvenir of your visit.

5. Stroll Down Duval Street

Duval Street is the heart of Key West’s nightlife. You’ll find a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as live music performances. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and people watch, or to take part in the revelry. You can also take a guided tour of the area to learn more about the history of Key West.

Duval Street is also home to some of Key West’s most popular attractions, such as Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. There are also plenty of shops and boutiques to explore along the way.

Duval Street is open all day and night, and admission is free.

6. Enjoy the Beaches

Key West is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Smathers Beach is the largest beach in Key West, and it’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. You can also explore nearby islands such as Geiger Key and Sunset Key for a more secluded experience.

Fort Taylor Beach is another popular spot, and it’s known for its crystal clear water and white sand. You can also find plenty of seafood restaurants nearby for when you get hungry. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take part in a snorkeling tour to explore the coral reef.

Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a beach towel when you head out to the beach, and keep an eye out for sea creatures such as dolphins and sea turtles.

7. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a must-visit for any nature lover. You’ll get to explore a tropical garden filled with colorful butterflies, exotic plants, and other wildlife. It’s a great spot for taking photos, and you can even take a guided tour to learn more about the species that call the garden home.

The conservatory is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and admission is affordable. You can also purchase souvenirs at the gift shop during your visit.

8. Take a Trolley Tour

A trolley tour is a great way to explore Key West. You’ll get to see some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Mallory Square, and the Southernmost Point Buoy. You can even hop off the trolley to explore the city on foot.

Trolley tours are available throughout the day, and tickets are affordable. You can also purchase a pass for multiple days to get the best value.

9. Visit the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum

The Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum is a great spot for history buffs. You’ll get to explore the lighthouse and learn about its history, as well as the lives of the keepers who lived there. There are also interactive exhibits and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and admission is affordable. You can also take a guided tour of the lighthouse to learn more about the history and architecture.

10. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

A glass-bottom boat tour is a great way to explore the underwater world of Key West. You’ll get to see the coral reef and the colorful fish that call it home. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the marine life and the history of the area.

Glass-bottom boat tours are available throughout the day, and tickets are affordable. You can also purchase a pass for multiple days to get the best value.

11. Experience Key West’s Nightlife

Key West’s nightlife is renowned for its vibrant energy and eclectic mix of bars and clubs. You’ll find a variety of entertainment, from live music to karaoke bars. There are also plenty of nightclubs to explore, and the city is known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals.

Be sure to dress to impress, as many of the bars and clubs have dress codes. You can also explore the city’s hidden speakeasies, which are tucked away in alleyways and backstreets.

12. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Key West is known for its delicious seafood, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants to explore. From upscale eateries to casual seafood shacks, there is something for every palate and budget. You can also enjoy some of the city’s famous Cuban cuisine, which is a blend of Cuban and American flavors.

If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you can also take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the city’s favorite dishes. You can also explore the city’s various farmers’ markets to find fresh, locally-grown produce.

Conclusion

Key West is a unique and vibrant destination with something for everyone. From sun-drenched beaches to cultural attractions, there are plenty of things to do when you’re exploring Key West. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or family vacation, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful and diverse city of Key West.