13 Fun Things to Do in Key West, Florida
Welcome to the beautiful Key West!
Located at the southernmost point of Florida and accessible by plane, car, or boat, this small island has a lot to offer.
Personally, I lived there for around 3 months and still miss it dearly.
From its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters to its unique shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Key West.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation or just a relaxing getaway, here are 13 of the best things to do in Key West that will make your trip unforgettable. So pack your bags and let’s explore what this tropical paradise has waiting for you!
Map of the Best Stuff to Do in Key West
Free Things to Do in Key West
1. Take a picture at the Southernmost Point Buoy
This iconic red, white, and orange buoy is the perfect place to take pictures.
The Southernmost Point Buoy marks the southern tip of Key West and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in town. So make sure to check it out when you’re there!
Address: 1400 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
2. Browse the shops on Duval Street
Duval Street is home to some of Key West’s most interesting shops, restaurants and bars. From tourist souvenir stores to high-end boutiques, there’s something for everyone here.
Spend an afternoon exploring all that Duval Street has to offer and take some unique treasures back home with you.
3. Enjoy Mallory Square Dock at sunset (a great thing to do in Key West for couples)
Mallory Square Dock is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, where people gather every night to watch the beautiful sunset over the horizon.
The dock is surrounded by artists, musicians, street performers, and outside vendors who come together to create an amazing atmosphere for an unforgettable sunset experience.
Address: 420 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040
Other Top Things to Do in Key West
4. Spend a day at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is home to a beautiful beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The park also has great hiking and biking trails, as well as a historic fort that you can explore. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re looking for some fun in the sun!
Entry is $6 per vehicle.
Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
5. Enjoy a sunset sail on a classic schooner
Nothing beats watching the sunset over the horizon from one of Key West’s legendary schooners.
Take in some spectacular views while enjoying time at sea!
6. Spend a day at Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is an absolute must-see on any visit to Key West. The park is located 70 miles from the island and can only be reached by ferry aboard the Yankee Freedom or seaplane via Key West Seaplane Adventures.
It’s home to some of the most pristine beaches, amazing wildlife, and historic forts — all surrounded by crystal-clear waters that make this park a paradise. Don’t miss out on this unique adventure.
The ferry will cost you ~ $200 for adults, while the seaplane costs $400 for half day excursions and almost $700 for full day excursions. Note that ferry rides are 2.5 hours each way and seaplane trips are 40 minutes each way.
7. Learn about Key West’s history at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West for more than 10 years and the house he called home is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers a fascinating insight into one of America’s greatest writers, as well as a look at how life was in Key West during Hemingway’s time. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
Tickets are $18 for adults.
Address: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040
8. Go on a ghost tour
A lot of people don’t know this, but Key West is one of the most haunted places in the United States. To get a glimpse into its spooky past, join a ghost tour and explore some of the island’s most haunted sites.
9. Visit the Key West Aquarium (one of the best things to do in Key West with kids)
The Key West Aquarium provides an educational and entertaining experience for people of all ages. It offers up-close encounters with sea creatures such as sharks, stingrays, tarpon and turtles through interactive exhibits and informative tours.
This is an especially great attraction if you are visiting with kids.
Admission is $21 for adults and $12 for kids.
Address: 1 Whitehead St. Key West, Florida 33040
10. Go parasailing at Smathers Beach
Parasailing is a great way to get some amazing views of the Florida Keys while on vacation in Key West.
There are several companies offering to parasail near Smathers Beach and they offer everything from basic tandem rides to more advanced packages with photos and videos of your adventure.
Parasailing adventures typically cost $85 per person, but for a once in a lifetime experience, it’s worth it!
Address: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
11. Eat at Willie T’s for lunch
Willie T’s offers a casual, laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for lunch with friends. The menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and burgers — all made from fresh local ingredients.
This spot is famous for its unique decoration (thousands of dollar bills glued to the walls!) and is popular among locals and visitors alike. They offer some fantastic food at great prices.
Address: 525 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
12. Visit the Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory contains hundreds of butterflies from all around the world and provides a great opportunity for up-close encounters with these gorgeous creatures. You can even help feed the butterflies or take part in one of their educational programs.
Tickets cost $15 for adults, and there are discounts for military, seniors, and locals.
Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
13. Party the night away at Sloppy Joe’s Bar
Sloppy Joe’s Bar is one of Key West’s most famous night spots and has been a local favorite since 1933. Enjoy some delicious cocktails and sway to live music in one of the island’s most classic bars.
Address: 201 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Visiting Key West: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Key West accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes! Most of the streets and sidewalks in Key West are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, many attractions throughout the island offer handicap access and ramps.
What is the best way to get around Key West?
The most common way to get around Key West is by car, walking or scooter. However, there are also local buses and shuttles that provide transportation throughout the city.
Does Key West have a lot of wildlife to see?
Yes! The Florida Keys are home to an abundance of marine wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and much more. If you want to get up close with some of these creatures, many local tour companies offer boat tours and other experiences where you can spot them in their natural habitats.
What is the weather like in Key West?
Key West typically enjoys warm, sunny weather all year round. Temperatures usually range from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit (21-32 degrees Celsius) with occasional rainfalls during the summer months. It’s important to note that it can get very humid in Key West, so it’s best to bring light, breathable clothing with you.
There you have it — the 13 best things to do in Key West for an amazing time! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start planning your trip to this stunning destination.
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Camila Neves is a full-time solo traveler that believes the world is too small to stay in one place. She has called places like Key West, Alaska, and Brazil home and is now based in the South of France and dedicates her free time to exploring the region and writing on her travel blog, Cami Explores.
I could easily spend the entire day at Duval street. This is what I save those extra dollars for.
Exactly! Glad it resonates with you.
We enjoyed a couple of days in Key West with some snorkeling at Bahia Honda. It was wonderful and relaxing .
Such a perfect spot for relaxing!
Key West is on our short list of places to go. This guide was really helpful! I will definitely be saving it for future travel planning.
Happy to help have a part in your travel planning process.
Key West has been on my bucket list for a long time now! This seems like a great round-up of things to do – a ghost tour, some history, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Thank you for the inspiration!
Lots of variety here for sure!
My top thing to do when I visit Key West again is to meet all of Hemingway’s cats!
Yes!! I love that!
Wow! That Key West water looks amazing!
The turquoise water is unparalleled for sure!
I’ve never been to Key West but it’s on my list! Dry Tortugas seems like such a unique national park, and I’d love to visit Ernest Hemingway’s house!
Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime national park to visit!