Key West, Florida, is a treasure trove of unique experiences that cater to everyone’s interests. Whether you’re seeking beach side fun or a glimpse into the life of Ernest Hemingway, this destination is perfect for a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
With a plethora of attractions and events, Key West has something for everyone, and you can start your unforgettable journey right here!
Top Things To Do in Key West:
1. Have Fun at Beaches
Key West beaches are famous for their diverse appearance. If you are searching for some free things to do in Key West, beaches are your answer. Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach, Simonton Beach, and Smathers Beach are among the most popular because of their beautiful appearance and accessibility to various water sports like snorkeling and swimming. You’ll get more inspiration for these water sports in our next point!
2. Try Water Sports
Key West’s beaches offer more than just a place to swim. They are a gateway to thrilling adventures. From snorkeling to scuba diving, jet skiing to water sailing, various sports companies offer these exhilarating water sports to make your vacation truly unforgettable!
3. Fishing
If you want to spend time at the water but are not necessarily interested in these fast-water sports, then you’ll be able to do the activity of fishing leisurely at different key west beaches and fishing ports.
From reef to deep-sea fishing, you’ll find many fishing charters if you do some simple research. You can choose based on your preference and accessibility.
Most fishing charters have licenses and provide equipment. This will save you time and money if you want to focus on fishing during your vacation.
4. Guided Ghost Tours
Want to do something unique while experiencing the beauty of the town? Booking a ghost tour, a guided walk through the city’s most haunted spots, is among the most popular Key West activities!! It’ll be thrilling and may induce eerie feelings while you explore some of the most memorable stories to take back with you!
Remember to look for knowledgeable guides and places that align with your interests. Also, review different sites and the comments of the reviewers so that you do not waste your money on an uninteresting tour. East Martello Fort, Robert the Doll Museum, and Key West Cemetery are some of the most mysterious sites!
5. Road Trip Shuttle
Want to see the most popular Key West attractions and places? Hop on a road trip shuttle, a guided tour that takes you to the top sights and provides you with the most information in less time! The Florida Keys Nature & History Tour, the Key West Conch Train Tour, and other similar events in Key West are quite popular among visitors!
6. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home
On the famous Key West activities list, you are most likely to be recommended to go to The Hemingway Home and Museum, and it is a special recommendation, too! Who wouldn’t like to explore the place where one of the most popular classic writers in the world lived? The place is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.
7. Sightseeing at Duval Street
Among the most popular Key West attractions, Duval Street offers a beautiful sightseeing opportunity for anyone! Going with family? Get the iconic key lime pie from Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe. Want a romantic day with your partner? Taste the fantastic coffee at Cuban Coffee Queen!
8. Take part in the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
You might be wondering, what is a sunset celebration? It’s an art festival that starts about two hours before sunset. It happens every night and can be joyful for everybody who’d like to appreciate their time in Key West and on Earth.
The view from Mallory Square is spectacular. Both locals and visitors gather there to soak in the warmth and touch of nature. It can get a little crowded, but it’s worth it!
9. Visit Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
Another Key West attraction around Duval Street is the serene plant, bird, and butterfly conservatory. Here, nature lovers can find different species of plants (more than 20 bird species, actually) that will give them a peaceful time. The conservatory is a lush, tropical garden filled with colorful butterflies and exotic plants, providing a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
If you are on a family vacation, kids would especially love to look at wonderful butterflies and birds while learning about nature.
10. Go to Fantasy Fest
If you visit the island in October, you’ll be advantageous to this fabulous Key West event! Fantasy Fest is a 10-day festival that gathers people from around the globe with creative imagination and an interest in costuming, parades, and more. It’s a vibrant and unique event that showcases the spirit and creativity of Key West!
To End
Key West has made a name for itself on the list of the best places to spend vacations, and that’s because it’s not only ideal for exploring but also has a rich history!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is Key West called Key West?
It’s a misnomer. Key West got its name from the Spanish language. “Key” comes from the Spanish word “Cayo.” It is associated with a small island. Since Key West is in the westernmost part of the Florida Keys, it has the direction “West” added to it, making the full name “Key West.”
Q. Why is Key West so expensive?
Because Key West is a small island, property prices are high, which increases the rates of hotels, restaurants, and other places. So, yes, Key West can be pretty expensive, but if you stick to free things and attractions like scrolling down to the beach, sightseeing, and more, you can also make your Key West trip budget-friendly.
Q. Is Key West family-friendly?
Rest assured, Key West is a haven for families. It offers a wide range of fun activities for both kids and adults. From beach play to visits to historic sites, souvenir shopping, and memorable tours, the island promises fun for the whole family!
