tourist attractions in key west florida

Key West   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Like other vacation locales in Florida, Key West offers plenty of ways for nature lovers to enjoy its coastal seat, including several clean beaches, sailing and kayaking tours, fishing charters, and eco-tours like snorkeling excursions with tropical

• All Things To Do

Duval Street Duval Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Fuel your day of sightseeing with strong, sweet espresso from Cuban Coffee Queen. There are multiple locations near or along Duval Street, including the original truck by the waterfront. If it's a hot day (which it always is), get an iced cafe con leche with coffee ice cubes. - Lyssa Goldberg

A visit to Key West isn't complete without taking a stroll down Duval Street. Lined with restaurants, bars, art galleries and souvenir shops, this popular thoroughfare stretches a little more than a mile and is near many of the city's most well-known attractions. Grab a slice of Key lime pie from Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe a few blocks over, sign up for a ghost tour or catch some live music at the legendary Sloppy Joe's bar. Best of all, you can people-watch here free of charge.

Mallory Square Mallory Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A Mallory Square sunset is a must during your trip, but don't miss out on sunset views at dinner, too. Plan ahead and book a table at a waterfront restaurant like nearby Hot Tin Roof or Latitudes . These reservations can fill up months in advance. - Lyssa Goldberg

For a great view of the Key West sunset, head to Mallory Square at the northwest tip of the island. During the Sunset Celebration (a free, nightly arts festival that starts about two hours before sunset), this is one of the best spots on the island to catch the sun's last moments and revel in the end of the day. But because it's one of the best vantage points for watching a sunset, it's also extremely crowded, especially with cruise passengers when ships are in port.

Southernmost Point Southernmost Point free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you're here, laugh to yourself about the self-proclaimed southernmost everything, from the historic Southernmost House mansion and Southernmost Beach Cafe to the Southernmost Grocery Store & Deli and Southernmost Trolley Stop gift shop. - Lyssa Goldberg

One of the most popular things to do in Key West is to snap a photo with the colorful buoy marking the southernmost point of the United States. Sitting at the intersection of Whitehead and South streets, the striped buoy is just 90 miles north of Cuba. Next to it, you'll find a plaque dedicated to Cubans who have lost their lives trying to reach America, and a plaque detailing the history of the Black community on the Southernmost Point.

Popular Tours

Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music and Hors D'oeuvres

(2578 reviews)

from $ 79.95

Half-Day Cruise from Key West with Kayaking and Snorkeling

(1380 reviews)

from $ 122.07

Key West Sunset Dinner Cruise with Tropical Buffet Dinner

(1144 reviews)

from $ 92.95

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Combine this stop with the Key West Lighthouse across the street. Then, visit nearby Blue Heaven in the quirky, colorful Bahama Village neighborhood for the best backyard vibes (and Key lime pie) in town. - Lyssa Goldberg

Literary icon and journalist Ernest Hemingway is one of Key West's best-known and well-loved "freshwater Conchs" (a resident who was not born on the island). His former home – which he lived in for less than 10 years, but owned until his death in 1961 – is located in Old Town and is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Literature buffs take note: Hemingway penned parts of some of his most famous works, including "A Farewell to Arms" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls," in this very residence. The grand house itself is interesting, as it was one of the first in Key West to have indoor plumbing and a pool. Inside, the rooms contain memorabilia about Hemingway's life and work.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

For the cleanest beach and best waters in Key West, you should head for the westernmost point of the island to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. There, you can sunbathe, hike, bike, fish and get a dose of history all in one place. Recent visitors noted the clear waters, making it an ideal snorkeling spot, but travelers also warn that the sand is not soft and that beach shoes are needed to traverse the rocky terrain safely. While the beach might not be as powdery soft as some other Florida beaches , it does offer some great snorkeling opportunities, according to recent visitors. You can either bring your own or rent equipment on-site. Along with your water gear, pack some food and charcoal: This beach has plenty of barbecue grills.

If you get tired of hanging out beachside, stop by the historic fort located within the park. The fort was built in the mid-1800s and was used during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Daily guided tours are available at 11 a.m. or you can follow the self-guided tour.

Take a Key West boat tour Take a Key West boat tour

When you're not admiring the waters that surround Key West from the beach, enjoy them from the deck of a boat. Several companies offer sailing, snorkeling and kayaking tours, not to mention sunset cruises and fishing charters .  Danger Charters , Classic Harbor Line  and  Sebago Key West  all receive favorable reviews from recent travelers. There are also several tours designed exclusively for dolphin watching (the Florida Keys are home to bottlenose dolphins year-round, along with six other dolphin species that pass through the area) – Wild About Dolphins and Honest Eco  are among the most popular, according to recent travelers.

If you sign up for a  snorkeling tour , you'll likely sail to the Florida Keys Reef – the only living coral barrier reef in North America. Located approximately 6 miles off the coast of Key West, the reef has shallow waters ideal for beginners. Travelers can also sign up for kayaking tours and paddle through the uninhabited mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge.

Smathers Beach Smathers Beach free

Key West isn't known for its beaches. However, the largest and most bustling one on this island is Smathers Beach, which is particularly popular during spring break. Recent travelers say the beach is clean with calm waters, plenty of shade under the palms and amenities, including bathrooms, food trucks, and chair and umbrella rentals. Visitors also say the views are great and praise the beach's soft white sand. In recent months, several visitors noted an abundance of sargassum (smelly seaweed).

You'll find Smathers Beach on the southern shore of the island, stretching half a mile along the Atlantic Ocean and State Road A1A. It's close to the airport, which can be a pro if you enjoy watching the planes take off and land, or a con if you're not a fan of the noise.

Harry S. Truman Little White House Harry S. Truman Little White House

Originally built by the U.S. Navy in 1890, the Little White House served as naval command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, and also played roles in both World Wars and the Cold War. From 1946 through 1952, President Harry Truman used this house as his winter vacation home and because he spent 175 days of his presidency here, it became known as the Little White House. The name is fitting: Since Truman's days, many other presidents have also vacationed here, including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. Today, the Little White House has been restored and turned into a museum. Exhibits document Key West's role in naval conflicts, as well as the house's history – the Marshall Plan and Truman Doctrine were both discussed here.

Recent travelers highly recommend a visit to the Little White House, especially for self-identified history buffs. The guides and exhibits both earn high marks from reviewers. The only gripe among recent visitors concerned the admission cost, which some felt was too high for a one-hour experience.

Key West Snorkel Experience with Live Music, Cocktails & More!

(1311 reviews)

from $ 44.95

Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure in Key West

(1842 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Florida Keys Reef Snorkel & Sail Adventure

(430 reviews)

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum

If you can fend off the claustrophobia and don't mind heights, the climb up the tiny and constricting 88 spiral steps to the top of the Key West Lighthouse is worth it for the views, say recent visitors. Once you're up there though, be patient: According to past travelers, the viewing balcony at the top is very narrow. After taking in the views, take a look around the keeper's quarters, which have been around since 1887. The cozy house is now a museum that surveys the history of lighthouses in the Keys, with photographs and various artifacts. The gift shop is also a great place to find regional art.

One ticket gets you access to both the lighthouse and the museum. Admission for adults costs $17; kids ages 7 to 18 get in for $9, while children younger than 7 can enter for free. Discounts are available when you purchase your tickets online. Visitors are divided on whether the admission price is worth the local history provided in the museum, but most agree that the panoramic views seen from the top of the lighthouse are unbeatable. The lighthouse and museum are open daily (except Christmas) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Situated across the street from the  Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , you can easily visit both sites in one day. Reviewers say there is some street parking, but most recommend walking in from town.

Conch Tour Train Conch Tour Train

Operating for more than 50 years, the Conch Tour Train is an ideal option for travelers interested in learning the history of Key West, but who don't have a lot of time to spend meandering through different attractions. This 75-minute narrated tour loops through Key West's famous Old Town, focusing on the city's rich history. The tour departs from Front Street and makes three stops along the way for visitors to grab refreshments and stretch their legs, and then wraps at Mallory Square . Passengers can also choose to hop off at a stop to visit nearby attractions and catch a later train.

Recent visitors praised the excellent tour guides, calling them knowledgeable and entertaining. They also said the train was a great way to see Old Town while giving your feet a break from walking. While some travelers thought the tickets were a bit overpriced, others appreciated the tour's convenient hop-on, hop-off structure.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

If you love butterflies, this is the spot for you. The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is filled with 50 to 60 species of colorful winged creatures that seemingly float through the air in an enclosed, glass-domed aviary. Plant enthusiasts will also find much they'll love here, as the butterflies share their home with a wide variety of plants, along with more than 20 species of birds including two famed flamingos.

Past visitors highly recommend a stop here, describing the conservatory as a serene place to get away from the crowds or impending rain. Those traveling with kids said the kaleidoscopic butterflies and birds were a hit with the younger crowd, and the outing proved educational, too, thanks to a short film on butterfly metamorphosis.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Whether you're interested in colonial furniture, period architecture, tropical greenery or artist and naturalist John James Audubon, you'll find a host of curiosities at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens. Located in Old Town a block away from Duval Street , the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens dates back to the 1840s. The house was built by Captain John Huling Geiger, but it's named after well-known ornithologist John James Audubon, who visited the Keys in 1832. Twenty-eight of his works can be found in the house. While you're here, take a look at the house's decor and then head outside to the lush and colorful garden, which includes orchids, bromeliads and other tropical plants. For some, the garden was their favorite part of the house, noting that the vibrantly colored flowers make for prime photography subjects. Other reviewers remarked on the careful restoration of the house and its period-specific antiques.

When you walk into the house, you'll be greeted by a staff member who will offer a brief introduction. Many visitors remark on how friendly and knowledgeable the docents are. From there, you can embark on your own self-guided tour. The Audubon House is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Admission for adults costs $15; students (of any age) pay $10; tickets for kids ages 6 to 12 cost $5; children younger than 6 get in for free. You can purchase Audubon prints (and other souvenirs) in the on-site gift shop. For more information, visit the official website .

Key West Aquarium Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is proof that good things come in small packages. More small-scale than your typical aquarium, this indoor-outdoor attraction is a historic facility that first opened in 1935. Although it might be lacking in elaborate exhibits, this one-story aquarium still has a good range of creatures for the entire family to see. Take your kids to the touch pools to see if a sea cucumber is as slimy as it looks. The museum also hosts several tours and presentations throughout the day. If you're lucky, you may get to feed a gentle nurse shark if you attend the shark presentation.

The aquarium is home to several rescued sea turtles that are native to Florida waters.

Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

(1622 reviews)

from $ 60.00

Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

(1028 reviews)

from $ 55.60

Key West Sunset Sail: Dolphin Watching, Wine, and Tapas

(475 reviews)

from $ 89.95

Higgs Beach Higgs Beach free

Located on the south side of the island along the Atlantic Ocean, Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park encompasses 16.5 acres of oceanfront, two piers (one on each end), a Civil War-era fort and the site of what's believed to be the only known African refugee cemetery in the U.S. Beachgoers can enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or paddle boarding in the ocean, plus land activities ranging from sunbathing to beach volleyball, tennis and pickleball.

Higgs Beach is known for its fine, white sand and shallow water, making it an ideal beach for families with small children. However, when you first enter the water, the sand can be rocky, recent travelers warn, so bring water shoes. You can avoid the rocks entirely by walking down the Reynolds Street Pier past the rocky shore to a ladder, where you can step down into the water. Beach chairs and umbrella rentals are available, or you can set up shop at one of several tiki huts, permanent wooden umbrellas, or picnic tables with barbecues. The park also offers visitors a bike path, a children's playground, a dog park, plus public restrooms and showers.

Key West Cemetery Key West Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For more of the macabre, take an evening Ghosts & Gravestones tour to learn about the spooky tales of other Key West sites, where you'll meet the legendary (but haunted) Robert the Doll. – Lyssa Goldberg

Located in Old Town, the Key West Cemetery has been around since 1847 and is well worth at least a walk-through. The quirkiness of the city's residents extends even to the grave. Tombstones in this 19-acre cemetery don't bear the typical inscriptions. Instead, you'll find epitaphs that reflect the island's casual lifestyle. Some of the more well-known inscriptions include "I told you I was sick" and "I'm just resting my eyes." One tombstone for a captain is actually topped with a ship's mast. Notable Conchs buried here include Ellen Mallory, whose name you'll recognize from Mallory Square ; William Curry, Florida's first millionaire; and "Sloppy" Joe Russell, who was Ernest Hemingway's fishing guide and a bartender at the famed Sloppy Joe's bar on Duval Street . 

Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Key West First Legal Rum Distillery free

Key West's First Legal Rum Distillery opened its doors in 2012 and is the first since the end of Prohibition. Here, visitors can tour a working rum distillery, learn how to make a killer mojito or try a free sample of the establishment's specialty white and dark rums, which are made with Florida cane sugar and infused with flavors of coconut, vanilla creme brulee and Key lime. The distillery also sells flasks, shot glasses and rum cake.

Past visitors praised the distillery's delicious drinks and informative staff members, but noted that the tour was limited to one room. Even so, many recommended visiting for the wide selection of rums and rum drinks alone (including piña coladas).

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center free

With more than 6,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery center seeks to inspire visitors to preserve the marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys and enjoy this natural resource responsibly. Here, guests can learn about the native plants and animals of the Florida Keys through exhibits highlighting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, four national wildlife refuges and three national parks, including Dry Tortugas, which is on an island about 70 miles from Key West.

Visitors can watch a 20-minute movie about the Keys' fragile ecosystems and then explore the center on a self-paced tour. Staff and volunteers are also on-site to answer questions. Notable exhibits include a replica of NOAA's Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world, and a spotlight on the long maritime history of shipwrecks inside the sanctuary's waters. After completing renovations in late 2022, there are even more hands-on activities, such as a mangrove exhibit where guests can play animal noises and guess which animal made the sound, an area with microscopes so you can watch coral close-up, and a paddleboard photo-op that looks like you’re paddling through the mangroves. The center has been certified by KultureCity as a sensory inclusive facility for people with sensory sensitivities; it offers a separate room where people can take a break from the exhibits. Sensory kits are also available.

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20 Best Things To Do In Key West, FL You Shouldn’t Miss

January 6, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

There are so many exciting and unique things to do in Key West, Florida. This town is found at the southern tip of the Florida Keys and is known for its nightlife, entertainment, and relaxing island vibes.

Driving down from Miami to Key West is one of the best Florida road trips . You will pass many beautiful sights along the way!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Key West!

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

• Dolphin Watching And Snorkeling Eco Tour (Top pick!)
• Schooner Sunset Sail (2 hours)
• Reef Snorkel From Key West (Includes breakfast and mimosas)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great way to see the city)

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

• Margaritaville Beach House Key West (Modern mid-range)
• Blue Marlin Motel (Affordable in downtown)
• Hampton Inn Key West (Waterfront with pool)
• Wicker Guesthouse (Great location!)

Along with a party atmosphere, Key West offers a lot of history and adventures. Whether you are here for a day trip , weekend getaway , or even longer, there are plenty of fun Key West activities to keep everyone entertained.

Are you a history buff? Explore the home of a great American author or the winter getaways of former U.S. Presidents! Maybe you want to live life more on the edge? Key West is filled with dives and rentals that will keep you going!

This Florida beach town is perfect for everyone in the family, and this list will help you decide what to do in Key West, Florida!

If you are looking for places to stay in Key West, there are a ton of cute Airbnbs and hotels that range from budget to luxury !

Before you plan your trip, make sure to check out The Best Times To Visit The Keys where we break down each month and talk all things weather!

Get a Drink on Duval Street

It’s not a trip to Key West if you don’t spend time on Duval Street! This lively and colorful area is one of the most popular things to do in Key West for adults.

Make sure to check out the best bars and nightlife in Key West!

This is the best place in Key West to take in some sights and enjoy local food and drinks. You will also enjoy the sounds of live music and street performers while you embrace the city! This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!

The bar crawling scene is notorious on Duval and is a great way to spend a day or two. Even if you don’t drink, you can come for the fun atmosphere. Hanging out on Duval Street is easily one of the best things to do in Key West at night .

Sloppy Joe’s Bar is a staple in Key West and is a great stop for a drink or history. It has been around since 1937 and many famous people have ordered a drink here. It was allegedly Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar. They even have a “Papa” Hemingway look-alike contest every year.

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Celebrate Sunset at Mallory Square

Mallory Square is one of the most notable Key West attractions! This location is famous for its beautiful Florida sunsets and is the perfect place to unwind from your busy day.

Located on the water in the Old Town, Mallory Square is full of family fun. The Square has shops and restaurants that the whole family can enjoy!

The fun doesn’t stop there! While you’re walking through the Square, you will enjoy the entertainment of musicians and street performers, and you can even buy something unique from a street vendor!

Make sure to come for the nightly Sunset Celebration. This tradition has been happening for decades and should not be missed! Crowds fill the Square to watch the sun sink over the Gulf and watch street performers such as jugglers and magicians. This is one of the best free things to do in Key West !

Tour Harry S. Truman’s Little White House

You can learn a little bit about American history by stopping into Harry Truman’s Little White House. This is Florida’s only presidential museum and is one of the best places to visit in Key West for American history.

The home was built in 1890 and was originally used as housing for naval officers. During his presidency, Harry Truman used this house in Key West as his winter getaway when D.C. got too cold to bear. He use the house from 1946 through 1952.

It may be named after President Truman, but he is not the only president to seek the warm weather of Key West. Presidents Taft, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Carter, and Clinton have all visited as well.

For $20 per adult and $10 per child, you can tour the house and the grounds and see how the presidents lived while they were visiting Key West.

Book Here: Truman Little White House: Key West

Visit the Ernest Hemingway House

Another place to visit in Key West for history buffs is the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. Nestled just a block from Duval street, the Hemingway House is a great way to take in some beauty and local history.

The beautiful Spanish Colonial-style mansion is full of the famous writer’s personal items, historic furnishings, photographs, paintings, and more. This is a must-see Key West destination for anyone who loves history, architecture, or literature. Make sure to put this on your list when doing a Florida Keys Road Trip!

Hemingway and his wife were gifted the home in 1931 from his uncle-in-law. They lived here from 1931 to 1939 and the deed stayed in his name until his death in 1961.

As you walk through the grounds, you will see stunning decor, lush gardens, and even some feline friends prowling around! These famous cats are descendants of cats that roamed the grounds while Hemingway himself lived in the house. Interestingly, they all have six toes like their ancestors.

Book Here: Key West Conch Train Tour

Find Great Views at the Key West Lighthouse

If you’re going to pop into the Hemmingway House, you might as well cross the street and take in the sights at the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum!

Lighthouses always bring an extra bit of history, and this one is no exception. This black and white structure was built in 1848 to protect ships from the surrounding shallow water and coral reefs.

If you take a tour of the lighthouse, you will learn about the first lighthouse keeper, who was a woman, and you will see historic photos from when the lighthouse was operational.

Climb 88 stairs to the top of the 65-foot lighthouse to be greeted by amazing sights. You will have a 360-degree view of the island of Key West and the surrounding ocean! Don’t forget your camera!

Dive to Discover Vandenberg

Key West is one of the best places in Florida for scuba diving . One of the most stunning dives you can take is down to the Vandenberg.

This retired Navy ship was sunk seven miles off the coast of Key West in 2009 to become an artificial reef to help aquatic wildlife. The skeletal ship can be explored 150 feet below the surface if you have an up-to-date scuba certification.

The ship is found in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary which offers many other places to dive. You can find North America’s only coral barrier reef and many shipwrecks. Some attractions are not as deep underwater as the Vandenburg and can be explored by snorkeling if you are not scuba certified.

Book Here: Key West: SNUBA Experience

Admire Wildlife at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Key West with kids who love animals and nature. This is truly a tropical paradise that will cause visitors of all ages to gaze in wonder.

If you like butterflies, this place will be your heaven! There are between fifty and sixty species of butterfly housed here and over twenty species of exotic birds. Stroll through the climate-controlled, enclosed habitat and try to spot as many creatures as possible.

The conservatory has a learning center where you can learn all about the butterfly’s anatomy, life cycles, and migratory patterns. There is also an art gallery where you can see tons of art inspired by the butterflies and birds of the conservatory.

The Nature Conservatory is located right near Duval Street and is in the heart of Key West.

Taste Test at Some Rum Distilleries

Key West is known for its rum and the Rum Runner is said to be the island’s official drink. This cocktail dates back to the 1950s and is named after the rum runners who would illegally bring alcohol to the U.S. during Prohibition.

If you are interested in the production of rum, or just drinking it, there are actually three locations in Key West that may be of interest. Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery, Papa’s Pilar, and Key West Distilling are all excellent places to pop in and learn about the distilling process of delicious rum and other liquors.

Each distillery has its own unique taste, so you have to tour each one, right? These distilleries are also a great place to learn how to whip up some new recipes!

Take a Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

If you have the time, taking a tour to Dry Tortugas National Park is worth it! Exploring Dry Tortugas is definitely one of the most unique things to do near Key West. If you love checking off the U.S. National Parks , make time for this activity.

Technically Dry Tortugas is not on the island of Key West. It’s seventy miles off the coast, and while it’s not the easiest excursion to get to, it is so worth the trip.

Once on the island, you are free to explore the grounds, relax by the beach, and even go snorkeling! It is a fantastic opportunity to take in history and adventure at the same time!

The biggest attraction of the park is Fort Jefferson, which was built between 1846 and 1875. Take a guided tour to learn the complete history of this place and see how soldiers lived.

Unfortunately, visiting Dry Tortugas is not the cheapest or easiest thing to do. To get here, you have three options.

You can take the ferry for $190 per adult and $135 per child. The seaplane is the fastest and most scenic option, but it will set you back anywhere from $361 to $634 per person depending on how long you plan to stay. You can also charter a boat or take your own.

If you want to stay longer than a day trip, this is one of the best places to camp in Florida .

Book Here: Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West

Learn at the Coast Guard Museum

American history can be found all over Key West, especially tied into the ocean. One of the best Key West activities to entertain history buffs is the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum.

Take a tour of the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham and learn all about what life was like on board while it was in service and after. This ship was in service from 1936 to 1988 and helped save lives during both World Wars.

You will be immersed in testimonials from those who served aboard. You will also see equipment, weapons, and uniforms used by the servicemen at the time.

Step Back in Time at the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

The Audubon House is a beautiful historic site, allowing us to catch a glimpse of the wealthy lifestyle of the mid-1800s. Built by Captain John Huling Geiger in 1840, the home was made to fit his family’s wealthy lifestyle in the heart of Key West.

In 1958, the house was saved from demolition and renovated to reflect its heyday. The house has become a beautiful destination for tourists to enjoy. Inside, you will find decor and art dating back to the home’s beginnings.

The outside is just as intriguing as the inside. The gardens are landscaped with picturesque flowers and greenery. Stroll the winding paths and admire the blooming flowers and tropical plants.

Book Here: Key West Historic Homes and Island History – Small Group Walking Tour

Stroll the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

Taking a walk down the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk is one of the top things to do in Key West because there is so much to experience along the way. The seaport is lined with restaurants and happy hour’s to enjoy. There are also great gift shops and picturesque, Instagram spots.

If you make your way down the Harbor Walk, you are sure to find fishermen coming in with their catches of the day and some of the expensive private boats parked by wealthy people from around the world.

This area has been a cultural and economic hotspot for almost two hundred years! This is a great place for a relaxing walk away from the larger tourist crowds, even more so when you are taking in the sunset! Bring your significant other for one of the most romantic things to do in Key West for couples

Rent a Kayak or Jet Ski

Seeing Key West from the water is such a fun experience, and it can be yours with a simple jet ski or kayak rental. You are in Florida; you have to get out on the water!

If you prefer high-octane water sports then there are a variety of locations you can choose from to rent jet skis and tour around the island. Get your heart pumping as you zoom through the bright, blue ocean water.

Kayaking is also a popular way to explore the surrounding ocean waters. Take a solo or a tandem kayak beyond the break of the waves and enjoy a relaxing day out on the water. This is a great way to spot wildlife as well. There are also guided tours to take that are both entertaining and informative!

Book Here: Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider

Book Here: Florida Keys: Key West Kayak Eco Tour with Nature Guide

Enjoy Nature at the Key West Garden Club

The beautiful grounds of the Key West Garden Club are stunning for so many reasons.

This garden has the goal of teaching guests about tropical gardening. You will be amazed as you along the brick paths and through gorgeous courtyards all the while surrounded by amazing greenery and colorful flowers. There is a pretty water lily pond and waterfall as well.

Within the garden, you will also find the West Martello Tower. Built in 1862 during the Civil War, this tower is now listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The Garden Club also sits right near Higgs Beach. The edges of the gardens overlook the ocean making for a serene experience.

This attraction is great for the wallet, too, because this is one of the best free things to do in Key West, Florida!

Take an Old Town Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tours have always been a popular way to take in scenery and history while traveling.

Luckily, Key West has implemented Old Town Trolley Tours into their city so you can see all of the hidden and not so hidden gems this city has to offer!

The trolley is a great way to see a lot of the city without having to walk all over, especially in the Florida heat. If you have kids, this is an easy way to see the city without fear of them getting lost or tired.

If you want to add a bit of a spook factor to your trip, take the trolley after dark when it transforms into the Ghosts and Gravestone’s Tour where you can learn about the creepy history and present of Key West!

Book Here: Key West: Old Town Trolley 12-Stop Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Book Here: Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West

Dine at Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier is one of the best restaurants in Key West , not just for the food, but for the view!

Located at the Ocean Key Resort near Mallory Square, Sunset Pier is everything you can expect from Key West. Dine at a colorful table right on the pier and look out over the water.

They do not take reservations, so make sure you get there in time to snag a seat for the sunset. The seafood is delicious, especially the seasonal oysters!

Since it is part of the resort, there is much less bustle than at Duval Street or Mallory Square, but the atmosphere and views are everything you would expect from Key West!

Take a Selfie at the Southernmost Point

One of the best attractions in Key West is the one that can only be seen here. Did you know Key West is the southernmost point of the continental U.S.?

At the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street, you’ll find a big, brightly colored buoy that marks this claim to fame. The buoy was placed in 1983 and has been a popular tourist spot since. If you want to take a picture with the monument, make sure to get there early because the line can get long.

There are also plenty of other things to do in this area. Take a picture of the Southernmost House Hotel with its pretty, pastel colors or eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

Book Here:  Key West: History and Culture Southernmost Walking Tour

Try Key Lime Pie

You cannot come to the Florida Keys and miss an opportunity to eat some genuine key lime pie! No one knows exactly when or where this Southern delicacy was first created, but the first written recipe dates back to the early 1930s.

Key West offers the perfect climate for growing key lime trees and the famous pie is the signature dessert here. Almost all restaurants have some sort of version for you to try. If you want to do a tasting to find your favorite, you can check out our list of best places to get key lime pie in Key West .

Key lime pie is a light and refreshing dessert with a crumbly graham cracker crust and a fluffy, sweet, and tart filling. Pie is not the only way to enjoy key limes. You can try key lime ice cream, fudge, cocktails, and more! Satisfy your sweet tooth with the best of Key West desserts!

Book Here:   Key West: 3-Hour Guided Bicycle Tour with Key Lime Pie

Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park at the southern tip of the island is one of the best activities in Key West for the whole family. If you have the time, this is an awesome place to spend a couple of hours relaxing.

Explore the Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor and learn about the significance of this location. Come for one of the monthly historic reenactments to see history come alive.

The beach here is one of the best beaches in Key West , especially for snorkeling. Just off the beach, you will find amazing tropical marine life. Don’t have snorkel gear? You can rent some at Chickee Hut Beach Rentals. You can also get umbrellas, chairs, and rafts here.

Bring water shoes to protect your feet from the coral beach. This is a great place for fishing and birdwatching, too. Stop by the Cayo Hueso Café for a snack.

Relax at Smathers Beach

If you want more beach time, head to Smathers Beach . While it is a manmade beach with imported sand, it is just as beautiful as any of the natural beaches in Florida .

This is the largest beach in Key West and has a half-mile of soft sand. This beach is known for its clear water and calm waves. It is the perfect place to swim with your kids. This is also a great place for snorkeling , parasailing, and playing beach volleyball.

This beach is free to access, so it should be on your list of best places to go in Key West if you are looking to save money. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit!

There are so many fun things to do in Key West that everyone can enjoy! It’s a location rooted in fun and relaxation, so it is virtually impossible not to have a good time!

There is history and adventure sprinkled throughout all of Key West. That coupled with the natural beauty of the island is what keeps tourists coming back year after year.

Add some of these locations to your list of places to visit in Florida and your next trip will surely be a vacation you will never forget.

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