Key West is the southernmost point of the continental United States and one of the most colorful destinations in the Caribbean. This small island packs a big personality, with pastel cottages, palm-lined streets and sunsets that seem to stop time. Known for its laid-back spirit and creative soul, Key West has been home to artists, writers and dreamers for centuries. Whether you want to snorkel coral reefs or stroll through historic Old Town, here are the best things to do in Key West, Florida.
1. Explore Historic Old Town Key West
Old Town Key West is the heart of the island, where gingerbread houses, white picket fences and swaying palms line narrow streets. Start your day on Duval Street, a lively stretch filled with boutiques, art galleries and open-air cafes. Stop by landmarks like the Key West Lighthouse and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where six-toed cats still roam the writer’s former residence. Strolling through Old Town offers a glimpse into Key West’s past while capturing the island’s playful and carefree spirit.
2. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
No visit to Key West is complete without stepping inside the iconic Spanish Colonial home of Ernest Hemingway. Built in the 1850s and surrounded by lush gardens, the house preserves the author’s life and legacy. You can see his writing studio, vintage furnishings and famous descendants of his beloved polydactyl cats. Hemingway wrote several of his greatest works here and wandering through his home feels like stepping into one of his stories.
3. Watch the Sunset at Mallory Square
When the sun begins to sink, all of Key West heads to Mallory Square for the nightly Sunset Celebration. Street performers, musicians and local artists gather along the waterfront, filling the air with laughter, music and applause. As the sky turns orange and pink, sailboats glide by in silhouette, creating one of the most photographed scenes in Florida. Grab a drink, browse local crafts and enjoy the energy of this island tradition that perfectly captures the Key West lifestyle.
4. Take a Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour
Key West is surrounded by clear turquoise water and home to North America’s only living coral reef. Set sail on a catamaran and glide across the Atlantic to reach prime snorkeling spots teeming with marine life. Dive into the water to see schools of tropical fish, sea turtles and vibrant coral gardens beneath the surface. Back on board, enjoy a cool drink and soak up the sea breeze as you sail back toward the harbor. For ocean lovers, this is one of the top things to do in Key West.
5. Visit the Southernmost Point
Marked by a brightly painted buoy, the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S.A. is one of Key West’s most iconic photo spots. Located at the corner of Whitehead and South Streets, this landmark sits just 90 miles from Cuba. Arrive early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the crowds and capture the perfect picture with turquoise waters as your backdrop.
6. Discover Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
If you are looking for a mix of history and relaxation, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is the place to go. This Civil War–era fortress overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and offers guided tours that explore its role in protecting the Florida coast. Afterward, spread out a towel on the beach, go for a swim or snorkel near the rocky shoreline. The park’s combination of history, nature and scenery makes it one of the best things to do in Key West for families and couples alike.
7. Taste Key West’s Flavors
Key West’s dining scene is as vibrant as its sunsets. Indulge in the island’s signature dessert, Key lime pie or try conch fritters, fresh-caught grouper and shrimp tacos. Duval Street and the Historic Seaport are packed with lively restaurants and tiki bars where you can enjoy local seafood and tropical cocktails. Whether you are sampling rum at a local distillery or dining with ocean views, the flavors of Key West reflect the island’s Caribbean influences and laid-back charm.
8. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Step into a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of butterflies, exotic birds and blooming orchids at the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. This glass-enclosed sanctuary is a peaceful escape from the bustle of downtown. Watch butterflies flutter overhead and marvel at colorful species from around the world. It is a favorite stop for families and anyone who appreciates nature’s beauty.
9. Explore Key West’s Maritime Heritage
Learn about the island’s seafaring history at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum and the Key West Aquarium. Both are located near Mallory Square and bring the city’s maritime legacy to life. The museum recreates the days when wreck salvaging was Key West’s most profitable industry, while the aquarium offers up-close encounters with tropical fish, stingrays and sharks. These attractions make for a fascinating journey through the island’s connection to the sea.
10. Ride the Conch Train
A ride on the famous Conch Train is one of the most fun things to do in Key West, especially for first-time visitors. This open-air sightseeing train has been touring the island since 1958 and offers a narrated journey through its history and highlights. You will pass landmarks such as the Hemingway House, Audubon House and the Southernmost Point while hearing entertaining stories about pirates, poets and presidents who once called Key West home.
11. Spot Dolphins on a Cruise
Set out on a dolphin-watching cruise to see wild bottlenose dolphins playing in their natural habitat. Many tours combine dolphin encounters with snorkeling stops in calm, shallow waters. Seeing these playful creatures leaping beside the boat is a memory you will never forget and the calm seas around Key West make it a great activity for all ages.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Key West?
The top things to do in Key West include exploring Old Town, watching the sunset at Mallory Square and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. You can snorkel coral reefs, sail on a catamaran or relax at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. For a taste of island flavor, try Key lime pie, ride the Conch Train or enjoy a dolphin cruise. Whether you are after culture, adventure or pure relaxation, there are endless fun things to do in Key West.
Discover Key West, Florida With a Shore Excursion
Key West combines tropical beauty with small-town charm and a lively, creative spirit. Booking a Key West shore excursion makes it easy to experience the island’s highlights, from snorkeling and sailing to exploring historic landmarks and tasting local cuisine. However you choose to explore, the island’s warmth, humor and colorful energy will make you feel right at home in this southern slice of paradise.
