City Guide for: Key West, Florida, United States

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Key West, Florida, United States Guide

Key West is a vibrant and colorful city located at the southernmost tip of Florida. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture, Key West is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the local shops and restaurants on Duval Street.

Transportation

Key West is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. There are also public transportation options available, including buses and trolleys that run throughout the city. Additionally, visitors can rent cars or scooters to explore the island at their own pace.

Airport

Key West International Airport is located just a few miles outside of the city center. Visitors can easily reach the city from the airport by taking a taxi, shuttle, or rental car. Alternatively, there are also public transportation options available for those looking to save money on transportation costs.

Attractions

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a historic house where the famous author lived and wrote during the 1930s. The property is now a museum showcasing Hemingway's life and works, as well as housing descendants of his famous six-toed cats. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and gardens.

Key West Historic Seaport

Key West Historic Seaport The Key West Historic Seaport is a bustling marina and entertainment district in Key West. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, watch boats come and go, and dine at waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. The seaport also offers boat tours, fishing charters, and sunset cruises for visitors to explore the surrounding waters.

Higgs Beach

Higgs Beach Higgs Beach is a popular beach in Key West known for its calm waters and sandy shores. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or enjoy water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding. The beach also features picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a pier for fishing.

Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum

Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum The Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum is a historic lighthouse and museum showcasing Key West's maritime history. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island, as well as explore exhibits on the island's shipwrecks and lighthouse keepers. The museum also features a gift shop selling nautical souvenirs.

Key West Aquarium

Key West Aquarium The Key West Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in Florida, showcasing a variety of marine life native to the region. Visitors can see sharks, turtles, and tropical fish up close, as well as participate in interactive feeding sessions and touch tanks. The aquarium also offers educational programs for all ages.

Southernmost Point Buoy

Southernmost Point Buoy The Southernmost Point Buoy is a landmark located at the southernmost tip of Key West, marking the southernmost point in the continental United States. Visitors can take photos with the colorful buoy, which has become a popular tourist attraction. The site offers panoramic views of the ocean and is a must-visit spot for visitors to Key West.

Key West Art and Historical Society

Key West Art and Historical Society The Key West Art and Historical Society is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and art of Key West. Visitors can explore exhibits on the island's heritage, including its maritime history, literary culture, and artistic community. The society also hosts events, lectures, and workshops for visitors to learn more about Key West's rich cultural heritage.

Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach Smathers Beach is a popular beach in Key West known for its long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or participate in water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. The beach also features picnic areas, restrooms, and rental facilities for beach equipment.

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a tropical garden home to thousands of butterflies and exotic plants. Visitors can walk through the enclosed habitat and observe the colorful butterflies up close. The conservatory also features a learning center and gift shop selling butterfly-themed souvenirs.

Key West Cemetery

Key West Cemetery The Key West Cemetery is a historic burial ground known for its unique gravestones and quirky epitaphs. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the cemetery to see the final resting places of Key West's notable residents, including writers, artists, and ship captains. The cemetery offers a glimpse into the island's colorful past and culture.

Duval Street

Duval Street Duval Street is the main street in Key West known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the lively atmosphere of the island. Visitors can explore art galleries, boutiques, and historic sites along this iconic street.

Key West Historic Seaport Harbor Walk

Key West Historic Seaport Harbor Walk The Key West Historic Seaport Harbor Walk is a scenic waterfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Visitors can stroll along the harbor, watch boats come and go, and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront eateries. The walk offers views of the marina, historic ships, and the iconic Key West Bight Marina.

Key West Shipwreck Museum

Key West Shipwreck Museum The Key West Shipwreck Museum is a maritime museum dedicated to the history of shipwrecks and salvage in Key West. Visitors can explore exhibits on the island's wrecking industry, watch live performances by costumed actors, and climb to the top of the lookout tower for views of the harbor. The museum offers a unique glimpse into Key West's seafaring past.

Mallory Square

Mallory Square Mallory Square is a popular waterfront plaza where tourists gather to watch the sunset and enjoy street performers. It also hosts a nightly Sunset Celebration with arts and crafts vendors. The square offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and is a great spot for shopping and dining.

Key West Historic District

Key West Historic District The Key West Historic District is a designated historic area in Key West known for its well-preserved architecture and historic sites. Visitors can stroll along the charming streets lined with Victorian homes, art galleries, and boutique shops. The district also features landmarks like the Audubon House and Gardens, the Oldest House Museum, and the Key West Museum of Art & History.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a Civil War-era fort and beach located in Key West. Visitors can explore the fort's history through guided tours and exhibits, as well as enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking on the park's sandy shores. The park offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great spot for outdoor activities.

Key West Botanical Garden

Key West Botanical Garden The Key West Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis showcasing a variety of tropical plants and flowers. Visitors can explore themed gardens, nature trails, and a butterfly habitat to enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden also hosts events, workshops, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Key West Artisan Market

Key West Artisan Market The Key West Artisan Market is a weekly outdoor market showcasing local artisans, craftsmen, and food vendors. Visitors can browse a variety of handmade goods, art, jewelry, and gourmet treats while enjoying live music and entertainment. The market offers a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to support the local creative community.

Truman Little White House

Truman Little White House The Truman Little White House is a historic site and museum that served as President Harry S. Truman's winter White House. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to learn about Truman's presidency and the history of Key West. The museum also features exhibits on other presidential visits to the island and the Cold War era.

Key West Art Center and Gallery

Key West Art Center and Gallery The Key West Art Center and Gallery is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting local artists and their work. Visitors can browse a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks created by Key West artists. The gallery also hosts exhibitions, art classes, and special events throughout the year.

Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden

Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden The Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden is a lush botanical garden showcasing native plants and wildlife of the Florida Keys. Visitors can explore walking trails, boardwalks, and butterfly gardens to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The garden also offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events for nature enthusiasts.

Day Trips