You could have booked an epic journey to Key West, Florida, however are not sure the place to begin? Situated on the tip of the Florida Keys, there’s a lot to see and discover. So, irrespective of what number of days you’re spending in tropical Key West, these are the highest 10 issues to do in Key West you gained’t need to miss!
Get able to discover lovely seashores, historic websites, and extra!
1. Smathers Seaside
Smathers Seaside is arms down the most effective locations to go to in Key West. This sandy public seashore is lined with palm timber and really encapsulates tropical vibes. It’s also possible to hit the water with water sports activities leases or play seashore volleyball if you happen to carry your web. It is usually the most important seashore in Key West, providing you with loads of room.
Sandy seashores are fairly uncommon in Key West, which makes Smathers a should! Many of the seashores in Key West are both rocky or very small. Even with only a weekend in Key West, be sure that this seashore is in your bucket listing.
2. Mallory Sq.
Whether or not you come for the sundown celebration or the outlets, Mallory Sq. is one other iconic place to go to. As talked about, this plaza is most well-known for its Key West sundown celebration that began again within the late Nineteen Sixties.
Each day, individuals begin gathering round 2 hours earlier than sundown. You will discover individuals from everywhere in the world doing performances, meals distributors, and souvenirs, all whereas the solar sinks beneath the horizon. Oh, and because you’re allowed to have open containers in Key West, the social gathering is simply beginning right here!
Mallory Sq. can also be simply as pretty for buying through the day. And even if you happen to’re not out there to purchase one thing, the seaside vibes are price touring alone.
3. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
In case you love historic forts, lovely seashores, and nature, you gained’t need to miss out on Fort Zachary. Whereas not as sandy as Smathers Seaside, Fort Zachary additionally gives somewhat slice of heaven in Key West. This seashore is ideal for shell looking and likewise gives wonderful snorkeling.
In case you’re on the lookout for resort vibes, pop by the Cayo Hueso Café for meals and drinks, after which sit again and chill out on one of many lounge chairs you may lease with umbrellas.
You additionally gained’t need to miss out on the historic Fort Taylor, which was named after President Zachary Taylor. The fort was occupied by the Union all through the complete Civil Battle after which used once more through the Spanish-American Battle. Now, you may tour by this brick fortress and see the cannons that had been used.
4. The Southernmost Level
A Key West traditional factor to do is go to the well-known Southernmost Level Continental U.S.A. landmark. This colourful concrete bouy was in-built 1983 and is an emblem of Key West. It has withstood a number of hurricanes and is beloved by vacationers for pictures!
If you need a photograph of your self with the Bouy, simply anticipate a line since it’s thought of probably the most photo-worthy locations in Key West.
5. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters
Inbuilt 1848, the Key West Lighthouse is one other prime attraction to go to in Key West. Guests will love the climb to the highest, which gives panoramic views of the island. After having fun with the views, head over to the Keeper’s Quarters.
That is the place you’ll be taught extra historical past in regards to the lighthouse. Apparently sufficient, this lighthouse had one of many first feminine keepers throughout this time interval. You gained’t need to skip out on visiting.
6. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Image having lots of of butterflies and tropical birds flying proper over your head. If that sounds cool to you, be sure that so as to add the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to your Key West bucket listing. These touring with youngsters will love a go to right here.
It is among the hottest Key West sights to go to, so be sure that to reach early if you wish to beat the crowds. Additionally, you will be greeted by the beloved pair of Flamingos that decision this dwelling.
7. Ernest Hemingway House
A world icon, Ernest Hemingway wants no introduction.
Even if you happen to’re not an avid reader your self, getting to go to Ernest Hemingway’s house is a once-in-a-lifetime sort of exercise.
The home is now a museum and is open each single day. You possibly can select to stroll across the dwelling your self and be enriched by the historical past, or you may be part of a guided tour, which is included in your ticket value, and go into much more depth about this well-known writer’s life.
Don’t miss out on having fun with the backyard, which is gorgeous, and if you happen to love cats, you will note a lot! This dwelling can also be well-known for being the house of the 6-toed cats. The complete location has a calming ambiance that actually makes you need to sit down and skim!
8. Duval Avenue
Duval Avenue is a business road that results in the Atlantic Ocean, however this isn’t simply any road.
The road gained its identify from William Pope Duval, the primary territorial governor of Florida, and since then has develop into a outstanding a part of the Key West.
Alongside the size of the road, you’ll discover lovely Bohemian and Spanish mansions which were preserved because the Nineteen Sixties. You’ll additionally discover a assortment of artwork galleries and boutiques which are enjoyable to go to and add numerous character to the road!
Moreover, the road is famend for having a fantastic assortment of eating places and bars. Within the evenings, this whole space turns into alive, with many vacationers and residents attending what the locals name a “Duval pub crawl.” In case you like to social gathering, return right here after the solar goes down.
This road holds a lot historical past, and it doesn’t matter what time of day you go to, there’s at all times one thing happening.
9. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Able to step again 150 years and attend the Shipwreck Museum?
That is such a singular go to and is nice for households! Contained in the museum, you’ll have the chance to find the world of shipwrecking, hear all in regards to the story of Isaac Allerton, and even study pirates.
To offer you some context, Isaac Allerton was a well-known ship in-built 1838. This ship was a powerful 137 ft lengthy and weighed a whopping 594 tons. In 1856, this ship was caught in a hurricane and sunk deep into the water. Over 130 years later, the wreck was rediscovered by native divers and is now an enormous a part of Key West’s historical past.
That is additionally the place you may expertise the most effective views in Key West! Climb up the watch tower for some epic panoramic views.
10. Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park
One of the crucial distinctive experiences you may have whereas visiting Key West is taking a day journey to the gorgeous Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park. This Nationwide Park consists of seven islands, however Backyard Key is by far the most well-liked. The distinctive side of visiting is that it requires both a ferry or a seaplane to get there.
Fort Jefferson, positioned on Backyard Key, is the most well-liked attraction. This Nineteenth-century Fort was one of many biggest navy belongings.
Surrounded by crystal clear water and thriving coral reefs, you should have an unbelievable alternative to snorkel right here with all kinds of tropical fish and marine wildlife. In case you’re fortunate, you could even see sea turtles.
A Key West journey tip to recollect is that the ferry and seaplane promote out quick – typically months prematurely, relying on the season.
Finest Issues to Do in Key West Wrap-up
This concludes the highest 10 belongings you gained’t need to miss throughout a go to to Key West! Now pack up your seashore bag and head over to the Keys!
Samantha Oppenheimer runs Discover Love and Journey
