There are some attractions you simply cannot skip when visiting Key West. Visitors who come for sun and fun are often surprised to discover the deep history, eclectic culture, and breathtaking views that pepper the island. Whether you’re coming for spring break with the whole crew or a romantic getaway for two, you need to know what not to miss in Key West.
Let’s make your visit to the southernmost city as sweet as Key Lime Pie. Start planning your perfect, unforgettable trip with these nine things not to miss in Key West for travelers of all ages.
A tour we think you'll love
1) Glide Through Moonlit Waters In A Night Kayaking Adventure
Topping the Key West don’t miss list is a guided night kayaking excursion. Glide through moonlit mangroves after sunset to spot the nocturnal creatures that live in the waters off Key West.
Of course, the #1 choice for night kayaking in Key West is Key West Paddle. Our guests explore the nighttime sea in LED-lit glass-bottom kayaks that provide unprecedented visibility. Choose from one of our popular excursions:
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Night Kayak Guided Tour – Paddle along as our knowledgeable guides lead you through calm waters to discover nocturnal species and awe-inspiring views of the ecosystem of the Florida Keys. This unique and magical nighttime adventure is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers. Single and double kayaks are available.
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Key West Sandbar Trip – If you prefer a daytime Key West excursion, our sandbar tours bring you through gorgeous backwater routes to visit the mangrove trails of the Mud Keys, the Snipe Point sandbar, and the Jewish Basin sandbars. Bathe in crystalline waters and explore sandbars before heading back to the marina. Your captain provides water toys, an inflatable hangout dock, masks and snorkels, and an ice cooler with bottled water and sodas.
Enjoy the best Key West has to offer with a guided adventure with Key West Paddle. We offer easy booking and affordable rates. Reserve your spot today and make memories that will last a lifetime!
2) Walk Among Hundreds Of Butterflies In A Tropical Paradise
One of the most whimsical Key West attractions, the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is home to hundreds of butterflies housed within a glass-domed tropical habitat that allows you to walk among them! In addition, the conservatory is home to exotic birds and two resident flamingos.
As you walk through the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, you’ll be surrounded by colorful butterflies flying all around you. This lovely experience lets you see these beautiful creatures up close while enjoying a peaceful escape into nature. The sounds of water and the sight of exotic birds make it a great place for taking photos or just relaxing in the beauty of the tropics.
Good To Know: While operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, you must arrive by 4:30 p.m. for the last admission of the day.
3) Discover 400 Years Of Maritime History And Treasure
Step back in time to 1856 to experience the era of the wreckers in Key West. Located just a few minutes from the Key West Historic Seaport, the museum tells the story of 400 years of shipwreck history using a combination of real artifacts and actors.
As you tour the museum, you’ll step through a restored 19th-century warehouse built by a famed Key West wrecker tycoon named Asa Tift. The museum also features a climbable 65-foot lookout tower used to alert locals about wrecks getting caught up in the reefs surrounding Key West.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the chance to see artifacts from the shipwrecked Isaac Allerton. While the Isaac Allerton sank in 1856, it was finally salvaged in 1985. The wreck’s big claim to fame is that it’s the richest wreck in Key West history.
4) Dive Into The Deep Without Getting Wet
You don’t need scuba gear to explore the underwater world of Key West. The world-class Key West Aquarium gives visitors the experience of diving into the deep waters and reefs of the Atlantic. Located in the heart of Mallory Square, this aquarium and educational center has a collection of more than 250 specimens that includes sharks, fish, turtles, and many more aquatic treasures.
Hit these attractions during your visit:
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Touch Tanks – Enjoy sensory experiences with conchs, sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, and horseshoe crabs.
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Sea Turtle Conservation Tour – Come meet rescued sea turtles to learn about their stories, discover the threats that sea turtles face today, and learn about the rehabilitation and conservation efforts being done to save and protect Key West’s current and future sea turtle populations.
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Atlantic Shore Exhibit – Observe life in a 50,000-gallon tank mimicking the ecosystem of one of Key West’s backcountry mangrove forests.
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Virtual Offshore Environmental Experience – Ride along on a virtual submarine dive with Captain Nemo for an underwater adventure through Key West’s marine habitats.
Good To Know: Many tours and interactive exhibits take place during set times one to three times per day at the aquarium. Check the official aquarium schedule to plan your visit accordingly.
5) Soak Up Sun On Key West’s Most Beautiful Beaches
No Key West trip is complete without visiting the best beaches. Fortunately, you have plenty of opportunities to visit classic Florida Keys beaches while in Key West. Here are the ones to prioritize:
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Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Historic Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offers a gorgeous beach where you can rent huts, snorkel gear, and rafts. While sand and sun are abundant on this tropical-feeling beach, the real perk is touring Fort Zachary Taylor and seeing Civil War cannons. This National Historic Landmark has played a tremendous role in Florida’s early development. Of course, there’s nothing like catching a sunset at the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. Let’s just say that Fort Zachary Taylor is called Key West’s best beach for a reason!
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Smathers Beach – As Key West’s largest public beach, Smathers Beach is definitely where the party is at! Located along the Atlantic Ocean and Florida State Road A1A, the beach technically begins at Mile Marker 0. Enjoy restrooms, showers, and beach volleyball nets.
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Higgs Beach – Covering 16.5 acres of oceanfront vista, Higgs Beach packs in so much excitement with America’s only shore-accessible underwater marine park, the 400-foot Reynolds Street Pier, entry to the Florida Overseas Heritage Trail, and a Civil War era fort called the West Martello Tower that now houses the Key West Garden Club.
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Dry Tortugas National Park – For a more remote beach experience, head to Dry Tortugas National Park located 70 miles west of Key West. While it contains seven remote islands, this 100-square mile national park consists mostly of open water. It is only accessible by boat, ferry, or seaplane.
Good To Know: Hours at public Key West beaches run from sunrise to sunset. Primitive dry camping is available overnight at Dry Tortugas.
6) Climb To Spectacular Island Views From Historic Lighthouse
Climbing 88 steps for incredible views from the top of the Key West Lighthouse is one of the things not to miss in Key West. By ensuring the safe arrival of military and commercial vessels in the choppy, reef-filled waters off Key West, the lighthouse has played an important role in Key West’s maritime history.
The experience of standing at the top, with the ocean breeze and stunning scenery, is truly unforgettable and adds a unique perspective to your visit. As you explore the lighthouse grounds, you’ll find informative displays that tell the story of its construction and the brave keepers who maintained it over the years.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply looking for a memorable experience, the lighthouse offers something special for everyone.
Did You Know? The Key West Lighthouse opened in 1848 under the care of a female keeper. After a long and useful run, it was decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard in 1969.
7) Uncover Fascinating Stories In Key West’s Historic Cemetery
While often overlooked by Key West visitors, the Key West Cemetery is a treasure trove of historical tidbits. Covering 19 acres at the foot of Solares Hill, the cemetery was established in 1847 on high ground 16 feet above sea level following a massive hurricane.
Visitors will find gravestones belonging to veterans of the Spanish American War, Bahamian mariners, cigar makers, moguls, paupers, and others from all walks of life.
Interesting Fact: This historic cemetery is the final resting place of nearly 100,000 people. For perspective, the island is currently home to 30,000 residents.
8) Experience The World-Famous Sunset Celebration
Mallory Square is widely considered the best place to see a Key West sunset. Just show up about an hour before sunset to partake in the legendary nightly Sunset Celebration that has taken place here every night for decades. The event features street vendors serving up conch fritters and pineapple smoothies, street performers offering everything from magic to live music, and a spirit of camaraderie and merriment.
Mallory Square is more than just a great place to watch the sunset; it’s a lively spot full of fun and energy that shows off the spirit of Key West. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, and a sense of community, making it a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the island’s charm. As you sip a cool drink or take in the sights and sounds, Mallory Square provides an unforgettable experience that truly captures the heart of Key West.
Fun Fact: The famed Mallory Square sunset has been witnessed by Mark Twain, Tennessee Williams, and John James Audubon.
9) Step Back In Time Through Historic Old Town
Old Town is the eclectic, historic heart of Key West. In addition to showcasing charming architecture, the area is home to some of Key West’s most iconic estates and attractions. Consider hopping on the Old Town Trolley for the best way to see everything.
Here’s a look at some favorite attractions in and around Old Town Key West:
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The Hemingway House and Museum – The Hemingway house is where the author lived from 1931 to 1939. During his time here, Hemingway penned “To Have and Have Not” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Visitors today can still see descendants of Hemingway’s famed polydactyl cats prowling the grounds.
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Truman Little White House – Located in Old Town’s Truman Annex neighborhood, this estate was the “winter White House” for President Harry S. Truman. During his presidency, Truman spent a total of 175 days over the span of 11 visits at the home. Guided tours are available daily.
Pro Tip: After exploring Old Town, jet over to Duval Street for a fresh seafood dinner and drinks at an iconic Key West institution called Sloppy Joe’s Bar. Sloppy Joe’s is famous all throughout the Florida Keys for serving what many consider the best Key Lime Pie around.
Make Your Visit To The Southernmost Point In The Florida Keys Magical
While you’re going to have a fun time exploring everything from Duval Street to Key West’s southern shore, there are some places even the trusty Old Town Trolley can’t take you. That’s where Key West Paddle comes in.
Since 2012, we’re the #1 provider of night kayaking tours in Key West. Settle in for an evening on the water you’ll never forget! Our friendly, experienced guides bring the nocturnal marine environment all around you to life!
Book your spot on a guided excursion in an LED-lit glass-bottom kayak in Key West with us today!
