Things to do in Key West

Activities, attractions and tours

A beach with palm trees, people sunbathing, and a resort in the background.
A beach with palm trees, people sunbathing, and a clear blue sky.
Two sailboats on the ocean with a sunset in the background.
A beach with palm trees, a pathway, beach chairs, and a small building.
A person preparing a drink with a glass labeled "MOJITO IS WORTH OF HAVANA" on a bar counter.

Things to do

Aerial view of people snorkeling in Key West

Key West Morning Snorkel Adventure with Bottomless Mimosas & Breakfast

€39
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Key West Morning Snorkel Adventure with Bottomless Mimosas & Breakfast
12 hours Day at Key West With Boat Tour and Snorkeling

Day trip to Paradise from Miami: Key West Tour with Snorkeling, Open bar

€24
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Day trip to Paradise from Miami: Key West Tour with Snorkeling, Open bar
Aboard the trolley in Key West

Historic Key West Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

€49
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Historic Key West Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Florida: Key West Overseas Highway Self-Driving Tour

Florida: Key West Overseas Highway App-Based Driving Audio Tour

€15
per traveller
88% of travellers recommend
Florida: Key West Overseas Highway App-Based Driving Audio Tour
Key West Premium Sunset Sail with Champagne, Wine & Tapas

Dolphin Watch Catamaran Sunset Sail w/ Tapas and Open Bar

€69
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Dolphin Watch Catamaran Sunset Sail w/ Tapas and Open Bar
Miami to Key West Day Trip with Optional Hotel Pick up

Miami to Key West Day Trip with Optional Hotel Pick up

€34
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Miami to Key West Day Trip with Optional Hotel Pick up
Entertainer in character at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Key West

Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets

€17
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Admission Ticket

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Admission Ticket

€15
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Admission Ticket
Half-Day Key West's Ultimate Sandbar Adventure with Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

Half-Day Key West's Ultimate Sandbar Adventure with Mangrove Kayak Tour

€110
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Half-Day Key West's Ultimate Sandbar Adventure with Mangrove Kayak Tour
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Top places to visit

1. Duval Street

Coming to Florida’s Key West and not experiencing Duval Street is missing one of the area’s most important commercial roads. It’s the main street on the island. Visit at any time. At the end of the day, when the heat abates and beachgoers have packed up, the street truly comes into its own. Being bored on Duval Street is a rarity.
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A street with a pharmacy, a theater, and a yellow building.

2. Mallory Square

This popular town square, adjacent to excellent dining and lively bars is home to one of Key West’s longest-running traditions. Perched on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, Mallory Square hosts Key West’s Sunset Celebration every evening of the year. Watch as the square bursts with color and sound as hundreds of visitors to the island converge to watch one of the most picturesque sunsets in the United States. Surrounding the square are some of Key West’s best restaurants, great shopping and hotels catering to all budgets.
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A sign reading "Welcome to Mallory Square" with an American flag, a red and white striped awning, and a statue of a man in a blue shirt and straw hat.

3. Southernmost Point

Visit the Southernmost Point of the United States for a unique photo opportunity and views toward Cuba. Pose in front of the huge structure emblazoned with the words, “Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A.” and “90 miles to Cuba,” for a memorable photograph.
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A colorful monument with text indicating it is the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A. in Key West, Florida.

4. Smathers Beach

On an island filled with private beaches, this popular stretch of public shoreline is among the most majestic. Featuring over a half-mile (0.8 kilometer) of white, palm-lined sand, Smathers Beach is a destination for water sports lovers and those seeking quiet time in the sun. Spend a day snorkeling, kayaking or playing beach volleyball as you make friends on the beach known for its social atmosphere.
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A beach with white sand, palm trees, and a building in the background.

5. Dry Tortugas National Park

Wander along the high ramparts of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park and look out across the sparkling blue ocean all around you. Sunbathe on the sand of this idyllic haven or snorkel with an array of tropical fish.
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Fort Jefferson, a brick fort with arched windows and a flagpole.

6. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a sublime natural setting that provides idyllic swimming and birdwatching conditions. At its core is the historic Fort Taylor and what is thought to be the world’s largest Civil War arms collection. Bring U.S. history to life by walking down the passageways of this well-preserved fortress.
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A brick corridor with arched ceilings and benches.

7. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to reveal the eccentricities of Ernest Hemingway’s life. For most of the 1930s, one of the most revered authors of the 20th century lived in a Spanish colonial house in the heart of tropical Key West. Meet six-toed cats and see the studio in which some of Hemingway’s most famous novels were written. Find a vast collection of art, hunting trophies and household items as you wander through the house and gardens.
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A two-story colonial-style building with a balcony, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

8. South Beach

Conveniently located at the end of one of Key West’s main streets and just a short walk from the center of the town, this tiny beach is the most popular on the island. While its warm water, perfect swimming conditions and stunning views attract many visitors, some visit South Beach simply to say they’ve been to the southernmost beach in the continental United States. Find a spot on the crowded beach to immerse yourself in the lively Key West atmosphere or simply stop by for a quick swim on your way into town.
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A beach with people sunbathing, palm trees, and a multi-story building in the background.

9. Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park

Higgs Beach and its park are one of Key West’s most visited waterfront areas. Apart from white sands, tropical plants and warm water, Higgs Beach Park is also the site of many important historic and cultural attractions. Pay your respects at what is believed to be the United States only African refugee cemetery or commemorate the victims of AIDS at another impressive memorial. A tour through the Civil War–era fort and the Key West Garden Club that surrounds it reveals yet another side of Higgs Beach.
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A beach with a bridge, palm trees, and a clear blue sky.

What to do in Key West

Stay near popular Key West attractions

A street with a pharmacy, a theater, and a yellow building.

Duval Street

9.2/10 (20,928 reviews)
Stroll the vibrant heart of Key West where historic architecture meets lively entertainment. Evening visits offer the full experience of Duval Street's renowned music scene and spirited local culture.
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Where to stay in Key West

Find the best Key West areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Key West
Learn more about Key West
A white lighthouse with a small adjacent building, surrounded by lush green trees and a clear blue sky.

Old Town Key West

While visiting Old Town Key West, you might make a stop by sights like Duval Street and Southernmost Point.

A row of pastel-colored houses with white railings and a clear blue sky.

New Town

While there might not be top attractions in New Town, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Smathers Beach and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.

A two-story house with green shutters and a wooden balcony.

Key West Historic District

Travellers to Key West Historic District praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Duval Street and Florida Keys Beaches.

A two-story colonial-style building with a balcony, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

Downtown Key West

While visiting Downtown Key West, you might make a stop by sights like Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

A street with a pharmacy, a theater, and a yellow building.

Uptown - Upper Duval

If you're spending some time in Uptown - Upper Duval, Southernmost Point and Duval Street are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal road with a beach on one side and a marina with boats on the other.

Summerland Key

Frequently asked questions

Is Key West worth visiting?
Key West offers a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or local cuisine, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Key West?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Smathers Beach and South Beach. Then, explore other parts of Key West for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Key West?
Don't leave without visiting Smathers Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Key West.
Is three days enough to stay in Key West?
You can easily visit popular sights like Smathers Beach, South Beach and Harry S. Truman Little White House with a three-day escape to Key West. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Stock Island.
Is Key West a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Key West is a good place to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Smathers Beach and South Beach. Then take a stroll through Key West Historic District, located 0.32 kilometres from the centre, and Old Town Key West, which is roughly 0.64 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Key West with kids?
If you are after sights and activities for all of your group, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Key West with kids.

What to do in Key West for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Key West, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Key West Cemetery or Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit.
Are there free things to do in Key West?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Key West is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Smathers Beach is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.

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