Things to do · Key West, Florida, US

Things to Do in Key West

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Getting there
Most visitors fly into Miami International Airport, roughly 200 km north, and then drive the scenic 4‑hour Overseas Highway to Key West. Smaller numbers arrive via Juan Gualberto Gómez (VRA) or José Martí (HAV) in Cuba, followed by a short ferry ride. Direct seaplane charters also link the island to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, though they are less common.
Who goes
Key West welcomes around two million tourists each year, drawing a mix of sun‑seekers, history buffs, and LGBTQ+ travelers. The winter months—December through February—are the busiest, while late summer and early fall see the quietest streets and lower hotel rates.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly $50‑80 per day (about €45‑70), while a more comfortable stay often runs $100‑150 (≈ €90‑135). Lodging typically consumes the largest share of the budget; saving by staying a few blocks inland of Duval Street or using the island’s modest bus system can shave a noticeable amount off the total. Estimate →

  1. Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

    attraction · 4.5 rating · Free

    A large painted concrete buoy marking the southernmost point of the continental United States. A famous photo landmark for visitors to Key West.

  2. The Hemingway Home and Museum

    attraction · 4.6 rating · $18

    The former Key West residence of author Ernest Hemingway, now a museum known for its Spanish Colonial architecture and resident six-toed cats. Travelers come for the literary history and lush grounds.

  3. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

    attraction · 4.8 rating · $17.50

    A climate-controlled glass conservatory home to hundreds of live butterflies, exotic birds, and tropical plants. Travelers visit to walk among free-flying butterflies in an immersive indoor habitat.

  4. Mallory Square

    attraction · 4.7 rating · Free

    A waterfront plaza in Key West famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration featuring street performers, artisans, and crowds gathering to watch the sunset. Travelers go for the festive evening atmosphere and views.

  5. Duval Street

    landmark · 4.7 rating · Free

    Bustling heart of Key West filled with restaurants, bars, art galleries, and shops.

  6. Truman Little White House

    attraction · 4.6 rating · $24

    The former winter residence and working office of President Harry S. Truman, now a preserved historic house museum. Travelers tour it for its presidential history and period interiors.

  7. Key West Lighthouse

    attraction · 4.3 rating · $17

    A historic 19th-century lighthouse and museum in Key West with a keeper's quarters and tower offering city views. Travelers climb it for panoramic vistas and maritime history.

  8. Key West Gardens at Fort West Martello

    attraction · 4.6 rating · Free

    A botanical garden set within the historic Civil War-era Fort East Martello-adjacent West Martello Tower, run by a local garden club. Travelers visit for tropical plants amid historic fort ruins.

  9. Smathers Beach

    attraction · 3.7 rating · Free

    The largest public beach in Key West, a long stretch of sand popular for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. A go-to spot for a relaxed day by the ocean.

  10. Hemingway Distillery

    experience · 4.8 rating · Free

    Rum distillery honoring Ernest Hemingway, producer of Papa's Pilar rum.

  11. Fort Zachary Taylor

    attraction · $2.50

    A historic 19th-century coastal fort within a state park, offering well-preserved fortifications and Civil War history. Travelers come for the history, beach, and scenic grounds.

  12. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

    attraction · $17.50

    A museum showcasing treasure and artifacts recovered from Spanish shipwrecks off the Florida Keys, including finds from the Atocha. Travelers visit to explore maritime history and salvaged riches.

  13. Key West Historic Seaport

    attraction · Free

    A revitalized waterfront harbor district in Key West lined with restaurants, shops, and boat charters. Travelers stroll the boardwalk, dine, and book water excursions.

  14. Key West Aquarium

    aquarium · $15.99

    A historic aquarium in Key West showcasing local marine life including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish. Travelers visit for family-friendly wildlife exhibits and touch tanks.

  15. Key West Shipwreck Museum

    attraction · $17.09

    An interactive museum with actors, films, and artifacts recounting Key West's 19th-century wrecking and salvage era, including a climbable lookout tower. Travelers go for family-friendly historical entertainment.

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