Key West, Florida: A Guide to the Best Things to See and Do in the Conch Republic

Key West, Florida: A Guide to the Best Things to See and Do in the Conch Republic

Key West, Florida, is a tropical paradise. With its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and stunning sunsets, this island city is perfect for escaping the daily grind. Key West has something for everyone, from adventurers to foodies. This blog post lists the best things to do in Key West to make your vacation unforgettable. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of Key West! Here are Things to do in Key West, Florida

1. Experience the Conch Tour Train

The Conch Tour Train is a must-see on any visit to Key West. This narrated tour takes visitors on a journey through the island’s history, showcasing its most iconic landmarks and attractions. In just 1-2 hours, tourists can see everything from Truval Village to Ernest Hemingway’s home, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Southernmost Point. It’s ideal for time-pressed history buffs. Add the Conch Tour Train to your Key West itinerary.

2. Watch the Sunset at Mallory Square

As the sun goes down, Mallory Square is the best spot to experience the famous Key West sunset. But the fun doesn’t end there. Before the big event, tourists can explore the island’s historic sites, take a relaxing walk at Higgs Memorial Beach Park, or visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. For those seeking more adventure, exciting water activities like snorkeling and parasailing are available, while a Fury Sunset Cruise offers a unique perspective of the island from the sea. Climb to the top of the Key West Lighthouse or learn about the island’s maritime history at the Lighthouse Museum. And for those who want to end their day with a bang, head to the floating Tiki Bar Boat or bar-hop on Duval Street. The possibilities are endless in Key West. Make sure to add watching the sunset at Mallory Square to enjoy the full experience.

3. Explore Key West’s Historic Sites, including Truman’s Little White House and Hemingway’s House

If you’re interested in exploring Key West’s rich history, then a visit to Truman’s Little White House and Hemingway’s House is a must. These two historic sites offer a glimpse into the lives of two iconic figures who left their mark on the city. The Little White House was President Truman’s winter vacation home, which was used by other presidents as well. Hemingway’s House, on the other hand, was the author’s residence for many years and is now a museum showcasing his life and works. These two sites are just a small part of the larger Key West Historic District, which features many other historic buildings and neighborhoods. Make sure to explore this area thoroughly to fully appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Key West.

4. Take a Relaxing Walk at Higgs Memorial Beach Park

After experiencing the exhilarating water activities, taking a walk at Higgs Memorial Beach Park can provide a much-needed relaxation. The park offers much more than just a beach, with access to botanical gardens, historic landmarks, and a wooden pier that offers an incredible view of the turquoise blue water. The park is perfect for a family-friendly picnic or a peaceful walk, and the nearby historic sites like Truman’s Little White House and Hemingway’s House provide an educational touch to the experience. Higgs Memorial Beach Park is truly a gem in Key West, and a must-visit spot for anyone looking to unwind and experience the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

5. Visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

For those who love nature, the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is a must-visit attraction in Key West. Step inside the glass-domed tropical habitat and be surrounded by hundreds of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and even flamingos. The soothing music, flowing fountains, and turtles add to the tranquil ambiance of the place. The conservatory is located just a short walk from the 24 North Hotel shuttle, so it’s an easy and convenient stop on your Key West adventure. After spending time with the butterflies, there are plenty of other exciting activities to do in Key West, such as watching the sunset at Mallory Square or enjoying water activities like parasailing and jet-skiing. Finish off the day with a fun evening on the floating tiki bar boat or exploring Duval Street’s bars. Key West offers endless possibilities for adventure and the butterfly conservatory is just one of many great attractions to experience.

6. Enjoy Exciting Water Activities like Snorkeling, Parasailing, and Jet-Skiing

After exploring Key West’s historic sites and taking in the stunning sunset at Mallory Square, it’s time to dive into some thrilling water activities. Key West offers an array of water adventures, including snorkeling, parasailing, and jet-skiing. Hop aboard one of the many Fury Sunset Cruises for an unforgettable experience on the open water. For an even more exhilarating adventure, try your hand at parasailing or take on the ocean waves on a high-speed jet ski. For those seeking a more relaxing water activity, snorkeling provides a serene escape to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life. Whatever your preference, Key West’s water activities are sure to leave you with lasting memories of your tropical getaway.

7. Treat Yourself to a Fury Sunset Cruise

After a long day of exploring Key West’s charm and beauty, treat yourself to a memorable and scenic Fury Sunset Cruise. Hop aboard the state-of-the-art 65 ft Catamaran and sail into the picturesque sunset with complimentary beer, wine, champagne, and a view that will leave you breathless. This two-hour cruise is the perfect way to end a day full of adventure. It’s not just about the drinks and the view, though. The cruise is manned by experienced Fury crews who will guide you through an unforgettable journey through the waters of Key West. Fury Water Adventures offers a variety of tours, but the Sunset Cruise is one of the most popular. Join in and unwind after an exciting day of sightseeing.

8. Climb to the Top of Key West Lighthouse

After exploring Key West’s historic sites and enjoying water activities, it’s time to climb to the top of Key West Lighthouse. With 88 iron steps, visitors can reach the catwalk for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the island and the Caribbean Sea. The climb may be tiring, but the stunning views are worth it. Visitors can also learn about Key West’s maritime history at the Lighthouse Museum, filled with photographs and artifacts. After a memorable climb, the perfect way to unwind is by visiting the floating Tiki Bar Boat or checking out some of the best bars on Duval Street. Key West Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in Florida.

9. Learn about Key West’s Maritime History at the Lighthouse Museum

After climbing to the top of the Key West lighthouse, visitors should continue their exploration of Key West’s maritime history at the Lighthouse Museum. The museum houses exhibits showcasing the work of lighthouse keepers and the important role that lighthouses played in navigation in the area. Visitors can learn about the shipwrecks that occurred in the treacherous waters surrounding Key West and view artifacts recovered from those wrecks. The museum also provides insight into the commercial fishing industry that thrived in the area during the 1800s. Overall, the Lighthouse Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Key West’s rich maritime history.

10. Have Fun at the Floating Tiki Bar Boat and Duval Street’s Bars.

For those looking for a unique and lively experience in Key West, the Floating Tiki Bar Boat and Duval Street’s bars are not to be missed. The Floating Tiki Bar Boat offers a fun and relaxing way to cruise around the waters and enjoy tropical drinks under the sun. Meanwhile, Duval Street offers a bustling nightlife scene with a variety of bars, from rooftop ones to dive bars. Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious cocktails, and meet new people. Both of these destinations offer a chance to let loose and have some fun after a day of exploring the historic sites and natural beauty of Key West.