Things to do in Key West

Find and book 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.

Key West Attractions

They say that the best things come in small packages, and this delightful city is no exception to the rule. From outstanding tourist attractions to exciting excursions, there are so many fun things to do in Key West.

Find out what makes Key West tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Browse through our top {242 fun activities in Key West fun activities in Key West}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

Key West Premium Sunset Sail with Champagne, Wine & Tapas

Dolphin Watch Catamaran Sunset Sail w/ Tapas and Open Bar

$79
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Dolphin Watch Catamaran Sunset Sail w/ Tapas and Open Bar
Combo image of activity in Key West

Key West Rum & Reggae: Snorkel & Sunset Sail Combo

$69
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Key West Rum & Reggae: Snorkel & Sunset Sail Combo
Passengers enjoying the shade on the Conch Tour Train in Key West

Key West Conch Tour Train

$45
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Key West Conch Tour Train
Entertainer in character at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Key West

Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets

$19
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets
Afternoon Key West Reef Snorkel & Catamaran Sail

Afternoon Reef Snorkel & Catamaran Sail w/ Open Bar in Key West

$68
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Afternoon Reef Snorkel & Catamaran Sail w/ Open Bar in Key West
Miami to Key West Day Trip with Activity Options

Miami to Key West Day Trip with Activity Options

$39
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Miami to Key West Day Trip with Activity Options
See all activities in Key West

Key West must see attractions

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. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. South Beach

At the end of Key West’s main shopping and dining street, tiny South Beach provides sun, sand and waves just a short walk from the centre of town. The warm waters of this popular beach are perfect for swimming. Here you can say you’ve been to the southernmost beach of the continental United States. This beach is also where author and playwright Tennessee Williams swam daily.
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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.

Recommended things to do in Key West

Number of things to do
242
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Hemingway's Key West Self Guided outdoor Walking Audio Tour: $8
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Key West

Free Things to Do in Key West

Some say the best things in life are free. Be sure to visit the following around Key West:

Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit - See if there are any special exhibits or tours on at this fascinating museum.

Key West Wildlife Center - Attention animal lovers — here's your opportunity to hang out with some amazing new friends.

MLK Community Pool & Community Center - A swimsuit and good vibes are all you need for a splashing good time here.

Mallory Square - Architecture fans will certainly enjoy admiring the impressive modern design of this landmark.

Observation Tower - Spend time at this historic attraction and learn a thing or two about the cultural heritage of the region.

San Carlos Institute - Casa Cuba - Widely renowned among local residents, this place is worth checking out.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church - Do some quiet reflection and find out a thing or two about this site's religious significance.

South Beach - Keep a lookout for exotic shells and other seaside gems scattered along the shoreline here.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park - Get ready for vistas that'll inspire awe at this natural landscape.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center - Grab your blanket, pack some finger food and find a shady spot to be with nature.

Things to Do in Key West with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you wander in Key West. Here are some family friendly experiences you can do together that'll make your break memorable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Key West? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

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 and neighborhoods 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

If you're spending some time in Old Town Key West, Duval Street and Florida Keys Beaches are top sights worth seeing.

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

New Town

Though New Town might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Smathers Beach and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.

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

Downtown Key West

If you're spending some time in Downtown Key West, Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum are top sights worth seeing.

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

Key West Historic District

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

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

Uptown - Upper Duval

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

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Key West

A sunset over a beach with a wooden pier and a small structure on it.

Cow Key

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 has a unique mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or traditional cuisine, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Key West?
Start your day with a visit to Smathers Beach and South Beach. Then, explore different parts of Key West for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Key West?
The top tourist attraction in Key West is Smathers Beach, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Key West?
Three days will give you time to tick off many city sights, such as Smathers Beach, South Beach and Key West Aquarium. The average stay in Key West is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Stock Island isn't far away.
Is Key West a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to see and do in Key West. Several top attractions, such as Smathers Beach and South Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Key West's neighborhoods, Key West Historic District is 0.2 miles away from downtown, while Old Town Key West is 0.4 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Key West with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all the family, take a look at these great ideas for what to do in Key West with kids.

What to do in Key West for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of things to do in Key West for adults including Key West Cemetery and Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit.
Are there free things to do in Key West?
In Key West, Smathers Beach is a popular spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Key West.

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