Curator’s statement
Key West is truly one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited — a destination I’ve been lucky enough to experience at every stage of life. From childhood adventures to teenage explorations, young adult escapes (where I could finally enjoy all the excitement that is Duval Street) and, most recently, a mother-daughter getaway, every trip has left me with unforgettable memories. What makes Key West so special is that it doesn’t feel like anywhere else in Florida; there are no towering skyscrapers or overwhelming commercial developments — just charming island vibes, beautiful scenery and a laid-back atmosphere that instantly transports you to paradise.
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Things to do in Key West
Sunset views from Mallory Square
Watch the sunset at Mallory Square and browse the street vendors, or see it in style on a catamaran or tiki boat.
Drink, eat, and shop on Duval Street.
Rent a bike to explore the island easily. You can typically do this through the hotel you’re staying at or at one of the many rental companies located all over the island.
Visit Fort Zachary Taylor and enjoy a day at the beach. The beach opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm every day. The fee to enter ranges from $2 to $6.
Explore Ernest Hemingway’s home. The museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm for walk-in visits, or you can book a tour ahead of time.
Take a tour of the Key West Lighthouse. Climb 88 steps to the top of the Lighthouse Tower to get one of the best views of the island and its surrounding turquoise waters.
Eat as much key lime pie as you can.
Take a photo at the Southernmost Point buoy (an anchored concrete buoy marking the southernmost point in the continental United States). Fair warning — be prepared for a long line.
Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. The park is the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life. Be sure to plan this trip ahead of time! You can only visit this park by ferry or seaplane and tickets sell out quickly.
Places to eat & drink in Key West
My absolute favorite place to eat in Key West is the Blue Heaven, an open-air restaurant with live music and roosters. This place is a must!
Breakfast at Banana Cafe. The bananas Foster waffle is incredible!
Enjoy authentic Cuban food at El Siboney.
Eat at the Southernmost Beach Cafe for a casual meal with views of the beach.
Watch the famous Key West sunset while sipping a cocktail at Bistro 245.
And it wouldn’t be a trip to Key West without a stop at Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop for some Key West key lime pie.
Travel Advisor
Gabrielle Palmer
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Key West page.