tourist attractions in the florida keys

71 Things To Do In The Florida Keys – From Key Largo to Key West

Get ready to experience the vacation of a lifetime in the Florida Keys! This tropical paradise is a unique and exciting destination that offers something for everyone.

With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, the Florida Keys are a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler.

Did you know that the Florida Keys are home to some of the best fishing in the world?

You can catch everything from bonefish to tarpon to marlin and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

But that's not all - the Florida Keys are known for their incredible outdoor adventures.

From kayaking through mangrove tunnels to hiking in the Everglades nearby to swimming with dolphins, you'll never run out of things to do.

And, of course, you can't forget about the famous Key Lime Pie - a delicious dessert staple of the Florida Keys.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, the Florida Keys have it all.

So, grab your snorkel gear and sunscreen, and explore the 71 best things to do in the Florida Keys - from swimming with sea turtles to sipping margaritas on the beach.

A Super Quick Overview of the Florida Keys

Today, I want to share our cheat sheet for the Florida Keys Attractions.

This will be a lengthy post simply because there are numerous sites to see and activities to enjoy along the keys. After filtering down the possibilities, the list still contains 70+ premier attractions across the islands.

Here's the thing about the Florida Keys: This isn't a cheap location. The rules of supply and demand are hard at play here.

There is only so much land available for hotels, and with so many travelers coming to enjoy the Keys, accommodation can get expensive.

That's not a long time, considering all the area offers. That's why planning ahead of time is so important.

To give you an overview, the Florida Keys are a group of small tropical islands connected by the Overseas Highway.

The chain of islands begins 15 miles south of Miami, with Key West as the southernmost city in the contiguous United States.

The first island is Key Largo, and the last connected one is Key West.

This is a classic road trip: driving along the highway to Key West. If you don't want to drive, organized tours can take you there.

The road along the Keys is 113 miles long, connecting the Keys with bridges.

The famous Seven Mile Bridge between Marathon and Little Duck Key is the longest bridge. In case you were wondering, it is not a toll road.

If you plan a trip to the area, you may want to bookmark this page and return to it.

All set? Grab a coffee and maybe a slice of key lime pie. This is a long read.

Here's a list of the Florida Keys Tourist Attractions in the order that you'll encounter them driving from Key Largo to Key West.

The first key on a drive down US-1 is also the longest.

Key Largo is home to 10,000 people and lives up to its name with a “largo” length of 33 miles.

Celebrated for its superb snorkeling spots, this key is only a 1.5-hour drive from Miami, making it a popular day-trip destination.

1. The Grecian Rocks Snorkeling Site

A famous coral reef called the Grecian Rocks is located off Key Largo's eastern shore.

Measuring about half a mile, Grecian Rocks is an exceptionally good snorkeling destination on windy days thanks to its shallow depth and durable wind protection.

In addition to common sponges and colorful coral, tourists often report seeing parrotfish, hogfish, and grouper on their tour.

Be sure to inquire at the nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for Grecian Rocks transportation info.

2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Of all Key Largo’s premier diving locations, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park deserves special attention.

This vast park (25 miles long and 3 miles wide) is one of Florida's most popular, with about one million annual visitors.

Although diving and snorkeling are John Pennekamp’s top draws, visitors could also take advantage of glass-bottom boat tours, an indoor aquarium, and camping facilities.

To help plan your trip, visit the official John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park website .

Admission fees are as follows:

• $8 for cars with no more than eight passengers.
• $2 for pedestrians, cyclists, and additional passengers.
• $4 for solo drivers in vehicles and motorcyclists.

3. Dolphins Plus Bayside

Have you ever wondered what a dolphin kiss feels like? Dream no longer because Dolphins Plus Bayside offers dozens of supervised dolphin swims.

Whether you want to swim with dolphins, paint with dolphins, or get a dolphin smooch, a tour package at Dolphins Plus is sure to fit your preferences.

To see a full list of tour packages and prices, visit this Dolphins Plus Bayside link .

4. Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is a fantastically feathery (and frugal) Key Largo attraction.

Home to hundreds of rescued and wild birds, this center has an outdoor sanctuary and bird hospital that are free to visit.

Besides gawking at all those birds, many travelers enjoy strolling on the center’s boardwalk during sunset.

For more info, check out the Mission Wild Bird website .

Home to about 6,000 residents, Islamorada is a collection of six islands smack dab in the middle of the Florida Keys.

Best known for its fantastic sport fishing, these central islands are a great home base for tourists interested in conquering all the Keys.

5. Islamorada Founders Park

The largest of Islamorada’s parks is Founders Park, located north on the Key’s bayside.

Measuring a massive 45 acres, this park is home to many sporting facilities—including an Olympic—sized swimming pool—picnic benches, and a Visitor Center.

Entering this park costs $8 per adult and $5 per child.

You can learn more about the Islamorada Founders Park facilities on this website .

6. Rain Barrel Village

Even if you didn’t read our list, you’d probably visit Rain Barrel Village. Why? Well, a colossal lobster statue outside is screaming for selfies!

If pulled over, you might as well check out all the lovely local art, handicrafts, and souvenirs inside this eccentric store.

7. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

While it might not look like much, Windley Key played a big role in Florida’s past. Indeed, this former limestone quarry helped build the state’s historic Overseas Railroad.

Park organizers have placed authentic machinery throughout the key’s five walking trails to help transport guests to the early 20th century.

You must pay $2.50 to enter this park and another $2 for a guided tour.

Anyone can learn more about Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park on this official website.

8. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Explore a hidden paradise at Lignumvitae Key , featuring a virgin tropical hardwood hammock and a historic 1919 homestead. This secluded island, accessible only by boat or kayak, offers a peaceful retreat with self-guided tours.

Discover nature's untouched beauty in Islamorada.

9. History of the Diving Museum

From the Epic of Gilgamesh to William Beebe, the History of Diving Museum is one of the world's most comprehensive collections of diving artifacts.

Although focused on South Florida, this pet-friendly non-profit strives to inspire visitors with the story of man’s eternal quest to fathom the fathomless depths.

Tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for children between the ages of 6-11.

Pro tip: visit the History of Diving Museum’s website beforehand and print the coupon on the “Ticket Information” page.

10. Islamorada Distillery

Enthusiasts of artisanal brews should seek out the vibrant yellow structure of the Islamorada Beverage Distillery during their expedition.

Located at 82229 Overseas Highway, this local emporium is starting to garner national attention for its tasty tropical-themed concoctions.

To see all the thirst-quenching beverages available at Islamorada Distillery , check out their official website.

11. Florida Keys History & Discovery Center

For a comprehensive overview of the Florida Keys, look no further than Islamorada’s Florida Keys History & Discovery Center.

From Native American artists to pineapple-growing pirates, you’ll learn much as you explore the rare artifacts and interactive exhibits here.

This museum also has a theatre that plays a fascinating hour-long documentary four times per day.

General admission costs $15 per person, but there are discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel.

Click on the Keys Discovery Center’s website for more details on special exhibits.

12. Florida Keys Brewing Company

Florida Keys Brewing Co. might be new to the craft brew game, but it’s certainly making its presence felt.

Upon arrival, you can unwind in the establishment's lounge or enter the splendid beverage sanctuary. Regardless of your chosen spot, you will indulge in a revitalizing ambiance.

Be sure to look at the Florida Keys Brewing Company’s website before your visit.

13. Indian Key State Historic Site

Indian Key is a tiny 11-acre island near Islamorada’s 78.5-mile marker.

Although it’s deserted nowadays, this island has quite a colorful history, including Spanish shipwrecks and intense Seminole War battles.

Those not interested in the island’s history will enjoy its many outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and swimming.

Most people who journey to Indian Key rent a kayak or take a boat ride. Entry to this historic site costs $2.50.

Click on this link to Indian Key’s official webpage to plan your trip better.

14. Anne's Beach

Officially located on Lower Matecumbe Key, Anne’s Beach has become quite popular in the kite-boarding community thanks to its shallow waters.

Anyone who hasn’t tried this intense water sport can safely test it on this laid-back beach.

If kiteboarding isn’t for you, Anne’s Beach has plenty of space for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming.

15. Highway Piers Historical Marker & Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

In 1935, a massive hurricane slammed Islamorada and claimed roughly 420 lives.

You can find a chilling reminder of this natural disaster at the Highway Piers Historical Marker near Anne’s Beach.

The easiest way to visit this area is to walk or cycle on the long Overseas Heritage Trail.

To learn more about riding this trail, follow this link by Florida State Parks .

16. Lorelei Restaurant

As the sun sets over the horizon, there's no better place to dine than at the Lorelei Restaurant in Islamorada.

Its picturesque waterfront views and delectable seafood offerings make it a favorite among locals and visitors.

Known for its iconic mermaid statue that greets guests upon arrival, the restaurant has become a landmark in the area.

This restaurant is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, sourcing local ingredients, and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Pull up a chair, enjoy live music, and feast on the day's freshest catch.

17. Robbie's of Islamorada

If feeding tarpons, shopping for local crafts, and enjoying great food sound appealing, then Robbie's of Islamorada should be on your list.

Not only is it a hotspot for tourists, but Robbie's also boasts a marina where visitors can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the surrounding waters.

This iconic spot in the Keys offers a unique blend of activities that cater to every kind of traveler. It's a one-stop destination for fun, food, and Florida Keys flair.

Sandwiched between Islamorada and Marathon is a small island that’s curiously named “Long Key.”

In the early 20 th century, Long Key gained a snobbish reputation due to its association with America’s wealth.

Today, anyone can enjoy the “high life” on this idyllic island’s campgrounds.

18. Long Key State Park

Gilded Age industrialist Henry Flagler founded a ritzy vacation club on Long Key that was popular until a hurricane blew through in 1935.

Today, the remnants of Flagler’s camp have become what we know as the Long Key State Park.

Besides camping, popular activities on Long Key include paddling, fishing, and snorkeling.

Usually, are 60 campsites available for rental, but Hurricane Irma caused significant damage in 2017.

Please visit Long Key State Park’s website ahead of time to check the status of camping areas and fees.

Grassy Key is formally classified as one of the Marathon Islands but has a different feel from its cousin Keys.

Although best known for hosting the Dolphin Research Center, Grassy Key is beloved for its small-town atmosphere and RV park.

19. Dolphin Research Center

As hinted in the intro, the Dolphin Research Center is a big deal on Grassy Key.

Indeed, this research institute is often listed as the top attraction on the Marathon Islands.

In addition to dolphins, guests who visit this center can watch entertaining educational shows with tropical birds and sea lions.

General admission to Dolphin Research Center costs $28 per adult and $23 per child.

There are also more expensive tour packages that include interactive dolphin encounters.

For more info on ticket pricing, here’s the D olphin Research Center ’s website link.

Marathon Islands

The Marathon Islands are a cluster of thirteen Keys about a one-hour drive north of Key West .

Home to almost 9,000 residents, these islands are more developed than other Keys, especially on the central Marathon Island.

20. Marathon Visitor Center

On central Marathon Island, you’ll find a cute Visitor Center full of friendly locals who are more than willing to help you plan your trip.

Whether you have questions about attractions, places to stay, or good restaurants, the Marathon Visitor Center is here to ensure an enjoyable vacation.

21. Curry Hammock State Park

Although the Marathon Islands are quite developed, Curry Hammock State Park boasts 1,000 acres of uninhabited land ideal for campers.

It has become especially popular with nature tourists interested in activities like paddle-boarding, hiking, and star-gazing thanks to Curry Hammock's untouched scenery.

Driving into Curry Hammock State Park will cost $4.50 for the driver and an additional $0.50 for each extra passenger. Pedestrians and cyclists only have to pay $2.50 to enter.

Find out more about camping on Curry Hammock State Park on this official website.

22. San Pablo Catholic Church

No matter your faith, you will be inspired on a walk through Marathon’s stained glass-filled San Pablo Catholic Church .

Take a few extra moments to stroll through this church’s rosary gardens and meditate on nature's beauty.

For those lucky enough to visit in December, schedule a nighttime stop at San Pablo to see the highly reviewed Christmas light displays.

23. Sunset Park Beach

Situated on the Atlantic edge of Key Colony Beach, Sunset Beach is best known for (surprise, surprise) its sunsets.

While tourists say a few docks are here, don’t expect anything fancy.

However, there have been a few impromptu musical performances here, so you might enjoy a sunset serenade.

24. Oceanfront Park

Oceanfront Park is an almost 8-acre park on Marathon Island’s Atlantic side. It features boardwalks, tiki huts, and picnic tables.

Besides fishing and launching a kayak, everyday activities on Oceanfront Park include kite flying, hiking, and bird-watching.

Best of all, there’s no fee to enter this pet-friendly park.

25. EAA Air Museum

Anyone with even the slightest interest in aviation must visit the EAA Air Museum at Marathon International Airport.

Although it looks small outside, this museum has loads of flight memorabilia, a fire engine, and even a few planes you could hop inside.

As a bonus, the EAA Air Museum is free to visit.

26. Crane Point Museum & Nature Center

Situated on Key Vaca, the Crane Point Museum & Nature Center was created in the 70s to preserve the area’s natural beauty from residential development.

This non-profit is still strong today and welcomes anyone interested in exploring its bird rehabilitation center, nature trail, and museum.

Discover what Crane Point Museum offers by clicking on this website.

27. The Turtle Hospital

For over 30 years, Marathon’s Turtle Hospital has helped hundreds of injured turtles reclaim their health and re-enter their natural habitat.

Those who would like to see the center's current turtle patients should book a guided tour in advance on the Turtle Hospital’s website .

It costs $27 per adult and $13 per child to tour the Turtle Hospital.

28. Pigeon Key Foundation Marine Center

Pigeon Key is an extremely small key south of Marathon that played an important role in housing workers during the Old Seven Mile Highway construction.

Today, visitors are welcome to tour the historic buildings (one of which is a museum) on Pigeon Key.

To take a ferry ride to Pigeon Key, visit the official Pigeon Key Visitor’s Center at the 2010 Overseas Highway Marathon.

Please note: a $12 fee is charged for a historical tour. For more information on the Pigeon Key Foundation , visit its official website.

29. Old Seven Mile Bridge

One of the most photographed bridges in the Keys is the Seven Mile Bridge between Marathon’s Knight’s Key and Little Duck Key.

Although it’s not the longest bridge in the world, this seven-mile-long stretch is an impressive engineering accomplishment.

As you’re driving through this area, you’ll notice two Seven Mile Bridges—one solely for pedestrians and another for cars.

Unfortunately, the pedestrian-friendly Old Seven Mile Bridge is currently undergoing refurbishment.

Little Torch Key

Nestled in the lower Florida Keys, Little Torch Key is a serene and relatively undeveloped island that measures roughly three miles in length.

Home to an estimated population of around 7,000 residents, this gem offers seclusion and pristine natural beauty.

It's a haven for locals and visitors, with quaint private homes dotting its landscape and access to prime offshore fishing spots.

Little Torch Key beckons if you're searching for a tranquil retreat or an angling adventure.

30. Little Palm Island Resort

Have you ever wanted to sip on a tropical drink surrounded by pristine waters and breathtaking views? Little Palm Island Resort is your go-to spot.

This luxurious resort offers an exclusive experience. You can unwind at their bar with a refreshing cocktail and let the Keys' beauty wash over you.

Nestled on a private island, it's only accessible by boat or seaplane, ensuring a secluded getaway.

Known for its world-class spa and fine dining, it's truly an oasis of luxury amidst the natural splendor of the Florida Keys.

Big Pine Key

Home to about 5,000 people, Big Pine Key is the perfect key for nature enthusiasts.

Believe it or not, this island’s main claim to fame is protecting the world’s largest population of endangered Key deer.

Pullover here if you’re interested in wildlife adventures.

31. Bahia Honda State Park

Crystal clear water. Swaying palm trees. Scintillating sunsets. All the hallmarks of a Caribbean beach retreat can be found at Big Pine Key’s Bahia Honda State Park.

From bicycling and bird-watching to snorkeling and sunbathing, you won’t have any difficulties finding some way to relax in beloved Bahia.

Admission to Bahia Honda State Park costs $8.50 per vehicle, provided there are more than eight passengers.

Although Bahia Honda is open to visitors, remember that Hurricane Irma hit this park.

You should visit Bahia Honda State Park’s website to check for availability during your trip.

32. Key West Visitor Center

That’s right, Key West’s Visitor Center is located on another key. Go figure.

If you’re passing through Big Pine Key and searching for reliable Key West information, this visitor center is the place to go.

For those using GPS, the official address of the Key West Visitor Center is 31281 Overseas Hwy.

33. National Key Deer Refuge

Anyone interested in seeing those endangered Key deer we mentioned should stop at Big Pine Key’s 9,200-acre National Key Deer Refuge.

While the Key deer are the highlight at this refuge, many other endangered animals are on the property, including Bartram’s hairstreak butterfly and the Lower Keys marsh rabbit.

When you are here, please resist the urge to feed the adorable Key deer because it is against the refuge’s policies.

Check out the National Key Deer Refuge ’s official website for more information on visiting this wildlife wonderland.

34. The Blue Hole

Three miles north of the National Key Deer Refuge, you’ll come across a small but significant wildlife area called the Blue Hole.

Named for its circular pond, the Blue Hole is an excellent area for wildlife watching, especially if you’re looking for various reptiles, iguanas, birds, and more Key deer!

The mysteriously named Cudjoe Key is a world away from the excitement of nearby Key West.

Only about 1,000 people live on Cudjoe Key, making it a perfect island for a secluded getaway.

35. American Shoal Lighthouse

Anyone taking a boat ride from Cudjoe Key should keep their eyes peeled for the bright red American Shoal Lighthouse.

Although this lighthouse was deactivated in 2015, visiting for the fantastic photo ops and snorkeling opportunities is worthwhile.

Before your visit, please keep up-to-date on the latest news surrounding the American Shoal Lighthouse.

Recent reports suggest the lighthouse was deemed an “excess” by the US Coast Guard and might be dismantled soon.

36. Veterans Memorial Park

People looking for a small beach retreat during their trip to Cudjoe could drive 25 minutes north to Little Duck Key’s Veterans Memorial Park.

The positives of visiting this beach include free access, free parking, and beautiful shallow waters.

Just be forewarned: many visitors complain of limited parking, so it’s best to get here early and claim your territory.

With a population of about 25,000, Key West is by far the most populous, most visited, and most politically significant of all the Florida Keys.

Internationally known for its quirky character, this southernmost key is jam-packed with unforgettable attractions, hot restaurants & clubs, and lovely nature retreats.

Since Key West has the most attractions in the Florida Keys, we’ve conveniently arranged our itinerary into three distinct groups:

• Landmarks & Unique Attractions
• Historic Homes & Museums
• Gardens & Animal Attractions.

We hope this organization will make pinpointing the perfect Key West destinations for your preferences easier.

Key West Landmarks & Unique Attractions

37. key west historic seaport.

A great place to begin your Key West adventure is at the 20-acre Historic Seaport.

Used for hundreds of years as a trading port, this coastal area is home to dozens of the city’s finest shops and restaurants.

You’ll also find convenient access to water sports excursions, snorkeling tours, and hop-on, hop-off trolleys from this seaport.

Find out more about what’s going on at Key West Historic Seaport on this website.

38. Mallory Square

Mallory Square is hands down the most popular place to watch Key West’s stunning sunset.

Located on the key’s northwest tip, this square is equally well known for its dramatic (and sometimes kitschy) evening street performers.

If you visit Mallory Square for sunset, be prepared to deal with crowds of cruise ship tourists.

To learn more about the restaurants and attractions in Mallory Square , you can visit this official webpage.

39. US-1 Mile Marker 0

Looking for a fantastic and free photo-op? Visit the US-1 Mile Marker 0 between Whitehead and Fleming Streets.

This sign marks the official endpoint for one of the East Coast’s longest and most historic roads.

Now, you must travel 2,300 miles north to take a picture by “America’s First Mile” in Fort Kent!

40. Duval Street

Measuring 1.2 miles between the Atlantic and Gulf sides, Duval is Key West’s liveliest and most distinctive street.

Whether you’re looking for big-name restaurants, historic buildings, or souvenir shops, there’s a good chance Duval Street has just what you’re looking for.

Duval Street is also popular for nighttime ghost tours and parades during special events.

41. Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum

The bright white Key West Lighthouse stands proudly on Whitehall Street, a position it has held for 170 years.

Since deactivated in the 1960s, the lighthouse has become one of the most iconic tourist draws thanks to its fantastic panoramic city views.

Just be forewarned: you must climb 88 steps to reach the top.

Tickets inside the lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarter Museum cost $12 per adult and $5 per child.

Visit the Key West Lighthouse’s website for more tourist information.

42. Higgs Beach

Anyone looking for a family-friendly beach near Downtown should consider visiting the Atlantic-facing Higgs Beach.

This 16.5-acre beach offers much to explore, including remnants of the 19th-century West Martello Tower, an old African burial ground, and two piers.

Plus, Higgs Beach has a restaurant, kiddie play area, and dog park to take advantage of.

43. South Beach & Southernmost Point of the US

Taking a picture by Key West’s Southernmost Point is like standing in front of the Vegas sign.

You have to do it. Oh yeah, and don’t do anything embarrassing because there is a live webcam of the Southernmost Point .

Nearby the Southernmost Point, you will also find a small beach and pier conveniently named South Beach.

Although this beach is tiny, tourists say it has clean amenities and great views of ships and the sunset.

44. Key West Cemetery

Visiting the Key West Cemetery isn’t as macabre as it might seem. Indeed, some tourists say it's downright hilarious.

You’ll be surprised at what’s inscribed on some of the tombstones in this supposedly solemn area. It seems the fun-loving Key West spirit extends even into the afterlife!

Although visiting the Key West Cemetery is free, you could reserve a guided tour for a small fee.

Please click this link to the Key West Cemetery’s official site to learn more about the area and tours.

45. Smathers Beach

About one mile from the Historic District, Smathers is Key West's longest beach and a well-known haunt for party-hardy spring breakers.

But it’s not all about debauchery here. Tourists who visit Smathers praise the area's cleanliness and fantastic amenities like volleyball courts, picnic benches, and jet ski rentals.

One potential downside of visiting Smathers Beach is that it’s near the Key West International Airport.

So, be prepared for planes always flying overhead. On the pro side, parking at Smathers Beach is free.

46. Key West's Mario Sanchez Street Experience

Don't miss the vibrant Mario Sanchez Street Experience in a recreated Cuban-American neighborhood when visiting Key West.

This lively installation features large-scale reproductions of Sanchez's colorful murals depicting scenes of old Key West.

As you stroll down the " street ," stop to admire the bustling factory, sightseeing bus, local stores, boxing gym, and more. Vivid, lifelike scenes transport you back to decades past in the historic Cuban district.

Notable sights include the Pee-Roo-Lee Man selling his signature cone candy, the police chief chasing after a chicken thief, and locals engaged in a game of dominos.

Sanchez's intricate wood carvings inspired the exhibit and showcased his masterful folk art skills, which he honed from a young age.

Born in Key West in 1908, Sanchez created hundreds of paintings and carvings capturing his community's sights, sounds, and nostalgia. His works can be found across the Keys, but this expansive interactive exhibit brings his art to life.

47. Outback with Jack

Set sail with Outback with Jack . They're frequently navigating the mesmerizing maze of creeks and reefs near Sugarloaf Marina, just 13 miles from Key West.

During your adventure, you'll snorkel, fish, and might even savor a beach-cooked seafood lunch from your catch.

Their 23-foot tri-toon ensures everyone enjoys a comfortable journey, from kids to dogs.

All the essentials, from snorkel gear to beach chairs, are provided. So, hop on and let the Keys' beauty unfold!

Key West Historic Homes & Museums

48. audubon house & tropical gardens.

A stone’s throw from Mallory Square, the Audubon House is an essential stop for bird lovers.

Although the influential Birds of America painter John James Audubon visited Key West before the current Audubon House was built, it’s believed he stayed here when working on his famous tome.

Tickets to the Audubon House cost $14 per adult and $5 per child, but you could save $1 if you mention “ save a tree .”

By visiting this link, find out all there is to explore at the Audubon House .

49. The Oldest House

Although it’s not the Oldest House in America (you’ll have to go to St. Augustine for that), Key West’s Oldest Home is still pretty remarkable.

Constructed in 1829, this Duval Street home will undoubtedly transport you to a different era.

Adults and children over 12 only need $5 to tour this legendary home.

For more facts on this charming residence, please check out the Key West Oldest Home’s website .

50. Harry S. Truman Little White House

To date, no American president has been born in Florida, yet there is one presidential library in Key West.

History buffs might already know President Harry S. Truman used to retreat to a “Little White House” near Mallory Square during the winter.

Visit this fantastic attraction for an intimate view of Truman’s life and times.

Tickets cost $21.95 per adult and $10.75 per child, but check out the Truman Little White House’s webpage for online discounts.

51. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Just behind the Key West Lighthouse, you’ll find the former home of a literary legend: Ernest Hemingway.

On your 30-minute guided tour, you’ll learn amusing anecdotes on the Nobel Prize-winning author’s time in Key West and tour his second wife Pauline Pfeiffer’s gardens.

Oh yeah, and dozens of cats are on the property, some of which might be descended from Hemingway’s original six-toed cat.

For the full Hemingway experience, consider visiting during the Hemingway Days Festival at the end of July.

If you’re not in town for the “Running of the Bulls,” grab a drink at Hemingway’s old haunt Sloppy Joe’s .

General admission costs $15 per adult and $6 per child, and this museum only accepts cash.

You can find out more about Ernest Hemingway Home online .

52. Fort East Martello Museum

The Civil War in Key West was complicated. Although officially under Union control, many residents were Confederates.

Fearing the Confederates might try to take the territory, Union troops worked feverishly on Fort East Martello till the end of the war.

Today, this former fort is a fascinating museum housing not only Civil War relics but also unique artwork and artifacts from Key West’s past.

Tickets to this fort cost $12 per adult and $5 per child.

Check out this link to Fort East Martello Museum’s website for more info.

53. The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea

The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea is one of the Sunshine State's most historic Catholic churches, dating back to the 1850s.

According to tourists, this storied church, with its beautiful interior and serene garden, is well worth a visit, especially if you need a few moments to meditate.

The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea ’s official website has a full map that can be downloaded.

54. Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum

Anyone interested in pirates, shipwrecks, and buried treasure should put the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum high on their itinerary.

The star attractions at this museum include Spanish ships and treasures from the 1600s, but there are also fascinating exhibits dedicated to conservation efforts and the history of Caribbean pirates.

Located near Mallory Square, this museum costs $16 per adult and $7 per child.

Learn more about special exhibits on the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum’s website .

55. U.S. Coast Guard Cutter INGHAM Maritime Museum

Alongside Truman Waterfront Park, you’ll find one of the Coast Guard’s most celebrated ships: the 320-foot-long USCG Cutter INGHAM.

This cutter served between 1936 and 1988, saw extensive action in WWII and the Vietnam War, and now it houses many artifacts from those heroic decades.

If possible, visit this ship’s artifacts later to enjoy a spectacular sunset view.

It will cost adults $10 and children $5 to step aboard this USCG Cutter.

This webpage lets you learn more about the USCG Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum.

56. Key West Art & Historical Society Custom House Museum

Another historical attraction near Mallory Square is the Custom House Museum.

This four-story building, dating back to 1891, once served as Key West’s central business hub and a strategic naval base.

Today, visitors can learn more about the essential roles this building played by touring the museum’s exhibits.

You can purchase tickets to this museum for $12 per adult and $5 per child.

Find out more info about the Custom House Museum on this website .

57. Blue Heaven Rooster Graveyard

Tucked away in the courtyard of the famous Blue Heaven restaurant in Key West lies a unique graveyard - the Blue Heaven Rooster Graveyard. This quirky cemetery is the final resting place for champion fighting cocks from the restaurant's historic past.

Dating over a century, the Blue Heaven first began as a notorious spot for cockfighting and gambling. Some of Key West's famous free-roaming chickens are said to be descendants of the prized fighting roosters that once battled here.

Over the years, the locale transformed into a lively ice cream parlor, dance hall, and tavern frequented by Ernest Hemingway.

The Blue Heaven is a popular restaurant today, but the rooster graveyard preserves its spirited history.

Spotting the vibrant gravesite in the courtyard, you'll notice each cock's grave is colorfully adorned and lovingly embellished.

While an unusual sight, the memorials pay homage to Key West's storied past and the valiant roosters of local legend. The rooster graveyard is truly one-of-a-kind.

58. The Key West Shipwreck Museum & 65’ Tower

The most eye-catching museum by Mallory Square is the Key West Shipwreck Museum, designed to look like a shipwrecked vessel.

Inside this highly interactive museum, you’ll watch live performers tell the incredible stories behind authentic shipwrecks and treasures.

As part of your admission fee, you can climb the museum’s 65-foot Tower for an unforgettable view.

If you purchase your tickets at the door, you’ll pay about $16 per adult and $10 per child.

You can, however, save on ticket prices if you purchase from the Key West Shipwreck Museum’s website .

59. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

A 15-minute walk from the Southernmost Point, Fort Zachary Taylor earns high marks with snorkelers thanks to its incredibly clear waters.

As the name suggests, this park also has a Civil War-era fort that you could tour alone or with a guide.

Tourists say it’s effortless to stay here swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and picnicking the entire day.

You’ll probably be walking or biking into this park, which will cost you $2.50.

For more detailed info on attractions and pricing, please click on Fort Zachary Taylor State Park’s website .

Key West Gardens & Animal Attraction

60. key west tropical forest and botanical garden.

Unlike the other Key West attractions listed here, the Key West Botanical Garden is a 20-minute drive from the Historic District.

Those who make the trip here, however, rave about the garden’s lush Caribbean gardens and the many rare birds, butterflies, and turtles.

Plus, since this garden is “frost-free,” there’s never a wrong time of year to visit.

Tickets to the Key West Botanical Garden are $10 per adult and free for accompanied children.

To get a sneak peek at all the fantastic flora, click this link to the Key West Botanical Garden’s website .

61. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Every family visiting Key West should add a stop to the government-sponsored Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center.

A short walk from Fort Zachary Taylor, this 6,000 sq. ft. complex features interactive exhibits, films, and live fish that educate visitors on the wonders of the Keys’ biodiversity.

The best part of visiting this center is that there are no admission fees.

Click this link to the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center for more details.

62. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Calling all lepidopterologists: Key West’s Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is near the Southernmost Point.

As you stroll through the conservatory’s beautiful walkway, you’ll encounter over 50 species of butterflies and dozens of exotic birds.

Adult tickets cost $15, while kids can enter for $11 each.

Look for more info on the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory’s website.

63. Key West Aquarium

First opened in the 1930s, the Key West Aquarium is a long-standing, family-friendly attraction near Mallory Square.

One of the most popular draws at this museum remains the touch tank, which is full of local critters like sea stars, hermit crabs, and conchs.

A few other creatures you’ll see (but thankfully not touch) include sharks, alligators, and stingrays.

Tickets to the Key West Aquarium cost $17 per adult and $10 per child, but you could save money by booking online.

64. Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden

Only a five-minute walk north of Mile Marker 0, Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden is the best place to get up close and personal with some extremely rare macaws.

If you’ve ever wanted to feed, touch, or hear one of these colorful birds up close, look no further than this intimate setting.

The entrance fee to this secret garden is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Visit Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden’s website for more info on daily macaw showtimes.

More Things To Do Along The Florida Keys

As if all those attractions weren’t enough, here are a few more things to consider trying in the Florida Keys.

This final section will cover activities you could experience in multiple locations, from snorkeling sessions and sunset cruises to parasailing and plane rides.

65. Snorkeling In The Reef

There are very few “bad” snorkeling spots in the Florida Keys.

After all, the Keys are home to one of the world’s longest barrier reefs: the Great Florida Reef.

As mentioned above, Key Largo usually garners the most attention in snorkeling due to its phenomenal John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park .

There are, however, dozens of other fantastic snorkeling destinations such as:

• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Park in Key West
• Dry Tortugas National Park , 70 miles off of Key West
• Sombrero Reef in Marathon
• Biscayne National Park

If you go on a guided half-day snorkeling excursion, expect prices to be around $40 – $80 per person.

You can find more specific information on tour companies and snorkel rentals at your desired park’s official website.

66. Take A Cruise Along The Keys

Unfortunately, couples can’t go on those clichéd “long walks on the beach” in the Keys.

These islands are relatively small, and the sand can be somewhat rocky.

You can, however, easily book a romantic guided cruise in most of the major Keys.

Sunset and dolphin sightseeing tours are the most popular choices among the many cruises.

Here are a few highly reviewed cruise operators worth checking out:

• Fury Water Adventures in Key West
• Key Largo Princess Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
• Keyz Charters in Islamorada

Rates for sightseeing cruises that last a few hours are usually between $40 – $80 per person.

67. Kayaking Excursions

Outdoorsy types who don’t mind a bit of paddling might enjoy kayaking in the Keys.

Whether you feel like exploring lush mangroves or heading out into the open ocean, here are a few of the best-reviewed kayaking points throughout the Florida Keys:

• The mangroves in Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park .
• Ponds and lagoons in Long Key State Park .
• In the ocean at Marathon’s Curry Hammock State Park .
• Exploring mangroves in Key West with tour companies like Lazy Dog Adventures or Key West Eco Tours .

Usually, kayak rentals only cost about $20 per day, but this could vary depending on the park you visit.

Of course, you must pay extra for guided kayak excursions.

For instance, most two-hour guided kayak tours in Key West are around $65 per adult.

68. Booking A Fishing Charter

With a nickname like the “Sport Fishing Capital Of The World,” Islamorada has a reputation in the fishing community.

While other Keys, like Marathon and Big Pine, have fantastic fishing opportunities, nothing compares with an Islamorada experience.

A few Islamorada fishing charters that have earned high praise in recent years include:

• Florida Keys Fun Fishing
• Florida Backcountry Fishing
• Dauntless Fishing Charters

Fishing charters tend to be a tad pricey compared with other excursions.

Expect a standard 4-hour skiff trip to cost between $400 and $600 for two people.

69. Water Sports For Adrenaline Junkies

Are you looking for a rush? Don’t worry. Plenty of water & jet skiing opportunities will satisfy even the speediest of speed demons.

You’ll have the easiest time finding companies that offer water and jet skiing in Key West, but here are a few destinations throughout the Keys the check out:

• Keys Skis Watersports in Key Largo
• Dolphin Bay Watersports in Marathon

Typically, these water sports excursions cost $100 – $200 per person for half a day.

70. Parasailing, Take Me Away!

For those who want to fly away, consider taking to the sky on a parasailing adventure.

A few highly rated parasailing excursions in the Keys include:

• Parawest Parasail in Key West
• Key Largo Parasail
• Captain Pip’s at Marathon

Parasailing trips usually cost between $60 and $80 per flyer and between $20 and $20 for friends and family members who want to tag along and watch you soar.

71. A View From Above: Helicopter Tours

Regarding helicopter tours, there’s only one major player in town: Air Adventures in Key West .

You might find smaller operators in other Keys, but Air Adventures currently has the best reviews and the most extensive array of options for guests.

Helicopter tour prices vary widely depending on where you want to go. For instance, a five-minute tour of Key West costs about $70 per person.

At the high end, an hour-long tour of the Lower Keys will cost over $400 per person.

Enjoy the Florida Keys!

Okay, show of hands, who made it this far? If you have, please leave me a comment to let me know.

If you've already visited the Florida Keys , let me know what you think about our list. Is there anything that you would add?

Do you have any special recommendations? I'd love to hear them now so we can adjust our notes—thank you!

And if you could share this on social media, that would be fantastic! Here are a few images that you could use to pin this on Pinterest.

29 Comments

For snorkel enthusiast try to arrange to get to the Christ Statue in John oennekamp marine park it is an awesome experience. It is a 9foot bronze statue given to the park from an Italian wet suit company. I have not been there since 1997. Hope it is still there. Your traveling made me realize how things have changed. Looking forward to returning & going to sites I missed back then .Thank you for such an interesting read!

We come to Key West every year. We will use your list for our bucket list.

Great list! I would say, as Key Largo seems under represented, that the Caribbean Club was where the Humphrey Bogart classic “Key Largo” was partially filmed, and nearby is the tiny steamboat used in another Bogart epic, “The African Queen”… The Keys are a spot for film buffs as well!

Hi Deedria. We love the Keys. And one placed I think you missed is Dry Tortuga. While you mentioned snorkeling for Dry Tortuga, it was buried in the “snorkeling” bullet point. And there’s so much more. Fort Jefferson is a great historic monument for the history buffs. The beaches outside the fort are spectacular, and then there’s the lighthouses, one over at Loggerhead Island as well as Garden Key Light. Plus there’s the ride over by Hydrofoil, which is lovely!

Wow you hit everything and in order at that. Been to the keys 3 times and headed down again soon. You taught me a few things I didn’t know with this read. Ty 🏝️❤️

Thanks for the info! It will definitely help in planning our trip!

Quick question – can you confirm that the old seven mile bridge has been reopened to pedestrians?

This was very helpful thank you for putting this together. One thing I would like to see is if things are easy to do for people with mobile issues (example getting on and off boat tour, swimming with the dolphins…) we are planning a trip this winter.

I am working on getting there. Looks beautiful and lots to see. Thanks for sharing Is there a guide book available?

Hi Nancy, Writing a guide book will be an interesting endeavor! I’d have to get back to the Keys to do that properly 😉 I’ll look into getting a few books and reviewing them, maybe that will help people get the best one.

Thanks for the info. We’ve been to Key West 2x before, once for a week and once for the day. This time we’re spending a week at Marathon Key and planning to visit other areas as well. In the past we did Lloyd’s Bicycle Tour in Key West and loved it, but that was about 15 years ago and I don’t know if he’s still doing it.

I visited the keys years ago and always wanted to go back and swim with the dolphins and snorkel. Thanks for your information on the keys, you helped me out a lot

Very good info. I lived in Islamorada for 29 years from 1970 to 1999. In the ’70s a gentleman who’s last name was Humm, wrote a Paperback Book titled Humm’s Guide to the Florida Keys. I happened to meet him when he stopped at our family’s Oceanside Resort inquiring about advertising our establishment in his book. What should have been a quick sales call ended up being almost a 5 hour conversation as he was heading eventually to Key West. On his way back, he stopped by, this time for just over 2 hours. What transpired during our conversations was different historical facts and locations , some you mentioned an quite a few you didn’t. If you desire, perhaps you can contact me and privately talk about a few things. Remember, you can take the Conch out of the Keys, But Never The Keys Out of The Conch! A True Conch is born in the Keys. One that has or had lived there for 25 years or more, was given the Status of Being a Fresh Water Conch.

Thanks for sharing that Robert and thank you for the offer – I’ll keep this for when we update the post!

This is a great list! Thank you so much for creating this. I didn’t realize how many free options there are in Key West. We are planning a 4 day trip in the next couple of months.

Lived in FL since ’09 and this is on my bucket list. Very informative.

Great collection of very helpful tips and information I’ve been to the keys several times and love them !! Don’t forget your keys 😂 can’t wait to take my grandkids to see them !! It’s really best experienced with time stopping along the way all the way to key west the conch republic is a different world and it’s really nice to soak in the laid back feeling of remembering how life should be ❤️

Great experience! The drive out is well worth the drive! Can’t wait to go back this fall!!

Thanks for the info. Going back in October and looking forward to doing some of these!

This was amazing reading.I made up envelopes of all the places we are going to see and are filling them with the admission cost to each place we want to get into.

Hi there we would love to invite you to stop by Hemingway Rum Co – Papa’s Pilar Distillery next time you are in Key West. Here you can take a distillery tour and hear some untold stories of Papa. Experience how we make Rum and the best part is you get to taste our award-winning rum. You can also relax in our Hemingway Social Club as you step back in time and taste some of our famous Papa’s Pilar Cocktails while listening to some great local musicians. Look forward to meeting you in the future!

I’m glad you liked the post on this blog

Whatever beach you visit, you need to wear footwear. Our trip got scaled back quite a bit by something thorn-like sticking into my boyfriend’s foot, leaving him unable to walk comfortably.We are not sure what it was or if he picked it up wading in the ocean, walking on the beach, or walking the path through scrubby bushes in flipflops to get back to the car. The Nurses Station on Big Pine Key gave him great care for it.

This will make our trip so much more exciting! We can pick out our favorites before we leave home! Thank you!

This is fabulous. Thank you so much for putting all of this information together. We would like to be able to spend some days on the beach just enjoying the sand and the water. Are there any beaches you would recommend for a beach day? Thank you!

I’m glad you liked the post, Julia! Unfortunately, our Florida visit was canceled back then due to Covid concerns. We’re trying again this summer and I’ll update if I find anything interesting!

Well done with this site! I can tell a lot of time and research went into this. There’s something here for everyone and the key points you use are very helpful. Usually, I have to do a ton of research, but your list has it all in one convenient place. Thank you so much for this!!

Thanks, Michelle!

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Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide (+ A Map of the Florida Keys)

Wondering how to plan a trip to the famous Florida Keys ? With its crystal clear water, delicious seafood, and a multitude of activities, the Florida Keys are a must-visit destination in the USA!

The Florida Keys are truly my happy place, and I want everyone to experience them too. I was lucky enough to grow up visiting the Keys. My dad is from Islamorada (part of the Upper Keys), so he made sure we visited a lot and experienced all the Keys have to offer. And they have A LOT to offer!!!

From Key Largo to Key West , there are so many incredible hotels, restaurants, and activities to experience in the Keys. In this post, I cover everything you need to know about visiting the Florida Keys , including the best time to visit, places to stay, where to eat, and the top activities in each major Key.

Plus, I’ve put together a complete map of the Florida Keys with all of the highlights! So keep reading to help plan your perfect trip to the Keys!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you!

The Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide (+ A Detailed Map of the Best Spots)

Complete florida keys map.

If you’ve never been to the Keys, it’s important to know the Florida Keys are not just Key West . The Florida Keys are actually made up of over 200 islands! Of course, not all of these are inhabited, but there are still quite a few Keys to choose from.

Make sure to check out my blog post How Many Keys Are in the Florida Keys? for more FL Keys fun facts!

To help you plan your trip, this travel guide breaks down the Keys into three main areas: The Upper Keys, The Middle Keys, and The Lower Keys . For each area, you’ll find a mini guide, including where to stay, where to eat, and things to do!

I’ve also put together a Florida Keys map that includes all of my favorite stops throughout the Keys, including restaurants, hotels, shops, breweries, and more! Make sure to save this map of the Florida Keys before your trip!

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

In my opinion, there is no “bad” time to visit the Keys.. You can pretty much guarantee that it’ll be warm year round, as is the norm in southern Florida! However, there are a few different things to consider when planning your trip to the Keys depending on the time of year.

For a detailed breakdown on when to visit the Keys, including a list of seasonal events, make sure to check out my full guide: Best Time To Visit The Florida Keys !

Winter is the “high” season in the Keys. Snowbirds flock to Florida to escape the brutal winter weather up north – which means busy restaurants, higher hotel rates, etc.. While cold fronts can happen, it’s uncommon for the temperature to drop below 55 degrees in the Keys.

So even though it’s winter, you can still partake in the standard Florida Keys activities. The ocean might be a little chilly (but not unbearable), and there are always wet suits if needed!

Overall, plan for crowds and inflated costs if you’re visiting in the winter months, but gorgeous weather!

➡️ Read Next: Should You Visit Key West in January? Yes! Here’s Why!

Spring is personally my favorite time to visit the Keys. The winter crowds start to die down around late February, and the weather starts to warm up, with highs in the upper 70s and lows in the 60s.

Plus, blue skies are the norm during this time, with very low precipitation rates.

The only downside of visiting the Keys in March/April is the possibility of spring break crowds. This will be most noticeable in Key West, but if you’re going to Key West to have peace and quiet, I’d re-think your plans..

No matter what, the Keys are extremely enjoyable in the Spring and a perfect time of year to visit!

As temperatures rise in June and July, the crowds decrease, along with hotel prices. Most people avoid the Keys in the summer because, let’s face it, Florida summers can be brutal .

The mosquitos come out. It rains every afternoon. It’s HOT.

As a Floridian, this is the norm for me, so I don’t avoid the Keys in the summer by any means. In fact, it’s a good time to visit if that type of weather doesn’t bother you, because hotels are cheaper and there’s way less people!

We used to visit the Keys every July 4th and it was still incredible.. but if you’re not a fan of 90 degree weather, I would plan to visit during another time of year!

The biggest thing to consider when planning a trip to the Keys in the fall is hurricane season , which runs from June – November . However, the peak of the season is August & September. During this timeframe, expect hot days and frequent rainfall in the afternoons.

If you’re planning a trip to the Keys during hurricane season, plan for the worst and make sure everything is refundable . Hurricanes can pop up out of nowhere and lead to canceling your vacation within a week’s notice (or less!)

How to Get to the Florida Keys

So, you’ve picked a time of year to visit.. Now let’s talk about how you will get to the Florida Keys! How you arrive in the Keys will depend on a few factors, including your budget, your timeframe, and your departure city.

For example, if you live in Florida, you can probably drive to the Keys , unless you live in North Florida, which would be a long adventure! If you’re traveling from any other state, you are probably going to be flying in.

Flying to the Florida Keys

Flying into key west.

You have a couple different options for flights to the Florida Keys. If you’re traveling to Key West and only Key West, you can fly directly into Key West International Airport (EYW) . Some US cities even have direct flights to Key West, like Asheville, New York City, Tampa, and Indianapolis. Check out the flight prices below!

Flying into Fort Lauderdale or Miami

If you are planning to visit other Keys besides Key West, don’t limit yourself to the Key West airport only, because it can get expensive!

I recommend flying into Fort Lauderdale airport (FLL) or Miami airport (MIA) and then renting a car and driving down to the Keys. If you’re staying in one of the Upper Keys, driving from these airports will be relatively painless (only 1-2 hours depending on which you choose)!

If you want to go all the way to Key West, and flights to Key West airport are super expensive, it is totally doable to drive to Key West from Fort Lauderdale or Miami airport!

The drive from Miami to Key West takes less than 4 hours, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way to break up the drive! In fact, I highly recommend it 🙂

You can also consider booking one way flights: one into Miami/Fort Lauderdale and one out of Key West. This way, you only have to do the drive through the Keys one time!

Renting a Car in the Florida Keys

As mentioned above, if you plan on visiting multiple Keys, you’ll need to rent a car ! You can pick up a rental car from any of the 3 airports mentioned above.

I highly recommend  RentalCars.com . They allow you to compare prices across all of the major rental car companies. Plus, they have a great cancellation policy (typically free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance). Oh, and they price match!

For your trip to the Florida Keys, I recommend getting a car with good fuel economy to save money! If you are driving up and down the length of the Overseas Highway, that’s over 300 miles!

With gas prices the way they are, you are going to want to save where you can!

TIP: Avoid arriving for your trip on a Friday afternoon if flying into Fort Lauderdale or Miami. Not only will you hit rush hour traffic in Miami, but you will also hit traffic getting into the Keys. There is only one main road in and out of the Keys, and it can get backed up quickly !

Florida Keys by Boat

So we covered air and land.. another option for visiting the Keys is by sea ! A lot of South Floridians take their own boats down to the Keys. Of course, if you’re traveling from out of state or don’t have a boat, this isn’t an option, but a cruise is!

Many cruise lines include a stop in Key West on their Western or Eastern Caribbean cruises. You can cruise from New Orleans, Galveston, Mobile, or other parts of Florida.

However, I really think you have to spend more than just a day in Key West to truly appreciate the beauty of the Keys! That’s why I highlight all the different areas in this Florida Keys Travel Guide, not just Key West!

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

Below I will breakdown the main 3 areas of the Keys and provide hotel recommendations for each area based on different budgets! However, I wanted to note that you are not limited to just hotels in the Keys.

Vacation rentals are very common in the Keys! You can check out options on VRBO or Airbnb . It’s worth noting that some parts of the Keys do not allow vacation rentals for less than a 28-day stay, so depending on the area, options might be limited. 

Looking for something unique? Consider renting out a sailboat or houseboat to stay on!

If you decide to go the hotel route, there are tons of options, from seaside motels to luxurious resorts. In each section below, I’ll give some hotel recommendations for each area of the Florida Keys!

The Upper Keys

The two main towns that make up the Upper Keys are Key Largo and Islamorada . Key Largo will be your first stop on your journey south through the Keys, followed shortly by Islamorada.

The Upper Keys are very popular among Floridians due to their proximity to the rest of the state. In fact, many people from south Florida often do a Miami to Key Largo road trip , since the drive only takes an hour!

In addition, the Upper Keys have some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to the Florida  Keys  National Marine Sanctuary , so it’s a very popular area for boaters. (Make sure to check out my Key Largo Snorkeling Guide and my Islamorada Snorkeling Guide for more info!

What Is There to Do in the Upper Keys?

My favorite part of the Upper Keys is there is SO much to see and do. I have a list of Free Things to Do in Key Largo and Things to Do in Islamorada , but here’s a quick overview of both!

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (the first undersea park in the United States!)
• Sunset cruise in Key Largo (full guide here !)
• Snorkeling at Alligator Reef Lighthouse
• Islamorada Beer Company
• Dolphins Plus Encounter
• Sports Fishing Charter
• Feed The Tarpon At Robbie’s
• Kayaking In The Bay
• Have a Rum Runner at the Tiki Bar

Where Should I Stay in the Upper Keys?

All of my favorite Florida Keys hotels are located in the Upper Keys! If you’re on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Drop Anchor Resort or La Jolla Resort .

If you have a moderate budget, my absolute favorite resorts are the Islander Resort and Postcard Inn !

For luxury travelers, you can’t go wrong with The Caribbean Resort or Playa Largo Resort !

For more suggestions, make sure to check out my detailed guides on the Best Hotels in Key Largo and the Best Hotels in Islamorada !

Where Should I Eat in the upper Keys?

There’s no shortage of incredible restaurants in the Upper Keys. Islamorada is the sports fishing capital of the world, so the seafood here is unbelievable. In fact, not one but TWO restaurants in Islamorada have been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!

Luckily, I’ve put together two full guides on this exact category: the Best Restaurants in Islamorada and the Top 10 Key Largo Restaurants !

The Middle Keys

Next up are the Middle Keys.. a little bit further south and a little less people than Key Largo or Islamorada. Marathon is the heart of the Middle Keys and encompasses many little keys within its limits. There is also Duck Key, home to the famous and luxurious resort, Hawk’s Cay!

What Is There to Do in the Middle keys?

There is a ton to do in the Middle Keys, especially for younger children and those who love getting outdoors. The Middle Keys are also home to the Seven Mile Bridge , one of the longest bridges in the world!

• The Turtle Hospital
• Dolphin Research Center
• Sombrero Beach & Reef
• Bahia Honda State Park
• Seven Mile Bridge
• Crane Point Nature Center

Where Should I Stay in the Middle Keys?

There are quite a few hotels and VRBOs to stay in in the Middle Keys. In my opinion, none as great as in the Upper Keys, but still some wonderful hotels! For budget travelers, check out the Rainbow Bend Resort . Other options that are a little higher priced are Isla Bella Beach Resort and Faro Blanco Resort .

For luxury travelers, there’s really nothing better than Hawk’s Cay Resort . This resort takes up an entire Key itself (Duck Key), and it does not disappoint! It has its own lagoon, dolphin sanctuary, and more!

The Lower Keys

Last but definitely not least.. let’s talk about the Lower Keys – the highlight of which is Key West! Key West truly has something for everyone to enjoy.. beaches (rare for the Keys), bars, museums, shops, gardens, and more.

For this reason, Key West is extremely popular for families, spring breakers, snow birds, and more. You can arrive by cruise ship, flight or car (reference the beginning of this travel guide!)

Aside from Key West, there’s also Big Pine Key and No Name Key, which are perfect for that off-the-beaten-path feel. If you’re looking for a real adventure, make sure to visit Dry Tortugas National Park , which is located on  a small archipelago about 70 miles from Key West!  

What Is There to Do in the Lower keys?

Most people think Key West is just bars, but there is plenty of other things to do! In fact, I wrote a list of 10 FREE Things to Do in Key West AND 25 Epic Things To Do in Key West , but here’s a quick overview!

• Duval Bar Crawl
• Mallory Square
• Sunset Cruise (read my full guide here !)
• Southernmost Point of the Continental United States
• No Name Pub
• Key Deer Refuge
• Dry Tortugas National Park (read my friend Alexys’ full guide here !)
• Sunset Key 
• Ernest Hemingway Home

Where Should I Stay in the Lower Keys?

The range of places to stay in the Lower Keys is extremely impressive! If you want to be within walking distance of the main sites in Key West, you’ll need to stay in Old Town . There are TONS of small BnBs and vacation house rentals in this area.

The hotels in Old Town, like Ocean Key Resort and the Mansion on the Sea sell out quickly but are worth the cost! If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury, Casa Marina Resort is a beautiful property right on the beach!

However, don’t rule out Old Town if you are visiting Key West and are looking for a more traditional hotel experiences. Places like the Hilton Garden Inn and Margaritaville Beach House are very nice hotels and are more reasonably priced than the fancy hotels in Old Town! Plus, most New Town hotels have free shuttles to Old Town.

P.S. If you can only visit ONE Key and can’t decide which one to choose, make sure to check out my guide comparing Key Largo vs Key West !

Where Should I Eat in the Lower Keys?

One of the best parts about visiting the Lower Keys is the amount of incredible restaurants! For breakfast or brunch, you have to go to the famous Blue Heaven . Make sure to get a giant slice of key lime pie!

For a one of kind experience, make a reservation at Latitudes , a decadent restaurant located on Sunset Key.

My other favorite spots around town are Hot Tin Roof , Santiago’s Bodega , and Black Fin Bistro !

Packing Essentials for the Florida Keys

Your packing list for a trip to the Florida Keys will be very similar year-round, as there’s no harsh winters here! For most of the year, you can get away with shorts, tshirts, and flip flops.. what a life right?!

There are some essentials, however, that I recommend for your trip to the Keys, whether you’re visiting in the summer, the winter, or somewhere in between!

Make sure to check out my guide on What to Wear in Key West for even more details!

1. Sunscreen : I will scream this from the mountain tops until I am blue in the face! If you are going to be outside, you need to wear sunscreen. I highly recommend Supergoop! Their unseen suncreen is amazing!

2. Snorkel Gear : If you have your own gear, I highly recommend bringing it on your trip to the Keys!

3. Underwater Phone Pouch : An underwater case for your phone like this one is perfect for capturing photo and video of all the incredible coral and wildlife you will see when snorkeling!

4. Polarized Sunglasses / Hat : To protect yourself while you’re in the sun and out on the water! Polarized glasses will also help cut the glare on the ocean so you can see the wildlife! I love this inexpensive two pack from Amazon! 

5. Water Shoes : Okay by water shoes, I mean shoes that can get wet! not those dorky tourist shoes…lol! I have these Reef sandals that are totally waterproof and are great for outdoor adventures like kayaking, taking on a snorkel boat, etc. 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the Florida Keys are an epic vacation destination for all types of travelers. On this famous island chain, you’ll find world-class restaurants, hotels, and activities, plus gorgeous weather year round!

Whether its catching fresh fish in Islamorada, camping under the stars in Bahia Honda State Park, or partying the night away in Key West, there is truly something for everyone in this slice of paradise!

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!

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Exploring the Florida Keys: 101 Unique Things to Do in the Florida Keys

Strung out like a necklace of emeralds across the turquoise Caribbean Sea, the Florida Keys are a sought-after destination for sun, sand, ocean views, and laid-back vibes.

From Orlando to Miami and beyond, I jump at every chance I get to explore all corners of Florida, while I find every area has its charms, one of my favorite adventures is exploring the Florida Keys.

Ready for a Florida Keys getaway? From picture-perfect beaches to off-the-beaten-path treasures, here’s your guide to exploring the Florida Keys in 101 adventures. Whether you’re spending a day in Key West or a week-long road trip through the Florida Keys , I’ve got you covered with a list of the best of the best.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full  disclosure policy   for more information.

Best Way to Get to Key West

Before we dive into the best things to do in the Florida Keys, let’s take a quick look at your travel options.

Getting from Miami to the Florida Keys is quick and easy, but I recommend taking your time. While this gorgeous string of islands only runs 125 miles, you will want at least a long weekend to explore and soak in the vibe.

Helpful resources for your Miami to Key West Florida Keys itinerary

Overseas highway self-driving guide, insider’s guide to the florida keys & key west, lonely planet miami and the keys, fodor’s in focus florida keys: with key west, marathon & key largo, the new key west bucket list: 100 offbeat adventures in the southmost city, flying to the florida keys.

Key West International Airport (EYW) is the main airport in the Florida Keys. You’ll find a steady stream of flights arriving in Key West from around the state.

If you are coming from farther distances, you will likely find more options (and better prices) flying into Miami International Airport (MIA). It can be a great excuse to start your trip from Miami.

Insider Tip : It is well worth planning at least one night in Miami . Before you book your Florida Keys trip, take a quick look at my bucket list of things to do in Miami post. You’ll wish you had a week when you see all the Magic City has to offer.

Driving to the Florida Keys

I highly recommend driving to the Florida Keys. While the  drive from   Miami to Key West  is about four hours, it’s a quintessential bucket-list road trip with stunning scenery and countless sites along the way.

The trip is 159 miles from Miami to Key West, and a road trip through the Keys on the Overseas Highway is a dream getaway you won’t forget.

Insider Tip: Thinking about driving from Miami or beyond? You’ve got to read my Florida road trip essentials before you go. I’ve got a few insider tips that will transform your experience.

Traveling the Florida Keys by Boat

If you happen to be on the Southwest coast of Florida, you can hop on a ferry from Marco Island or Ft. Myers Beach, and in less than four hours, you can be in Key West. Check out the ferry schedule here .

Elsewhere, you will find a range of high-speed boats, sailing yachts, fishing tours, and charters to explore the Keys. If you want options, check out these popular boating activities to add to your Florida Keys bucket list.

• Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Eco Tour
• 2-Stop Reef Snorkeling Trip
• Key West Sunset Cruise by Catamaran

Getting to the Florida Keys by Bus

You will find Greyhound buses that go from Miami to Key West for less than $25.

If you rather someone else handle the driving with minimal stops, arrange your one-way trip (Miami to Key West, or vice versa) transport here !

If you’ve only got two days and want something more organized? Book your (round-trip) Miami to Key West day trip here for less than $45 per person.

Unique Things to Do in the Florida Keys

Want to get off the beaten path in the Florida Keys? Here are a few hidden gems that will show you what makes the Florida Keys a fantastic destination.

1. Seven Mile Bridge , MM 47: Just look at this iconic bridge!

2. Greeting from Key West Sign : Attached to Cuban Coffee Queen, this is an essential selfie spot.

3. Old Town Literary Walking Tour by Key West Literary Seminar : Every Friday and Sunday, you can learn about unique writers from around the world, along with some locals who have called Key West home.

4. Southernmost Point Buoy : An essential photo op in the southernmost city in the continental United States!

5. Ghosts & Gravestones Tour : A scary good time showing you the dark side of Key West (note: suitable for kids aged 13 and over). Or check out this post for more  Key West Ghost tours options.

6. Bahama Village : Want a taste of Bahamian culture? Sample unique fusion foods, cool handicrafts, and other treasures in this unique Key West neighborhood.

7. Tiki Hut Sunset Cruise : What’s better than a tiki bar? How about one that’s traveling the turquoise seas? Whether you want a fun family adventure, a romantic couple’s trip, or a wild night out. Book your group a seat on one of these stools (for up to six people).

8. Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tours : Attention, culture vultures, and foodies! You’ve got to book at least one of these tours .

Best Tours in the Florida Keys

Planning a day trip from Miami ? If you want to make the most of your limited time in the Florida Keys, here are tours that will show you everything.

9. Key West Conch Train Tour : Hop on this famous train for a fun and engaging trip around town.

10. Papa Pillar Distillery Tour : Sample the rum inspired by Hemingway in Key West.

11. Key West Sunset Cruise by Catamaran : For an evening you will never forget, grab a glass of champagne and watch the sunset over the Gulf. Book this experience for a closer look at Key West on the water .

12. Guided Bicycle Tour : Explore the Florida Keys with a local to discover the best-hidden hotspots. Pre-arrange your bike experience here !

13. Key West Reef Snorkeling Excursions : What is better than a day trip out to explore the sparkling ocean? This tour leaving from Miami is a perfect pick when you want to get out of the city for a day but don’t have much time.

14. Key West Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour : I always adore a hop-on hop-off tour. I find it such a perfect way to learn about a new place (or dive deeper into a place that I already know). This one is no exception. Book here, explore, and then jump off anywhere that catches your eye.

Must-See Historical Sites in the Florida Keys

Want to soak in a bit of history? Here are a few places that you will want to visit.

15. Key West Lighthouse : Wear your walking shoes and climb the 88 steps to the top for a panoramic view.

16. Harry Truman’s Little White House : Florida’s only presidential museum is well worth a look. Buy your Little White House museum tickets online here .

17. Key West Cemetery : At the center of Old Town, you can wander through time as you explore the final resting places of local icons in this 19-acre cemetery.

18. Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg Shipwreck : Part of an incredible artificial reef, this is a fave dive spot in the Keys.

19. African Cemetery at Higgs Beach : Plan a brief stop at the only African refugee cemetery in the US. and discover the burial site of 250 Africans by the beach. Check out this self-guided Black History Tour of Key West , to learn more.

20. Oldest House Museum : Constructed in 1829, this is officially the oldest house in South Florida. It will transport you back in time as you explore the classic architecture and learn about the former residents.

21. Museum of Art and History at the Custom House : The same as it was way back in the 1890s, this museum is an interesting glimpse into the past. For a more in-depth look into the area and this museum, check out the Historic Homes and Island History tour .

The Best Museums and Galleries of the Florida Keys

It’s not all about beaches in the Florida Keys! Here are a few ways to dive deeply into the culture as you explore the Florida Keys.

22. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum : One of the first things you’ll notice in the Keys is that people are fascinated with shipwrecks here. To get your lay of the land (below the sea), buy your tickets, and explore 400 years of shipwrecks here .

23. Sails to Rails Museum : Take in 500 years of history as you explore the fascinating trade history in this key port. Don’t waste time in line; purchase your general admissions tickets here .

24. Coast Guard Museum : This exciting new project will shine a light on the vital work being done by the Coast Guard.

25. Hemingway Home : Hemingway’s house is an essential stop.

26. Tennessee Williams Museum : Love the theatre? Visit the lovely little home of one of the most influential American playwrights.

27. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum : Exploring the shipwrecks of years gone by is a perfect introduction to the past. Skip the line, and buy your museum admission ticket in advance here , with the bonus audio guide included.

Explore the Great Outdoors: Wildlife and Nature in the FL Keys

28. National Key Deer Refuge , MM 30.3: This 8,542-acre is the natural habitat of the famous white-tailed Key deer. Grab a map before you go, then see if you can spot the world’s smallest deer.

29. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center : You could spend all day learning about the native plants and animals of the Keys in this 6,000 sq ft space.

30. Florida National Marine Sanctuary : Dedicated to the remarkable marine environment, this beautiful space was created to preserve the local marine life. Book at least one of these activities to experience the marine sanctuary for a more in-depth look into this area .

31. Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden : The one and only frost-free natural conservation habitat in the continental US, this unique ecosystem is a must-visit for any nature lover.

32. Wild Bird Rehab Center , MM 93.6: Almost 1,000 birds are released from this center every year. A visit here will support their great cause and give you an exciting glimpse of their world.

33. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological Site , MM 84.9: A former quarry, this fossilized coral space is perfect for a short walking tour.

34. Audubon House and Tropical Gardens : Explore the collection of John James Audubon’s images and wander the beautiful gardens. While you’re there, get a Birds of the Florida Keys illustration.

35. Florida Keys Heritage Trail : Visit the Florida State Park website before you go and plan your route through the 90 miles of hiking paths.

36. Dolphin Research Center, MM 59: This is the perfect spot to see dolphins and California sea lions in a wide-open space.

37. Alligator Reef Lighthouse , MM 78.5: This lighthouse is lovely both above and below sea level.

38. Key West Butterfly Conservancy : What is more captivating than wandering through a magical space of 60 species of butterflies?

39. Key West Aquarium : The only public aquarium in Key West, this is an essential spot for sea life lovers. Buy your Key West Aquarium tickets online here !

Where to Eat and Drink in the Keys

With all of that snorkeling, diving, and exploring, you are going to work up an appetite. Here are a few places to get the best local food in the Florida Keys.

40. BO’s Fish Wagon : Home to one of Florida’s BEST fish sandwiches.

41. No Name Pub : An award-winning spot for lunch, dinner, and drinks. Be sure to try the conch fritters!

42. Blue Heaven : Fill up on homemade pancakes in this quirky Key West spot, then snap a selfie with one of the resident chickens.

43. First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery : This Key West restaurant was the birthplace of PanAm and is now much loved for its craft beer. Grab a seat in the garden canopy dining area, and check out the airplane wing that is still there from the day it came crashing through the roof!

44. Captain Tony’s : The former haunt of Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and Truman Capote, this Key West bar is truly legendary.

Events & Festivals in the Keys

To make the most of your trip to the Florida Keys, try to visit during one of the remarkable festivals. It’ll give you a deeper dive into the culture as you mingle with locals.

45. Key West Food & Wine Festival : Move over, key lime pie! This incredible food festival is all about gourmet dishes and wine.

46. Key West BrewFest : If you are a craft beer lover, plan your trip for late summer to sample the amazing brews at this beer festival .

47. Key West Fantasy Fest : Love getting dressed up and doing a bit of cosplay? Look no further.

48. New Year’s Eve in Key West : What better way to start the year?

49. Key Lime Festival : This is WAY more than just a dessert here.

50. Hemingway Days Festival : Every July, this festival brings together literally lovers from all over the globe. Best of all, it brings in the Hemingway Look-alike Society for an unmissable contest. Come hungry, then spend a day watching the cooking demos, live music, winter parking classes, and more. There is so much to do; you can easily squeeze in a couple of meals ( Pro tip : wear an elastic waistband).

51. Key West LobsterFest : The ultra-fresh catch at this festival will bring your love of this crustacean to a new level.

52. Original Marathon Seafood Festival : March is the time to throw those New Year’s Resolutions out the window and indulged like never before.

53. Annual 7-Mile Bridge Run : After all those food fests, start your spring with a scenic run.

Arts & Culture in the Florida Keys

When it comes to unique things to do in the Florida Keys, it’s all about connecting with locals and exploring the laid-back cultural landscape. 

54. Rain Barrel Artisan Village , MM 86.7: The perfect spot to find a unique souvenir.

55. Morada Way District Monthly Art Walk : Every third Thursday, you’ll have the chance to soak in the local Keys culture.

56. Florida Keys History & Discovery Center , MM 82.1: No trip to the islands is complete without diving into the local history. This museum will take you on an engaging trip through time that will make you appreciate the region on a deeper level.

57. History of Diving Museum , MM 83: Love diving? You are going to adore this museum . They’ve got a cool “Immerse Yourself” presentation if you happen to be there on the third Wednesday of the month. 

Best Key Lime Pie in the Florida Keys

Let’s be honest, one reason why the Florida Keys is a bucket list destination is because of its famous dessert. You can’t leave without trying at least a slice (or, better yet, one slice per day!). Here are a few of the best places and restaurants in the Florida Keys for that famous Key lime pie.

58. Burdines Waterfront , MM 48: Come hungry , grab the fried key lime pie, then linger for drinks at the legendary tiki bar.

59. Blond Giraffe Key Lime Factory , MM 92.2: grab a slice (or entire pie), then head to the lovely garden out back, complete with love locks commemorating your visit.

60. Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe

Watersports in the Florida Keys

One of the best things about exploring the Florida Keys is getting in the water. I’ve always found some of the best sights are below sea level. Grab your swim gear and head to a few of these incredible spots.

61. Kayak from Key Largo to Key Wes t: As much as I love a road-tripping the Florida Keys, the very best way to get around is by sea. I’d highly recommend a kayaking camping trip or, if you want just an afternoon trip, check out this full list of options .    

62. Dive Spiegel Grove Shipwreck : A must for any diver, head over here to explore the 510-foot retired Navy ship under the sea.

63. African Queen Canal Cruise , MM 99.7: Every day for more than 100 years, this iconic boat has traveled down the Port Largo Canals. Explore the gorgeous waterways in style for an unforgettable day out.

64. Key Largo Undersea Park : Bring your camera and get ready to meet the locals. You can snorkel or dive here to get a glimpse of the incredibly diverse array of fish, coral, and other marine life.

65. Fishing and snorkeling in The Florida Keys go hand-in-hand, so, why not schedule a snorkeling adventure ?

66. Parasailing : There are many gorgeous places to parasail in the Florida Keys . You honestly can’t get it wrong. Book your adventure and prepare for one of the most stunning azure seas you’ve ever seen.

The Must-See Underwater Hotel

There is only one hotel I’m going to recommend to you. As soon as you arrive, you will know why.

67. Don’t want to get out of the water? Luckily, the planet’s only underwater hotel, Jules Undersea Lodge, is located at the Key Largo Undersea Park.

Florida Keys State Parks

Some of the most beautiful places in the Florida Keys are state parks. Here are a couple of spots that deserve at least one day of your time.

68. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park , MM 106: Explore this gorgeous space and get to know the 84 protected species of animals and plants that call it home.

69. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , MM 102.5: Snorkel, kayak, canoe, or hop on a glass-bottom boat to explore the 70 nautical square miles of incredible coral reefs and sparkling shores.

70. Long Key State Park , MM 67.5: Just an hour from mainland Florida, you will find this magical wonderland full of natural wonders . Walk, swim, or hike your way through as you admire the local birds, mangroves, and stunning natural beauty.

71. Lignumvitae Key State Park , MM 78.5: Covered in a lush hardwood hammock, this tropical paradise is one of the most beautiful spots in the keys. You can enjoy just wandering around, but I recommend checking out one of their ranger-guide tours that run from December to April. It’s the perfect way to learn about the native land. Accessible by boat only.

72. Curry Hammock State Park , MM 56.2: T his 1,000-acre wonderland between Big Pine Key and Key Largo is a dream destination when you want to get away from it all. Far from the hustle and bustle of Miami, you will feel like you are lost in a tropical aisle here.

73. Bahia Honda Key State Park , MM 36.8: This award-winning park covers over 500 acres and offers some of the best snorkeling in Florida.

Best Florida Keys Beaches

Of course, it’s all about the beaches in Florida, and the Keys are especially great for water sports. These are the best of the best.

74. Sombrero Beach , MM 50: A lovely beach and a gorgeous hike up to the biggest lighthouse in the Florida Keys .

75. Anne’s Beach, MM 73.4: This dog-friendly beach, complete with a boardwalk, is the hidden jewel of Islamorada.

76. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach : One of the best Key West beaches for snorkeling and diving.

77. Smathers Beach : Another postcard-perfect Key West beach, especially for sunbathing.

78. Higgs Beach : Rounding up my top three best Key West beaches, Higgs Beach is another must for water sports and activities.

79. Dry Tortugas National Park : This former 19th-century fort is home to some of the best snorkeling you will find anywhere. Embark on this full-day experience off the coast of Key West. Book your Dry Tortugas National Park adventure online here .

Nightlife in Key West and Beyond

For me, the perfect night out is watching the sunset in the Florida Keys and then hitting the town. Luckily, there is no shortage of places to go for a drink in Key West.

80. The Rum Bar at the Speakeasy Inn: Come for the rum, stay for the welcoming local vibe

81. The Bull & Whistle : The last good old fashion open-air on Duval Street in Key West.

82. Florida Keys Brewery Company , MM 81.6: In the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, you will find the Upper Keys’ very first microbrewery .

83. Hog’s Breath Saloon : Grab a drink and soak in the sun on the outdoor patio, then stick around for live music and dancing.

84. Green Parrot : Get to know the real Keys culture at this very local bar.

85. Sloppy Joe’s : An old Key West favorite

86. Islamorada Beer Company , MM 82.2: Craft beer lovers, this is your home away from home in Islamorada.

87. Schooner Wharf : Famous for its Old Key West vibe, this place will transport you back in time

88. Sunset Pier : Famous for its gorgeous views, arrive at this famous Key West bar for dinner, then stick around for drinks and live music

89. Duval Street : Can’t decide on a bar? In Key West, it’s all about Duval Street . From dinner to drinks and beyond, you can do it all here. Show up with no plans, then see where the night takes you.

Want more options? Check out the Ultimate Key West Bar Guide .

Family-friendly things to do in the florida keys with kids.

Traveling with little ones? Let’s start with a few essential steps that everyone from 8 to 80 will love!

90. Theatre of the Sea , MM 84.2: You can’t go to the Florida Keys without swimming with the dolphins! Dive in, make new friends, and then head over to watch the parrot and sea lion shows. I’d highly recommend getting out for a bottomless boat ride.

91. Historic Key West Seaport : With endless shopping, restaurants, watersports, and events, this is the perfect area for families who love being spoilt for choice. There’s always something new going on, so check the calendar … or arrive hungry and find the perfect spot to eat.

92. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters , MM 53.5: Year after year, this place is voted the best place to bring kids. Let the little one’s touch, feed, and swim with the most incredible creatures of the sea.

93. Turtle Hospital , MM 48.5: Have little ones who love animals? Bring them to explore and learn as they help sick and hurt sea turtles in this hospital.

94. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s Marina , MM 77.9: Got kids who love animals? They are never going to forget this experience in Islamorada .

Free Things to Do in the Florida Keys

95. Mallory Square Sunset Celebrations : Every night is a party in Key West. With comedy shows, performances, live music, and vendors, come ready for an incredible sunset.

96. The Blue Hole , MM 30.2: While the ocean tends to get all the fanfare, this freshwater lake is worth visiting. 

97. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour : Still going strong, this is a must for rum lovers.

98. Wyland’s Whaling Wall : Snap a shot of one of these beautiful art installations created worldwide to promote ocean conservation.

99 . White Street Pier : For a perfect place for a stroll, wander down the unfinished road to Cuba .

100. Duval Bus Loop : This free hop-on, hop-off bus will take you through 18 stops to see the best of Key West.

101. Mile Marker 0 : Another essential photo op, at the end of the road!

So, fellow traveler, which one of these 101 essential stops in the Florida Keys are you most looking forward to? Are you all about beaches and bars, or are you going to dive into the local culture? Tell us in the comments below!

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited Key West in 2023 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

The southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West features a unique mixture of cultural influences, some of which can be seen in the island's attractions.

The colorful architecture is mainly Caribbean, with many of the older homes built out of coral rock or salvaged shipboards. Others came directly from the Bahamas, dismantled and shipped then re-assembled here in the Keys. The cuisine is Afro-Caribbean and Spanish, and there is a certain tropical feel to the town.

Key West is known for its sunsets, and watching the sunset from Mallory Square is one of the top things to do on any visit. Several famous writers have called the island home, including Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, and Tennessee Williams. Key West continues to attract artists today with its Bohemian and tolerant atmosphere.

Find the island's hidden treasures with our list of the best places to visit and things to do in Key West.

See also: Where to Stay in Key West

1. Walk along Duval Street

2. visit the ernest hemingway home and museum, 3. explore key west butterfly and nature conservatory, 4. catch a sunset at mallory square, 5. take a selfie at america's southernmost point, 6. take a day trip to dry tortugas national park, 7. see the treasures at mel fisher maritime museum, 8. tour harry s. truman little white house, 9. martello towers: key west's defences, 10. audubon house and gallery, 11. step back in time at fort zachary taylor state park, 12. the oldest house museum, 13. see the sharks at key west aquarium, 14. shipwreck treasure museum, 15. key west cemetery, 16. key west lighthouse and keepers quarters, 17. laze on a key west beach, 18. key west museum of art & history at the custom house, where to stay in key west for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to key west, key west, fl - climate chart.

Highlights : Vibrant entertainment and shopping street with attractions and restaurants

Duval Street is Key West's main tourist strip, with restaurants and shops designed to entertain tourists and cruise ship passengers. This is the place to begin, or perhaps end, a busy day of sightseeing.

Historic homes and some of the city's most popular tourist attractions and places to visit can be found along Duval Street, which stretches from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point marker.

This area is also host to several events and festivals throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Hemingway Days Festival , held each summer. Other highlights in the area include the mecca of everything key lime, Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop.

An ideal way to get a good overview of the area and its history is on the Key West Conch Tour Train , which visits Duval Street, as well as Old Town , Hemingway's House , and the waterfront area. This 90-minute narrated tour offers perspective on the railroad days, the depression, and WWII, as they relate to Key West.

Highlights : Historic Hemingway home with lush gardens, artifacts, and famous six-toed cats

The legendary author Ernest Hemingway bought this 1851 Spanish Colonial house in 1931 and lived in it until 1940. It features a lush tropical garden and the salt-water pool that he claimed nearly wiped him out financially, and contains his "last penny" pressed into the concrete.

Inside the Ernest Hemingway House & Museum , you can see the restored interior as well, which displays the writer's own collection of 17th- and 18th-century Spanish furniture. More than 60 descendants of Hemingway's original brood of house cats still roam the property. He wrote a number of novels here including A Farewell to Arms , Death in the Afternoon , and For Whom the Bell Tolls .

Please note: This unique must-visit attraction only accepts cash (no debit or credit cards), so come prepared. And it can get busy, so arrive early.

Address: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Family-friendly attraction with live butterflies and free-flying birds

One of the top things to do in Key West for families is visit to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Children of all ages will be captivated by the opportunity to walk among more than 50 species of butterflies in the natural garden habitat of a glass conservatory.

In addition to the colorful butterflies, more than 20 species of exotic birds reside here, making a visit to the conservatory a truly special experience.

The Learning Center also offers an educational film about the life cycle of butterflies, with exhibits that explain the stages in detail. A live caterpillar viewing area is worth checking out, where you can see real butterflies going through their transformations.

Address: 1316 Duval Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Fun sunset celebration with performers, buskers, shopping, and food vendors

Mallory Square, a former warehouse area, is now the location of a nightly sunset-watching ritual with live entertainment. This is one of the most popular free things to do in Key West and is a must-do activity when in town.

Make your way to the dock areas at the base of Duval Street and marvel at the stunning pinks and reds as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. Jugglers, vendors, musicians, and other street performers create a carnival-like atmosphere, including some truly unique performances like dog unicycling, cats on a tightrope, and straightjacket escapes.

The area has become one of the top highlights of a visit to Key West, particularly in the late afternoon, when browsing the shops and other attractions located on and around Mallory Square is the thing to do. Great places to visit include the Shops at Mallory Square, home to a variety of local art, souvenirs, and refreshments (Cuban Coffee Queen does an amazing breakfast burrito).

Searching for the perfect souvenir? Check out the historical Key West Sponge Market . This treasure-hunting store is located in the nearby Mallory Square Market along with other interesting shops.

Address: 400 Wall Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Famous selfie spot and the most southerly point of continental USA

Key West's claim to fame as the southernmost point in the continental U.S. is marked by a red, black, and yellow concrete marker at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets.

It's a lively spot, as street vendors and performers congregate around the site to sell souvenirs and showcase their talents. The marker itself, dedicated by the Key West Public Works Department in 1983, is less than inspiring but nonetheless, it still works well as the perfect selfie background (be prepared, though, to line up for a few minutes for your turn).

A similar landmark and equally popular place for Key West photo-ops is the US1 mile-marker "0" sign which marks the beginning of the route which runs up almost the entirety of the east coast. Stretching for nearly 2,400 miles, the interstate ends in Maine, passing through several major cities.

Address: Whitehead Street & South Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Excellent day trip from Key West to remote islands with a fort, beaches, and diving

History coupled with soft-sand beaches and wonderful opportunities for snorkeling are the main allure of this isolated park. Catamaran Boat Excursions to the Dry Tortugas , which include snorkeling and snorkeling equipment, as well as lunch, leave from Key West and are the best way to access this site.

Dry Tortugas National Park is an archipelago of seven reef islands located around 65 miles southwest of Key West. They were so named by explorer Ponce de Leon due to the number of turtles ( tortuga meaning turtle in Spanish) found on the islands. The "dry" part was added later, referring to the lack of fresh water on the islands.

One of them, Garden Key, is home to the 19th-century Fort Jefferson , which was built by the U.S. government to protect and control the Gulf of Mexico shipping channel. The fort operated as a prison for Union deserters during the Civil War and also housed Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was arrested as a co-conspirator in Abraham Lincoln's assassination.

In 1992, George Bush changed the status of the site from the Fort Jefferson National Monument to the current park run by the National Park Service.

Address: 40001 SR-9336, Homestead, Florida

Highlights : Diving and shipwreck exhibits including treasures and rare recovered artifacts

The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum tells the story of diver Mel Fisher, who discovered several shipwrecks, including one that carried exceedingly valuable artifacts and another that holds a wealth of historical value.

First discovered in 1972, an English ship was found about 35 miles west of Key West. Later identified as the Henrietta Marie , this was a slave ship that had disappeared in 1700 shortly after selling 190 African Captives in Jamaica. Although the ship did not carry a wealth of gold and jewels, its remains hold invaluable artifacts, which provide a look at the history and conditions of the maritime slave trade, and is the oldest slave shipwreck to be discovered.

In 1980, Fisher's dive teams discovered the wreck of the Santa Margarita , a 17th-century Spanish ship. This wreck held an astounding assortment of valuable objects, from gold and silver bars and coins to elaborate jewelry.

The museum displays numerous artifacts from these wrecks and others, including a 77.76-carat emerald and several other rare items such as navigational instruments, tools, and other everyday items. The museum also has exhibits on underwater archaeology and diving, as well as films and hands-on demonstrations.

Address: 200 Greene Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Elegant historic winter quarters of US President Harry Truman, with tours

The restored Harry S. Truman Little White House was built in 1890 and served as the headquarters for the naval command through World War II. Truman first visited the house in 1946, and during his presidency used it several times as a vacation retreat.

The original furnishings and decor have remained intact from the Truman era, and it has been used by subsequent presidents and officials as it still is today. Items like Truman's piano and the desk he used during his "working vacations," are perfectly preserved for posterity. Helpful guides add insight into the building's history and the political significance it held during the Cold War.

Be sure to enjoy a self-guided tour of the home's spectacular botanical gardens after you are finished inside.

Address: 111 Front Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Historic red-brick fortresses with lovely gardens and art collections

The Martello Towers are two brick fortifications, built in 1858 to protect Fort Zachary Taylor from the east. The fort was never completed and never saw hostile action, although the eight-foot-thick granite walls would certainly have withstood artillery attacks. The central tower provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Atlantic coast of Key West.

The West Martello Tower and Garden Center was constructed in the 1860s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Key West Garden Club took possession of the fort in 1955 and began a cleanup and planting to beautify the dilapidated fort.

Today, you can stroll the grounds, through lovely courtyards and gardens. Romantic pathways, arches, a waterfall, and water lily pond are some of the highlights.

The East Martello Tower was originally built as a complement to Fort Zachary Taylor to protect the region. It now houses the Martello Gallery -Key West Art and Historical Museum , with a diverse collection of local art and sculpture and other exhibits related to the development of Key West.

Address: 1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Historic heritage home featuring beautiful interiors and gardens with guided tours

This 1840s home was built by ship carpenters for Captain John Greiger, a noted harbor pilot and wrecker. Colonel Mitchell Wolfson restored it in the 1960s, initiating the subsequent preservation movement in the rest of Key West.

Today, Audobon House and Gallery is noteworthy both for the historic home and the beautiful gardens and grounds it preserves. The home contains many 18th- and 19th-century period furnishings, much of it from Europe, and a substantial collection of engravings by John James Audubon, who stayed here in 1832.

The gardens in the back contain a variety of tropical plants, including birds of paradise, hibiscus, and different palms. Guided tours showcase the highlights of the Audubon House, and following the tour, you are welcome to explore on the lush grounds around the home.

Address: 205 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Civil War fortifications, festivals and events, nature trails, swimming beach

Built between 1845 and 1866, Fort Zachary Taylor protected this part of Florida's coast during the Civil War. Today, it is a State Park and National Historic Landmark, renowned for its historical attractions, especially the extensive collection of Civil War-era armaments, which are still being excavated.

The park also hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts, boat races, sculpture contests, and even a pirate festival. In addition to all of these fun things to do, tourists will enjoy the park's beautiful swimming beach; dedicated snorkeling areas; and nature trails, which are open to both foot and bike traffic.

This is also one of the best places to see Key West's famous sunsets, and the beach is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic.

Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Charming historic home with original furniture and ship models, plus a nice garden

The Oldest House in South Florida, built in 1829, was the former home of Francis B. Watlington. It was originally built by Richard Cussans in a different location and later moved to Duval Street.

Today, The Oldest House Museum offers a chance to see and learn a little about the history of Key West. It is not as extravagant or as lovely as some of the city's other historical houses that are open to the public, but it has its own unique charm.

Within the house are some original furnishings, family portraits, and displays on the history of Key West. Ship models and information on the history of the industry in the area are on display. At the rear of the house is a garden and a cookhouse, which was typical of the period. There is also an exhibit pavilion containing additional documents of interest.

Address: 322 Duval Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Fun aquarium with trophy fish, interactive "touch" tanks...and real sharks!

The Key West Aquarium first opened its doors in 1934, making it one of the first open-air aquariums in the U.S. For practical purposes of algae control, a roof was later added, and the facility was upgraded.

Exhibits include the "Atlantic Shores" and the large outdoor holding pens. A number of tanks house local marine life, including puffer fish, snappers, and angelfish. There are also tanks with barracuda and sharks, and a "touch tank," always a favorite with kids, as they can get up close and personal with conch, starfish, and other invertebrates.

The sharks are fed at regular intervals throughout the day, and if you are brave enough, attendants will let you touch a juvenile nurse shark.

Address: 1 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Family-friendly museum with treasure and shipwreck exhibits, costumed guides

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum is housed in the replica of a 19th-century wrecker's warehouse with exhibits exploring the fascinating history of the salvage industry in the area.

Wrecking, the practice of salvaging cargo from the various ships that perished along the Florida reefs, was once a major part of Key West's economy and an extremely lucrative — but dangerous — industry. From atop observation towers like the 65-foot example here at the museum, wreckers would watch day and night for ships in trouble and race to the site. The first to arrive could claim the rights to the largest share of the salvage profits, a process overseen by special "wrecking courts."

Here, at the museum, actors in period costume recount the story of the Isaac Allerton , which sank in 1856, as well as show what life was like for the daring wreckers who risked their lives to not only recover treasure but also save the lives of the reefs' victims.

Artifacts from the shipwreck are displayed, and films and videos on the subject run on a continuous basis. The observation tower provides excellent views and photo opportunities of the surrounding land and seascape.

Highlights : Historic burial grounds with ornate tombs and grave stones

Founded in 1847 after the island's original cemetery was destroyed by a hurricane, the headstones in Key West's cemetery mark the graves of more than 35,000 people.

This historic cemetery has several religious and memorial sections, including dedicated Jewish and Roman Catholic areas, the Los Martires de Cuba memorial commemorating the Cuban martyrs who were killed during the 1870s independence movement, and a plot dedicated to the sailors who died when the USS Maine sank in 1898.

Highlights to watch for are the intricate ironwork and carved monuments that adorn family plots and tombs.

Address: 701 Passover Lane, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Well-preserved lighthouse and buildings with superb views over Key West

The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1847 and opened in 1848 with a female keeper, a rarity in that time. Over the years, its keeper's quarters and lenses were upgraded until technology rendered both obsolete, and it was decommissioned in 1969.

The Key West Art and Historical Society adopted the property, initially turning it into a military museum and then later restoring the lighthouse and quarters to reflect life here at the beginning of the 20th century.

Today, the Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters houses original furniture, household items, and photos of the many keepers who kept the light burning through even the worst of storms.

The lighthouse stands at 86 feet high, so be sure to climb up its 88 steps for great views from the observation deck near the top. A short video presentation also provides an interesting look at the history of the Key West Lighthouse.

Address: 938 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Beautiful beaches with shallow water perfect for kids, swimmers, and snorkelers

Many first-time visitors are blown away to find out that Key West is actually home to a number of great little beaches (plus one or two larger ones). Which one you gravitate to will depend largely on your travel habits.

For example, those traveling with kids will want to include a visit to Higgs Beach on their list of Key West beaches to visit. One of a string of great little beaches tucked away on Key West's southern Atlantic coast that includes Rest Beach, South Beach, and County Beach — all within an easy walk of one another — Higgs Beach was built (yes, it's manmade) with families very much in mind.

Amenities include water sport rental shops, a restaurant, restrooms with changing and shower facilities, bike racks, as well as beach chairs. A children's playground is located here, along with volleyball nets. Ample free parking is available. Be sure to check out the neighboring West Martello Tower and Gardens.

Other beaches to check out include Smathers Beach (for sunbathing and swimming); Simonton Beach (for sunsets); Fort Zachary Taylor Beach (for history and wildlife); Dry Tortugas Beach (for romance and day trips, as it's on an island); and Dog Beach (for, you guessed it: dogs!).

Highlights : Historic customs house with art exhibits, sculpture garden, and historic artifacts

Handily located between Mallory Square and the Harry S. Truman Little White House attractions stands the Key West Museum of Art & History . Set in the city's historic Custom House building, a large and handsome red brick structure built in 1891, it's well worth a visit.

Highlights include informative exhibits and displays, including a sizable Hemingway collection, relating to famous personalities who at one time or another called Key West home or visited here. There are also exhibits relating to local social and maritime history. The museum also houses a sizable collection dedicated to artworks and sculptures from local, national, and international artists.

Be sure to also explore the rear of the museum for a chance to pose with some of the fascinating garden sculptures, which show scenes that look as if they're straight out of a painting.

Address: 281 Front Street, Naval Air Station Key West, Florida

Key West is compact and easily walkable, but the best place to stay is near Duval Street, in the heart of downtown. Budget-minded travelers will have to search farther afield to find reasonable prices.

Luxury Hotels:

• At the end of Duval Street near Mallory Square, the Ocean Key Resort & Spa features waterfront rooms with balconies and an oceanside pool.
• Nearby is the lovely Pier House Resort & Spa with a private white-sand beach and a pool overlooking the water.
• Located just a block off Duval Street, The Gardens Hotel is a beautifully appointed property, with lush gardens surrounding a pool.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Hotels in this price range tend to be a little farther back from the action but still on the island of Key West. Kimpton Winslow's Bungalows is a charming boutique hotel housed in two buildings from 1905 and 1891 respectively.
• The Best Western Hibiscus Motel is in the quieter southern section of Key West. It features a very large pool, by Key West's standards, and is just a short walk to the southernmost point in the United States.
• A bit farther out, but with a shuttle bus that runs every 20 minutes to Duval Street, is the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Grand Key – Key West. This hotel is set on large, lush grounds and features renowned tropical gardens.

Budget Hotels:

• The budget options tend to be a bit older and farther out from downtown. The Ibis Bay Beach Resort has a shuttle to downtown and is close to restaurants and grocery stores.
• Another option, three miles from downtown and featuring beautiful views out over the water, is The Laureate Key West . You'll need a car to stay here as there is no shuttle, and no restaurants are nearby.

Crystal clear waters and coral reefs surround Key West, and a boat tour is a great way to explore these habitats and the abundant marine life. Taking an organized tour also means you don't have to worry about renting a boat and navigating your way through unfamiliar waters. Below are some fun tours that guarantee the lowest price and offer a great option for getting around town hassle-free:

• Sightseeing Trolley: A convenient way to get to and from the top tourist attractions in Key West is the Key West Hop-on/Hop-off Trolley, which makes stops at all of the island's most popular spots, like Mallory Square and Duval Street museums and shops, as well as several museums and landmarks. In addition to making your Key West vacation itinerary a breeze, an expert guide narrates the ride, providing interesting facts and telling fascinating stories about the island's history and lore.
• Dolphins and Snorkeling Boat Tour: The three-hour Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise whisks you away from the coast on a catamaran to see wild dolphins swimming and playing in the water a few feet from the boat. After watching these gentle mammals, you have a chance to snorkel over a shallow coral reef, which is home to more than 600 different species of marine life. The tour includes snorkel equipment, unlimited sodas, and a professional guide.
• Islands Boat Tour: If you'd like to explore the islands off the coast of Key West, the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran is an excellent option. This full-day adventure on a luxury high-speed catamaran visits Dry Tortugas National Park, where you can explore the military fort, relax on the beautiful beaches, and snorkel along some of Key West's best coral reefs. Included in the tour is an expert naturalist, entrance fees and national park service fees, a narrated tour of Fort Jefferson, breakfast and lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
• Snorkeling and Kayak Tour: A fantastic way to see the Gulf of Mexico and get up-close to its unique natural habitats is the Key West Full-Day Island T'ing Eco-Tour: Sail, Kayak, and Snorkel , a six-hour excursion that is sure to please everyone in your group. The tour embarks in the morning on a spacious catamaran, and tourists are provided with breakfast as the boat makes its way to a mangrove island, where you can hop in one of the provided kayaks and explore the truly unique surroundings. The next stop is at a coral reef, where passengers can don snorkeling equipment and be led on a guided tour of the living underwater landscape. Those who prefer to stay dry are welcome to remain in the catamaran and enjoy the sun and beautiful views, and a buffet lunch with beverages is served as well.
• Sailing & Watersport Adventures: The vast expanses of water around Key West were just made to be explored. One of the best ways to do it is to book the Key West Full-Day Power Adventure: Sailing & Watersports Package . The highlights of these well-organized tour packages include a cruise aboard a modern catamaran sailing vessel into the Gulf of Mexico for some sightseeing, as well as your choice of activities, including kayaking, reef snorkeling, Jet Skiing, or even parasailing. A hearty breakfast and lunch are included, as is all equipment needed to indulge in your adventure of choice.

The best time to visit Key West is during the winter months of December, January, and February. With daytime temperatures averaging in the low 70s, as well as the fact there'll be plenty of sunshine, it'll be warm enough for you to enjoy a wide array of outdoor and water-based activities or simply hang out at your resort.

While the autumn months of September and October can still be hot and humid, by November temperatures will have cooled enough to make a fall visit to Key West quite pleasant. And, by the end of fall, you'll also be clear of the rainy hurricane season.

Early spring can be a great time to visit Key West. Temperatures in March and April will gradually increase from the low to high 70s, reaching into the 80s by the end of May. Things are usually pretty dry during this spring month, too.

Summer is the least appealing time to visit Key West. Also known as hurricane season, summer here stretches through June, July, and August; it also includes the late spring month of May, as well as September and even October. These months are also the hottest, most humid, and wettest months in Key West.

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The Florida Keys: The Florida Keys are by far one of the top places to visit in Florida , best known for their fascinating history and amazing sunsets. Learn about historic forts and tales of pirates, and experience limitless opportunities to encounter wildlife and watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.

Sun and Sand: The keys are also naturally home to some of the best beaches in Florida , making the region a very popular resort destination. Key West is home to several excellent resorts, and the popular diving town of Key Largo has a wide variety of resorts as well, ranging from luxury accommodations to private cottages.

Mainland Excitement: Approximately 3.5 hours' drive from Key West, the vibrant city of Miami is one of Florida's most exciting tourist destinations, full of attractions and things to do . Tourists can easily add a night or two in the city to their Florida vacation itinerary on the way to or from Key West, or may want to stay a little longer at one of Miami's popular resorts.

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96 Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys – The Ultimate Bucket List

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With year-round sunshine, endless stretches of white sands, a go-slow atmosphere that epitomizes what vacation is all about, and more untouched nature (on land and water) than any in the mainland of the United States, it’s no wonder that the Florida Keys have been a favorite vacation spot for decades.

The area is made up of over 800 islands, most notably Key Largo, Key West and Islamorada, where you’ll find some of the best fishing, diving, boating and sunbathing spots in North America.

All up, the Keys stretch over 180 miles, running from northeast to southwest in a near-perfect line and connected by 42 bridges along the way. This rundown kickstarts with things at the top — Virginia Key and Key Biscayne, the closest to Miami — and then making its way down to Cuba’s neighbor, Key West.

If you’re looking for things to do in the Florida Keys , this, folks, is the ultimate bucket list.

Virginia Key and Key Biscayne

Nature lovers, get stoked because this can be your perfect place to kick off this all-encompassing rundown! Both Virginia Key and Key Biscayne are known for epic outdoor adventures, beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife!

1 – Explore the beloved Miami Seaquarium

Sea lions, penguins, turtles… and much more at the Miami Seaquarium !

A favorite for young and old, this popular, Sea World-style, family-friendly attraction offers the thrill of seeing sharks up close, feeding turtles and mingling with manatees at one of the eight daily shows and programs offered.

From interactive educational displays to animal acrobatics, and even the chance for hands-on experiences with the cheeky residents of Dolphin Harbor, you can find something for all ages.

Hot tip: Grab your ticket online to skip the lines!

• Miami Seaquarium tickets

2 – Try out a new water sport on Key Biscayne Bay

Okay, adrenaline junkies, this is your time to shine! For that sought-after water-in-your-face thrill, grab your sunscreen and head to Key Biscayne Bay for a full day of high-octane water sports!

Go parasailing over the bright blue water or enjoy a sunset cruise to check out the Miami skyline. Zip through the water on a jet ski or enjoy a low-key afternoon fishing for your next big catch. Feeling extra sporty? Test your balance against the waves on a standup paddleboard.

• Biscayne Bay tours

Biscayne National Park

Just 20 miles south of Miami, Biscayne National Park is home to some epic scenery. This isn’t your typical “park,” however, with 95% of it being water! With islands, reefs and plenty of areas to explore, spend a day connecting with nature!

3 – Go snorkeling or scuba diving in shipwrecks

As any fellow water-dwelling visitor will attest, Biscayne National Park is home to top-tier snorkeling and dive sites — the countless wrecks onsite provide a home for exotic and colorful wildlife, and, of course, make for fascinating views for us land-walkers.

With no shortage of options, there are multiple famous sites in the area: Mandalay Wreck is the shallowest of the bunch; Lugano Wreck is more challenging at 25 feet deep; Erl King Wreck is perfect for something a little spookier; and finally, the unnamed remains of a 19th-century wooden vessel has intrigued divers for decades – its lack of backstory making for a few haunting tales.

• snorkeling tours in Miami

4 – Spot wildlife from a kayak

As the home to an extensive circuit of mangrove canals teeming with nature and wildlife, a relaxing kayak or paddleboard adventure sells itself as one of the most intimate ways to explore the natural oasis that is Biscayne National Park .

The mangrove jungles provide a haven for many creatures — the likes of sea turtles, manatees, and no shortage of alligators — so keep your eyes peeled and your hands and feet inside the vehicle!

• kayaking tours in Miami

North Key Largo

North Key Largo is a fisherman’s haven. As one of the best deep-sea fishing spots in the country, make sure to bring a pole to spend the day on the water!

There are many fun things to do in Key Largo , such as exploring the abundant and colorful corals on a glass-bottom boat tour or checking out the Christ of the Abyss underwater statue.

For those looking for some tropical relaxation, Key Largo is also the best destination for floating around in the clear waters and soaking up the sun’s rays.

5 – Take a stroll to the Key Largo Hammock State Botanical Site

If fishing isn’t your thing, no worries — North Key Largo is also home to some of the lushest tropical landscapes in the southern US. This means you can find gems like the Key Largo Hammock State Botanical Site!

As a birdwatcher’s paradise, this is a great place to simply soak in the atmosphere and the sounds, or take a walk down one of the shaded trails, keeping an eye out for the rare plants and animals along the way!

6 – Soak in the atmosphere of Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Looking to connect with nature? Take a browse through the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge .

This massive refuge (over 6,700 acres!) is home to various protected species of crocodiles, snakes, and other native animals and the land remains completely undisturbed. To learn a thing or two about the area’s inhabitants, stop at any of the kiosks to learn more; otherwise, just enjoy the surroundings on a leisurely stroll.

7 – Explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Another natural oasis (as you’ll see, the Keys are overflowing with them), the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary covers almost 3,000 square nautical miles around the Keys and serves a tremendous protective purpose.

With many historical monuments, sandbars, islands, a coral reef, and thousands of species of marine animals off the coast, there’s no shortage of activities for visitors to experience all that this ecosystem has to offer!

Key Largo locals claim this island is the “Dive Capital of the World.” Thanks to its many impressive dive sites, including the world’s largest artificial reef, it’s hard to disagree with this self-proclaimed award.

Hot tip: Don’t miss our selection of fun things to do in Key Largo .

8 – Head underwater at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Most state parks we mention here are sort of what you expect: green and land-based. So let’s try something different this time, shall we?

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is almost entirely underwater. Hosting the only living coral reef in the United States, this is a perfect snorkeling spot to check out eels, sea turtles, and colorful fish!

Don’t worry if you don’t own gear — book a tour that provides the fins, goggles, and the boat ride out to sea, and simply sit back and enjoy!

• snorkeling in Key Largo

Read more: Most beautiful places in the US

9 – Be the star of your own adventure at Kingdom Escape Games

If you like a little bit of flavor in your fantasy realms, check out the wild world of Kingdom Escape Games !

The fortress-style design of the building makes it hard to miss, and there are some excellent medieval-style adventures inside, whether you’re teaming up with dragons or trying to escape the royal guards.

Choose your own adventure, and prepare your puzzle-busting brain… you only have an hour to get out!

10 – Don the scuba suit at the Key Largo Dry Rocks Sanctuary

Scuba certified? You’ve come to the right place!

A famous diving area thanks to its stunning location on one of only three coral reefs in the United States, Key Largo Dry Rocks Sanctuary is full of unique spots, like the eerie Christ of the Abyss — a 9-foot bronze statue tucked away in the sand and rocks.

With options for beginners and experts alike, lasting a couple of hours or stretching nearly a full day, there’s something for everyone.

• scuba diving in Key Largo

11 – Take a ride on The African Queen

While this is a travel guide, trust us when we say “The African Queen” is a movie worth checking out. Not only that, but in Key Largo, you can chug along the canals on the actual boat used in the film!

The iconic African Queen steamboat is open to the public for relaxing daytime cruises or high-energy private events (bachelor/ette party, perhaps?). So if you want to see the shoreline and beautiful canal-front neighborhoods from the water, this is the perfect tour for you!

12 – Try your hand at inshore fishing

Whether you’re a hardcore fisherman or looking for something fun for the whole family, a coastal fishing trip in Key Largo fits the bill!

Grab your hat and sunscreen as you take a ride out to some of the best fishing spots on the Atlantic Ocean. Then, catch dinner or catch some rays on a beautiful boat!

With so many tours to choose from, you can book a half-day, full-day, sunset trip, or even overnight excursion to make the most of your time in paradise.

• fishing in the Key Largo

13 – Grab a table at The Buzzard’s Roost

Looking for a kickin’ local meal? Then Buzzard’s Roost at Mile Marker 106.5 has you covered.

Known for its funky tiki bar and regular live music on the weekends, you’ll find some of the island’s fresh seafood, juiciest steaks, and biggest desserts on the menu — made all the better with a breathtaking waterfront view.

14 – Kayak at Key Largo Mangrove Trails

The Florida Keys are already a nature lover’s paradise, but a few spots stand out amongst the rest. The Key Largo Mangrove Trails, for example, with the waters of Florida Bay on one side and miles of dense tropical swampland on the other, is a peaceful kayaking paradise with nature trails and boardwalks to boot.

Enjoy a kayak tour along the clear shallow water, where fish swim through the grass willy-nilly, take a guided sunset tour and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manatees, or simply rent your own kayak (the most budget-friendly option) and go at your own pace!

• kayaking in Key Largo

15 – Relax (or party) on a boat tour

What better way to see an island than by boat? Since you’re on vacation, take the stress out of navigating the water on your own by booking a boat tour with a friendly local captain instead.

For a truly unique experience, consider a glass-bottom boat. Guests are regularly amazed at the opaqueness of the water — you can see all the way to the bottom of the ocean while staying dry!

Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, opt for a multi-day catamaran cruise (the drinks will be flowing, don’t you worry) down to the Bahamas to really live it up at sea!

• boat tours in Key Largo

16 – Check out a floating tiki bar!

Out of all the things to do in the Florida Keys, you can’t leave without first visiting a tiki bar. Cruisin’ Tikis is a great option in Key Largo for one reason in particular: it floats!

This buoyant hut may look a little strange, but it can’t beat it when it comes to having a good time. Sip on a tropical cocktail, dip your toes in the water, and take in the views.

17 – Down a few cheap drinks at the Caribbean Club!

Made famous for starring as a beautiful setting in the Key Largo film starring Humphrey Bogart, not to mention appearing in Netflix’s Bloodline series too, this longstanding beachside watering hole has been serving up cold ones — and extremely cheap cold ones, for that matter — for decades.

Nowadays, don’t expect anything fancy, but the dive bar-esque Caribbean Club is still a wildly popular place to stop by and enjoy some delicious mojitos (or the occasional Key Lime Pie Rum Punch drink special!) while taking in that famous Florida Keys sunshine.

Consider arriving (whether by boat or by land, that’s up to you) during happy hour for some generous discounts and to secure the prime sunset viewing spots, then enjoy the live music (hosted nightly every Thursday through Sunday) and mingle with the eccentric locals!

Small but mighty and just south of Key Largo, Tavernier earns its own place on our list. Famous for its wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, this low-key island is a perfect place to settle in for a day.

18 – Explore the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

Looking for an up-close view of some of the most majestic birds in the world? Then add the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary to the top of the bucket list.

It’s found within the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, which acts as a home for birds who were deemed too injured to be released back into the wild, giving them a safe place to stay for the rest of their lives.

While you’re there, check out Mission Wild Bird, which holds the rehab hospital, as well as the gift shop and educational center!

19 – Work on the tan at Harry Harris Beach and Park

Cozy picnic on the beach, anyone?

Harry Harris Beach and Park offer plenty of pavilions, grills, picnic tables, and amenities to make for a picture-perfect picnic, whether you’re planning a cutesie date lunch or a casual family outing.

For when that summer sun starts to sizzle and roast, Harry Harris also boasts its own protected beach and swimming area ideal for a quick cool-off.

20 – Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

As a staple in the Florida Keys, no vacation to the islands is complete without trying the world-famous lip-smacking key lime pie. Sure, you’ll find plenty of places that offer the notorious dish, but Blond Giraffe really takes the cake (… er, pie?).

So if you aren’t worried about shoveling down a few calories, it makes sense to choose a place that’s been a magnet for awards, right?

Hot tip: If you really want to splurge, go for the Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Key Lime Pie on a Stick (a mouthful to say, but trust us, it’s worth it).

21 – Head out to Mangrove Marina

If you’re looking for an entirely unique thing to do in the Florida Keys, staying in a houseboat might just do the trick!

At Mangrove Marina , which sits in a natural “hurricane hole”, visitors can find all the typical marina amenities — wet slips, racks, boat services, and the like — as well as eco-tours, a casual restaurant (Chad’s Family Restaurant), and plenty of rental bikes, canoes, and boats.

Plantation Key and Islamorada

Known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada and Plantation Key draw people from all over. If fishing isn’t your thing, fret not; you’re sure to enjoy the upscale atmosphere, picturesque views, charming galleries, and diverse restaurants.

22 – Splash around at Theater of the Sea

Need some family-friendly fun? Theater of the Sea offers shows and interactive programs to get up close to dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, sharks and more!

You can watch from a distance or wade in the water, depending on your comfort level. However, if you don’t care to swim but want in on the close-up fun, paint with a sea lion for a one-of-a-kind souvenir!

23 – Step back in time at the History of Diving Museum

These days, scuba diving is high-tech, and safety is the highest priority. But that wasn’t always the case — as you’ll discover by the initial contraptions on display at the Diving Museum , humanity has come a long way since its first attempt to explore beneath the surface.

Housing an enormous collection of dive gear that showcases the evolution of the adventure sport — from eerie masks to decompression chambers, and huge deep-sea diving suits equipped with hooks instead of gloves — this unique non-for-profit attraction is a must for enthusiasts and casual divers alike.

24 – Enjoy the atmosphere at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery

Another great place to blend beverages with a relaxed social scene, Islamorada Brewery & Distillery will quickly feel like a second home.

While the company is known for its excellent selection of craft beers, it also offers a wide variety of fabulous cocktails, plus a food truck providing mouth-watering barbecue.

Relax in the beer garden, and enjoy some of the excellent live events taking place throughout the week, including trivia and live music. Bring your friends, your kids, and even your dogs… this social space welcomes everyone!

25 – Spend the day in the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

For birdwatchers, hikers and picnickers alike, the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is quite simply, paradise.

Once a thriving quarry dating back to the mid-1900s, this beautiful park is now home to trails lined with ground coral pebbles that wind through acres of peaceful protected land.

Where else can you walk along 8-foot-high quarry walls? At just $2.50 per person, for a unique parkland experience, it’s as affordable as they come.

Hot tip: Wear bug spray! The mosquitos here can be relentless.

26 – Grab a souvenir from Rain Barrel Village

Easily spotted from the highway thanks to Betsy the giant lobster perched 30 feet high in the front yard, Rain Barrel Village is a popular quick stop for anyone driving through the area.

The artsy compound — which aims to embody the true Florida Keys vibe — is full of friendly locals selling unique trinkets and souvenirs, a handful of galleries and boutiques displaying local art and handmade jewelry, and a few spots to grab a bite or have a drink.

Even if you’re not on the hunt for souvenirs, it’s worth just walking through the garden and getting a cup of coffee.

27 – Catch some tunes at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar

If dinner and a show are an ideal part of your vacation, then Lorelai Restaurant and Cabana Bar is a must-see during your visit! This fun-filled institution is renowned for its live music, a regular roundup of local bands… plus occasional magic acts!

And the entertainment is even better when paired with breathtaking sunset views, where the colors of the evening sky perfectly meld into the water to create a scene worthy of any painting or postcard.

It’s the perfect place for a meal or a nightcap!

28 – Explore the shores and waters of Indian Key Historic State Park

For a small, deserted 11-acre island accessible only by boat, Indian Key packs in quite the history.

Housing ruins of an 1800s town that thrived on salvaging shipwrecks, these days Indian Key is a charming getaway for swimmers, snorkelers, sunbathers, and hikers looking to escape the typical tourist crowds on the Keys’ hotspots.

For an easy walk that’s both beautiful and educational, the Interpretive Trail takes dives into the island’s historic community and comes highly recommended.

29 – Snorkle at Anne’s Beach

A quaint stretch of white sand just south of the Caloosa Cove Resort, Anne’s Beach is a welcomed change of pace from the swanky (and overcrowded) Key West beaches.

Perfect for anyone looking to get away and relax, this slow-paced little spot offers some of the best snorkeling in the area — with its shallow waters and abundance of colorful fish — as well as fantastic views across Florida Bay from its lovely boardwalk (which boasts plenty of built-in picnic area).

Directions in Google Maps

30 – Admire the sculptures at the Old Road Gallery

A splendid combination of working studio and gallery, Old Road Gallery is a must-visit for any culture vultures looking to expand their artistic appreciation.

It showcases whimsical pottery, knick-knacks, sculptures and surprises around every corner. This family-run institution (run by artists Dwayne and Cindy King) has plenty of room to display its rotating array of works from local artists indoors in its gallery and outdoors in its winding pathways — perfectly summing up the tranquil, natural Keys environment.

31 – Get a little buzzed at the Florida Keys Brewing Company

A true microbrewery and taproom, and the first official of its kind in the Upper Keys region, Islamorada’s Florida Keys Brewing Company at mile marker 81.6 is a must-visit for thirsty travelers and beer connoisseurs.

It’s using locally sourced ingredients to produce both seasonal and regular on-tap brews — from the Spearfish Amber Ale to the Starvin Marvin Dunkelweizen or the Chocolate Cherry Sour. This local hangout also offers a relaxing beer garden full of games (giant Jenga, cornhole, and the like) and a tasting room that’s open to the public every day of the week!

32 – Pass by the Highway Piers Historical Marker

A short and simple stop for anyone driving through Islamorada toward Marathon or Big Pine Key further south, the Highway Piers Historical Marker is a quick and easy landmark that offers up two distinct reasons to take a pit stop.

On the one hand, the views from the shoreline and simply sublime — the aquamarine waters provide the ideal landscape for nature photographers, particularly at sunset. However, and more importantly, on the other hand, it provides a fascinating, little-known insight into the military history of the Florida Keys.

33 – Feed the tarpon at Robbie’s

One of the most well-known spots in Islamorada for feeding tarpon — which, if you’ve never seen one, are MUCH bigger than most people realize — Robbie’s Marina is not only a tourist draw for getting up close with wildlife, thanks to the school of 100+ Silver Kings that appear daily.

However, it also boasts a delightful open-air marketplace, jet ski rentals, boat cruises, a waterside restaurant, and plenty more. For a heartwarming story, be sure to ask the locals about “Scarface” — the reason why this pier has become so famous over the years.

34 – Shop for lunch at Florida Keys Farmers Market

If you’re craving some fresh produce in between all of your partying, take heart… there’s a place with everything you need!

Operating every Sunday, the Florida Keys Farmers Market is the perfect place to score some delicious fruits and veggies, plus fresh seafood, scrumptious pastries, delicious cheeses and meats, and crisp juices.

Throw in awesome artworks, live music, and a bustling, welcoming atmosphere, and you have the perfect weekend activity that will have you feeling like a local – and eating like one, too!

35 – Read the story etched onto the Hurricane Monument

Though it’s not necessarily the most obvious highlight in the Florida Keys, for any history buffs on the road who appreciate tales of Mother Nature’s wrath, this monument in downtown Islamorada is sobering and well-preserved.

Built to commemorate and memorialize the 400+ WWI veterans and civilians who lost their lives in the Great Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, this monument has stood the test of time, and remains today to mark the devastating tragedy that brought widespread destruction through much of South Florida.

Looking to learn more? Consider flicking through the pages of “Storm of the Century: The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935” by Willie Drye.

36 – Grab some grub at the Marker 88 beachfront bar

Immerse yourself in Florida Keys history at Marker 88 , an eatery established in 1967. Known for its delicious seafood, succulent steaks and handcrafted cocktails, Marker 88 offers a dining experience as unique as it is delicious.

Enjoy views of the sun-drenched tropical mangrove islands and sample a diverse menu of dishes inspired by the West Indies, Polynesia, and the French Caribbean.

Whether you enjoy their signature Floridian-style jerk chicken fajitas or indulge in a traditional key lime pie, every bite is a celebration of the rich maritime history and culture.

The newly reopened and expanded Marker 88 invites you to create memories in this iconic Florida Keys destination.

Despite its name, Long Key is rather small, located in between Lower Matecumbe and Vaca Key along Highway 1. Nevertheless, the island is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a diverse range of flora and fauna — including many endangered species that have been preserved by its status as federally protected land.

37 – Embrace the slow pace of Long Key State Park

Spanning a whopping 965 acres of protected land, Long Key State Park isn’t just a great place to enjoy some of the finest fishing in the Keys, but also an idyllic spot for birdwatching, bushwalking, beach-side camping and wildlife spotting.

With no shortage of nature trails, beaches and mountain biking routes, nature-lovers are spoiled for choice. But if you’re looking for something a little more urbanized, the park also boasts modern campgrounds and lodges, restaurants, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, shower stations and even a museum and historic fort!

Smack-bang halfway between Key Largo and Key West, Duck Key boasts a small but thriving community that’s never short on activity.

All year round, the island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts with its endless supply of kayaking and paddleboarding routes — not to mention deep sea fishing, sportfishing charters, snorkeling tours, and wildlife cruises.

In addition to this, there are also countless ways to get around the island including scooter rental, bike tours (of course!), and even kayak rentals.

38 – Mingle with the mammals at Dolphin Connection!

If swimming with dolphins Flipper and Lopaka style has always been on the bucket list, then Dolphin Connection is the perfect place to make it happen!

Located on a saltwater lagoon at the Hawks Cay Resort, this family-friendly experience offers an intimate chance to swim alongside a pod of adorable and playful bottlenose dolphins!

Plus, with expert trainers always on hand, there’s plenty to be learned about these friendly mammals too!

Situated in the middle of the Keys island chain, in between Duck Key to the east and Big Pine Key to the west, Marathon is home to some of the most laid-back family-friendly attractions along Highway 1, known for its particular focus on marine life and wildlife.

39 – Paint and play with animals at the Dolphin Research Center

A nonprofit organization that’s been working to provide a home for rescued and orphaned dolphins since 1984, the Dolphin Research Center is an excellent place to get up close with these marine mammals, putting on a range of fascinating interactive demos in its shallow lagoon.

Home to a number of daily dolphins shows alongside informative talks from the trainers themselves and incredible painting activities, it’s also one of few places in Florida where you can grab onto a dorsal fin and be pulled along!

40 – Chat with a Marine Biologist at Aquarium Encounters

If you didn’t get enough of being surrounded by the sea on your Dolphin Research Center experience, then Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is another great way to immerse yourself in all things sea life!

Stretching across both indoor and outdoor zones and housing dozens and dozens of species from around the world including sharks, seahorses, electric eels, turtles, gators, and seahorses, this beloved locale isn’t your typical tourist magnet aquarium; with touch tanks, interactive feedings, and educational workshops, it’s far more hands-on and personal!

Plus, for adventure-seekers of all ages, Encounters also offers diving and snorkeling packages.

41 – Try kiteboarding at Curry Hammock State Park

One of the best places for coastal camping and kiteboarding, the 1,000-acre Curry Hammock State Park is also a great spot to get out on the water — whether it’s in your own kayak or with one of their guided tours!

There are plenty of other activities too like biking (rentals available within the park) and a 1.5-mile nature trail, along with fishing charters and sailing trips to boot.

Despite the selection of activities, with some of the most stunning opaque waters in the country, don’t forget to simply sit back and enjoy the vibrant orange sunsets.

42 – Head to Sunset Park just before dusk

Speaking of sunsets, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more perfect place than Sunset Park in Marathon for watching the most incredible sunset put on by Mother Nature.

While the park isn’t known for its swimming, it still boasts a gorgeous natural rock pier and some of the most coveted picnic areas in all of Marathon, with nearby restrooms and restaurants for your convenience, and no shortage of sprawling mansions nearby worth admiring on a stroll.

43 – Admire old planes at the Marathon Air Museum

If you’re an aviation enthusiast, then the EEA Air Museum in Marathon will be right up your alley!

It’s located in a hangar at the Florida Keys/Marathon International Airport and housing some truly unique aircraft (including a replica of the Red Barrons plane), as well as aviation memorabilia dating back to WWII. This museum is a small but mighty collection of all things flight.

While the displays are intriguing, the really fascinating stories come from the volunteer caretakers whose pride and enthusiasm are palpable.

44 – Take a hike at Crane Point Hammock

If you’re looking for natural Florida, then this dense tropical hammock is it.

Home to gorgeous nature walks that don’t require much of a fitness level (the main looped trail is just 1.5 miles), an array of local wildlife (keep an eye out for bright-colored iguanas), and a fish pedicure station, Crane Point Hammock is the perfect place to soak in some fresh air.

After conquering the trials, make sure to stop into the Marathon Wild Bird Center as well as the Hammock’s two museums: the Museum of Natural History and, if you’re traveling with youngsters, the Children’s Museum.

45 – Stop for a quick selfie with Fred the Tree

At face value, Fred is simply a big Australian pine tree majestically sticking out of the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge (how he got there, nobody really knows). But the leafy legend of this tree is far more compelling.

Following the devastating Hurricane Irma, Fred somehow managed to stay standing — a gallant show of strength that became a symbol of hope and residence for the many returning locals.

The local favorite tree has, as a result, become a bonafide landmark, and has since appeared in books and media far and wide.

46 – Swim through the reef at Coffins Patch

If you’re looking for a little underwater thrill, then head to Coffins Patch — one of the most snorkeling infamous in the Keys and part of the vibrant and sealife-abundant Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

With six different reefs of varying depths and ecosystems — The Stake is a haven for snorkelers while The Donut (about 15-20 feet deep) is preferred for divers — you’re guaranteed to find a spot to explore no matter you’re experience level.

47 – Join a tour of the Turtle Hospital

A heartwarming nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured Sea Turtles, Turtle Hospital has been doing God’s work since 1988 — and while the numbers have changed over the years, currently more than 60 shelled critters call this place home.

After a friendly debrief from the instructors, guests can embark on a 90-minute tour of the facility, watch the turtles being fed, learn all about the 5 species of sea turtle found in the Keys area, and even touch and hold them (gently, and under supervision, of course).

48 – Soak up the tropical Florida sun at Sombrero Beach

If you need a little more time to relax, do as the locals do and head to Sombrero Beach, undoubtedly one of Marathon’s most visited beaches.

A great place for swimming and picnicking with family or friends (there are covered picnic areas, playgrounds for kids, and volleyball courts), this public beach is also an ideal spot for kayaking or snorkeling as well as those looking to fly-fish close by.

Big Pine Key

Thirty miles before Key West you’ll find the natural oasis that is Big Pine Key — a large, north-west Key that’s widely spoken of as home to the premier snorkeling and diving spots in the entire region — not to mention boasting the only freshwater lake in the Florida Keys (the Blue Hole).

Be mindful, if you’re only driving through Big Pine, Highway 1 has a night-time speed limit of 35 miles per hour because of the large Key deer population (which is discussed below).

While Mother Nature is the main attraction here, there are several bars and restaurants along the Highway 1 corridor for something a little more social too.

49 – Plonk down at the beach in Bahia Honda State Park

While Big Pine itself is a well-known destination, it’s Bahia Honda State Park at mile marker 37that people often flock to.

As part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, it should come as no surprise that the wildlife is abundant — throw in 150 species of flora along the nature walks and 50 species of colorful coral in the snorkeling spots, and three distinct beaches, and it’s clear why Bahai Honda is a nature lover’s go-to.

Hot tip: For any avid stargazers, pop down a beach towel at Loggerhead beach after the sun goes down for epic Milky Way vistas (on clear nights).

50 – Say “awwww” at the National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center

Since the majority of the endangered Key deer population is found on and around Big Pine, the enormous and untouched National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center sells itself as a required stop for visitors.

After getting an education on this small deer population at the Nature Center itself — where there are many educational displays and exhibits — you can also take some time to explore the surrounding area. Make no mistake, with 25 islands and nearly 90,000 acres falling under the Refuge’s jurisdiction, there’s no shortage of nearby nature trails to hike.

Once you’ve got your fix of the cute and docile deer, be sure to check out the Blue Hole Observation Platform, a hotspot for gator-spotting!

Summerland Key

A few miles down the road from Big Pine Key en route to Key West, Summerland Key is known for its serene and tranquil shores, its laid-back vibe (and that of the locals), fishing charters, and eco-tours.

While there’s little in terms of shops or restaurants here, the Key makes up for it with world-class dive spots and killer sunsets.

51 – Escape the crowds at the Ramrod Swimming Hole

While technically on Ramrod Key, this spot is just 3 miles by far from Summerland Key Airport. The no-nonsense swimming hole is underrated (yet cherished by those in the know) but it slowly gaining traction for its tranquil swimming and kayaking opportunities.

If you’re sick of run-of-the-mill tourists swarming beaches, Ramrod delivers a highly welcomed air of tranquility.

52 – Take a boat out to Picnic Island… for a picnic

A quick boat trip from either Summerland or Cudjoe will bring you to a tiny, sandy island perfect for anchoring the boat for a couple of hours and relaxing or socializing with friends (drink in hand, of course).

Hot tip: If traveling around July 4th, Picnic Island should be your top destination! The otherwise quiet slice of land transforms into a huge, floating concert known as Wetstock.

Perhaps best known for its military significance and blimp-shaped Air Force surveillance balloon, Cudjoe Key (right next to Summerland) still delivers in spades when it comes to food and drink spots, luxurious resorts, noteworthy beaches, and open-water activities.

53 – Visit the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge

Another of the many US Fish and Wildlife Service-managed lands in Florida, Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge is spread across some 1,900 acres and, as expected by its name, is home to countless great white herons amongst a host of other friendly and furry wildlife in its bird sanctuary and beyond (including loggerhead and green sea turtles).

An oft-overlooked hidden gem, the Wildlife Refuge presents some fantastic opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, fishing, and simply boating around, soaking in the sun.

54 – Grab a bite at the Broil Small Island Steakhouse

An oldie but a goody, this Old State Road eaterie has been a local favorite for decades, with its fresh seafood and steaks cooked to perfection in the family-run kitchen.

Alongside the top-notch service, Broil also boasts a sizeable wine list and selection of craft beers brewed both locally and on the mainland.

Note: Typically, the steakhouse is only open from 5–10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. On Tuesdays, you’re better off heading down the road to the Square Grouper Bar and Grill, where equally lip-smacking meals and friendly service await.

The world-famous Key West is a one-of-a-kind destination. Full of vibrant colors, amazing food and drink spots (including the Smokin’ Tuna Saloon), sandy beaches, and friendly locals in an eclectic mix of architecture, this island town has much more than meets the eye when compared with other parts of Florida.

Hot tip: Check out our full list of fun things to do in Key West .

55 – Go on a snorkeling excursion

As any former sunseeker will attest, snorkeling on the Key West coast is one of the best things to do in the Florida Keys. Home to North America’s only coral barrier reef, novice and expert divers alike can soak in the unforgettable sights of fish, reefs, aqua blue waters, and more!

Arguably the best part, however, is the chance to sail aboard a luxury Catamaran! Regardless of the tour of choice, snorkeling cruises will include all the professional gear and plenty of drinks to quench your thirst.

• snorkeling in Key West

56 – Camp out at Geiger Key Marina

Heading down the Gulf Coast in an RV? Then consider parking down at the Geiger Key Marina RV Park & Fish Camp , a popular vacation locale known for its delicious seafood, friendly locals and service, and stellar views.

In terms of the RV park itself, it comes chock-full of modern camping and hook-up facilities, and gives guests the chance to join a deep-water fishing charter, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangroves.

57 – Ski across the waves on a jet ski

A surefire way for thrillseekers to scratch that itch for adrenaline, hopping on the back of a jet ski — whether as part of a guided tour or simply your own rental — offers the rare chance to explore the turquoise blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Keep your eyes peeled — so long as luck’s your friend, you’ll get to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, stingrays, and plenty more!

• jet ski in Key West

58 – Marvel at nature while you kayak through the mangroves

For one of the more popular ways to see the diverse Florida wildlife in their natural habitat, why not hop in a kayak and paddle through the shallow Key West mangrove creeks?

At the heart of any Eco Tour, if following along with a friendly guide, you’ll get to learn all about the local geology and witness groups of marine life and aquatic birds doing their thing.

• kayaking in Key West

59 – Make a stop at The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea

A rare, non-water-related landmark, visitors and locals alike can stroll through The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea , admiring the architecture and, if you feel so inclined, confess your sins.

After checking out the Historic Grotto Lady of Lourdes and The Stations of Cross Garden, don’t forget to stop into the chapel, visit the gift shop, and admire the sculptures of Saint Mary and the stained-glass paintings in the beautiful church.

60 – Marvel at The Kapok Tree

Found over at Whitehead, the towering, infamous Kapok Tree is shrouded in mystery. The tropical tree is a symbol of Mayan Mythology (read about it on the monument there), stands a whopping 130 feet tall, and (for all your skincare fanatics out there) has pods that have oil-producing seeds that are used in soap!

Whether you’re just wanting to snap a photo underneath or roll out the picnic blanket on the nearby benches, it’s a worthwhile stop.

61 – Embark on the Island T’ing Eco-tour for a day of sun-filled water activities

Immerse yourself in the crystal blue waters surrounding Key West, adjust your snorkeling mask, and swim around looking out for dolphins, stingrays, sea turtles and friendly manatees. Feel the breeze as you soar across the ocean on a catamaran, and sit out on deck to take in the views of the stunning Gulf of Mexico.

Hop in a kayak and pedal around the lush natural mangroves, keeping an eye out for nesting birds! Your guide will explain more about local plant life and the fascinating wildlife lurking in the warm tropical waters!

• Island T’ing tours

62 – See the Key West sights on the Conch Tour Train!

Typically kickstarting at the Front Street Depot and ending in Mallory Square (both in Key West), visitors can check off all of the area’s important sights on the 75-minute-long Conch Tour Train ride.

You’ll get to see the Key West Old Town, stretch your legs for a 10-minute shopping break at Station Depon, and even get the chance to admire the historic Key West of old at the Truval Village stop!

With complimentary admission to the Sails and Rails Museum included, it’s a must for the bucket list.

63 – Get a history lesson at the US Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum

A wonderful, sobering way to learn about the brave National Guardians who lost their lives to World War I, II and Vietnam, the US Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum showcases the history of the USCGC Ingham, diving into its decorated past that stretches from 1936 to 1988.

Fun fact: As well as being a museum ship, it’s also a National Historic Landmark.

64 – Check out the Truman Little White House

Truman Little White House is the only Presidential Museum in Florida, where politically-savvy visitors can learn all about the life, career and story of Missouri’s Harry S. Truman.

Led by expert locals, you’ll get to explore his presidential journey through a range of artifacts, and even take a peek at his original 1950 limousine!

Hot tip: For something extra special, you can actually ride in the presidential limousine with a White Glove Tour.

• Truman Little White House tickets

65 – Head out on a dolphin-watching cruise

As you’ve probably realized, the Keys boast no shortage of opportunities to get up close and personal with these majestic marine creatures — whether with a snorkeling trip, boat cruise, scuba dive, or a fun-filled combination of the bunch. Key West is no exception.

After hanging with the cheeky swimmers, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a refreshing drink. Take in the beautiful scenery and let the cheerful captain entertain you en route back to shore.

• dolphin watching in Key West

66 – Walk up the Key West Lighthouse

One for the history buffs, this underrated landmark offers travelers the chance to see what was the only female-run Key West lighthouse of the mid-1800s.

You can climb its 88 steps to the rooftop, as well as check out the various photos, belongings, and letters that belonged to the former lighthouse keepers and their families.

67 – Soak in the sights with a bike tour around Old Town Key West

Whether you’re an avid or casual rider, Old Town Key West has the perfect bike tour for everyone!

For not much more than the cost of a decent meal, grab your helmet and head to the meeting point. After joining your friendly local guide, you’ll be escorted to all of the town’s highlights along Duval Street (Mallory Square, Mile Marker Zero, White Street Pier, and more). Learn all about the island’s history, and get to enjoy the scenic views at the southernmost Point Buoy.

• bike tours in Key West

68 – Don’t get spooked at the Fort East Martello Museum

Are you a history and civil war buff? Then step right up to the Fort East Martello Museum , a fan-favorite that opened its doors in 1950 and has since grown to hold an extensive collection of Civil War relics.

There’s plenty to be learned about the cigar manufacturing industries too (and its downfall). Add the stunning and creative sculptures of Stanley Papio, and the spooky stories about Robert The Doll and other Ghosts of East Martello to the list, and it becomes a rather diverse attraction.

69 – Stop into the West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club

A true slice of paradise with a historic twist, the West Martello Tower (maintained by the Key West Garden Club) is located by the sea on the site of a former Civil War fort.

Explore the garden rooms, courtyard, and fort ruins; learn about the area’s intriguing history, and finish off the afternoon with a casual walk along the beach

Best of all? It’s free!

70 – Sunbake at Smathers Beach

To all you spring-breakers, Smathers Beach presents as the perfect spot to get a little tipsy and soak in the sunshine!

With so many activity options — volleyball, windsurfing, jet-skiing, swimming, and more — this public beach can be a popular family oasis or, a wild party haven, depending on when you visit.

Either way, with a 2-mile-long shoreline with sand (apparently) swept in from the Bahamas, you’ll find no shortage of spots to lay a towel down and simply doze off.

71 – Experience history at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

Just one look at the museum’s website will tell you that this is no ordinary attraction.

Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum offers a unique insight into ‘the shipwreck capital of the world’, where visitors can take part in an underwater treasure hunt and learn about the 100+ vessels that ran into trouble through a range of interactive exhibits.

• Shipwreck Treasure Museum tickets

72 – Take Fido to Higgs Memorial Beach Park (Higgs Beach Dog Park)

Puppy parents, take note! The county-owned beach is a memorial — because of its Civil War Era Fort. However, it is renowned more for its nature, with over 16.5 acres of oceanfront landscapes — dishing up postcard-worthy contrasting vistas of tropical blue waters, white sandy beaches and green vegetation.

With loads of beach activities on offer, you’d be forgiven for visiting without a dog, too.

73 – Visit the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House

A brilliant way to explore the history of not just Florida but the entire Caribbean region, the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House has been open since 1891. Its four-story Romanesque tower identifies what has transformed over the years — from a postal service to the district court, customs office and now popular tourist attraction.

Housing over two centuries worth of artifacts from settlers’ relics to Civil War artwork, it’s a fascinating look at how one of America’s most popular destinations came to be.

74 – Set sail with a boat tour!

A top activity for a reason, boat tours offer a unique vantage point to take in the beauty of Key West and its surrounding waters.

With dozens of different companies offering everything from sunset cruises to snorkeling trips offshore, there’s something on offer that will suit any budget or group size!

Need help deciding? Consider a luxury private tour with a 2-hour sunset sail on the Schooner America 2.0, or join a cameraman sightseeing trip. You’ll be able to check off hot spots like Fort Zachary Taylor, Sandy Key Reef, Mallory Square, and Sunset Pier from the water — not to mention the range of marine life who often swim up to the bow and say hello!

• boat tours in Key West

75 – Enjoy a magical night at the movies at the Tropic Cinema

Open since 2004, this cute non-profit independent cinema offers a wide range of film screenings from art house movies, international classics to Hollywood blockbusters.

Tropic Cinema is an ideal hangout for indie movie fans with a stylish art deco exterior, retro neon sign and a life size sculpture of Marilyn Monroe gracing the entrance!

The cinema consists of four screens as well as a lobby bar to stock up on refreshments and popcorn. The staff are mainly volunteers adding to the family friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

76 – Make the journey to Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas National Park

Undeniably one of the world’s most unique military structures, Fort Jefferson was built to protect the harbor years ago, and the famous fort still stands today as a historical marvel flanked by water in all directions in Dry Tortugas National Park.

A day trip to the park is an absolute must for history lovers, nature-buffs, and adventure seekers alike!

More than just a cultural site, depending on your tour, you’ll also get the chance to fish in crystal clear waters or join one of the ranger-led snorkeling tours where turtles are often spotted.

• Dry Tortugas National Park day trips

77 – Step back in time at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

If you’re even the slightest bit passionate about nature, then a visit to The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is sure to be well worth your time.

Formerly the lavish work of Captain John Huling Geiger back in the 1840s — Key West’s wealthiest men in the mid-1800 — these days, the House on the end of Whitehead St. is a museum renowned for its artistic displays, quaint tropical garden, rare species of plants on display, and fine period furnishings throughout the home.

While the space is dazzling during the day, it’s equally fascinating at night, when it takes on a more “spirited” demeanor. Local ghost tours frequently make stops here, exploring the surprisingly haunted legacy behind this seemingly tranquil realm.

78 – Stuff your face on a food tour

Foodies, listen up! No Keys trip is complete without indulging in the delicacies that this coastal oasis has to offer. Led by in-the-know locals, expect to walk (or bike) around town, sampling a range of delicacies at Old Town ‘mom and pop’ eateries.

While every trip is a little different, expect to try some Cuban cuisine, seafood, and, of course, a giant slice of key lime pies. Plus, since it’s a walking tour, you’ll get to soak in architecture and history along the way!

• food tours in Key West

79 – Tour the Oldest House & Gardens

Sitting at 322 Duval Street, smack-bang in the middle of Old Town, this ancient abode was built in 1829 yet still boasts its original furnishings and family portraits!

Plus, it’s home to other period pieces, documents, and ship models; features a spacious garden that’s peaceful and green; showcases the oldest cookhouse dating back to 1838 (and is one of the last ones in Key West), and even has an on-site gift shop perfect for picking up a unique souvenir!

80 – Feel the groove of Mallory Square’s nightly Sunset Celebration

Welcome to locals and visitors alike, Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is an event that’s been around since the late 1960s. Starting two hours before sunset, attendees can enjoy the captivating pink and red sunset, as it bounces off the Atlantic Ocean while embracing the atmosphere and enjoying the live entertainment.

With talented magicians, jugglers, psychics, musicians, artists, food vendors and more, there’s no shortage of said entertainment!

And you can see it all in style on a trolley tour , which is a great way to see the town in general. Utilizing the classic hop-on, hop-off model, these flashy little vehicles allow you to enjoy all of the best sights in town and explore your favorite spots at your own pace.

81 – Take the youngsters to the Key West Aquarium

Traveling with kids? You might want to visit the Key West Aquarium , the island’s first (and arguably most popular) attraction!

With more than 100 different species on show, you’ll stare at sharks, mingle with manatees, and touch all kinds of prickly and slimy sea creatures in the touch tank (if you’re brave enough).

For something extra memorable, consider signing up for the sea turtle conservation tour to get up close with some adorable slow-movers.

• Key West Aquarium tickets

82 – Taste delicious food at Pepe’s Café

A unique blend of café and steak house, Pepe’s is the local go-to for a hearty dinner in Old Town ( or lunch or breakfast, for that matter), dishing up drool-worthy surf ‘n’ turf since the early 1900s with a quirky gift shop to boot.

Feeling thirsty too? The beloved eaterie also has a full bar that offers diners imported and domestic wines, craft beers, and some stronger options.

83 – Visit the four main sections of the Key West Art and Historical Society

While the attractions themselves have got a quick mention already, the governing body — the Key West Art & Historical Society — deserves a mention of its own.

Besides looking after four major points of interest: the Key West Museum of Art and History at the Custom House, the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters, Fort East Martello, and the Tennessee Williams Museum, the Society also regularly puts on engaging, fun events, from walking tours to workshops and art openings, and even happy hour with historians!

The calendar’s always changing, so check in with the KWAHS website for more info.

84 – Go fishing at the Edward B. Knight Pier

If you want a relaxing afternoon, head to the Edward B. Knight Pier and fish.

Previously known as White Street Pier, the quiet fishing spot is dog-friendly, welcomes bike rides, and delivers one of the premier sunrise and sunset viewpoints!

If you’re lucky, you might even catch something worth taking home!

85 – Get inspired at the Wyland Gallery of the Florida Keys

A non-negotiable for the artsy travelers tucked away in the heart of Key West’s eclectic Duval Street precinct, the Wyland Gallery boasts breathtaking pieces of art from all over the world, covering everything from decades-old sculptures, to handcrafted paintings, abstract work, mixed media pieces (using quirky new technology), and plenty more.

Arguably the gallery’s highlight, Wyland has a permanent collection of marine life paintings and sculptures that couldn’t be any more Caribbean if it tried.

86 – Slide down a fireman’s pole at the Key West Firehouse Museum

A unique and eye-opening attraction found on the corner of Grinnell and Virginia Streets, the Key West Firehouse Museum was built in 1907 and is one of the oldest fire stations in Florida, run largely off the back of some 200 volunteers.

Step inside to learn all about our first responders; and check out the antique machinery and engines, the early 1900s alarm systems, scorched uniforms, oxygen tanks, and the living quarters of the famed Fire Station No. 3.

87 – Try parasailing for the first time!

One of the world’s most popular water sports, parasailing allows you to fly high above the ocean and take in an unforgettable view of Key West, tugged along by a boat to ensure you don’t end up where you shouldn’t.

With one-hour flights departing daily (weather dependant, of course, but rarely do the Keys dish up a cloudy day), there’s no better activity for a day out on the water — especially if it’s your first time!

• parasailing in Key West

88 – Wander around the Sails To Rails Museum at Flagler Station

Providing a fascinating insight into the history of Florida’s key transport infrastructure — boats and trains, of course — the Flagler Station Museum teaches visits all about sail power and the transition into rails throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Filled with an array of hands-on artifacts, video lessons, and centuries-old memorabilia — including artwork, equipment, and more — there’s easily a couple of hours’ worth of things to see.

If you don’t plan on boating out to Fort. Jefferson, the Museum showcases a brilliant miniature diorama!

• Sails To Rails Museum tickets

89 – Taste delicious rum at Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

With a passion for the island’s rum heritage, the family-run Key West First Legal Rum Distillery (located on Simonton St) opened its doors in 2012 and has been producing masterful spirits ever since.

Best of all? They offer daily, free 15-minute tours to help you understand how your favorite tipple comes into being — plus there are tastings along the way, and plenty to be learned about the story of Spanish Marie and her rum.

Prefer a cocktail to a straight shooter? If you’re intrigued, you can learn to make your own mojito on one of their private mojito tours.

90 – Step inside the Hemingway Home and Museum

One for the literature lovers and bookworms, the Hemingway Home and Museum — as you’d guess — was once the home of the famed Nobel prize-winning author.

As you tour the Museum, you’ll come across the various fishing adventure photos of Hemingway, uncover a treasure trove of written notes and stories, and can visit the shop to pick up a memento or two as well.

91 – Learn about pirates at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

Located near the aquarium on Greene Street, Mel Fisher Maritime Museum gives visitors a fascinating insight into local maritime history.

As well as housing an impressive collection of artifacts (like cannonballs and gold chains), there are also stories to be told about piracy in the region.

However, you can’t miss out on seeing the main attractions: St. John’s Wreck, the 1622 Fleet, the Henrietta Marie, and the so-called Last Slave Ships.

• Mel Fisher Maritime Museum tickets

92 – Check out the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

As one of the largest butterfly atriums in America, this delightful conservatory is home to hundreds of beautiful butterflies.

And while there are plenty of species to get up close to the colorful fliers, you’ll also find birds and fish inside too; plus an incredible array of tropical plants from all across the world!

Plus, you can step into its learning center and discover plenty more about butterflies and their intriguing physiology.

93 – Take the family to the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Step into the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center and explore the world of nature!

Through a diverse range of interactive and dynamic exhibits that show you the intricate Keys’ ecosystem, You’ll get to learn about native plants, animals, marine animals, and more.

Hot tip: Don’t forget to stop into the Aquarius Exhibit for a glimpse of the beautiful marine life.

94 – Pass by Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

As you stroll by the beach and soak up some of that Florida sunshine, it’s worth taking a quick pause to admire this grand historic site.

Originally constructed as a Civil War-era fort, today, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is open for visitors; so be sure to stop off at the Visitor Center to discover all the fascinating facts about how it was built, and its role in history.

Check out the local re-enactments of historical demonstrations every third weekend of the month, and snap a quick photo with the cannons and gun ports.

95 – Get wild on a Duval Street pub crawl

How could your beachy vacation possibly be complete without letting your hair down and letting loose for a night?

Typically beginning downtown and exploring various historic establishments en route to Duval Street (like the historic seaport), locally-led crawls will take you on a debaucherous journey of discovery — where you can learn all about the local culture and people while downing some (read: probably a couple too many) fantastic drinks!

• pub crawls in Key West

96 – Touch the Southernmost Point of the Continental US

A great way to wrap up any trip, head towards the convergence of Whitehead and South streets and touch the Southernmost Point of the Continental US.

From the viewpoint you can see a buoy that sticks out of the coral bedrock — it’s a heavy piece of concrete storm drain, and it sits, remarkably, just 90 miles from Cuba.

The area around the monument is filled with shops, hotels, and more. So, you can hit the point and then stroll around the nearby lanes.

How to get to the Florida Keys?

Sure, the Keys have airports, but they’re small and usually not flown to directly from other major US cities. With that in mind, visits typically prefer to fly direct to Miami and then travel down the Keys in style with a pre-arranged airport transfer service.

The drivers are friendly, you don’t have to worry about hailing a cab or jumping on a humid bus, and (if you’re willing to fork out a few bucks extra) you can even get a limo or convertible!

Where to stay in the Florida Keys?

A notably laid-back resort typical of the stereotypical Keys vibe, Lime Tree Bay sits right on the water — the shimmering gulf on one side and a channel on the other. Throw in all the essential amenities and activities like swimming, kayaking, bike rental, tennis and paddleboarding (all of which are free for guests!).

At Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa , you have a gym, restaurant, and private beach to enjoy on-site, plus dive centers and other attractions just a short drive away. And at Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalows , you can indulge in a personalized outdoor paradise, from the gorgeous gardens to the multiple swimming pools.

Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages , an adults-only property, blends tranquility with convenience, featuring places to swim and sit, plus a fleet of bikes in case you want to explore the surrounding town.

Wicker Guesthouse is perfect if you want a bit of everything; it’s walking distance from the beach, the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, and all the other attractions of Key West proper, but also offers its own luxurious spaces to relax in when you’re tired of sightseeing.

And Douglas House offers a similarly convenient location, plus green areas, a pool, and another opportunity to enjoy an adults-only space during your vacation.

A luxury resort that’s perfect for the whole family, Hawks Cay boasts on-site restaurants, bars, and even a spa (and, of course, Dolphin Connection). As far as rooms go there are cushy cottages and bungalows just waiting to be explored!

• best hotels in the Florida Keys

Where to go next?

While the Keys feel like a world unto themselves, it takes almost no time to get back to the mainland. And that’s great news for you, because it means you have even more time to explore the other fantastic things to do in Florida !

A delightful hodgepodge of lively cities, world-famous theme parks, charming little towns, and natural landscapes unlike any other in the U.S., the Sunshine State caters to the wild, the mild, and everyone in between.

If you want to keep exploring close to the Keys, you can go clubbing and art-watching in Miami , or admire coral reefs and shop until you drop in Fort Lauderdale . You can also go beachcombing or bar-hopping in Naples , or squeeze in some time on a boat or the golf course in Marco Island .

Like the rest of the state, these towns offer fun and relaxation in equal measure – and their unique styles are sure to capture your heart!

Final thoughts

As soon as the warm breeze hits your face and the smell of saltwater fills the air, you’ll see why this region is such a hit with travelers!

The list of things to do in the Florida Keys is forever growing, but you’re always guaranteed a hearty dose of fun, whether you’re learning new things or just relaxing on the beach.

So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to some magic!

A Visitor’s Guide to the Florida Keys: Trip Planning

T he Florida Keys are one of the Sunshine State’s most popular tourist destinations. This group of more than 1,700 islands located off the southern tip of Florida is divided into the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys and stretches to the southernmost city in the continental United States: Key West. A visit to the Florida Keys is a great way to enjoy some nature, history, and fun in the sun on your next vacation.

Your Guide to a Memorable Stay in the Florida Keys

Preparing for travel.

If you look at a map of the Florida Keys, you’ll notice the area isn’t that large, but with so much island territory, it’s important to prepare for weather and transportation needs.

When to Visit

The Florida Keys weather is fairly predictable. This tropical climate has mild and pleasant winters with temperatures around 70 degrees. Summers are warm and humid, around 90 degrees. Visit earlier in the year if you want to avoid the rainy season from June to October. You’ll run the risk of hurricanes from June 1 to Nov. 30, although the Florida Keys experience fewer hurricanes than other parts of Florida.

How to Get There

Driving from mainland Florida along U.S. Route 1 (the Overseas Highway) is the most scenic route into the Keys. The Florida Keys airport in Key West is convenient and has rental cars and shuttles available to visitors if you don’t want to visit any other Florida destinations first.

Where to Stay

From Miami to Key West, the drive is about three hours, so it’s possible to explore all of the best Florida Keys attractions no matter where you stay along the route.

All-Inclusive Resorts

While not the most popular lodging option in the area, all-inclusive resorts in the Florida Keys can be a great option for travelers who want a carefree and luxurious experience.

The newly renovated Casa Marina Resort in Key West offers romantic luxury, a private beach, an on-site spa, and occasional all-inclusive package deals. Book a stay at Little Palm Island Resort and Spa where the all-inclusive resort boasts an entirely private island for its guests for the ultimate indulgent beach location. The Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a great option for more budget-conscious travelers who still want an all-inclusive feel, and some packages offer great family-friendly tours and entertainment.

Best Family Spots

Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo offers classes for kids during the day including a fishing program that might just provide your next meal. Hotels in Key West include the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa — with lots of rental gear and large, private balconies — and the Southernmost Beach Resort — within walking distance of many fun attractions.

Vacation Rentals

Getting a vacation rental in the Florida Keys is an easy way to experience local neighborhoods and avoid the most crowded tourist hotels. Make sure to check parking accommodations as many areas have limited space.

Popular Attractions

The Florida Keys are packed with attractions highlighting the vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and marine ecosystem.

Embrace Nature

One of the best reasons to visit the Florida Keys is to experience marine wildlife up close and personal. Dry Tortugas National Park is west of Key West hosting Fort Jefferson and an impressive array of local birds and coral reefs. Visitors must arrive by boat or seaplane, adding to the adventure and sense of exploration. There are guided tours and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in one of Florida’s most active reef environments. In the Islamorada area, head to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park for a kayaking adventure through a hardwood hammock.

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a great way to learn about marine conservation and help support animal rehabilitation efforts. Visitors can even feed the turtles after a guided tour. If swimming with dolphins or meeting a local parrot is more your speed, head to Theater of the Sea in Islamorada to enjoy a whole day of marine fun.

Experience the Culture

The Florida Keys host year-round events, festivals, and artist workshops among the shops and local gathering spots in several downtown areas. In Key West, head to Duval Street for the best shopping and live music. You’ll also be near the Key West Aquarium for the perfect family-friendly afternoon outing. Mallory Square is also host to some of the area’s best artisans. Tour Earnest Hemingway’s Home and Museum or the Harry S. Truman Little White House if you’re more interested in exploring historic locations.

Enjoy the Beaches

One of the best reasons to visit the Florida Keys is to enjoy beach life. Head to Bahia Honda State Park for family-friendly nature trails and lovely sandy beaches. Sombrero Beach in Marathon is popular for family picnics and water sports.

Best Dining Spots

Don’t forget to plan and make reservations at some of the best breweries and restaurants in the Florida Keys.

Blue Heaven’s laid-back island vibes are almost as famous as its Key lime pie. Enjoy the art installations, tropical surroundings, and delicious weekend brunch at this popular Key West spot. The Fish House in Key Largo makes a perfect stop on your road trip coming or going to the mainland; daily specials mean it’s even worth a visit more than once.

If you need a break from seafood, head to M.E.A.T. Eatery and Taproom for award-winning burgers and 12 craft beers on tap. Lorelai Restaurant and Cabana Bar is the perfect place to enjoy nightly sunset entertainment and a delicious array of shareable appetizers.

A visit to the Florida Keys is sure to be full of memorable adventures no matter where you stay, eat, or play.

©2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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21 Fun & Unique Things to Do in the Florida Keys

Here are the best things to do in the Florida Keys, according to what I enjoyed most. Splash the cash and don’t miss out!

The Florida Keys are cool – laidback, flip flop wearing, beach loving, beer drinking, cocktail sampling cool. I had a great time there when I hung out for a week. I chilled in Key West, cycled in Marathon, ate my way through the restaurants in Key Largo and drove all the way back up to Miami in a fancy van.

The whole week was great, but here are my top moments from my week in the Florida Keys, and just some of the brilliant things to do in the Florida Keys, that I’d totally recommend you should too.

Unique Things to Do in Florida Keys

Here are all the best activities in the Florida Keys, according to me !

1. The sea plane to Tortugas National Park

The journey was just stunning. Absolutely incredible.

And I got to sit in the front on the way back. It wasn’t bad looking when we were actually there either!

I sat up front on the way back and had 360 views of the stunning ocean between the Dry Tortugas National Park, where we’d just been, and Key West, our destination. It was awesome.

The whole journey took 35 minutes. The varying blues of the waters were mesmerising. Our pilot told us how one of the islands belonged to just one guy, and if I really squinted I could definitely see those dolphins he told us would be playing about.

We’d been at the Dry Tortugas National Park – famous for shipwrecks, coral reefs and birdlife – where you can also looks Fort Jefferson on a guided tour or in your own time.

The fortress is unfinished, but was an important naval point in the late 1800s / early 1900s. It soon became too difficult and expensive to look after the building, and its 16 million+ bricks.

I noticed all the tents in the bush – apparently as a National Park you can stay here for three nights for free – no chance. There was no civilisation on the island – I mean it would just be you, the fort, the animals and whatever ghosts had decided to stick around (yep, definitely spooked from the Key West ghost tour). I got our private sea plane straight out of there.

2. Sunset cruise

How about joining a Key West sunset cruise with food and drink included ? It’s a great idea if you want to keep an eye on the budget for Florida Keys activities, and it’s also one of the best things to do while you’re there too.

“Climb aboard ‘The Party Cat’ for a wonderful 2-hour cruise around the harbour. Enjoy a freshly prepared tropical food buffet in an enclosed air-conditioned dining room. Choose from dinner options such as roast pulled pork in mojo sauce, deep fried sweet plantains, black beans and rice, marinated grilled chicken, fried fish, mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta with mini shrimp and Cuban bread and butter. Sip on your choice of tipple — margaritas, rum runners, champagne, beer, wine or spirits. After dinner, stroll upstairs to the upper deck for live music. Dance the night away or simply listen to the beat as you watch the sun set over the horizon into the Gulf of Mexico.” – GETYOURGUIDE

Book your Florida Keys sunset cruise here.

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Florida Keys, and makes for a great evening out, if you want to keep out of the Florida Keys bars for a night!

3. Wake up to the sunrise at Ibis

I love the first few days of jetlag when you go to the USA. I’m never up before 7 in real life, unless a flight is involved, but to wake up naturally to this sunrise just outside my window was incredible.

I’d arrived in the dark and went straight to sleep so had no idea this existed just outside my window. Make sure you book into a cool hotel in the Florida Keys on the waterfront to really make the most of it!

4. Do the Salty Goat fishing charter

The Salty Goat fishing charter is well known as one of the best things to do in the Florida Keys. It’s often mentioned as the best party boat in the Florida Keys. As well as drinks, you’ll get to enjoy fishing for a wide variety of game fish including several varieties of Snapper, Grouper and Mackerel.

Whatever you catch when you’re on board is yours. The Salty Goat crew can arrange for it to be cooked up at a local restaurant that night, especially for you.

Fish for your own dinner while you enjoy the sun and fun of a drink on board in the Florida Keys? Sounds incredible!

5. Eat loads of seafood

One of the best activities in the Florida Keys is simply to eat as much as possible.

I had scallops as standard, mussels, lobster, stoned crab, calamari, sushi, Key West pink shrimp, and a lot of that was in just one meal at the Stoned Crab . A true Florida Keys experience!

I ate at all the best places in the Keys, including…

– Blue Heaven, the best place for breakfast (cheesey shrimp omelette with banana bread)

– Sunset Grille & Raw Bar , overlooking the Seven-Mile Bridge and right by the sea (epic sushi platter)

– Latitudes , the fanciest restaurant in Key West (more on that in a minute)

– Fish House , decked out like fisherman’s hut with all the trinkets (oysters and scallops)

MORE: 15 Best Restaurants in the Florida Keys

– Hungry Tarpon , landmark on the marina where you can feed the beastly tarpons (fish tacos)

– Marker 88 , where we watched our chef make the dinner in front of us (8 courses of deliciousness)

– Mrs Mac’s Kitchen , an institution and decorated with donated numberplates (spinach and shrimp omelette)

Here are all the best things to do in the Florida Keys, as a video…

6. Get the boat to a private island for dinner at Latitude’s

As if the seaplane wasn’t enough glamour for one day, that night we got a private boat to Latitude’s private island for dinner. Now this island is where Oprah Winfrey used to have a house, it is Faaa-aancy.

I drank gin and prosecco cocktails, ate Wagyu beef and scouted the place out for celebs. If I didn’t have the photos I’d think this whole experience so unlikely I’d made it up. The food and the whole experience were something I never imagined I’d do.

Definitely one of the most memorable Florida Keys activities I did while I was there!

• READ MORE: Want some more travel tips for the Florida Keys ?

7. Jet ski the Key West coast

The freedom of a jet ski is hard to beat. One of the best things I’ve ever done on my travels is my three-hour jet skiing trip in the Gold Coast in Australia. And so with the opportunity to jet ski in front of me, I did it in Key West too. It was the 20 minute free ride that got me going – I had my hands pushing the accelerator as fast as they it go, white knuckles and all.

Absolutely.

One of my favourite Florida Keys experiences so far!

I’d definitely recommend lengthening your jet ski trip compared to mine and signing up to a tour with 2-3 hour jet ski trips. Make the most of the stunning coastline and weather while you’re there!

8. Visit the Florida Keys Brewing Company

I love the USA craft beer scene. One of the best things I did in the Adirondacks in New York over the summer was explore the breweries there, and it was the same in the Florida Keys. Exploring the craft beer scene is one of the most fun things to do in the Florida Keys.

We met Craig and Cheryl who started the Florida Keys Brewing Company up. They’ve decorated the place and built it up to be so popular it was very busy on the Thursday afternoon that we visited. I had a little go behind the bar and tried every one of the 12 different pints on this flight of booze put out in front of me.

The best was the hibiscus one, the worst, the chilli .

9. Eat flip flop shaped choc at Key Largo Chocolates

There I was, minding my own business looking round the kitchen of the Key Largo Chocolate Factory when I spotted a flip flop shaped mould out of the corner of my eye. Excitedly I located the chocolates, which weren’t actually on sale yet, and demanded to be sold them. In the nicest possible way of course.

Served them up with a proper brew when I got home and found the chocolate was limey, of course.

And just so you know, Key Largo is one of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys.

10. Rent a bicycle in the Keys

If you have a bicycle in the Keys you can cycle around and visit everything. This is one of the most authentic Florida Keys experiences you can do. All the things to do on in the Florida Keys are very close together, and totally achievable via bike too.

If you rent a bike you can visit Smathers Beach , go to the reach hotel pier, the Southern Most Point, the ‘Mile One’ sign, Hemingway House, nature conservatory, rum distillery, and end the day at Mallory square for the sunset and watch the street performers.

Alternatively, you could combine the best things to do in the Florida Keys idea numbers 10 and 11 and go on this Key Lime Pie bicycle tour , definitely sounds like my cup of tea!

11. Go on an ‘official’ key lime pie taste test quest

This is an absolute must do in Florida Keys.

When you’re on an important mission, like I was, it’s ok to eat 7 portions of Key Lime Pie over a week, especially when you’re sharing with others. I tried 7 portions of Key Lime Pie during my week in the Florida Keys, and although the one from Latitudes tasted the best, and Blue Heaven’s was the most photogenic, more research is definitely needed.

If you only have a day in Key West , make sure you get some Key Lime Pie in!

12. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is America’s first undersea park, and one of the best and most unique things to do in the Florida Keys. Get your snorkel or scuba gear and go underwater to explore the stunning coral reef.

If going underwater isn’t your vibe you can still enjoy the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park with a kayak or paddleboard and make your way through the mangrove forests. Or, you can even hire a boat for the day too.

13. Drinking on Duval Street

Duval Street is so colourful, it looks amazing!

Why can’t all streets be like this?!

Tourists and locals visit Duval Street for the restaurants, bars and clubs. This is where the party begins and ends!

Willie T’s serve up speciality Mojitos, and the Green Parrot Bar off Southard Street is the best spot for live music.

14. Southernmost Point Buoy 

Oh you’ve got to have a photo by the Southernmost Point Buoy. I mean, did you really go to the Florida Keys if you didn’t?

Getting your pic taken here is one of the most unique things to do in Florida Keys, and a definite must.

The buoy is more symbolic than anything, as it’s the most southerly point in the USA – and only 90 miles from Cuba!

If you’re driving from Miami to Key West on a Florida road trip , then this is the final point you have to touch to say you’ve completed your journey!

15. Rent a boat in Marathon

How about a boat rental in Marathon? You get to see the beauty of Islamorada from a whole different angle. They book out fast so get in while you can.

16. Do the Fury Ultimate Adventure

If you’re looking for things to do in the Florida Keys, the Fury Ultimate Adventure needs to come to the top of your list. Sign up to a day out with them and you can go snorkeling, parasailing, have a go on the jet skis, and basically just have lots of fun for a whole day.

Check out the Fury Ultimate Adventure excursions here , but book fast to secure your dates!

17. Hire kayaks and explore

You can go kayaking through the mangroves in the Florida Keys, for a stunning adventure. There are a few companies offering kayaks on the Florida Keys, but book in advance to get the dates you want.

If you’re nervous in a kayak, or you’ve never tried it before, then book onto a guided kayak adventure for the safety, and tour guide benefits.

On that note: this Key West Watersports pass looks pretty sweet!

18. Go to Key West Butterfly House

At the Key West Butterfly House and Nature Conservatory, you can walk in among the butterflies and colourful birds that call the house home. This is a great spot for some photos in among Florida’s beautiful nature.

Make sure to pop in and see Rhett and Scarlett, their awesome love bird flamingos too.

Click here to check out their live webcam . Feels really weird to be able to see the people and animals wandering about!

19. Go on a floating Tiki boat

The floating tiki boat is pretty epic when it comes to the top things to do in the Florida Keys. Sign up for a day out on the floating tiki boat and you’ll get to watch the sunset from a two-hour cruise, with drinks too.

“We will cruise around the Historic Seaport, pass Sunset Pier and Mallory Square ending with the magnificent Key West Sunset. All cruises are BYOB for alcoholic beverages, food or snacks. We provide USCG certified captains, coolers with ice, water, sodas, cups, blender, and Bluetooth radio to play your favorite tunes.” – FLOATING TIKI BOAT

20. Drag show and karaoke

Go to 801 Bourbon Street for the drag show and karaoke if you’re looking for something fun to do in the Florida Keys in the evening. Open 7 days a week with drinks deals and all kinds of events, this is the place to be if you’re looking for some fun after the sun.

There’s always something going on here but check the listings to find out exactly what before you go.

By the way, if you like drag queens how about this drag queen guided pub crawl in the Florida Keys ?

21. Eco Safari Tour with Snorkelling

A snorkelling tour lets you drive your own small speedboat through the back country of Key West to a picturesque sandbar set in the area’s turquoise waters. Then you can snorkel among the mangroves, and explore the area as a local too.

As you travel you may see ospreys – the only bird of prey to survive entirely on fish. There’s also the opportunity to spot manatees feeding on mangroves, sharks swimming beneath you, and pelicans diving for their meals.

Snorkelling is a must do in Florida Keys.

FAQs: things to do in the Florida Keys

1. what are the unique things to do in the florida keys.

If you’re up for something unique to do in the Florida Keys, you must try activities such as feeding tarpons at Robbie’s, camping at Dry Tortugas National Park, driving around through car rentals, swimming with dolphins, and brewing your own beer at Florida Keys Brewing Company.

2. Are there any free things to do in the Florida Keys?

Looking for free things to do in the Florida Keys? Enjoying the beach views, admiring the colourful houses, taking in the scenic landscapes – just a few of the fantastic Florida Keys experiences you can enjoy along the way. You could also stroll along in the community/public parks and people watch on the streets. I’m sure you’ll have enough free fun on the beaches though!

3. What things should do on a weekend in the Florida Keys?

If you only have a weekend in the Florida Keys, you could hire a motorbike or car rental to get round a little quicker. This gives you all the time to tour while also having time to do water and land activities such as hiking, snorkelling and parasailing. If you have a bit longer you’ll be fine without a car, as there’s public transport, and you can walk. But if your hours are numbered, speed things up a bit with some wheels.

4. What are the best things to do in Florida Keys with families?

Aside from its beaches, Florida Keys got a lot in store for vacationing families. Spots such as Crane Point Museum and Nature Centre, Key West Garden Club, Truman Little White House, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy, Founders Park, and History of Diving Museum are a must-visit.

5. What to do in the Florida Keys when it rains?

A rainy day in the Florida Keys means enjoyable indoor activities. You could start with visiting museums such as The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Harry S. Truman Little White House, Key West Shipwreck, Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage, and U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime.

You could also spend time with adorable animals in aquariums and conservatory sites such as Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and Turtle Hospital.

Just don’t go swimming with dolphins – it’s mean.

6. What should I do in the Florida Keys at night?

Two words. Duval Street.

There’s no better way of spending a night in the Florida Keys than visiting Duval Street in Key West. It should be everyone’s go-to after the sun sets and do things like bar hopping, strolling around, souvenir shopping at stalls, dancing to clubs, and so many more. Drinks and dancing can’t get any better!

7. What things should I do while driving to the Florida Keys?

Driving around the Florida Keys is great fun. You can drive by places such as Bahia Honda State, Seven Mile Bridge, sunset at Mallory Square, and stop by restaurants where you can eat key lime pie (Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen II, etc.). Check out my itinerary for driving between Miami and Key West for more inspiration.

More things to do in the Florida Keys

• How about going on a hop on-hop off trolley tour around the Old Town?
• Go parasailing in Key West – one of the top things to do in Florida Keys.
• Rum and Reggae Afternoon Snorkel and Sunset

PIN THESE UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN THE FLORIDA KEYS FOR LATER

Related Posts:

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

I WANT ALL OF THE KEY LIME PIE! I mean, seriously, how could you have eaten any LESS than 7 portions over the week? Side note: blogging research is hard.

The struggle is real.

Seriously all of your key lime pie pics are just too much! I can’t wait to try one.

Oh my goodness, that Key Lime pie! Sunshine on a plate!!

Errrmmmhaaagawd, they’re so delicious!

The key lime pie just looks out of this world! As does the sea plane trip x

Yeah both were pretty good, for different reasons!

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• Things to do in Florida Keys

Escape from the mainland and journey to the America’s Caribbean for that perfect vacation that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Tourist Attractions in Florida Keys

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Scuba Diving in the Florida Keys

Located off the southern coast of Florida, the islands of Florida Keys are a great destination for scuba diving. The article provides information to help you plan a scuba diving trip to Florida Keys.

About Florida Keys

Bordered by the Gulf of Mexico on the northwest and Atlantic Ocean on the east, Florida Keys stretches for 135 miles, boasting its beautiful shoreline and natural beauty. The Highway of the keys known as Overseas Highway is only way to access most of keys by land. This Highway provide beautiful view of Florida Keys. These paradise islands offer a bounty to its visitors. For the old and young, from nature explorers to lazy relaxers, these islands are waiting to welcome you, brimming with fun filled and exciting activities. So get ready to plan your days ahead before arriving to make the most out of your trip.

Head over to the most famous destinations, including Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and of course, Key West. Each of the islands possesses a unique feature.

This key offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. Want to do something different? Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The name says it all. This park offers a wide range of recreations such as canoeing, exploring the 2 mile stretch of mangrove wilderness and camping.

After Key Largo comes the Islamorada comprising of six individual islands. If you enjoy fishing this will be the perfect spot of you. Islamorada is famous for its world class sport fishing with each season inviting new fishing tournaments and angling opportunities. Feast at a tropical theme bar to taste the finest seafood and a chilled umbrella drink. Enrich your cultural experience by taking a stroll on the Morada Way Art and Cultural District. Take a trip to the the Rain Barrel Artisan Village or explore the Indian Key State Historic Site.

Marathon Island

In a mood to relax? Want the ideal family vacation? Marathon Island will be the place for you. Marathon Island is not only popular for its bounty resorts and spas, but also for its Seafood Festival and other family friendly festivals all year round. Take your kids for dolphin swims, boating, and snorkeling, or sit back and relax while they play at the beautiful blue Sombrero Beach.

If you are huge fan of Ernest Hemingway visiting Key West is a must. This island hosts interesting events such as Hemingway Days and Fantasy Fest. Enjoy or even participate at the Hemingway lookalike contest. Hop on the Conch Train to tour the island and visit the Ripley’s Believe it or not. Be sure to join the Sunset Fest at Mallory Square to enjoy the sunset of Florida Keys while being entertained by the musicians. Don’t miss out the Key West style carnival acts.

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Nestled in the middle of the Florida Keys an hour’s drive from Key West , Marathon is a 10-mile-long, family-friendly community made up of 13 islands that include Grassy Key, Fat Deer Key, and Vaca Key. With a rich maritime history, 1,200 wet slips, and 1,200 dry slips, Marathon is a boating and sailing paradise, drawing visitors from all over the globe to its calm, turquoise waters.

Snorkel and scuba dive coral reefs, spend time at Sombrero Beach , fish, paddle, camp, and hike at the 1,000-acre Curry Hammock State Park , and visit historic Old Seven-Mile Bridge .  After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of Marathon’s laid-back restaurants for fresh seafood and unbeatable views.

For families with children, seeing the dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center is a must. At The Turtle Hospital , guests can learn about the hospital’s sea turtle rehabilitation program and feed some of the permanent turtle residents. To learn board, wind, and paddlesports head to The Lagoon on Grassy Key and book a stay at the beach club to enjoy the private beach and other amenities.

Plan your trip at The Florida Keys & Key West .

Spend time on the beach and swim in the clear water.

See sea turtles and dolphins and visit Marathon’s family-friendly attractions.

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Watch live theater shows, see local art, and take part in an art class or workshop.

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10 Best Beaches in the Florida Keys

Find your ideal patch of sand for boating, snorkeling, swimming, and more.

There are few domestic destinations dreamier than the Florida Keys. This breezy, sun-soaked archipelago is the very picture of a tropical retreat, with palm trees, clear blue waters, colorful kitsch, and a laid-back lifestyle that's practically foreign on the mainland. Understandably, first-time visitors may expect an abundance of sandy beaches, but this is a misconception. Activities here tend to take place on or in the water — boating, snorkeling, and diving. But for those who also love lounging on the sand, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best beaches in the Florida Keys, from secluded spots to lively stretches with water sports rentals and other facilities.

Top 3 Can't Miss

• Calusa Beach hosts snorkeling excursions off of Looe Key at bargain prices.
• Marine lovers head to remote Dry Tortugas National Park, which has campgrounds for overnight stays.
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach is a must for panoramic views plus a bit of history.

Calusa Beach

Calusa Beach is within  Bahia Honda State Park , between Big Pine Key and Marathon, on the Gulf side. This means its waters are sheltered and calm, making it popular with families. The park offers ample parking ($8 per vehicle), a snack bar, kayak rentals, and covered areas for picnicking. Visitors can also join daily excursions to snorkel at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary's coral reef.

Dry Tortugas National Park

A national park may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a Florida Keys vacation, but you won't want to miss Dry Tortugas . Because the park is 99 percent water with seven islands only accessible by ferry or seaplane, its beaches serve as launching pads for the marine exploration the area is known for.

The contrast of the sun-bleached white sand against the turquoise water makes the beaches of Dry Tortugas some of the best. Because of the park's remoteness, outdoorsy visitors may choose to camp . When planning your trip, keep an eye on possible closures as hurricane season approaches.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach

On the southern tip of Key West, this sun-soaked spot is the ultimate place for a picnic, swim, snorkel, or paddle. If you crave crystalline waters, "Fort Zach" is your best bet. We recommend bringing water shoes as the sea floor can be rocky.

You can also squeeze in some history. Fort Taylor, a National Historic Monument that predates the Civil War, is worth checking out — especially on the third weekend of each month, when you can catch historical reenactments. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is open every day from 8 a.m. until sundown, and admission costs $6 per vehicle.

Sunset Park Beach

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As the name suggests, this beach is a popular spot for taking in the sunset — and the views sure make a visit worthwhile. Located in Key Colony Beach, an island community adjacent to Marathon, the narrow sliver of sand may be short on amenities (you'll find bathrooms and a few benches and picnic tables), but it's the perfect place to relax and close out a day in paradise.

After the sun goes down, head to Havana Jack's Oceanside Restaurant and Bar , less than a mile away, for a tequila cocktail under the thatched roof of its outdoor tiki bar.

Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach is the biggest public beach in Key West and also one of the most popular. Tour and rental companies right on the beach will make sure you have everything you need to get out on the cerulean water. Nearby food trucks make it easy to grab a snack. In addition to sunning, you can play volleyball on the sand or try water sports like kayaking, Jet Skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.

If you're looking to turn a quiet Sunday into a beach day, keep in mind that you won't be able to park there until noon; during the rest of the week, $5 parking is available from 8 a.m. to midnight.

The Beach at Little Palm Island Resort and Spa

Hear us out: Yes, this exclusive patch of sand is on a four-acre private island that's only accessible by boat or seaplane. But Little Palm Island Resort and Spa — the No.1 Florida resort in T+L's  “World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024  — boasts one of the best beaches in the Keys. Guests can bounce between the sandy shore and the lagoon-style pool that has its own cocktail bar. The adults-only five-star resort emphasizes isolation and reconnecting with nature — there are no phones or TVs in the elegant suites. You can also partake in all sorts of excursions, from scuba diving to sailing.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

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This convenient-from-the-mainland Key Largo location means you don't have to drive all the way south to Key West to enjoy the beach. While John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is best known for its 70 nautical square miles of underwater attractions, landlubbers will find a lot to love here, too. There are plenty of quiet, hidden beach areas where you can swim and relax in peace. If you plan on venturing into the water, you'll find a colorful world teeming with marine life under the surface.

The Beach at Isla Bella Beach Resort

While this Marathon hotel offers a limited number of day passes throughout the week and on some holidays, the 24-acre sandy stretch at Isla Bella Beach Resort is worth checking in for during your trip to the Florida Keys . Adding to its appeal, each room has an ocean view. Guests can lounge in any of the numerous ocean-facing chairs, eat at the outdoor Beach Bar, play bocce ball on the sand, take a beach yoga class, or relax in one of the resort's five sparkling pools.

Sombrero Beach

Located in Marathon, Sombrero Beach has everything you want — swaying palm trees, white sand, and beautiful water in varying shades of blue — and some things you didn't know you needed, like picnic pavilions, volleyball nets, a pier, restrooms, and public showers. You can also snorkel here, so it's a great spot for the adventurous and languorous alike. Just watch where you step from April through October — that's nesting season for endangered loggerhead sea turtles, and this beach is one of their favorites, too.

Higgs Beach

Another Key West favorite, Higgs Beach has lots of amenities, including a pier and a cafe,  Salute! On The Beach , so you can linger all day. If you prefer to bring your own food, public grills and picnic huts make it easy to plan a beach barbecue. Swimming, snorkeling, volleyball, tennis, and pickleball are all options here, and there are also two playgrounds for the kids. Beach accessories like chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented nearby.

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Florida Keys Boating Guide

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Last Updated on August 29, 2024 by Boatsetter Team

The Florida Keys are surrounded by crystal clear waters with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

For someone who loves boating, fishing, watersports, or just about anything having to do with fun on the water, few spots on Earth have the same irresistible draw as the Florida Keys. This 125-mile-long archipelago of about 1,700 islands, commonly divided into the Upper Keys, Middle Keys, and Lower Keys, is world famous for its clear emerald waters, diverse wildlife, and laid-back attitude. Millions of visitors flock here every year, many renting a boat to gain unfettered access to the countless bays, sandbars, and fishing hotspots.

Explore boat rentals in the Florida Keys

Boating in the Upper Keys

The Upper Keys begin with Key Largo, the northernmost key connected to the mainland by the overseas Highway, which is also the largest of this island chain at 33 miles long. Since it’s just about 90 minutes south of Miami, Key Largo is a very popular destination. It’s perhaps best known for the amazing diving opportunities, and is often called the “Diving Capitol of the World.” Several famous dive spots are found here, like the Christ of the Abyss statue, Molasses Reef, and the undersea John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Many of these are accessible by snorkelers as well as divers (see 8 Snorkeling Spots in Key Largo to find out where).

From Key Largo the Upper Keys stretch south down to Lower Matecumbe Key. But don’t drive down the Overseas Highway too fast, or you’ll pass another top destination: Islamorada. This grouping of six keys (Plantation, Windley, Upper and Lower Matecumbe, Indian, and Lignumvitae Keys) also has fantastic diving and many people come here just for that reason, but fishing may be an even bigger draw. From Islamorada there’s easy access to mangroves, islands, and flats providing magnificent inshore fishing to the west.

Meanwhile, the famed Islamorada Hump to the east will satisfy the urges of offshore anglers. You can check out the many possibilities in our Fishing in Islamorada Guide and remember, there are plenty of options to rent a fishing boat in Islamorada . If, on the other hand, kicking back and relaxing at a sandbar known for its festive atmosphere is more to your liking, note that Islamorada is also home to one of the top ranked sandbars in the Florida Keys .

Boating in the Middle Keys

Long Key down to the Seven Mile Bridge is generally considered the Middle Keys, and the top hotspot in this stretch is Marathon. This 10-mile-long town consists of 13 different islands and once again its easy access to crystal clear waters and natural reefs makes diving a huge draw. The fishing is awesome here, too. But Marathon has an added attraction that sets it apart thanks to a number of unusual eco-touring opportunities. Marathon is home to a dolphin research center where you can swim with the dolphins, a sea turtle hospital where you can experience guided educational programs, the Florida Keys Aquarium, and the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center.

See our Marathon, FL Boating Guide to learn about more of the options and activities you can enjoy here, from finding dock-and-dine restaurants to snorkeling at coral reef parks. Also be sure to check out the 5 Best Marathon Key Beaches .

Boating in the Lower Keys

From Big Pine Key heading south there’s plenty to see in the Lower Keys, but there’s no doubt that the biggest draw of all is Key West. Life here revolves around the water, boats, and all things aquatic, so get your trip started off right by renting a boat in Key West and taking in the sights. Key West is the southernmost point in the United States and the four-mile-long island is famous for its laid-back attitude and free-spirited vibe.

Again, like the rest of the Keys, diving, snorkeling, and fishing are huge attractions for boaters visiting Key West. The town also has an aquarium, a vibrant night life (who hasn’t heard of Duval Street?), and some of the best beaches around. On top of those draws Key West is a venue of choice for powerboat racing. In fact, this is where the Race World Offshore World Championship is held, and international boat racing teams from across the globe compete here to earn the title of fastest in their class.

Check out Key West Water Activities You Must Experience and Boating in Key West, FL: Everything You Need to Know to learn more about everything from snorkeling in and around Key West to sunset cruising opportunities.

Spectacular surroundings, endless aquatic activities, and tropical winters make the Florida Keys one of the top destinations for boaters worldwide. And whether you visit the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys, or the Lower Keys, one thing is for sure: however long your visit may be, it won’t be long enough.

About us

Boatsetter  is the leading online marketplace for boat rentals and on-water experiences. Download the Boatsetter app ( App Store  |  Google Play ) and follow us on  Instagram .

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites ranging from BoatU.S. Magazine to BDOutdoors.com. Rudow is currently the Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk , he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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Alligators and swamp buggies: How a roadside attraction in Orlando staved off extinction

ORLANDO, Fla. – On a scorching summer afternoon, Michael Hoffman tightened his son’s grip on a makeshift fishing pole suspended over dozens of chomping alligators.

“Woah, hold on buddy,” Hoffman, an antique dealer, told his delighted 4-year-old as a baby alligator clamped down on the string.

It was the first time Hoffman shared with his son a tradition his father started with him decades earlier on their annual trips from Maryland to the Florida Keys: a one-day stop at Gatorland.

“We love coming here,” said Hoffman as his wife, Cheryl, helped their 10-year-old daughter drop chucks of fish to the reptiles. “Where else can you feed a gator, get this close and not be arrested?”

The theme park, which describes itself as the “Gator Capital of the World,” is an endangered species of sorts. The first major tourist attraction in central Florida, Gatorland has managed to withstand an unrelenting cascade of upheavals to the state's tourism industry that has sunk the vast majority of its peers.

Started in the late 1940s, the family-run park was established years before the creation of high-speed interstates and decades before Walt Disney World catapulted Orlando’s status as a global tourism hotspot.

Even some of the most formidable of the state’s roadside attractions closed as the large theme parks, aided by interstates and increasingly accessible airline travel, killed their business. Yet, as Gatorland commemorates its 75th anniversary, it’s also celebrating record attendance.

Its formula? Instead of trying to compete directly with the major parks, Gatorland sells what Disney, Universal Studios and SeaWorld don't: a vision of “old Florida," a concept that, while condensed and exaggerated at Gatorland, is striking a chord with a public increasingly fascinated with the state.

“People love Florida – the idea of it – and when they come here they want to see gators,” said Mark McHugh, Gatorland's president and CEO, straightening his white cowboy hat as he overlooked the lagoon at the center of the park. “This is alligator paradise.”

Zip lines, mud ponds, reptiles galore

In late June, Beth Peterson and her daughter Lily left their luggage at Orlando International Airport and caught an Uber to Gatorland to make their 2 p.m. appointment on the “Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.”

Suspended 65 feet in the air, the mother and daughter were among a group of 20 people who soared across a quarter mile of the park, including directly over alligator pits. “It was scary,” said 11-year-old Lily, who had earlier posed for a photo with a baby gator.

“But you're an alligator expert now,” her mother, Beth, interjected.

A short while later, a dozen people buckled themselves into a monster-style buggy that raced over steep hills and muddy gravel paths in the park's backwoods. Arnold Hudson and Asha Crumlin screamed as the driver took a sharp corner and the tour guide, clad in a backward baseball cap and camouflage T-shirt, made several colorful pronouncements: “Y’all know Disney magic? Well, we have redneck magic!”

The couple had flown to Orlando for the week from Washington, D.C., to visit family and go to Disney World. Hudson, who had spent an afternoon at Gatorland more than a decade ago, wanted his girlfriend to experience “the real Florida” during her first trip to the Sunshine State.

“Everybody has to come to Gatorland when they’re in Florida, it’s just what you do,” he said. Later on in the day, the couple straddled a 10-foot alligator and had their picture taken.

The park isn't only frequented by tourists siphoned off Disney property. Rosanne and Luigi Racanelli have been spending afternoons at Gatorland since they moved to Orlando from Queens, New York, in 1988.

The couple came most often in the 1990s and 2000s, often taking their three children to the park on long weekends and during school breaks. As they watched their children grow and parents age, they also witnessed Gatorland's vast transformation from a kitsch attraction to an expansive theme park.

“I have photo albums of my father-in-law sitting on a gator here,” Rosanne Racanelli said. “This place is a big part of our lives.”

A pit and an alligator

Owen Godwin, a former butcher, restaurant owner and postmaster, founded the roadside attraction that would eventually become Gatorland in 1949, a time of post-war abundance when middle-class families from the north were packing into station wagons and flocking to the Sunshine State to escape frigid winters.

Like hundreds of other boisterous Floridians, Godwin saw an opportunity to extoll his state’s exotic wonders to the newcomers.

“It was a really easy time to get into the attraction business,” said James Clark, a history professor at the University of Central Florida, who’s written extensively on Florida tourism. “All you needed was a roadside building, some cold drinks and an alligator in a cage in the back and a sign out front – and you were in the tourism business.”

Godwin did just that. With the help of his young family and a group of Seminole tribe members, the park was constructed on 15 acres of sunken land at the edge of Kissimmee and Orlando, which at the time was dotted with vast orange groves.

While attendance was steady in the winter, summertime brought droughts in business that forced Godwin to hit the road and search out the tourists where they lived.

In a trailer with a bathtub, a fan and a heating pad, Godwin brought a 12-foot alligator, “Cannibal Jake,” as far north as the New Jersey boardwalk and showcased the exotic reptile to amazed northerners – a hustle that, along with the winnings from his backroom gambling, kept his business afloat.

Killer combination: Interstates and Mickey Mouse

The park grew over the next 20 years and Godwin became a mythical figure around Orlando and Kissimmee, carefully crafting an image of a journeyman wearing a fedora, a leopard vest and, always, a pair of tall boots, according to the Florida Historical Quarterly.

But its time of prosperity came to a sudden halt with the arrival of two major construction projects that would produce sweeping changes with impacts far beyond Orlando and the state of Florida.

First came the construction of interstate highways in the late 1950s and 1960s, which slashed the traffic relied on by attractions like Gatorland. At the time, roadside attractions only needed a colorful sign or a makeshift sculpture to draw in passing tourists. (In Gatorland’s case, it was a 15-foot, blue and pink alligator jaw that met patrons at the park entrance.)

Then, on Oct. 1, 1971, came the big bang: Disney World opened its doors to the public, completely upending the state's tourism industry. Now tourists were braving Florida's summer heat to see the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's castle and Mickey Mouse. And as the mega-park expanded its offerings and developed its cocoon with hotels and on-site restaurants, hundreds of attractions across the state shuttered.

“Disney was simply the killer,” Clark said.

In the wake of Disney World – which was soon followed by SeaWorld and later Universal Orlando Resort – more than 80% of the state’s roadside attractions, large and small, closed, according to Steve Noll, a history professor at the University of Florida.

Gatorland, then in the hands of Owen Godwin’s son, Frank Godwin, started advertising itself as a cheap alternative while building up its amenities, including an 800-seat stadium built for the park’s flagship gator wrestling show. While the younger Godwin's effort staved off a complete closure, by the mid-1990s Gatorland was limping toward its seeming demise.

Gatorland joins the 21st century

McHugh, the current CEO and president of Gatorland, first knew the park as a tourist and then came to know it through his wife, Diane, the daughter of Frank Godwin. The couple met in 1985 while working as animal trainers at SeaWorld and soon married. A decade later, McHugh would take the reins from his father-in-law and oversee the park's largest expansion as well as a major shift in its operations.

To excite thrill-seeking teenagers and 20-somethings, McHugh ordered the construction of a nationally ranked zip line in 2011 as well as a swamp buggy ride, which takes people off-roading through the park’s dense acreage of backwoods and mud ponds.

The new rides were part of a larger effort to “keep up with the times,” McHugh said. For example, he reworked the park's famous gator wrestling show to focus more on education – with the presenter listing facts about the reptile as well as tips on how to avoid a troubling encounter – and less on wrangling.

"We needed to change," McHugh said, adding that people’s tastes had evolved – a notion experts agreed with.

“What people are willing to see as entertainment, as opposed to cruelty, or as passé, that has changed,” said Florida State University history professor Andrew Frank, citing as an example the demise of many traditional circuses, in part due to reports of animal cruelty and increased consideration for the animals on display.

Alligator farming to conservation

One of Gatorland’s largest shifts came in the first years of McHugh’s tenure and occurred out of the sight of parkgoers.

Through the 1980s and ‘90s, under the leadership of Frank Godwin, Gatorland began farming alligators to make up for a yearslong dip in sales. The American alligator had been removed from the endangered species list and alligator farms were cropping up across the state. Not only was the alligator farming not profitable, but it became the center of an identity crisis for the park.

On one side of the Gatorland property, families took photos with the reptiles, fed them chicken and watched as they relaxed under the hot sun. On the other side of the park, alligators were slaughtered for their meat and hide, which was then sold and made into shoes, handbags, and watchbands.

“We came to a split in the road,” McHugh said. “We were becoming more of a conservation-oriented facility on this end, and, on the other, we were raising alligators for meat and hides. So we said we need to be one or the other.”

The Gatorland board and McHugh divested from the farm in 1998. While the park still raises alligators from a young age, it no longer harvests them for meat and hides, McHugh said. “We still sell alligator nuggets – it’s the No. 1 food item request,” he added. “We get it from major food distributors, not from the gators we breed."

With alligator farming behind him, McHugh oversaw several conservation projects, including the construction of a 10-acre breeding marsh. In 2018, he started Gatorland Global, a program in which the park takes in alligators that would otherwise be euthanized. Many of these alligators are considered "nuisances," a term designated for reptiles that have had close encounters with people at apartment complexes and golf courses, among other places.

The first “nuisance alligator” the park received was Chester, who had “eaten at least two dogs” at a pond in Tampa in the early 2000s, McHugh said. More recently, the park took in Larry, a 12-foot alligator that spooked residents at the Villages retirement community, and Jawlene, whose name – a play on Dolly Parton's "Jolene" – references her missing upper jaw.

All told, Gatorland is currently home to more than 2,500 American alligators and crocodiles, according to Brandon Fisher, who has 20 years of experience working with gators at the park.

"We go through about 200,000 pounds of meat every year," he said.

Record attendance spells bright future

The shift into conservation not only seems to further McHugh's vision for a true alligator paradise, but it's also coincided with a significant boost in attendance. On Dec. 29, at the height of its busy season, Gatorland had 5,000 visitors – its largest single-day attendance count on record.

McHugh credits the rise in ticket sales, in part, on a long-term deal for Florida residents ($9.99 per adult), a rise in the state's population and a heavy push on social media, including Gatorland's daily "School of Croc" Facebook Live show, which drew in thousands of viewers to watch employees showcase the park's animals while its doors were closed during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There now remains only one scenario in which McHugh sees Orlando's first tourist attraction shutting its doors: a buyout.

As Florida’s population continues to surge and Orlando remains one of America’s fastest-growing cities, Gatorland’s 105-acre property – a short drive from Orlando's tourist district and downtown – may become more valuable than the park itself.

"The land could already be worth more,” McHugh said. “But unless the board decides that, Gatorland is here to stay."

In the meantime, longtime parkgoers and first-timers alike will continue to seek out close encounters with the notorious reptile at what many see as one of the last remaining bastions of a forgotten Florida.

"This is about as Florida as it gets," said Megan Zapata, just before she and her two sons, 11 and 13, rode a zip line over an alligator pit.

Contact Christopher Cann at [email protected]