Free Guide to Key West Florida Attractions

Getting to Key West: Transportation Options and Routes

Key West sits at the southern tip of Florida, about 160 miles southwest of Miami. Most visitors travel to Key West by one of three main methods: driving, flying, or taking the ferry. Understanding each option helps you plan your trip effectively.

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The Overseas Highway (US Route 1) is the primary driving route to Key West. This 42-mile stretch connects the Florida Keys with a series of bridges and causeways. The drive from Miami takes approximately 4 to 4.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. The Overseas Highway passes through towns like Marathon and Islamorada, offering scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Gas stations and rest stops are available along the route, though they become less frequent the farther south you travel. Peak traffic occurs during winter months (December through March) and holiday weekends, potentially adding significant time to your journey.

Flying into Key West International Airport (EYW) offers a quicker alternative. Multiple airlines operate daily flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, with flight times ranging from 45 minutes to 1 hour. Rental cars are available at the airport, though Key West's compact size means many visitors explore the downtown area on foot or use taxis and ride-sharing services. Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive, with daily rates ranging from $15 to $25.

The ferry service operated by Sunny Day Catamaran runs between Fort Myers Beach and Key West, taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. This option eliminates driving stress and provides water views during transit. Ferry tickets typically cost between $95 and $165 for adults, depending on the season.

Practical Takeaway: If you have limited time, flying is fastest. If you want to enjoy the scenic drive and stop in other Keys towns, drive the Overseas Highway. If you prefer a relaxing journey without driving, consider the ferry option.

Historic Downtown and Old Town Attractions

Downtown Key West, also called Old Town, contains the majority of the city's historic attractions and walkable streets. The area spans roughly 15 blocks and features colonial-era buildings, museums, galleries, and shops that reflect Key West's unique cultural history.

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Fort Zachary Taylor State Park sits at the southern end of Key West and represents the largest brick fort built in the 19th century. Built in 1845, this fort served as a Union stronghold during the Civil War and saw the first naval action of the conflict in 1861. Visitors can tour the fort's interior, view original cannons and weaponry, and learn about the soldiers who served there. The park includes a small beach area and picnic facilities. Admission costs $2.50 for pedestrians and $4.50 for vehicles with up to eight occupants.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum preserves the house where the famous author lived and worked from 1931 to 1939. The property features Hemingway's writing studio, swimming pool, and the grounds where descendants of his original six-toed cats still roam freely. The home contains original furnishings and personal items that offer insight into the author's life and creative process. Admission is $13 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 12.

Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum stands 86 feet tall and has operated continuously since 1848. Visitors can climb 88 steps to the top for panoramic views of Key West and surrounding waters. The attached museum displays maritime artifacts and information about lighthouses in the Florida Keys. Admission costs $5 for adults and $2 for children.

The Key West Shipwreck Museum occupies a reproduction of a 19th-century warehouse and tells the story of shipwrecking in Key West, which was once the wealthiest city per capita in the United States due to salvage operations. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience what a shipwreck felt like. The museum charges $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Practical Takeaway: Plan at least a full day to explore Old Town attractions on foot. Many museums cluster within walking distance of each other, but each requires 45 minutes to 2 hours to explore thoroughly. Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.

Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities

Beyond historic sites, Key West offers numerous natural attractions for visitors interested in water activities, wildlife viewing, and beach experiences. The warm tropical climate and surrounding shallow waters create ideal conditions for multiple outdoor pursuits.

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Dry Tortugas National Park lies 70 miles west of Key West and is accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park encompasses Fort Jefferson, a massive coastal fortress built between 1846 and 1875, along with pristine coral reefs and clear waters. Ferry service operates daily, with round-trip tickets costing approximately $189 for adults and $129 for children ages 4 to 12. The ferry ride takes 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, with five hours allowed for park exploration. The clear waters support abundant fish species, sea turtles, and coral formations, making it a premier snorkeling and diving destination.

Snorkeling and diving opportunities exist throughout Key West waters. The coral reefs surrounding the Keys contain hundreds of tropical fish species, sea turtles, lobsters, and other marine life. Multiple charter companies offer half-day and full-day trips, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 per person depending on the trip length and destination. Reef depth typically ranges from 5 to 30 feet, accommodating both beginning and experienced snorkelers.

Key West beaches provide swimming and water sports opportunities. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park has a small sandy beach included with fort admission. Smathers Beach, located about 4 miles from downtown, offers the widest sandy beach in Key West, free public access, and calm shallow waters suitable for families. Nearby areas provide rentals for jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks at prices ranging from $30 to $100 per hour depending on equipment type.

Kayaking through mangrove tunnels allows visitors to explore the unique ecosystem that surrounds Key West. Several outfitters provide kayak rentals and guided tours, with prices between $45 and $80 per person for guided trips lasting two to three hours. Mangrove forests serve as nurseries for fish species and provide habitat for birds including herons, egrets, and roseate spoonbills.

Glass-bottom boat tours offer a way to observe coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. Boats feature specially designed hulls with large windows below the waterline. Tours typically last one to two hours and cost $20 to $35 per person.

Practical Takeaway: Book water tours and activities in advance during peak season (December through April). Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and marine ecosystems. Most water activities operate year-round, but summer months bring higher water temperatures and increased marine activity.

Cultural Experiences and Local Traditions

Key West's unique cultural identity reflects influences from Caribbean, Latin American, and American traditions. The city hosts numerous festivals and cultural events that showcase its distinctive character and history.

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Mallory Square Sunset Celebration occurs daily at sunset and features street performers, artists, musicians, and food vendors gathered in the downtown waterfront area. This free event draws hundreds of locals and tourists nightly and has operated since the 1960s. The celebration represents a unique gathering point where various performers compete for audience attention and tips, creating an unpredictable and dynamic experience each evening.

Key West Fantasy Fest occurs annually in late October and features parades, costumes, parties, and performances. The ten-day festival attracts visitors from around the world and celebrates the city's LGBTQ+ community and overall commitment to artistic expression and inclusivity. While main events offer free viewing, many parties and shows charge admission fees ranging from $15 to $50.

Conch Republic Independence Celebration takes place annually on April 23 and commemorates the day in 1982 when Key West mayor Dennis Wardlow declared the Keys independent from the United States. The satirical celebration includes a parade, mock cannon fire, and various performances. The event humorously represents the city's rebellious spirit and independent identity.

Duval Street Walking Tour provides guided information about the street's evolution from quiet residential area to the bustling commercial center