Key West sits at the end of the Florida Keys, a 113-mile chain of coral islands connected by the legendary Overseas Highway. The southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West has attracted artists, writers, sailors, and free spirits for over a century. Ernest Hemingway lived here for a decade. Tennessee Williams called it home. And today, it remains one of the most unique and colorful destinations in America.
Top Things to Do in Key West
Watching the sunset at Mallory Square is Key West's nightly celebration — street performers, artists, and crowds gather at the waterfront every evening to applaud the sun as it dips below the Gulf of Mexico. It's cheesy, it's touristy, and it's absolutely worth it. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum on Whitehead Street is one of the best author's home museums in the country, with descendants of Hemingway's famous six-toed cats still roaming the property.
For water activities, Key West is surrounded by the third-largest coral reef in the world. Snorkeling and diving trips leave from the Historic Seaport daily. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park has the best beach in Key West and excellent snorkeling right off the beach. For a day trip, the Dry Tortugas National Park — accessible only by ferry or seaplane — is one of the most remote and spectacular national parks in the US, home to Fort Jefferson and some of the clearest water in Florida.
Duval Street and the Nightlife Scene
Duval Street is Key West's legendary bar strip — running from the Gulf to the Atlantic, it's home to famous spots like Sloppy Joe's (Hemingway's favorite bar), Captain Tony's Saloon, and the Green Parrot. The street is lively from early afternoon well into the early morning hours.
What to Pack for Key West
Key West is warm, casual, and beach-forward — pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, and comfortable sandals. Evenings on Duval Street call for something slightly elevated but never formal. The VacationGrabs Leather Sling Bag is perfect for a day that goes from snorkeling to sunset at Mallory Square. For the drive down the Keys, the VacationGrabs Leather Carry-On Duffel fits everything for a long weekend and looks great doing it.
Book Key West Tours and Experiences
Snorkeling trips to the coral reef, Dry Tortugas seaplane day trips, sunset sailing cruises, and ghost tours are among the best Key West experiences. Browse Key West tours on Viator to plan your island escape.
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