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Key West
Florida
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Visit Key West
Key West, Florida, is a gem of an island located at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, renowned for its laid-back charm, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. As the continental United States' southernmost point, it is famously only 90 miles from Cuba, a fact celebrated by one of the island's most photographed landmarks, the buoy-like Southernmost Point marker. The island's compact size makes it easy to explore, whether on foot, by bicycle, or via one of the colorful electric cars that are popular among tourists and locals alike.
A visit to Key West is incomplete without exploring its historic Old Town, which seamlessly blends beautiful Victorian homes, quaint conch houses, and lush tropical gardens. The streets are lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, inviting visitors to wander and soak in the local culture. Duval Street, the energetic epicenter of Key West, offers everything from fine dining to casual seafood shacks, alongside lively bars and nightclubs that embody the island's free-spirited ethos. As the sun sets, Mallory Square becomes the heart of the island's social life, hosting the famous Sunset Celebration where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy street performers, local artisans, and the breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Key West also boasts a rich literary and maritime heritage. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famed author lived during the 1930s, offers insights into his life and work, and is home to the famous six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway's original pets. The maritime history of Key West can be explored at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, showcasing treasures from sunken ships and artifacts that tell the story of the island's historic shipwreck salvage industry. For nature lovers, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory offers a tranquil escape with hundreds of free-flying butterflies and exotic birds, making it a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you're drawn by the allure of its historical sites, the beauty of its sunset views, or simply the promise of a relaxed atmosphere, Key West offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Key West Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
65°F
75°F
6
February
65°F
75°F
6
March
68°F
77°F
12
April
72°F
81°F
6
May
74°F
83°F
6
June
79°F
87°F
11
July
81°F
89°F
11
August
79°F
89°F
14
September
79°F
87°F
12
October
77°F
84°F
7
November
72°F
79°F
11
December
65°F
75°F
8
Need to Know Before You Go To Key West
Nickname:
Conch Republic
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/New_York
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
About 2.5 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
January, March, February
Quietest Travel Months:
September, October, August
Find your Next Adventure in Key West
Explore Key West
Iconic Landmarks
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
This is the house where the famed author Ernest Hemingway lived during the 1930s. Visitors can tour the home and gardens, see the famous six-toed cats descended from Hemingway's original pets, and learn about his life and work.
Southernmost Point Buoy
This brightly colored buoy is one of the most photographed attractions in Key West. It marks the southernmost point of the continental United States, only 90 miles from Cuba, and is a must-visit for a classic Key West photo op.
Mallory Square
Known for its lively atmosphere, especially during the sunset celebration, Mallory Square is a hub of entertainment. Street performers, vendors, and artists gather here to showcase their talents as tourists and locals enjoy the stunning sunset views.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
This state park is not only a beautiful beach destination but also a historic site. The fort played important roles in the Civil War and Spanish-American War. Visitors can tour the fort, enjoy the beach, and participate in various water activities.
Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum
Built in 1847, the Key West Lighthouse guided mariners until the 1960s. Today, visitors can climb the 88 steps to the top for panoramic views of the island and explore the restored keeper's quarters that now serve as a museum.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Originally serving as a naval station's command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II, this house became the winter White House for President Harry S. Truman. It is now a public museum and offers insights into Truman's presidency and time spent in Key West.
Cultural Experiences
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Visit the home where the famed author Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote for more than a decade. You can explore the lush gardens, see the famous six-toed cats, and learn about Hemingway's life and work.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Experience the beauty and tranquility of this glass-enclosed habitat that houses hundreds of butterflies, exotic birds, and tropical plants. It's a serene and educational experience that highlights the natural beauty of the region.
Truman Little White House
Tour the winter retreat of President Harry S. Truman, which now serves as a public, living museum. The house offers a glimpse into the life and times of Truman and other U.S. presidents who have used the residence.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Join locals and visitors alike for this nightly festival that takes place at Mallory Square. The event features street performers, local artisans, food vendors, and a spectacular view of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Fort East Martello Museum
Explore this Civil War-era fort that now serves as a museum showcasing Key West's art, history, and culture. The museum also includes the eerie Robert the Doll, which is a favorite among visitors interested in paranormal stories.
Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk
Stroll along the scenic waterfront, where you can soak in the maritime history of Key West. The area is filled with charming shops, delicious seafood restaurants, and vibrant bars. It's also a great place to book a sailing or fishing charter.
Outdoor Adventures
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The coral reefs around Key West are some of the most beautiful in the United States. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for exploring vibrant coral formations and a diverse range of marine life. Popular spots include the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the wreck of the USS Vandenberg.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Explore the calm waters and mangrove forests around Key West by kayak or paddleboard. This is a great way to get up close with nature and see some of the local wildlife, including birds, fish, and possibly manatees. Guided tours can take you through remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
Fishing
Key West is a premier destination for both deep-sea and flats fishing. You can target a variety of species including tarpon, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and grouper. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, there are numerous charters available that cater to all skill levels.
Sailing
With its favorable winds and beautiful scenery, sailing is a popular activity in Key West. You can rent a boat, take a sailing lesson, or join a guided tour to enjoy a day on the water. Sunset sails are particularly popular, offering stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Jet Ski Tours
For a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, consider a jet ski tour around Key West.
Eco Tours
Join an eco-tour to learn about the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys.
Off the Beaten Path
Key West Wildlife Center
Tucked away in the Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park, this small wildlife rescue center is a haven for injured native wildlife, primarily birds. Visitors can learn about local wildlife and see the efforts made to rehabilitate and release animals back into the wild. It's a quiet spot away from the typical tourist areas.
Key West Cemetery
Explore this historic cemetery with quirky, humorous epitaphs that reflect the unique spirit of Key West's residents. The cemetery offers a self-guided tour that highlights some of the most interesting and historic gravesites, providing insight into the island's eclectic past.
Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden
This secluded garden is a hidden gem where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of Key West and immerse themselves in a lush, tropical setting. The garden is dedicated to preserving parrots and other native plants and offers a peaceful retreat with the opportunity to learn about environmental conservation.
Garbo's Grill
For a unique culinary experience, seek out Garbo's Grill, a highly acclaimed food truck tucked away in a cozy corner of Old Town. They serve up inventive and delicious street food, such as Korean BBQ tacos and umami burgers, providing a tasty break from the more typical seafood fare.
The Key West Firehouse Museum
This small museum is housed in a historic firehouse and offers a glimpse into the life of Key West firefighters over the decades. It's a fascinating visit for those interested in local history and the unique challenges faced by the island's first responders.
Backstreets of Key West
Take a walking or bike tour through the less-traveled paths of Key West to discover hidden courtyards, tiny art galleries, and local bars where residents hang out. This is a great way to see the real Key West beyond the main tourist spots and to interact with locals.
Key West Fun Facts
Key West, Florida, is a unique and vibrant place full of history, culture, and quirky charm. Here are the top 10 fun facts about this southernmost point in the continental United States: 1. Southernmost Point in the Continental USA Key West is famous for being just 90 miles from Cuba and has a buoy marking the southernmost point of the continental United States, which is one of the most photographed attractions in the area. 2. Home of Famous Writers Key West has been home to several renowned writers, including Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams. Hemingway's home is now a museum where you can visit his writing studio and the descendants of his six-toed cats. 3. Conch Republic In 1982, Key West briefly declared its "independence" as the Conch Republic as a protest against a U.S. Border Patrol blockade. This event is celebrated annually with a mock secession festival. 4. Sunset Celebrations Mallory Square hosts a nightly sunset celebration where locals and tourists alike gather to watch the sunset while enjoying live entertainment, arts, and food vendors. 5. Historic Lighthouse The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1847 and is now a museum open to the public. Visitors can climb 88 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the island. 6. Key Lime Pie Key West is the birthplace of key lime pie, a delicious dessert made from the local key limes. You can find this sweet and tart treat almost everywhere in the city. 7. Shipwreck History In the 19th century, Key West was one of the richest cities per capita in the United States, thanks largely to the lucrative shipwreck salvage industry. The Key West Shipwreck Museum tells the story of this era. 8. Dry Tortugas National Park About 70 miles west of Key West lies Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park is known for its magnificent Fort Jefferson, pristine beaches, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. 9. Eco-Tourism Key West is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center provides insights into the local ecosystem. 10. Fantasy Fest Each October, Key West hosts Fantasy Fest, a 10-day, no-holds-barred party filled with costumes, parades, and libations. It's similar to Mardi Gras and is one of the biggest events of the year in Key West. These facts only scratch the surface of what makes Key West a fascinating and enjoyable place to visit or live. Its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and lively cultural scene makes it a unique destination.
Featured Picture Gallery
This Point in Key West is the Southern Most Part of the Continental United States at Just 18 Feet Above Sea Level
Explore the Local Wildlife of Key West Including Pelicans
Fort Jefferson is the Largest Brick Masonry Structure in the Americas
Immerse Yourself in the Lush Landscape of the Key West
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