20 Best Things To Do In Key West With Friends

It's a vibrant and lively spot that's famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration. Visitors can enjoy street performers, local artisans, and breathtaking views of the sunset over the water.

The atmosphere is electric, with live music, food vendors, and a general feeling of festivity. During the day, you can explore the shops, galleries, and restaurants in the area, and then come back in the evening for the main event, the stunning sunset. Hence, it's a must-visit destination for anyone in Key West, offering a perfect blend of entertainment, relaxation, and natural beauty. 

Yankee Freedom Dry Tortugas Ferry is a fantastic attraction in Key West Florida that is the best way to experience the beauty of Key West. It takes you on a scenic journey to the remote Dry Tortugas National Park, where you can explore the historic Fort Jefferson, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and bask in the sun on the pristine beaches.

The ferry ride itself is an adventure, offering stunning views of the ocean and the opportunity to spot marine life. It's a full-day excursion that provides a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation.

The Southernmost Point in Key West is an iconic landmark that marks the southernmost tip of the continental United States. Visitors can take photos with the colorful buoy that designates the spot and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean.

It's not only a great photo place, but it's also a reminder of the unique location of Key West. Plus, the surrounding area is lively and vibrant, with plenty of nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore.

The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is a gem and the best things to do Florida Key West. It's a historic home that once belonged to a renowned 19th-century naturalist, and it's filled with fascinating artifacts and beautiful artwork.

The lush tropical gardens surrounding the house are a sight to behold, with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways that make it a peaceful oasis in the heart of Key West. Visitors can learn about the history of the house, admire the stunning architecture, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the gardens.

This historic site was once used as a winter White House by President Harry S. Truman and has since been preserved as a museum. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the house's rich history and its role in American politics.

The architecture and interior design of the house are captivating, and the knowledgeable guides provide insight into the personal and political life of President Truman during his visits to Key West. Moreover, the surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained, adding to the overall charm of the experience.

The Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum is a captivating piece of Key West's maritime history. This historic lighthouse, which dates back to the 1800s, offers visitors a chance to learn about the maritime heritage of the area and the important role that lighthouses played in navigation.

The museum shows artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that provide insight into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. Plus, visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of Key West and the surrounding ocean.

One of the things to do in Key West is visit Higgs Beach which is the perfect spot for a day of fun in the sun. This beautiful Florida beach offers soft, sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere that's ideal for lounging, swimming, and soaking up tropical vibes.

Further, it's also a great place for water sports, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. The beach is well-maintained and has amenities like picnic areas, volleyball courts, and even a dog park, making it a great option for a family outing or a chill day with friends.

Key West Cemetery is quite a unique and interesting stuff to do Key West. It's not your typical cemetery; it's filled with quirky gravestones, amusing epitaphs, and a lot of history.

The cemetery reflects the diverse and colorful history of Key West, with its mix of different cultures and traditions. However, visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the cemetery's winding paths and discover the stories behind the people buried there.

This park is a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation. It is home to a historic fort that played a crucial role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War, making it a must-see for history buffs.

You can take a guided tour to learn all about the fort's fascinating past. Plus, the park boasts a beautiful beach with clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging in the sun making it amazing things to see and do in Key West.

The Conch Tour Train is an iconic way to explore Key West. It's like a charming journey back in time as you ride through the streets of this beautiful island.

The train takes you on a narrated tour of Key West, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the city's history, culture, and landmarks. You'll pass by famous attractions like the Hemingway House, Mallory Square, and the Southernmost Point, all while soaking in the laid-back island vibes. It's a great way to get an overview of Key West.

The Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum is all about uncovering the treasures of the sea and the incredible history of shipwrecks. The museum shows artifacts and treasures recovered from shipwrecks, including gold, silver, and precious gems.

The museum also features interactive exhibits, historical displays, and a replica of a Spanish galleon. Therefore, it's a chance to step back in time and explore the world of maritime exploration and discovery.

The Key West Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in Florida and it's filled with all sorts of amazing marine life. You can get up close and personal with a variety of sea creatures, including sharks, turtles, and colorful tropical fish.

One of the coolest things about this aquarium is the chance to participate in interactive experiences like touching stingrays and learning about the local marine ecosystems. The staff is super knowledgeable and passionate about marine conservation, so you'll learn a lot while having a great time.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is all about exploring the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Florida Keys. The center features interactive exhibits that show the diverse marine life, coral reefs, and mangrove habitats of the area.

You can learn all about conservation efforts, marine science, and the importance of preserving these incredible natural environments. One of the highlights is the 2,500-gallon reef tank, where you can see a variety of marine creatures up close. There are also educational programs and fun activities for visitors of all ages.

Duval Street is a vibrant and lively area filled with all sorts of fun things to do Key West FL. Here, you can stroll along the street and explore the unique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes.

And when it comes to food, you're in for a treat. There are so many amazing restaurants and bars serving up delicious food and refreshing drinks. Plus, the street comes alive at night with live music, street performers, and a fantastic party atmosphere.

The Overseas Highway, which links mainland Florida to Key West, is a famous and picturesque road. This amazing drive goes over beautiful blue waters, giving you stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.

As you travel, you can make stops at the historic Seven Mile Bridge, which is famous for its cinematic charm. The journey is full of chances to enjoy water activities like snorkeling, fishing, and jet-skiing in the clear waters. Therefore, the key attractions include the lovely town of Islamorada and Bahia Honda State Park.

Hemingway Rum-Papa’s Pilar Distillery is named after Ernest Hemingway's beloved boat, Pilar, and it's a fascinating place to learn about the art of rum-making and the adventurous spirit of Key West. If you want you can take a guided tour of the distillery to see the entire rum-making process.

Further, you'll get to taste some of their award-winning rums and cocktails, which is always a treat. The distillery also pays homage to Hemingway's legacy, with exhibits and stories about his time in Key West.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is a magical place as it's like stepping into a tropical paradise filled with beautiful butterflies, exotic plants, and serene waterfalls. As soon as you walk in, you'll be surrounded by thousands of colorful butterflies fluttering around in a lush, enclosed garden.

It's an enchanting experience to see these delicate creatures up close and observe their graceful movements. The conservatory is also home to stunning birds, cascading water features, and vibrant blooms, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

Smathers Beach is the best things to do at Key West for some fun in the sun. It's the largest public beach on the island, with soft, sandy shores and calm, clear waters.

Whether you want to relax and have sun-soaked spring break in Florida, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, or try some water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding, this beach has it all. There are also volleyball courts, picnic areas, and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a beach day with friends or family.

Taking a boat tour in Key West is an absolute blast. There are so many options to choose from, whether you want to go snorkeling, dolphin watching, or just enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise.

However, you can hop aboard a catamaran, a sailboat, or even a glass-bottom boat to explore the stunning waters around Key West. And of course, watching the sunset from the deck of a boat is a magical experience you won't forget.

Among various things to do Key West Florida, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-visit place. It's the former residence of the famous author Ernest Hemingway, and it's filled with history, charm, and, of course, the descendants of Hemingway's beloved six-toed cats.

The house itself is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture, and it's filled with Hemingway's personal belongings, including his writing studio and original manuscripts. Moreover, you'll get to meet the adorable polydactyl (six-toed) cats that call the museum home.