Key West Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Key West Things to Do

Key West lies at the bottom of a string of islands that jut out from the bottom of the state of Florida. Known for its laid back, tropical feel, there are many things to see and do in Key West.

Southernmost Point

The large painted buoy was erected in 1983 and marks the Southernmost Point in the United States and is exactly 90 miles away from Cuba. It isn’t technically the geographical southernmost point, which is actually on US Military property, but this point is accessible to the public.  This well-known landmark is free and easy to find and a must-do photo op for any visitor to Key West.

Duval Street

Duval Street is one of the most famous streets in America. Lined with bars, restaurants, and impressive homes, this is a must stroll thoroughfare for visitors going to Key West. Many find Duval Street reminiscent of New Orleans, and one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots, the legendary Sloppy Joe’s, which has been in business since the 1930s. Many visitors insist that doing a “Duval Crawl” along the street by stopping in a series of bars on the street is a great way to get a real Key West experience.

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Hemingway’s Home and Museum

One of Key West’s most famous residents was the author Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway’s home is now a museum and guided tours are available daily throughout the year for an admission price around $10. The home is a large two-story home with wrap-around porches on both levels. The house was built of limestone and Hemingway moved there in 1931. The home is filled with furniture, antiques, and other belongings from the Hemingway family and the guides are very knowledgeable and have lots of stories to share. During your visit, you’ll also be able to see the studio where Hemingway would write his famous works and you’ll be able to visit with the descendants of Hemingway’s 6-toed cats. There are approximately 50 – 60 cats on the property as well as a graveyard that was built for them. Each cat has a name and a story, which started with the first cat Hemingway received as a gift from a sea captain.

Dry Tortugas

A great day trip during a trip to Key West is taking a catamaran or other vessel over to the Dry Tortugas national park. These islands are about 70 miles west of Key West. There are coral reefs, fascinating shipwrecks, and sandy beaches, amidst the seven undeveloped coral and sand islands called the Dry Tortugas which were named by Ponce de Leon in 1513. There are scenic lighthouses and Fort Jefferson for those interested in the history of the area. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling to get up close and personal with the many species of tropical fish and marine life in the area.

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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do and attractions to see in Key West.