Key West Unlocked: Your Ultimate Guide to the Island

Touristy things to do that are worth the hype:

• Southernmost Point Buoy: Taking your picture with the buoy is a must for any first-time visitor, but be sure to go early because the line gets long!

• Zero Mile Marker: This is another quick stop and picture-worthy moment. It is literally the zero-mile marker—just a sign with a lot of meaning.

• Key West Lighthouse: Climb the 88 steps of this historic lighthouse for breathtaking views of the island and the turquoise water that surrounds it. The lighthouse has featured exhibits and events that bring its rich history to life.

• Harry S. Truman Little White House: Don’t miss the only presidential site in the state of Florida. Whether you choose to walk the scenic grounds, join a guided tour, explore the museum, or attend a special event, there’s something here for every visitor.

• The Hemingway Home and Museum: Surrounded by lush gardens and inhabited by the famous six-toed cats, this historic home offers a glimpse into Hemingway’s writing life, personal history, and the unique charm that inspired some of his greatest works and is one of my absolute favorite places in Key West.

• Mallory Square: Join the Sunset Celebration at Mallory’s Square where locals and tourists gather at sunset. You’ll enjoy street performers, vendors, and some of the most stunning sunset views in all of Key West.

• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Home to a pre-Civil War fortress, the park offers a unique look at 19th-century military architecture and the fort’s role in both the Civil and Spanish-American Wars. Beyond its history, it’s also one of the best spots in Key West for locals and tourists to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. You will also find shaded trails, scenic bike paths, and a rocky yet picturesque beach. Don’t forget to catch the sunset from the shoreline—it’s one of the island’s hidden gems.

• Hit the water: No trip to Key West is complete without getting out on the water. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise seas, the island offers endless opportunities to explore its vibrant marine life and stunning scenery. Whether you’re sailing at sunset, snorkeling over coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, or simply cruising the coastline, being on the water gives you a whole new perspective of the island’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and connect with the laid-back spirit of the Keys.

Off-the-beaten-path things to do

• Dry Tortugas National Park: Discover the remote beauty of Dry Tortugas National Park, a secluded paradise located 70 miles west of Key West. Jump on a ferry or seaplane and head to the park to enjoy crystal-clear waters, snorkel or dive the coral reefs, and explore the historic Fort Jefferson. This is truly a bucket-list experience.

• Key West Farmers Market: Support local vendors who will be offering fresh, locally grown produce, artisan cheeses, honey, nuts, pickles, seafood, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The Farmers Market is located at the end of Southard Street at the Truman Waterfront Park and is open every Thursday from 2-7 pm.

• Key West Artisan Market: The Artisan Market is another great place to support local vendors. Listen to live music while you shop handmade crafts, jewelry, art, fresh produce, and more. The market is open every other Sunday, November through April from 10 am–2 pm and is located at Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park on White Street, just across the street from Higgs Beach.

Iconic spots for food

• Thirsty Mermaid: I love this spot for fresh, local seafood and oysters. Its extensive list of craft beers and wines is quite impressive too.

• Bagatelle: Once a captain’s home, this 1800s building has been elegantly restored and is now a welcoming blend of historic and coastal charm. It is known for its American-Caribbean fusion menu and its breakfast hangover happy hour from 9-11:30 am and its afternoon happy hour from 4-6 pm. The lobster mac ‘n cheese is delicious!

• Louie’s Backyard: One of Key West’s most popular fine dining restaurants, Louie’s Backyard is a restored Victorian home located directly on the Atlantic coast. It does offer formal indoor dining, outdoor terrace dining, the AfterDeck Bar, and the more casual upstairs cafe for tapas and wine.

• B.O.’s Fish Wagon: For a classic Key West seafood shack experience, head to B.O.’s. You’ll find picnic tables, an eclectic mix of license plates, fishing gear, and signs hung around the shack. The cracked conch is excellent, and on Fridays, you will join locals for live music and jam sessions.

• Blue Heaven: This is my favorite brunch spot in Key West. The atmosphere is casual and set in an outdoor courtyard full of lush, tropical foliage and whimsical art. Live music, roaming chickens, roosters making noise, and lots of laughter will surround you. I have been here many times and my favorite menu item is still the Lobster “BLT” Benny.

• Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop: The main location in the historic Seaport neighborhood is a must-visit for everything key lime. Kermit may be dressed up, greeting you at the door too!

Iconic spots for a drink

• Willie T’s: A Duval favorite known for its lively vibe, all-day live music, and strong mojitos, you’ll find open-air seating and walls covered in dollar bills.

• Sloppy Joe’s: Open since 1933, and once a favorite hangout of Ernest Hemingway, Sloppy Joe’s is the icon of the Duval Street party with live music and cold drinks.

• Hog’s Breath Saloon: Another iconic hangout, Hog’s Breath Saloon is a popular spot for live music, fresh seafood, and cold drinks.

• The Bull & Whistle Bar: This unique bar is really three bars in one building. The Bull, on the first floor, is one of the few remaining open-air bars in Key West. The Whistle, on the second floor, features a large square bar with pool tables and games, and the famous balcony overlooking Duval Street. If you are feeling daring, head to the third-floor rooftop bar, known as Garden of Eden, where clothing is optional and views of the island and other things are plentiful.

• The White Tarpon Bar & Restaurant: Located on the Historic Harbor, The White Tarpon is great for happy hour and their famous key lime martini. You will likely spot tarpon in the water and might even spot a manatee.

Off-the-beaten-path spots for food

• The Little Pearl: This upscale, neighborhood restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Old Town is truly away from the hustle and bustle. It is a small, intimate destination known for its fresh local catch and innovative cuisine. They only offer a four-course tasting menu. Reservations are a must—it is small! The Little Pearl is a sister restaurant to The Thirsty Mermaid.

• Santiago’s Bodega: If you are looking for a small and charming tapas bar and restaurant, this is your place. The tuna ceviche is excellent.

• Schooner Wharf Bar: You’ll be surrounded by locals at this waterfront bar, a true old Key West gem. It’s known for its excellent local music, tropical oasis feel, and freshest local seafood. The Key West Pink Shrimp is the best in town!

• The Saint Hotel: I highly recommend the Sunday brunch so you can enjoy two hours of endless small plates and bottomless mimosas or bloody mary's for a reasonable price in a beautiful setting. It is a perfect option for a group, and the octopus small plate was my favorite!

Off-the-beaten-path spots for a drink

• The Green Parrot: Although it is now a popular spot for tourists, this is a legendary local dive bar with live music and an authentic Key West experience. Try their signature drink, the Root Beer Barrel.

• The Chart Room Bar: Located inside the Pier House Resort, this dive bar has been a local favorite since the 1960s and is perfect for an authentic island atmosphere deeply rooted in local history and culture. Order the rum punch!

• Virgilio's: Located just off Duval Street, this is a great martini bar with indoor and outdoor seating, excellent live music, and the best key lime martini in Key West!