29 Fun Things to Do in Key West with Kids (Updated) – 2024
Granted, Key West is no Orlando, but it can nevertheless be a fantastic family vacation destination!
This Virgin Islands archipelago community is famed for internationally recognized diving and scuba, beautiful ocean life, and stunning property residences.
Whether you want to have pleasure on the sea or even off, indoors because of alfresco, Key West features a surprising number of family-friendly activities.
Here is another list of the most popular things to do with kids in Key West.
Best activities for children in Key West
1. Dry Tortugas National Park
You’ll have a sense of how Tom Hanks experienced in Swept Away at the Dry Tortugas Nature Reserve, but you could quite like it considering the lush tropical location.
Why visit?
The nature reserve, which is situated in the seas of the Gulf of Mexico the North Atlantic, and also the Caribbean Sea, is noted for its sandy shores that are popular diving places, particularly among some of the remnants of Fort Jefferson, a military jail.
Furthermore, the Dry Tortugas may only be reached by aircraft or catamaran, adding to the excitement, particularly for youngsters.
2. Key West Aquarium
The Key West Museum, an amazing destination for children that mixes fun and enjoyment, is instantly identified by the Great White Shark leaping out of its crest!
Why visit?
Toddlers attending one of Florida’s finest museums may get a comprehensive view at the Keys’ local aquatic life (including the adorable rescued marine mammals! ), as well as the chance to meet and touch a few species.
Those with a strong stomach may participate in a tour and touch the flesh of baby bull sharks, as well as see a feeding frenzy!
3. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
With the numerous exotic birds (flamingos featured! ), thousands of dragonflies, and bouquets of wildflowers that flourish here, the Key West Butterfly and Wildflower Garden overflows in beautiful nature.
Why visit?
The ‘Wings of Imagination’ art exhibition is worth a look, with Sam Trophia’s paintings showing children Humanity’s greatest myriad colors.
The Learning Center, as the title implies, is a terrific place to learn; students are led through the full process of transformation and given a crash course on these animals’ feeding, reproducing, and traveling routines.
4. Mallory Square
Mallory Square, the focus of all events business, and social in Key West since the city’s beginnings in the 1820s, is an essential location in the tropical metropolis.
Why visit?
Mallory Square has evolved from a docking location for Levi Tift’s ships to a gathering place for the townspeople to talk, spread information, and trade. It now houses a variety of magnificent eateries, cinemas, galleries, stores, and musical performances.
The Sunset Celebration, which attracts hundreds of people, is among the most significant occasions that occur here.
5. The Overseas Highway
The Overseas Route is a 113-mile freeway that connects the continental USA to Key West and is regarded as one of the country’s most gorgeous drives.
Why visit?
The Overseas Drive, often known as the “Highway that Walks to Sea,” is a must-see for stunning vistas of apparently endless sandstone and marine islets, historic rail lines, and offshore crossings.
obviously, one more in the ‘must-visit’ category when traveling on the Overseas Road is to watch stunning sundown; aspiring photography and influencers on social media will appreciate the photographic chances!
6. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
When exploring Key West, you won’t find immaculate beachfront throughout, however, you will discover such at Fort Zachary; well-kept beaches with lounge chairs, canopies, and scuba diving greet visitors here.
Why visit?
The 54-acre nature reserve is brimming with wildlife paths and spectacular ocean life that will delight outdoor enthusiasts and scuba divers alike.
You may also swim in specific locations.
To recharge, visit the gorgeous seaside restaurant (wouldn’t miss the amazing frozen yogurt) or bring your personal cuisine and have a barbecue!
7. U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
When it comes to learning history and engaging in family activities, the US Coast Guard Cutter Lansing Museum Located ought to be a must-see on any Key West visit.
Why visit?
The 340 ft Clipper Ingham, previously a member of the nation’s most distinguished battleships, currently serves as a monument to all those who sacrificed their lives for the nation, in addition to a testament to the fleet’s career & services.
Featuring a designated setting sun terrace, the National Historic Monument is also an excellent place to see Key West landscapes.
8. Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum
The Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum honors the legacy and achievements of globally recognized bounty hunter Mel Fisher.
Why visit?
The exhibition displays a large collection of antiquities from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries uncovered by Mel and his crew in the 1960s, as well as various other noteworthy exhibitions.
Three new displays have just been introduced to the national art gallery, teaching tourists about disasters, piracy, and Spanish currency.
Don’t forget to register for the lab tours to learn more about how warships are unearthed and preserved!
9. Southernmost Point
Though not the true westernmost part of Key West, the Marine corps Southernmost Point is a must-see photo opportunity—one of those essential photographs to show you visited everything significant in Key West!
Why visit?
The brightly colored buoy is located at the crossroads of South Street and Bethune Avenue, only Ninety kilometers northwest of Cuba.
The aspect also provides a commemoration to Cubans who have drowned while attempting to get to American coastlines.
The buoy is accessible for no charge, making it a low-cost but enjoyable family destination.
10. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
If you’re looking for places to take children in the Keys, this environmental research center is a terrific choice; the idea that entrance is free and there’s a great deal to learn just contributes to the allure.
Why visit?
The center gives tourists a comprehensive look at the natural habitats of the Keys, as well as unique displays including digital satellite mapping, a 2600-gallon tank, and film from undersea coastal marine monitoring cameras.
Furthermore, the eco-center provides a number of the most enjoyable kid-friendly programs in the Keys, including the kids’ classes, where children learn via riddles, handicrafts, and activities.
11. Key West Garden Club
The Key West Garden Club is a favorite music venue, and it’s also a lovely place to spend a day relaxing with the children.
Why visit?
The garden club at Western Martello Fort has verdant landscapes, attractive brick walks, and magnificent archway gardens.
The fort, which is a National Historic Site, has a greenhouse and cannon positions that transport tourists back to the Civil War era.
The cemetery also has a rare variety of exotic vegetation, as well as a water lily lagoon and cascades; guests can wander, barbecue, or rest here for free.
12. US 1 Mile Marker 0
Another must-see photo location in Key Western, the US 1 Mile Marker is certainly among the most prominent in the region, attracting hundreds of people per day.
Why visit?
The monument signifies the conclusion of the Overseas Route; a snapshot here indicates that you have arrived!
The marking also represents the northernmost border of the USA
The memorial is free and enjoyable, and it’s nearby to other destinations like Duval Street as well as the Ernest Hemingway Institute; a snapshot here will undoubtedly be a remembrance worth preserving!
13. Sheriff’s Animal Farm
Sheriff’s Animal Farm is a grazing wildlife park farm with over 160 exotic domesticated animals. It is a genuinely unusual location that is well worth a stop
Why visit?
The notion that it is positioned beneath the Stock Islands prison camp and, in addition to sheltering creatures, shelters inmates differentiates it from the rest of its kind.
Yes, the correctional center’s convicts are in charge of the welfare of the formerly mistreated and homeless animals here.
This is not only a terrific place for toddlers to meet beloved pets, but it also teaches them essential life principles at a young age!
14. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
The Key West Shipwreck Heritage Exhibition, half amusement park, and part art gallery is the place to go with children to learn about the 400+ catastrophes that have occurred in the Keys.
Why visit?
Before entering the exhibition to examine the unique objects from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, tourists are entertained by a 20-minute live narrative show.
There are also sound recordings and visual materials that are worth listening to.
Don’t forget to climb the 65 ft observation tower for amazing scenery of the peninsula and the surrounding seas, where several ships have perished.
15. South Beach
South Beach, at 50 meters, is the smallest of Key West’s smaller seashores, but it really is also among the most beautiful, spacious, and cleanest seashores to visit if you’re considering what you can do in Key West with children.
Why visit?
The beachfront is situated at the end of Duval Boulevard and is flanked by the Southwestern Seaside Resort and the Beachside Wharf on either end, as well as the Western edge Cafe, which serves a variety of good, relatively affordable meals.
If you get up really early sufficient, you may see a beautiful sight over the North Atlantic!
16. Sunset Celebration
A trip to Key West, Florida, would be completed without attending the Sunset Festivities in Mallory Plaza, which feature dynamic people, magnificent sky, and bright performances that will captivate both parents and kids.
Why visit?
You’ll encounter a wide range of people here, from improvisers to singers to winged animals to astrologers, which justifies the alternative moniker for the location—Key Weird!
The plaza also features a number of local artisans selling their crafts; you can get beautiful gifts like undersea pictures, hand-crafted t-shirts, and hand-made precious metal, as well as snail fries and coconuts.
17. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Among the major Key West, FL landmarks is the Ernest Hemingway Residence and Gallery, a stunning Spanish Colonial architecture estate constructed in the early 1850s from local limestone.
Why visit?
Ernest Hemingway and his spouse Pauline originally lived here in the early 1930s, when the mansion was purchased by Pauline’s wealthy uncle Gus. The residence still contains the Hemingways’ personal belongings as well as interesting European antiquities acquired throughout their numerous excursions.
During his African excursions and hunting adventures, Hemingway collected the wildlife specimens and skins that were dispersed throughout the property. It’s very interesting to visit the apartment where Hemingway wrote a large number of his magnificent masterpieces. In this room, he penned “To Have and Have Not,” a book set that was loved by millions. This place also provided shelter to many during the great depression and will always be cherished.
18. Harry S. Truman’s Little White House
During the Battle Of France, the Harry S. Truman Small White House began as the leadership of the military network’s command. Throughout both World Wars, it fulfilled the very same purpose. The structure hosted President Harry S. Truman’s wintertime White House in the mid-1940s. Later leaders utilized it to relax and have fun, especially during tough times such as the Cold War.
Why visit?
While the mansion continues to be used as a getaway and a conference location by the elected citizens, it is also a monument open to the general public. The museum’s corporate travel records are fascinating papers to research since they include information such as the periods of President Truman’s trips, the people he visited, and many other intriguing facts about the institution.
For literature enthusiasts, the Harry S. Truman Little White House is among the biggest attractions in Key West FL. Tour guides give further facts about Harry S. Truman’s administration, the Wartime period, as well as the Key West Military Background.
19. Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour
Consider attending a fresh, interesting location and having your closest friend show you through all of the fascinating sites. This is the role Lloyd plays for travelers who sign up for any of these instructive, surprising, and amusing bike trips.
Why visit?
Daily morning at quarter to ten, tours depart from Moped Center on Truman Street. You will end up spending sessions easy pedaling flat-on-the-ground Key West streets with Lloyd, seeing just about everything Key West has to show and a probably little bit extra.
You’ll see the Key West Wildlife Sanctuary, a public garden in the ancient castle, personal hideaway gardens owned by his buddies, and intriguing historic mansions owned by superstars. Lloyd will narrate your tales and present you to new people, and allow you to taste a selection of the season’s delicacies This trip will keep you going at all times, but you’ll relish every second of this one.
20. Lazy Dog Adventures
It’s really appealing to just lounge about Key West & just see time go by. If you’re looking for some excitement on the ocean, Lazy Dog Expeditions provides plenty of possibilities.
Why visit?
Lazy Dog, situated at the Hurricane Bay Marina, is made up of idle canines Bonnie, Casey, and Tucker, as well as their masters, who provide a number of canoes, several lovely new surfboards, and other snorkeling gear.
Experts will take guests on an exploration of the wetlands and canals, teach you how to hoverboard if necessary, or present you with a chart and guide you in the proper position to begin your journey. You are also invited to bring your dog.
21. Wild About Dolphins
Wild About Dolphins is a cruise that allows tourists to discover native wildlife and exotic dolphin species and have experiences with these remarkable marine mammals. It is situated on Continental Boulevard at the Key West Port Dock on Stock Island, the archipelago directly southeast of Key West.
Why visit?
Captain Sheri Sullenger conducts the trips aboard the “Ode To joy,” a boat that takes tour attendees through the pleasant coastal seas that serve as the dolphins’ perfect habitat to the “Dolphin Wonderland.” Visitors may dive and scuba in the tidal flats, where they can witness a variety of aquatic life. They may also explore the adjacent virgin coastlines and intriguing marsh island ecosystems, allowing them to witness a variety of birds.
22. The Vandenberg
The Vandenberg is a decommissioned US War ship that was deliberately sunk in 2010 to construct a synthetic barrier reef. Initially, the Vandenberg functioned as a nuclear warhead vessel in addition to an army personnel transportation ship. This is about eight kilometers southeast of Key West in the Florida Keys National Heritage Sanctuary, at roughly 160 feet underwater.
Why visit?
By refocusing diving visitors and providing them with a different mindset, artificial islands assist to safeguard genuine coral reefs. Other advantages include expanding the number of marine life, offering a new place for research and teaching, conserving the ship’s heritage, and stimulating economic growth.
23. Historic Seaport at Key West Bight
The Key West Historic Dock and Waterfront Promenade, situated on Key West Bight Marina, is a top tourist site. It has a wide range of activities, sights, cafes, and stores. For almost two centuries, the ancient harbor, also called the Ferry Building or Key West Bight, has served as the bustling hub of Key West’s artistic and commercial vitality.
Why visit?
Until the early nineties, the harbor was utilized by fishing trawlers and coastline cargo vessels. Visitors may now stroll along Port Walk, where various seaside eateries provide fresh fish. On monohulls, yachts, and cruisers, they may also go whale gazing, diving, and snorkeling. Jet skis, canoeing, and paragliding are additional popular activities.
24. Lagerheads Beach Bar
A visit to Lagerheads will give you the impression as if you’ve stepped onto the set of a film about Caribbean living: there will be sandy white shores, infinite ocean vistas, and a modest cocktail lounge beneath a parasol. Lagerheads is the type of tapas bar that visitors fantasize about encountering. It’s where folks congregate, share tales, and enjoy fresh seafood from the ocean.
Why visit?
This charming hamlet, situated where Simonton Street crosses the shore, is just as much Key West as the Caribbean. The cuisine is precisely what you’d expect from a tapas bar: simple, natural, and great. The seafood sandwiches are famous, and you must eat them to believe it. Lagerheads also hires diving and angling equipment and will drive you there.
25. Key West Seaplane Adventures
Key West Seaplane Expeditions, situated on Southern Roosevelt Avenue at the Key West Airport Terminal, provides the sole aviation access to Dry Tortugas Nature Reserve. Tourists are taken on viewing trips that start with a glimpse of Key West as well as proceed Seventy kilometers southwest to Dry Tortugas, the final territory in the Florida Keys series.
Why visit?
Every passenger on the guided aircraft receives a headphone and an aisle seat. Guests visiting the Dry Tortugas may see whales, cetaceans, stingrays, hawks, and tortoises. Operators also explain other relics, like the “Arbutus” and also the “Patricia,” and tourists may explore Dry Tortugas Nature Reserve after a safe water touchdown.
26. Pepe’s
From the outside, Pepe’s appears to have remained untouched since its inception in the early 1900s. When you come indoors, you will be catapulted to Papa Hemingway’s lovely Key West. The walls are adorned in signed pictures of prior customers as well as other souvenirs. If you wish to eat outdoors, seek a table on the big terrace in the rear, which is shaded according to several dense forests.
Why visit?
Anything you decide to consume will be delicious and homemade. The seafood is harvested that early, the croissants and Key Lime Pie are baked every day, and the pulpy fruit juice is carefully squeezed just for guests. Their snack is fantastic; the buffet varies daily and the options vary depending on the season and on the fresh harvest.
27. Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum
The Key West Lighthouses was first inaugurated in the late 1840s. Due to extensive coastal areas and narrow seas surrounding the peninsula, the United States Navy built a post in Key West in 1824 and realized the significance of constructing a beacon.
Why visit?
The tower was improved throughout time, such as the building of the lighthouse Striker’s Apartments and, finally, the electricity of the light beam.
A guard was no longer a requirement due to changing technology, hence the beacon was retired in the late 1960s. Currently, it is a memorial devoted to lighthouse workers. Guests can ascend the 108 stairs and view the past guardians’ portraits and possessions.
28. Sebago Day Tours
Experience the breeze in your wings aboard one among Sebago’s six gorgeous seagoing vessels and embark on a sophisticated action and adventure in the balmy tropical ocean near Key West. You may unwind in grandeur on a twilight sail with a champagne bottle in tow, or you can get up before dawn for a thrilling early snorkeling sesh.
Why visit?
If you want more activity, take their Power Expedition, which includes swimming, waterskiing, paragliding, canoeing, and watersports. Luxury cuisine, refreshments, and beverages are provided on all trips, and the courteous and professional staff will ensure that you feel like a wealthy jet setter – while you are undertaking this expedition. Trips range in length from a couple of hours to something like a complete day. Boarding happens at the town harbor.
29. Ibis Bay Beach Resort
If you’re traveling with children to Key West, Ibis Bay Resort Town is the hotel to choose from. It is a wonderful tropical paradise for the entire family, featuring 60 meters of immaculate white sand, swings dangling from the coconut palms, a massive pool, bright cockatoos, and quiet turtles.
Why visit?
You’ll realize why numerous authors have penned about this city if you stay within one of the gorgeous corals stone houses with a private tiny yard and a quiet beach location. The rooms are brightly colored and carefully maintained, with genuine décor from the ancient lodge that had stood in the same location. You won’t even be required to depart the resort to dine at The Stoned Crabs, the hotel’s famed eatery.
Conclusion
Key West, Florida should be on everybody’s holiday itinerary because of its pleasant, sunny days, beautiful beaches, lovely wedding locations, brunch places, amazing vistas, and numerous historic monuments. Experience a number of unique and economically feasible attractions.
Spectacular snorkeling, diving, yachting, and day excursions to Dry Tortugas Nature Reserve are among the biggest attractions to experience in the city. We suggest contacting the activities and eateries beforehand to verify the exact hours of operation.
we’ve made sure you don’t miss out on anything hence, the listicle- things to do in Key West with kids.
