Key West Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Key West
For the historically curious as well as for party-goers or laid-back drifters, Key West is a small paradise at the end of U.S. Route 1, on the southernmost tip of the continental United States, in the Florida Keys archipelago. The installed here Southernmost Point landmark reminds of this fact and is a popular spot for photos and selfies.
Key West is blessed with beautiful nature, indeed. Here, the gorgeous sunsets are richly complemented by endless white sandy beaches, aquamarine-tinted sea, clear weather, and pastel-colored historical buildings.
The area of Key West was originally inhabited by the Calusa Native Americans until the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century. It was later occupied by the British during the American Revolution, and then by the Spanish again until the United States purchased Florida from Spain in 1819.
In 1822, the U.S. established a naval base in Key West, to combat piracy in the Caribbean, and thus prompted the town's rapid development. The local lighthouse built around that time is now a museum.
During the early 20th century, the town attracted many artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway, who made it his home, between 1931 and 1939. “I want to get to Key West and get away from it all,” he used to say. The historic residence of the famous American author today serves as a museum showcasing his personal belongings and memorabilia.
Present-day Key West is a thriving tourist mecca known for its vibrant nightlife, boosted in large part by the cruise ships laden with folk seeking “high tides and Key West vibes”. The lively Duval Street is the main commercial and entertainment district, luring both tourists and locals in their numbers. Another popular gathering spot – Mallory Square – is the waterfront plaza to watch sunsets, enjoy live music, and browse the many street vendors and performers.
They say, those on Key time don’t wear watches, and that once gone to Key West you are never fully back again. One thing for certain is that many, if not all good stories start in Key West. You can have yours, too. But remember, you may leave the Keys, but the Keys never leave you!
Key West is blessed with beautiful nature, indeed. Here, the gorgeous sunsets are richly complemented by endless white sandy beaches, aquamarine-tinted sea, clear weather, and pastel-colored historical buildings.
The area of Key West was originally inhabited by the Calusa Native Americans until the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century. It was later occupied by the British during the American Revolution, and then by the Spanish again until the United States purchased Florida from Spain in 1819.
In 1822, the U.S. established a naval base in Key West, to combat piracy in the Caribbean, and thus prompted the town's rapid development. The local lighthouse built around that time is now a museum.
During the early 20th century, the town attracted many artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway, who made it his home, between 1931 and 1939. “I want to get to Key West and get away from it all,” he used to say. The historic residence of the famous American author today serves as a museum showcasing his personal belongings and memorabilia.
Present-day Key West is a thriving tourist mecca known for its vibrant nightlife, boosted in large part by the cruise ships laden with folk seeking “high tides and Key West vibes”. The lively Duval Street is the main commercial and entertainment district, luring both tourists and locals in their numbers. Another popular gathering spot – Mallory Square – is the waterfront plaza to watch sunsets, enjoy live music, and browse the many street vendors and performers.
They say, those on Key time don’t wear watches, and that once gone to Key West you are never fully back again. One thing for certain is that many, if not all good stories start in Key West. You can have yours, too. But remember, you may leave the Keys, but the Keys never leave you!
How it works: Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The GPSmyCity App
Key West Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Key West Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Key West (See other walking tours in Key West)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 16
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.9 Km or 3 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Key West (See other walking tours in Key West)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 16
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.9 Km or 3 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Mallory Square
- Key West Aquarium
- Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
- Key West Museum of Art & History
- Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
- Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
- Harry S. Truman Little White House
- Bull and Whistle Bar
- St. Paul's Episcopal Church
- Duval Street
- Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
- The Southernmost Point
- Key West Lighthouse & Museum
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
- Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
1) Mallory Square (must see)
Mallory Square is one of the best-known waterfront spots in Key West, set right along the harbor at the western edge of Old Town. It’s famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration, when locals and visitors gather to watch the sky change color over the water. During the day, the area feels open and relaxed, with views of boats, palm-lined edges, and the gentle movement of the tide. In the evening, it turns lively and social, with music, snacks, and people filling the open space near the seawall.
Start near the waterline and face outward toward the Gulf. Take a slow look across the harbor, where you’ll often see sailboats, tour boats, and cruise ships in the distance. Then turn slightly and watch the crowd as the sun gets lower—street performers set up along the main walkway, and food carts start drawing lines. If you want the best view, come to the square early and choose a spot closer to the water with a clear horizon and away from tall masts or poles that might block the sunset.
For photos, the best moment usually comes just before the sun disappears—keep the camera ready, and look behind you too, because the fading light often makes the buildings and faces glow.
Mallory Square is simple to visit, easy to reach, and hard to forget. Whether you stop by for a quick look during the day or stay for the full sunset routine, it’s one of those Key West places that captures the island’s energy in a single spot.
Start near the waterline and face outward toward the Gulf. Take a slow look across the harbor, where you’ll often see sailboats, tour boats, and cruise ships in the distance. Then turn slightly and watch the crowd as the sun gets lower—street performers set up along the main walkway, and food carts start drawing lines. If you want the best view, come to the square early and choose a spot closer to the water with a clear horizon and away from tall masts or poles that might block the sunset.
For photos, the best moment usually comes just before the sun disappears—keep the camera ready, and look behind you too, because the fading light often makes the buildings and faces glow.
Mallory Square is simple to visit, easy to reach, and hard to forget. Whether you stop by for a quick look during the day or stay for the full sunset routine, it’s one of those Key West places that captures the island’s energy in a single spot.
2) Key West Aquarium (must see)
Located in Mallory Square on the Key West waterfront, the Key West Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in Florida, built between 1932 and 1934. It’s a small, classic attraction that has been part of Old Town for generations, and it’s an easy stop to include while exploring the harbor area.
Originally designed as an open-air aquarium (which was one of the first of its kind at the time), it now features a mix of indoor exhibits and outdoor tanks. The focus is on marine life from the Florida Keys, so expect a lineup that feels local and familiar to the surrounding waters. Visitors can see sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish, along with displays that help explain the animals’ habitats and behavior. One of the most popular sections is the touch tank, where guests can gently interact with certain sea creatures while staff share basic facts and answer questions.
Many people spend the most time outside near the shark and turtle areas. The shark tank often includes species such as nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, and lemon sharks, and it’s worth watching them move through the water up close. The sea turtle exhibit is another highlight, especially for anyone curious about conservation and rescue efforts in the Keys. The aquarium also runs daily feedings and short presentations at set times, which can make the visit feel more active without turning it into a long event.
The Key West Aquarium is open daily throughout the year, with tickets available online or at the entrance. Some visitors mention the ticket price, but it can be a good match for anyone who prefers smaller aquariums where it’s possible to slow down, read the signs, and actually watch each exhibit without heavy crowds. Tickets are often valid for two days, and re-entry is usually allowed, so it’s possible to stop in more than once if plans change.
Originally designed as an open-air aquarium (which was one of the first of its kind at the time), it now features a mix of indoor exhibits and outdoor tanks. The focus is on marine life from the Florida Keys, so expect a lineup that feels local and familiar to the surrounding waters. Visitors can see sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish, along with displays that help explain the animals’ habitats and behavior. One of the most popular sections is the touch tank, where guests can gently interact with certain sea creatures while staff share basic facts and answer questions.
Many people spend the most time outside near the shark and turtle areas. The shark tank often includes species such as nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, and lemon sharks, and it’s worth watching them move through the water up close. The sea turtle exhibit is another highlight, especially for anyone curious about conservation and rescue efforts in the Keys. The aquarium also runs daily feedings and short presentations at set times, which can make the visit feel more active without turning it into a long event.
The Key West Aquarium is open daily throughout the year, with tickets available online or at the entrance. Some visitors mention the ticket price, but it can be a good match for anyone who prefers smaller aquariums where it’s possible to slow down, read the signs, and actually watch each exhibit without heavy crowds. Tickets are often valid for two days, and re-entry is usually allowed, so it’s possible to stop in more than once if plans change.
3) Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum (must see)
Located right by Mallory Square on the waterfront, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is an interactive museum about shipwreck salvage in the Florida Keys. It tells the story of “wrecking,” the 19th-century business of recovering cargo from vessels that struck the Florida Reef, and how salvage crews brought wealth into Key West. Actors, a short film, and hands-on displays keep the visit moving, so it feels more like a story you’re walking through than a quiet gallery.
The museum building is a recreation of a 19th-century wrecker’s warehouse associated with Asa Tift, a Key West businessman and influential figure during the wrecking era, known for his role in the island’s shipping and salvage trade. The design is meant to capture the look and feel of the waterfront warehouses that once stood here, rather than using the original 1850s structure. Inside, you’ll see period-style details, stacked “cargo” scenes, and clear explanations of how goods were claimed, brought ashore, and sold through the courts.
Exhibits include real artifacts spanning hundreds of years of maritime history in these waters, from coins and tools to ship hardware and recovered cargo. Many well-known pieces connect to the 1985 rediscovery of the schooner Isaac Allerton (which was wrecked in 1856), one of the richest shipwreck finds tied to Key West. Another crowd favorite is the chance to try lifting a 64-pound silver bar salvaged from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas.
A final highlight is the 65-foot lookout tower, a replica that nods to the lookout points once used to watch the reef. The climb ends with wide views over the harbor and much of Old Town. Ticket options and combo packages can change, so it’s best to check current pricing and deals directly with the museum when planning your visit.
The museum building is a recreation of a 19th-century wrecker’s warehouse associated with Asa Tift, a Key West businessman and influential figure during the wrecking era, known for his role in the island’s shipping and salvage trade. The design is meant to capture the look and feel of the waterfront warehouses that once stood here, rather than using the original 1850s structure. Inside, you’ll see period-style details, stacked “cargo” scenes, and clear explanations of how goods were claimed, brought ashore, and sold through the courts.
Exhibits include real artifacts spanning hundreds of years of maritime history in these waters, from coins and tools to ship hardware and recovered cargo. Many well-known pieces connect to the 1985 rediscovery of the schooner Isaac Allerton (which was wrecked in 1856), one of the richest shipwreck finds tied to Key West. Another crowd favorite is the chance to try lifting a 64-pound silver bar salvaged from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas.
A final highlight is the 65-foot lookout tower, a replica that nods to the lookout points once used to watch the reef. The climb ends with wide views over the harbor and much of Old Town. Ticket options and combo packages can change, so it’s best to check current pricing and deals directly with the museum when planning your visit.
4) Key West Museum of Art & History
Housed inside Key West’s striking Custom House near the waterfront, the Key West Museum of Art & History is one of the best places in town to get a broader picture of the island beyond beaches and bars. Run by the Key West Art & Historical Society, the museum spreads across two floors and blends local history with art, photography, and rotating exhibitions. The building itself is part of the visit, with its grand design standing out in a city known for smaller wooden homes.
The museum’s exhibits cover key moments and everyday stories from the Florida Keys, from maritime life and shipping to major events that shaped the region. Visitors will find a mix of artifacts, documents, and visual displays that make it easy to move through the timeline without feeling like it’s all text-heavy. The Society’s collections include tens of thousands of objects, so the museum has plenty of material to rotate and refresh over time.
One of the best parts is how the museum ties local personalities into the story, with art and exhibits connected to people who spent time in Key West. Some displays focus on the island’s larger role in U.S. history as well, adding context to what seems like a small town at the edge of the map. It’s an easy place to spend an hour or more, especially if you enjoy museums that mix real artifacts with strong visuals rather than a single theme.
The museum’s exhibits cover key moments and everyday stories from the Florida Keys, from maritime life and shipping to major events that shaped the region. Visitors will find a mix of artifacts, documents, and visual displays that make it easy to move through the timeline without feeling like it’s all text-heavy. The Society’s collections include tens of thousands of objects, so the museum has plenty of material to rotate and refresh over time.
One of the best parts is how the museum ties local personalities into the story, with art and exhibits connected to people who spent time in Key West. Some displays focus on the island’s larger role in U.S. history as well, adding context to what seems like a small town at the edge of the map. It’s an easy place to spend an hour or more, especially if you enjoy museums that mix real artifacts with strong visuals rather than a single theme.
5) Mel Fisher Maritime Museum (must see)
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West is a must-see for anyone curious about shipwrecks, treasure, and the real history behind the Florida Keys. Located on Greene Street in Old Town, the museum is best known for artifacts recovered from Spanish ships lost at sea, especially the famous 1622 fleet, including Nuestra Señora de Atocha and Santa Margarita. It’s more than a “treasure museum,” though — it’s also an accredited museum and an active maritime archaeology and conservation center.
Much of the museum’s story is connected to Mel Fisher, a professional treasure hunter and salvager who spent years searching for the Atocha before his team located the main wreck site in the 1980s. That discovery brought up a remarkable collection of gold, silver, and emerald artifacts that visitors can now see up close. The exhibits go beyond shiny objects, with explanations of Spanish trade routes, storms, and the risks of sailing through the Keys, helping you understand what these ships carried and why they mattered.
Inside, the collection includes thousands of items from multiple wreck sites, such as coins, jewelry, cannons, instruments, and ship hardware. The museum also covers other chapters of maritime history, including the slave ship Henrietta Marie, and rotating displays that add variety even for repeat visitors. One of the most interesting parts is that conservation work is taken seriously here — artifacts can require long, careful treatment before they’re ready to be displayed, and the museum offers tours of its conservation lab for a behind-the-scenes look.
Visits often take longer than expected, since there’s a lot to take in even if you’re not reading every label. It’s the kind of museum where people end up stopping in front of one display after another, just trying to imagine how these objects survived centuries underwater.
Much of the museum’s story is connected to Mel Fisher, a professional treasure hunter and salvager who spent years searching for the Atocha before his team located the main wreck site in the 1980s. That discovery brought up a remarkable collection of gold, silver, and emerald artifacts that visitors can now see up close. The exhibits go beyond shiny objects, with explanations of Spanish trade routes, storms, and the risks of sailing through the Keys, helping you understand what these ships carried and why they mattered.
Inside, the collection includes thousands of items from multiple wreck sites, such as coins, jewelry, cannons, instruments, and ship hardware. The museum also covers other chapters of maritime history, including the slave ship Henrietta Marie, and rotating displays that add variety even for repeat visitors. One of the most interesting parts is that conservation work is taken seriously here — artifacts can require long, careful treatment before they’re ready to be displayed, and the museum offers tours of its conservation lab for a behind-the-scenes look.
Visits often take longer than expected, since there’s a lot to take in even if you’re not reading every label. It’s the kind of museum where people end up stopping in front of one display after another, just trying to imagine how these objects survived centuries underwater.
6) Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is one of Key West’s most visited historic homes, located in Old Town near the waterfront. The house was built between 1846 and 1849 by Captain John Huling Geiger, a wealthy “master wrecker” whose family lived here for over a century. It’s a great place to step into the 1800s and see what life looked like for one of Key West’s most established families at the time.
The site is named for John James Audubon, the American naturalist and artist famous for his bird illustrations, but he never lived in this house. Audubon visited Key West in 1832, before the home was built, and he is believed to have spent time on these grounds when the property was owned by Dr. Benjamin Strobel. He sketched local plants here, including the Geiger tree, and used them as backgrounds in several works—most famously linked to his illustration of the white-crowned pigeon.
Inside, the house functions as a museum with rooms arranged to reflect the lifestyle of a successful 19th-century Key West household. It also displays 28 first-edition works of Audubon, which are a major highlight for art and nature lovers. The visit is mostly self-guided, usually starting with a short introduction from staff before exploring the three floors and gardens at your own pace.
The tropical gardens are calm and shaded, with winding paths, palms, and flowering plants. Many visitors come for the house, but end up spending extra time in the gardens.
The site is named for John James Audubon, the American naturalist and artist famous for his bird illustrations, but he never lived in this house. Audubon visited Key West in 1832, before the home was built, and he is believed to have spent time on these grounds when the property was owned by Dr. Benjamin Strobel. He sketched local plants here, including the Geiger tree, and used them as backgrounds in several works—most famously linked to his illustration of the white-crowned pigeon.
Inside, the house functions as a museum with rooms arranged to reflect the lifestyle of a successful 19th-century Key West household. It also displays 28 first-edition works of Audubon, which are a major highlight for art and nature lovers. The visit is mostly self-guided, usually starting with a short introduction from staff before exploring the three floors and gardens at your own pace.
The tropical gardens are calm and shaded, with winding paths, palms, and flowering plants. Many visitors come for the house, but end up spending extra time in the gardens.
7) Harry S. Truman Little White House (must see)
The Harry S. Truman Little White House is one of Key West’s most well-known historic sites, located in the Truman Annex area of Old Town. Built in 1890 as officers’ quarters for the U.S. Navy, the home later became a presidential retreat and earned its nickname as the “Winter White House.” Its biggest connection is to President Harry S. Truman, who spent 175 days here across 11 visits between 1946 and 1952, using the house as a place to work and meet with advisors away from Washington.
The building started out as a wooden duplex known as Quarters A and B, meant for naval leadership on the station. In 1911, it was converted into a single-family home for the base commandant, and over time the surrounding shoreline changed as land was filled in. Beyond Truman, the house also hosted other well-known figures, including the renown inventor Thomas Edison during World War I, and later several U.S. presidents who visited Key West for official trips or private stays.
Today, the property operates as a museum, and visits are typically done through guided tours that walk guests through the rooms where Truman stayed and worked. The tour highlights personal items, photographs, and period details, including Truman’s desk area, which helps the space feel less like a formal monument and more like a real working home. The tone of the museum is practical and story-driven, focusing on what Truman did here, why Key West mattered during that time, and how the house functioned during presidential visits.
The grounds include gardens that can be explored at an easy pace, and the house itself is best known for its simple layout and lived-in feel rather than grand architecture. For anyone interested in U.S. history, it’s one of the few places in Florida with a direct connection to the presidency, and it offers a close look at a very specific chapter in Key West’s story.
The building started out as a wooden duplex known as Quarters A and B, meant for naval leadership on the station. In 1911, it was converted into a single-family home for the base commandant, and over time the surrounding shoreline changed as land was filled in. Beyond Truman, the house also hosted other well-known figures, including the renown inventor Thomas Edison during World War I, and later several U.S. presidents who visited Key West for official trips or private stays.
Today, the property operates as a museum, and visits are typically done through guided tours that walk guests through the rooms where Truman stayed and worked. The tour highlights personal items, photographs, and period details, including Truman’s desk area, which helps the space feel less like a formal monument and more like a real working home. The tone of the museum is practical and story-driven, focusing on what Truman did here, why Key West mattered during that time, and how the house functioned during presidential visits.
The grounds include gardens that can be explored at an easy pace, and the house itself is best known for its simple layout and lived-in feel rather than grand architecture. For anyone interested in U.S. history, it’s one of the few places in Florida with a direct connection to the presidency, and it offers a close look at a very specific chapter in Key West’s story.
8) Bull and Whistle Bar
The Bull and Whistle Bar is one of the most recognizable stops on Duval Street, known for its open-air setup and lively energy. It sits in a historic building in the heart of Old Town and is easy to spot thanks to its wraparound balconies and constant flow of people. The vibe is casual and social, with music, conversation, and the sound of Duval Street moving right through the space.
The bar is set across multiple levels, each with its own feel. Downstairs, the main bar area is busy and loud, especially later in the day, with bartenders serving quick drinks and groups gathering around the counter. A floor above, the Whistle Bar level gives a better view of the street below and tends to feel a little more breezy. The balconies are a big part of the experience, letting visitors watch the crowds pass by while staying right in the middle of the action.
One of the best-known features is the rooftop “Garden of Eden” sun deck, a clothing-optional bar that’s popular with visitors looking for something different. Even if that isn’t your cup of tea, the Bull and Whistle itself is still a classic Key West nightlife stop, especially for people who want a fun place to grab a drink, listen to music, and take in the Duval Street atmosphere.
The bar is set across multiple levels, each with its own feel. Downstairs, the main bar area is busy and loud, especially later in the day, with bartenders serving quick drinks and groups gathering around the counter. A floor above, the Whistle Bar level gives a better view of the street below and tends to feel a little more breezy. The balconies are a big part of the experience, letting visitors watch the crowds pass by while staying right in the middle of the action.
One of the best-known features is the rooftop “Garden of Eden” sun deck, a clothing-optional bar that’s popular with visitors looking for something different. Even if that isn’t your cup of tea, the Bull and Whistle itself is still a classic Key West nightlife stop, especially for people who want a fun place to grab a drink, listen to music, and take in the Duval Street atmosphere.
9) St. Paul's Episcopal Church
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church sits just off Duval Street in the heart of Old Town and is one of Key West’s best-known churches. While it looks traditional from a distance, the building is actually made of solid concrete, chosen for protection against hurricanes and fire. Its construction was influenced by the same practical approach used in Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad era, when durable materials mattered in the Keys.
The parish itself is much older than the current structure. St. Paul’s was founded in 1831, and its first service was held on Christmas Day 1832. Over the years, it became a steady part of community life on the island, serving locals through changing times, storms, and rebuilding. Stepping inside today, the church still feels like an active place, not only a historic site.
One of the highlights is the interior, especially the stained-glass windows, some of which are linked to Tiffany Studios. The light and color inside are a big part of what visitors remember, along with the high ceilings and the quiet atmosphere. Even a short visit gives a chance to notice the craftsmanship and detail up close.
As of 2026, St. Paul’s is also in the middle of a real preservation challenge. The concrete was made with saltwater aggregate, and over time this has contributed to rusting rebar and cracking walls, so restoration work is underway to help protect the building for the future.
The parish itself is much older than the current structure. St. Paul’s was founded in 1831, and its first service was held on Christmas Day 1832. Over the years, it became a steady part of community life on the island, serving locals through changing times, storms, and rebuilding. Stepping inside today, the church still feels like an active place, not only a historic site.
One of the highlights is the interior, especially the stained-glass windows, some of which are linked to Tiffany Studios. The light and color inside are a big part of what visitors remember, along with the high ceilings and the quiet atmosphere. Even a short visit gives a chance to notice the craftsmanship and detail up close.
As of 2026, St. Paul’s is also in the middle of a real preservation challenge. The concrete was made with saltwater aggregate, and over time this has contributed to rusting rebar and cracking walls, so restoration work is underway to help protect the building for the future.
10) Duval Street (must see)
Duval Street is the main street in Key West, stretching across the island and acting as the city’s central strip for food, nightlife, shopping, and people-watching. It’s the place most visitors end up on at some point, because so many bars, restaurants, cafés, galleries, and small local shops are clustered here. The atmosphere is lively and casual, and it shifts depending on the time of day—quieter in the morning, busy by afternoon, and fully active once the evening starts.
As you walk along Duval, take a moment to look up as well as straight ahead. Many of the street’s best details are above eye level: wraparound balconies, old wooden trim, hanging plants, and faded signs that hint at how long some businesses have been around. Pay attention to the architecture too—some buildings look polished and updated, while others still have that weathered character that fits Key West. As you walk, also glance down the side streets, where the noise drops quickly and you can spot shady lanes, smaller historic homes, and tucked-away patios.
In the middle section of Duval Street, it’s worth slowing down and noticing how the blocks change. One area may feel like a restaurant row, while the next is all bars and music. Listen for live performances coming from open doors, watch the mix of locals and visitors, and notice how quickly crowds form around certain corners. If the sidewalks feel crowded, stepping into an open-air courtyard for a minute can make a big difference—many places have garden-style seating hidden behind the street-front entrance. This is also where you’ll see the widest range of “Key West energy,” from laid-back afternoon drinks to busier late-night scenes.
Duval Street isn’t a single attraction so much as a snapshot of the city’s personality. It’s social, loud in places, relaxed in others, and full of small moments that make the walk interesting—street performers, music spilling out, and the constant movement of people. Even without a plan, it’s easy to spend longer here than expected.
As you walk along Duval, take a moment to look up as well as straight ahead. Many of the street’s best details are above eye level: wraparound balconies, old wooden trim, hanging plants, and faded signs that hint at how long some businesses have been around. Pay attention to the architecture too—some buildings look polished and updated, while others still have that weathered character that fits Key West. As you walk, also glance down the side streets, where the noise drops quickly and you can spot shady lanes, smaller historic homes, and tucked-away patios.
In the middle section of Duval Street, it’s worth slowing down and noticing how the blocks change. One area may feel like a restaurant row, while the next is all bars and music. Listen for live performances coming from open doors, watch the mix of locals and visitors, and notice how quickly crowds form around certain corners. If the sidewalks feel crowded, stepping into an open-air courtyard for a minute can make a big difference—many places have garden-style seating hidden behind the street-front entrance. This is also where you’ll see the widest range of “Key West energy,” from laid-back afternoon drinks to busier late-night scenes.
Duval Street isn’t a single attraction so much as a snapshot of the city’s personality. It’s social, loud in places, relaxed in others, and full of small moments that make the walk interesting—street performers, music spilling out, and the constant movement of people. Even without a plan, it’s easy to spend longer here than expected.
11) Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory (must see)
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is a small indoor tropical habitat in Old Town where visitors can walk through a climate-controlled space filled with lush plants, waterfalls, and constant movement overhead. Inside, there are 50–60 varieties of butterflies from around the world, along with several species of free-flying, “butterfly-friendly” birds. It’s warm and humid, with simple paths that make it easy to explore at a slow pace.
As you step inside, take a few seconds to get used to the light and the motion around you. Butterflies are everywhere, but they’re easier to spot when you focus on flowering plants, leafy edges, and the brighter spots under the glass ceiling. Look closely at leaves and shaded corners too—some butterflies rest with their wings closed, blending in more than you’d expect. The birds add another layer to the experience, and you may spot American flamingoes, red-factor canaries, zebra finches, cordon-bleu finches, and even tiny “button” (also known as Chinese painted) quail moving through the greenery.
Keep walking slowly and watch where the butterflies gather. They often cluster near bright flowers, shallow water features, or sunny patches where they can warm up. If one lands nearby, staying still for a moment gives you a better chance to notice the patterns and colors up close. For photos, it helps to aim toward lighter backgrounds and keep your hands steady, since the butterflies rarely stay in place for long. Before leaving the main habitat, it’s also worth checking your shoulders and bag—sometimes a butterfly tags along without you noticing.
Outside the main conservatory, there’s usually a small museum-style area that explains butterfly life cycles and highlights different species. It’s a peaceful stop that feels completely different from the busy streets outside, and it’s easy to spend longer than expected just watching everything around you.
As you step inside, take a few seconds to get used to the light and the motion around you. Butterflies are everywhere, but they’re easier to spot when you focus on flowering plants, leafy edges, and the brighter spots under the glass ceiling. Look closely at leaves and shaded corners too—some butterflies rest with their wings closed, blending in more than you’d expect. The birds add another layer to the experience, and you may spot American flamingoes, red-factor canaries, zebra finches, cordon-bleu finches, and even tiny “button” (also known as Chinese painted) quail moving through the greenery.
Keep walking slowly and watch where the butterflies gather. They often cluster near bright flowers, shallow water features, or sunny patches where they can warm up. If one lands nearby, staying still for a moment gives you a better chance to notice the patterns and colors up close. For photos, it helps to aim toward lighter backgrounds and keep your hands steady, since the butterflies rarely stay in place for long. Before leaving the main habitat, it’s also worth checking your shoulders and bag—sometimes a butterfly tags along without you noticing.
Outside the main conservatory, there’s usually a small museum-style area that explains butterfly life cycles and highlights different species. It’s a peaceful stop that feels completely different from the busy streets outside, and it’s easy to spend longer than expected just watching everything around you.
12) The Southernmost Point (must see)
The Southernmost Point is one of the most photographed landmarks in Key West. Marked by a large painted concrete buoy, it’s known for the bold message claiming it as the “Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A.” and for the simple feeling of being at the edge of the island with open ocean nearby. It’s a quick stop, but it’s a classic Key West moment that almost everyone wants to see at least once.
As of September 2025, the original site at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street is closed due to a major reconstruction project involving the seawall, roadway, and plaza (with completion expected in late 2026). In the meantime, visitors can still get the iconic photo at a full-scale replica buoy installed at Duval Street Pocket Park, 1400 Duval St, which serves as the temporary Southernmost Point photo spot.
Even though it’s called the “southernmost point,” it’s worth knowing that it’s more of a symbolic landmark than a precise geographic measurement, and it’s mainly famous because it’s easy to recognize and fun to visit. Many people also notice how close Cuba is listed on the buoy, which adds to the sense of how far south Key West really is.
Because it’s such a popular photo stop, it helps to expect crowds and a bit of waiting time, even at the temporary location. Early morning tends to be quieter, and later in the day the light can be better for pictures. After the photo, it’s easy to keep walking through the nearby streets, where you’ll find small homes, palm trees, and that relaxed end-of-the-island atmosphere.
As of September 2025, the original site at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street is closed due to a major reconstruction project involving the seawall, roadway, and plaza (with completion expected in late 2026). In the meantime, visitors can still get the iconic photo at a full-scale replica buoy installed at Duval Street Pocket Park, 1400 Duval St, which serves as the temporary Southernmost Point photo spot.
Even though it’s called the “southernmost point,” it’s worth knowing that it’s more of a symbolic landmark than a precise geographic measurement, and it’s mainly famous because it’s easy to recognize and fun to visit. Many people also notice how close Cuba is listed on the buoy, which adds to the sense of how far south Key West really is.
Because it’s such a popular photo stop, it helps to expect crowds and a bit of waiting time, even at the temporary location. Early morning tends to be quieter, and later in the day the light can be better for pictures. After the photo, it’s easy to keep walking through the nearby streets, where you’ll find small homes, palm trees, and that relaxed end-of-the-island atmosphere.
13) Key West Lighthouse & Museum (must see)
The Key West Lighthouse & Museum is a well-known historic site in Old Town, located just off Duval Street near the Ernest Hemingway Home. Built in 1848, the lighthouse helped guide ships through the reefs and narrow waters around the Florida Keys at a time when Key West was a busy port and maritime traffic was constant. Today, it remains one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks and a place where visitors can get a closer look at how navigation worked before modern systems took over.
The main highlight is the climb to the top of the lighthouse. Visitors walk up 88 steps to reach the upper level, where the view opens across Old Town’s rooftops, palm trees, and porches, with glimpses of water in the distance. The staircase is narrow and steep in places, but the climb is short, and the lookout at the top makes it worth the effort. Many people also enjoy seeing how the structure is built from the inside, since the lighthouse feels very different up close than it does from the street.
Next door, the museum is housed in the former Keeper’s Quarters and focuses on the daily work that kept the light operating year after year. Exhibits include photographs, maps, documents, and objects connected to lighthouse life, along with details about the equipment and routines used by the keepers.
One of the most well-known figures connected to this site is Barbara Mabrity, who continued maintaining the lighthouse in the mid-1800s after her husband, the keeper, died. Her story is often mentioned as an early example of a woman taking on the demanding role of lighthouse keeper.
The main highlight is the climb to the top of the lighthouse. Visitors walk up 88 steps to reach the upper level, where the view opens across Old Town’s rooftops, palm trees, and porches, with glimpses of water in the distance. The staircase is narrow and steep in places, but the climb is short, and the lookout at the top makes it worth the effort. Many people also enjoy seeing how the structure is built from the inside, since the lighthouse feels very different up close than it does from the street.
Next door, the museum is housed in the former Keeper’s Quarters and focuses on the daily work that kept the light operating year after year. Exhibits include photographs, maps, documents, and objects connected to lighthouse life, along with details about the equipment and routines used by the keepers.
One of the most well-known figures connected to this site is Barbara Mabrity, who continued maintaining the lighthouse in the mid-1800s after her husband, the keeper, died. Her story is often mentioned as an early example of a woman taking on the demanding role of lighthouse keeper.
14) Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum (must see)
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is one of Key West’s most popular historic attractions, located in Old Town just a short walk from Duval Street. Ernest Hemingway, the American novelist and journalist, lived here in the 1930s, and the house still feels personal and lived-in rather than staged. Visitors come for the literary connection, but the property itself—its rooms, gardens, and famous cats—makes it memorable even for people who haven’t read his books.
As you step inside, look at the layout of the home and the everyday details that have been preserved. Notice the dark wood furniture, the shelves, and the way the rooms open into each other, giving the house a solid, comfortable feel. Pay special attention to Hemingway’s writing studio, which sits slightly apart from the main house—this is where he worked, away from distractions, and it’s one of the places people linger the most.
Outside, take your time in the garden areas, because a lot of the charm is there. Watch for the famous polydactyl (or more specifically six-toed) cats, which are descendants of Hemingway’s original cats—there are nearly 60 of them living on the property. You’ll often spot them resting in shady corners, stretched out on porches, or walking along low walls. Many of the cats are quite sociable, but it’s best to let them come to you first and be patient rather than reaching for them right away. The grounds also include a pool, tropical plants, and paths that make it easy to wander without feeling rushed.
The visit combines literature, local history, and the simple feeling of being in a real Key West home from another era. It’s a place where small details matter, and a short tour can easily turn into a longer one once you start noticing everything around you.
As you step inside, look at the layout of the home and the everyday details that have been preserved. Notice the dark wood furniture, the shelves, and the way the rooms open into each other, giving the house a solid, comfortable feel. Pay special attention to Hemingway’s writing studio, which sits slightly apart from the main house—this is where he worked, away from distractions, and it’s one of the places people linger the most.
Outside, take your time in the garden areas, because a lot of the charm is there. Watch for the famous polydactyl (or more specifically six-toed) cats, which are descendants of Hemingway’s original cats—there are nearly 60 of them living on the property. You’ll often spot them resting in shady corners, stretched out on porches, or walking along low walls. Many of the cats are quite sociable, but it’s best to let them come to you first and be patient rather than reaching for them right away. The grounds also include a pool, tropical plants, and paths that make it easy to wander without feeling rushed.
The visit combines literature, local history, and the simple feeling of being in a real Key West home from another era. It’s a place where small details matter, and a short tour can easily turn into a longer one once you start noticing everything around you.
15) Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center (must see)
The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a small, modern museum in Key West focused on the natural environment of the Florida Keys. Located near the waterfront in Old Town, it gives visitors a clearer idea of what makes this island chain special. The setting is quiet, well-organized, and easy to explore at your own pace, with simple exhibits that don’t feel overloaded with text.
Inside, the displays explain the main habitats that support life in the Keys, including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and open ocean zones. A big part of the center connects these ecosystems to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, showing why the area is protected and what can threaten it. The information is presented in a practical way, so it feels connected to real places you can see around the island.
One of the most memorable parts is the reef-focused section, including a large aquarium-style display that shows the color and movement of reef life up close. There are also models and visuals that explain how reef systems are built, why mangroves act like nurseries for young fish, and how seagrass beds support species like turtles and manatees. Even a short visit makes it easier to recognize these environments when you’re walking by the water later.
By the time you leave, the shoreline around Key West starts to look a little different. What seems like “just the ocean” becomes a set of connected habitats, each with a role to play. It’s a small museum, but it changes how people look at the Keys.
Inside, the displays explain the main habitats that support life in the Keys, including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and open ocean zones. A big part of the center connects these ecosystems to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, showing why the area is protected and what can threaten it. The information is presented in a practical way, so it feels connected to real places you can see around the island.
One of the most memorable parts is the reef-focused section, including a large aquarium-style display that shows the color and movement of reef life up close. There are also models and visuals that explain how reef systems are built, why mangroves act like nurseries for young fish, and how seagrass beds support species like turtles and manatees. Even a short visit makes it easier to recognize these environments when you’re walking by the water later.
By the time you leave, the shoreline around Key West starts to look a little different. What seems like “just the ocean” becomes a set of connected habitats, each with a role to play. It’s a small museum, but it changes how people look at the Keys.
16) U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum (must see)
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum is a decommissioned ship museum docked in Key West at Truman Waterfront Park. It’s one of the most interesting historic sites on the island because it isn’t a recreated exhibit—you’re stepping onto a real working vessel with tight corridors, steep ladders, and rooms that still look like they did during service. The Ingham served for decades and is best known for its roles in World War II, the Cold War, and later drug interdiction operations.
Walking through the ship gives a clear sense of how demanding life on board was. Visitors can move through key areas like the bridge, crew quarters, and operational spaces, with signs explaining what each section was used for and how the crew lived day to day. The metal surfaces, narrow passageways, and low ceilings make the experience feel very different from a standard museum. It’s hands-on and detailed, with a lot to take in even without reading every panel.
The Ingham is also recognized as a National Historic Landmark, and many displays focus on the ship’s combat history, Coast Guard missions, and the people who served on it. Along the route, you’ll see original equipment, weapons, and ship systems that show how a cutter operated at sea. For anyone interested in military history or ships, it’s the kind of place where you end up stopping often just to look at how everything fits together.
The visit is done mostly at your own pace, and it can take longer than expected because there are so many levels and rooms to explore. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, and visitors should be prepared for steep steps and tight spaces in places. When you step back onto the dock, the harbor feels very different after spending time inside a ship built for hard conditions and serious missions.
Walking through the ship gives a clear sense of how demanding life on board was. Visitors can move through key areas like the bridge, crew quarters, and operational spaces, with signs explaining what each section was used for and how the crew lived day to day. The metal surfaces, narrow passageways, and low ceilings make the experience feel very different from a standard museum. It’s hands-on and detailed, with a lot to take in even without reading every panel.
The Ingham is also recognized as a National Historic Landmark, and many displays focus on the ship’s combat history, Coast Guard missions, and the people who served on it. Along the route, you’ll see original equipment, weapons, and ship systems that show how a cutter operated at sea. For anyone interested in military history or ships, it’s the kind of place where you end up stopping often just to look at how everything fits together.
The visit is done mostly at your own pace, and it can take longer than expected because there are so many levels and rooms to explore. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, and visitors should be prepared for steep steps and tight spaces in places. When you step back onto the dock, the harbor feels very different after spending time inside a ship built for hard conditions and serious missions.
Walking Tours in Key West, Florida
Create Your Own Walk in Key West
Creating your own self-guided walk in Key West is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Key West Bar Hopping
Key West, Florida is often referred to as "an amusement park for adults fueled with alcohol" and is widely renowned for its diverse and vibrant bar scene. Blessed with a tropical climate and stunning ocean views, the city enjoys a relaxed, anything-goes attitude which after dusk transforms into lively nightlife centered around the many watering holes and clubs lining the streets of the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Top 12 Bars in Key West, Florida
Drinking is a way of life in Key West. Whether you want a perfectly poured Guinness or would rather sip frozen rum runners while watching the sun set, the Southern Most City has everything to offer. This guide will help you find the most popular bars and hidden local favorites on Duval Street and...
The Most Popular Cities
/ view all