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Key West offers various trolley tours that provide a convenient and informative way to explore the island’s attractions. For those who prefer guided tours, there are plenty of options available. Visitors can take a snorkeling trip to the nearby coral reefs, go on a sunset sail, or even take a day trip to Cuba. Havana is just 90 miles south of Key West, making it an easy and exciting destination for travelers who want to experience a different culture.
Fun Things to Do in Key West, Florida for Cruise Visitors
The natural splendor of Key West can best be appreciated on paddle tours, which also offer the added benefit of providing a good workout. Visitors are able to experience the natural beauty of the island from a new vantage point while on a Key West night kayak tour, which is a novel and exciting way to explore the island. Shopping is another popular activity in Key West, particularly in the area surrounding the well-known Mallory Square. Along the tree-lined streets of Key West, tourists will find a diverse selection of art galleries, gift shops, and boutiques to peruse during their stay. Local artwork, handmade crafts, and island-themed clothing are among the most popular items available for purchase. However, tourists are still urged to exercise caution for their own protection.
Try A Guided Tour!
Credit cards like VISA and MasterCard are accepted most places as well. Don’t forget to tip your barista for your morning cafe con leche, too. While on cruises to Key West, Florida, you’ll find no shortage of souvenir shacks, roadside t-shirt vendors, and Florida-related memorabilia celebrating and embracing Key West’s quirkiness. Head to Duval Street for the majority of shops, independently-owned boutiques, and galleries in the city. Or shop at Mallory Square for interesting goods like sandal and surf shops or markets for seashells and sea sponges.
Take a Trolley Tour
You’ll find a vibrant mix of talented street performers, artists, jugglers, and musicians. Sunset Celebration takes place each evening at Mallory Square as visitors clap and cheer the famous Key West sunset. Riding the Conch Tour Train or Old Town Trolley makes navigating Key West easy and fun.
Take Your Picture At The Southernmost Point In The Continental United States
You can sit back, relax, and take in the island’s charm without having to worry about driving or parking. They are a hassle-free way to hit all the highlights at your own leisure. Mallory Square Pier and Pier B are within walking distance of Old Town. There are plenty of beaches on all the keys, but the most popular one is Smathers Beach. This two-mile stretch of white sandy beach is a great place to relax and unwind. The Shell Warehouse and Sponge Market are at the top of my list of places to shop.
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Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is another popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy the beach and explore the park's historic fort. Aside from exploring the town, dining at local restaurants, and visiting nearby beaches, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Key West. Some popular options include snorkeling or diving at the coral reefs, taking a sunset cruise or sailboat tour, and watching street performers at Mallory Square. For those looking for more adventure, parasailing, jet skiing, and deep-sea fishing are also popular choices. The USA bought Cayo Hueso from Spain in the early-19th-century, and eventually, the name was Americanized to Key West.
A Full One Day Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
Over 660,000 cruise ship passengers visit Key West every year to experience the beauty & zaniness that makes this island community truly unique. When you only have a day in port, it's important to use your time wisely. Many guests find a bar and just enjoy the relaxed Key West atmosphere. Others enjoy strolling the streets and checking out some of the interesting shops.
Cruise shore excursions and tours
Cruise ship tourists may easily explore the downtown on foot and see Duval Street, Mallory Square, visit the Aquarium, Mel Fisher Museum, Audubon House, Hemmingway's House. Cruise ships dock at Mallory Square or the Truman Annex, which are both within easy walking distance of Old Town. Duval Street, known for its bars, restaurants, and shops, is only two blocks away from the pier.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Browse the souvenir shops and art galleries or stop for a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants. If you are like me, you love the views that all lighthouses have to offer. The Keywest Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters are open to visitors as it was decommissioned in 1969. Today, you can climb the 88 stairs and view the photographs and words of the lighthouse keepers and their families over the years. If you plan on climbing to the top, do not wear flip-flops, as you will most likely not be able to make the climb.
Shells and sponges are two of the most iconic souvenirs of all time when it comes to Key West. Shoppers can also find shirts, shot glasses, totes, sunglasses, and hats in numerous locations throughout Key West. Finally, Sunset Pier is where my husband and I like to dine at sunset. The views are amazing and if you arrive approximately 90 minutes before sunset, you’ll be almost guaranteed a seat with a view.
Electric cars, golf carts, jeep, and scooter rentals are conveniently located within a short walking distance of Pier B and Mallory Square. If needed, we offer complimentary pickup and drop off anywhere in Key West. Key West is the USA’s southernmost settlement, located at the bottom end of the island chain known as the Florida Keys. The town is well known for its unique spirit; it harbors a populace that prides itself on free thinking and tolerance. After a railroad connected all the Keys in 1912, and a road in 1938, the town still stood as a home to the independently minded. Visitors are drawn to its well-preserved rooms, including Truman’s working office and the quarters where he made crucial decisions during his presidency.
The Tiki bar (located at the Postcard Inn Beach Resort) is where the first rum challenge originated from. So, expect to queue, if you want to snap a photo, or go very early in the morning for a picture-perfect piece. It’s not every day you get a chance to eat something this unique, so don’t miss your chance. The Conch Tour Train is an open air “train” that navigates the street of Key West while you get to sit back and take in the sights. There’s also the Old Town Trolley that features 13 stops and a hop-on, hop-off system where you can come and go as your please.
The Garden describes themselves as “frost-free,” a benefit of the tropical climate. Bring the kids for an educational tour on the native plants, and don’t miss the butterfly garden. Damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017 affected the plant life, but passionate employees are working tirelessly to bring the garden back to peak fullness. Key West is one of the most fascinating and unique cities in the United States.
Head to this Florida State Park and National Historic Landmark for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, paddling, and more. Walk along the beach directly overlooking the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Stop at nearby sandwich stand Cayo Hueso for a cold drink or a sandwich. Even in December, the forest and plants at this botanical garden in Key West retain their leaves and lush palms.
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