18 Best Things to Do in Key West with Kids for Unforgettable Family Fun
Imagine a paradise filled with history, entertainment, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful beaches. That’s what awaits you and your family in Key West, a perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories. In this blog post, I will guide you through 18 family-friendly activities and attractions that you can experience together, ensuring a fun-filled trip for all ages.
When I first went to Key West on a solo trip I was surprised at just how family friendly it could be if you wanted it to be. So I decided to take another trip with my family this time and decided I would share my “the best things to do” with you. so get ready to discover the best things to do in Key West with kids and make your vacation truly memorable.
1. Explore the Key West Aquarium
Experience the diverse marine life at the Key West Aquarium, an interactive attraction that both kids and adults will love.
- Touch tanks allow you to get hands-on with sea creatures such as conchs, sea stars, and horseshoe crabs.
- Daily feeding shows are sure to entertain and educate the whole family.
- Be sure to check out the Atlantic Shores exhibit, showcasing the mangrove environment in the Florida Keys through a 50,000-gallon tank.
- The Key West Aquarium is not only a delightful experience for the kids, but also a part of Key West’s rich history.
Located just steps away from Duval Street, the Key West Aquarium is easily accessible and a must-visit when exploring Key West with kids. After a day filled with sea life, continue your adventure by checking out nearby Key West attractions such as the Key West Shipwreck Museum and the Conch Train.
2. Visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
Step into a tropical oasis at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, where you’ll be surrounded by over fifty different species of live butterflies and vibrant birds such as zebra finches and flamingos. This lush, tropical setting offers a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal family-friendly attraction in Key West.
Elevate your experience by booking the Flamingle, an intimate encounter that allows up to six people per day to spend 75 minutes with Rhett and Scarlett, the beautiful flamingos at the conservatory. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up some unique souvenirs to remember your enchanting visit to the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.
3. Ride the Old Town Trolley Tours
Experience the charm of Key West’s historic district, also known as old town key west, aboard the Old Town Trolley Tours. This guided tour offers the flexibility to hop on and off at over 100 points of interest, making it a fun and informative way to explore the town with your family. Stops include popular attractions such as:
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- Key West Lighthouse
- Southernmost Point
- Shipwreck Museum
This ensures you won’t miss any of the must-see sights.
The best part? Kids under four ride for free, making it an affordable adventure for the whole family. Plus, with the option to ride the trolley two days in a row at a discounted price, you can take your time exploring Key West at your own pace.
4. Discover Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Travel back in time and explore history at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. This historic park features a fort built in the mid-1800s, providing a unique backdrop for a day of family fun. Older kids can explore the old barracks, parade grounds, and walkways that were once used by troops, while younger children can enjoy playing on the beautiful beach and splashing in the shallow waters.
Don’t forget to pack your snorkeling gear, as Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is home to stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. With its picturesque setting and rich history, a visit to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a must when in Key West.
5. Embark on a Family Adventure with Fury Water Adventures
Show your adventurous side and enjoy the water activities offered by Fury Water Adventures. They offer a wide range of exciting water activities for the whole family to enjoy, including:
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
- Jet skiing
- Banana boat rides
- Snorkeling
- Playing in Key West’s largest ocean waterpark
There’s something for everyone to experience in the crystal clear waters of Key West.
This action-packed, key west kid friendly day promises to be a memorable experience for kids and adults alike, making it a must-try activity when visiting Key West with kids.
6. Climb the Key West Lighthouse
For breathtaking island views and an intriguing peek into Key West’s maritime history, don’t miss out on visiting the Key West Lighthouse. Built in 1847, the lighthouse guided ships through the treacherous waters surrounding Key West and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Climb the 88 steps to the top and soak in the breathtaking views, then explore the Keeper’s Quarters Museum to learn more about the lighthouse’s role in the area’s history. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the lighthouse as a backdrop to capture your family’s unforgettable visit to this iconic Key West landmark.
7. Tour the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Experience the life of one of America’s most renowned authors by visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Located in the heart of Key West, this historic home is where Hemingway lived and worked on some of his most famous literary works, such as ‘To Have and Have Not’, ‘The Old Man and the Sea’, and ‘Islands in the Stream’.
During your visit, be sure to meet the resident six-toed cats, which are named after Hemingway’s famous friends and add a unique touch to the property. With its captivating history and charming feline residents, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-visit attraction for families in Key West.
8. Experience Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
As dusk approaches, make your way to Mallory Square for the renowned Sunset Celebration, a lively, family-friendly event that takes place every evening. Watch as street performers entertain the crowds with fire juggling, tightrope walking, and sword swallowing, while food carts serve up tasty treats like guacamole, cotton candy, and refreshing coconuts.
As the sun dips below the horizon, take a moment to appreciate the stunning colors and natural beauty of a Key West sunset. The Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is a perfect way to end a fun-filled day exploring the island with your family.
9. Take a Seaplane or Ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park
Excitement awaits at Dry Tortugas National Park, reachable via a short seaplane or ferry journey from Key West. This remote park is home to the impressive Fort Jefferson, once a prison and naval base, now a popular tourist attraction.
Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the park, where you’ll find vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. If you’re up for an overnight adventure, consider camping at Dry Tortugas National Park, but be prepared for a primitive experience, as you’ll need to bring all your supplies, including water.
Regardless of how you choose to explore this unique destination, a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park is sure to be a highlight of your family vacation in Key West.
10. Savor Key Lime Pie Treats
A visit to Key West isn’t complete without tasting the island’s signature dessert: Key Lime Pie. This sweet and tangy treat can be found at various locations throughout Key West, including Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop and other local bakeries.
As you explore the island, be sure to sample Key Lime Pie from different establishments to find your favorite version, whether it’s topped with meringue, drizzled with chocolate, or served as a frozen treat on a stick. Savoring Key Lime Pie is a delicious way to immerse yourself in the flavors of Key West and create sweet memories with your family.
11. Bike Ride Around the Island
See Key West from a fresh point of view by cycling around the island with your family. Rent bikes from Eaton Bikes, Bike Man Bike Rental, or We Cycle Key West, and then set off to explore popular attractions like the Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West Cemetery, and Mallory Square.
Choose scenic bike routes like the boardwalk at Smathers Beach or the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Key West. Biking is not only a fun and eco-friendly way to discover the island but also a fantastic opportunity to bond with your family as you pedal through paradise together.
12. Learn About Shipwrecks at the Key West Shipwreck Museum
Immerse yourself in Key West’s rich history at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits, live actors, and a tower climb, offering a fun and educational experience for the entire family.
Learn about 400 years of shipwreck history in the area and explore a recreation of a 19th-century warehouse filled with objects that would have been transported on these ships.
Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the 65-foot lookout tower for an amazing view of the whole island, making your visit to the Key West Shipwreck Museum an unforgettable experience.
13. Kayak Through Mangroves
For an exceptional eco-adventure, lead your family on a kayaking journey through Key West’s mangroves. As you paddle through the tropical vegetation, keep an eye out for:
- sea turtles
- dolphins
- manatees
- exotic birds
Not only is kayaking through mangroves a fantastic way to appreciate the natural beauty of Key West, but it also offers an opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the Florida Keys. This memorable adventure is sure to be a highlight of your family vacation in Key West.
14. Visit the Southernmost Point of the U.S.
Head to the Southernmost Point of the U.S., distinguished by a vibrant buoy declaring “90 Miles to Cuba”. This iconic Key West landmark offers a fantastic photo opportunity for your family to remember your trip to the southernmost tip of the continental United States.
While visiting the Southernmost Point, take some time to explore the surrounding area, which is home to several attractions and historic sites. Whether you’re strolling along the nearby beaches or discovering the local history, visiting the Southernmost Point is a must on your family vacation in Key West.
15. Enjoy Family-Friendly Dining
Following a day of adventure in Key West, replenish with a delectable meal at one of Key West’s family-friendly local restaurants. Savor mouthwatering local seafood and enjoy live music in a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a casual dinner with the whole family.
Some popular family-friendly dining options in Key West include Lagerheads Beach Bar, Hogfish Bar & Grill, and Sloppy Joe’s Bar, each offering a diverse menu with something for everyone in your family. No matter where you choose to dine, you’ll be treated to a true taste of Key West’s culinary delights.
16. Try Your Hand at Deep-Sea Fishing
For a thrilling and unforgettable family experience, engage in deep-sea fishing in Key West. With chartered trips and vessels offering air-conditioned cabins, you can enjoy a comfortable fishing experience while exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, deep-sea fishing is a thrilling adventure that the whole family can enjoy together. With a wide variety of fish species inhabiting the waters around Key West, you never know what you might reel in during your fishing excursion.
17. Stroll Down Duval Street
Enjoy a relaxed walk down Duval Street, the hub of downtown Key West, for shopping, sightseeing, and entertainment. Browse a variety of shops and boutiques, from well-known brands to unique locally-run stores, and discover the perfect souvenirs to remember your family vacation.
While exploring Duval Street, be sure to visit family-friendly attractions such as:
- Candy stores
- The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
- The Audubon House
With so much to see and do, a stroll down Duval Street is a fun and engaging way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Key West with your family.
18. Visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
Broaden your understanding of the local environment and preservation initiatives at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. This free attraction features:
- Interactive exhibits
- A large coral reef tank filled with living corals and tropical fish
- Engaging displays that educate visitors about the unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys.
Summary
In conclusion, Key West offers an incredible array of family-friendly activities and attractions, ensuring that your vacation will be filled with unforgettable experiences. From exploring the Key West Aquarium and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to kayaking through mangroves and savoring delicious Key Lime Pie, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in this tropical paradise.
So why wait? Start planning your family vacation to Key West today, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime…you might even end up with a Key West address!
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“How boring would the world be if everywhere and everyone were the same. Safe travels and good adventures.” Scuba Jay
