Key West - Discovering United States of America

Travelling to Key West

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Key West, a pretty good destination in United States of America (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Key West and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Key West, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United States of America, here's everything to know about Key West for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Key West

Key West is a beautiful island city in the southernmost point of the United States, located about 90 miles north of Cuba. It's known for its crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches, and tropical climate year-round, making it a popular destination for vacationers. It's home to numerous historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a diverse range of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Key West also hosts a rich cultural scene with several music festivals and events throughout the year.

What to visit in Key West

Here are some tourist attractions you can visit in Key West, USA: 1. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum - This is the home of celebrated author Ernest Hemingway, turned into a museum where you can learn about his life and works. The museum showcases furnishings and artifacts collected by Hemingway and his family, as well as many of his manuscripts and letters.
2. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory - This is a tropical paradise filled with exotic butterflies, birds, and plants. The conservatory is a climate-controlled habitat where these creatures thrive in a rainforest environment.
3. Mallory Square - This is a popular spot to watch the sunset, street performers, and vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. You can take in the smell of the ocean while you enjoy all that Mallory Square has to offer.
4. Duval Street - This street is famous for its nightlife, restaurants, and shops. The street stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, which means that there are a lot of places to explore.
5. Key West Cemetery - This cemetery is on a hilltop and is filled with some of the most interesting and quirky gravestones you'll ever see. You can take one of the guided tours and learn some of the great stories that people have about this cemetery.
6. Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum - This is the famous lighthouse of Key West where you can climb up the spiral staircase and get a panoramic view of the island. In the museum, you can see restored furnishings in the keeper's quarters.
7. Key West Aquarium - This is a small but informative aquarium that showcases various sea creatures such as sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life. The aquarium offers various feeding shows, touch tank opportunities, and guided tours.
8. The Southernmost Point Buoy - This is one of the most photographed spots in Key West and is a must-visit for many tourists. The buoy marks the southernmost point of the continental U.S., which makes for a great photo opportunity.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Key West. Each has its distinct charm, which makes a trip to Key West an unforgettable experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United States of America, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Key West.

When to go on holiday to Key West

The best time to visit Key West is from March to May when the winter crowds dwindle, hotel prices drop and the weather is mild and pleasant. Additionally, during this time of year, there are many festivals and events that take place in Key West, including the Conch Republic Independence Celebration and the Key West Songwriters Festival. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. Alternatively, if you're looking for a quieter vacation and can handle the heat, you can consider visiting during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures are high but prices are generally lower and you can enjoy swimming in the ocean or taking part in water-based activities. Just be prepared for the occasional thunderstorm.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Key West

There are a few options for getting to Key West, here are the most popular: 1. Fly: The nearest international airport to Key West is the Miami International Airport (MIA). From there, you can either rent a car and drive the 3.5 hours down to Key West or fly into the Key West International Airport (EYW) from Miami or other Florida cities.
2. Drive: You can rent a car and drive from mainland Florida down to Key West via the Overseas Highway. It is about a 3.5-hour drive from Miami.
3. Bus: Greyhound offers daily bus service from Miami to Key West.
4. Ferry: The Key West Express offers high-speed ferry service from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island to Key West.
Once you arrive in Key West, there are also local transportation options such as taxis and bike rentals.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Key West, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Key West

Here are some of the typical foods of Key West with a short description for each: 1. Conch fritters — a popular appetizer made of chopped conch (a type of shellfish) mixed with flour, egg, and spices and deep-fried until crispy.
2. Key lime pie — a classic dessert made with Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, baked on a graham cracker crust and topped with whipped cream.
3. Cuban sandwich — a delicious sandwich filled with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on bread that is toasted and pressed.
4. Fish tacos — soft flour tortillas filled with grilled or fried fish, shredded cabbage, and a variety of toppings and sauces.
5. Lobster bisque — a creamy soup made with chunks of tender lobster, tomatoes, cream, and seasonings.
6. Tuna poke bowl — a dish that combines sliced raw tuna, seaweed salad, rice, avocado, and a variety of toppings like sesame seeds, cucumber, and scallions.
7. Mango conch ceviche — a refreshing and tangy seafood dish made with fresh conch, mango, lime juice, onions, and herbs.
8. Pina colada shrimp — grilled or fried shrimp skewers marinated in a sweet and creamy piña colada sauce.
9. Key West pink shrimp — a sweet and succulent shrimp variety that is native to the waters around Key West and is often boiled or sautéed and served with a dipping sauce.
10. Mahi-mahi sandwich — a popular fish sandwich made with blackened or grilled mahi-mahi filet, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a bun.
You can find general info about typical foods in United States of America here.

Is Key West an expensive destination for tourists?

Key West is considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists in the United States of America. The prices of accommodation, food, and activities are generally higher than in other cities in Florida and can vary depending on the season. The high tourist demand, limited space, and geographic isolation of the area contribute to the higher prices. However, there are always ways to save money if you plan ahead, travel during the low season, or look for deals on accommodations and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Key West

The two most popular areas to find accommodation for a trip to Key West are Old Town and the historic district of Downtown Key West. Old Town is the most touristy area and has a high concentration of shops, restaurants, and bars. It's also close to popular attractions such as Mallory Square and Duval Street. Meanwhile, Downtown Key West is quieter and more residential, but still within walking distance of many popular attractions. Both areas offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Key West here:
Booking.com

Is Key West a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Key West is considered a safe place for tourists. Crime rates in Key West are generally lower than the national average for similarly sized cities. However, visitors should still exercise normal caution and take common-sense safety measures, such as staying in well-lit areas, not leaving valuables unattended, and being aware of their surroundings at all times. As with any travel destination, it's a good idea to stay up-to-date on local news and safety advisories.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United States of America here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Key West.

What type of travelers will enjoy Key West the most?

Key West has something to offer for everyone, but it is particularly popular among couples and young adults looking for a fun and vibrant atmosphere. The island's charming and romantic ambiance, along with its many bars, clubs, and music venues, make it a popular destination for couples and groups of young friends. However, families with children will also have a great time in Key West, as there are many family-friendly activities, such as museums, water sports, and beach excursions. So, Key West is a great place for anyone looking to relax, have fun, and enjoy the beautiful tropical setting.

How to get around Key West

In Key West, the most common mode of transportation is walking or biking due to the small size of the island. However, visitors can also use public transportation such as the Duval Loop, a free bus service that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, or the City of Key West bus service which operates throughout the island. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. For those who prefer to explore the waters surrounding Key West, there are boat tours and rentals available.

What to see around Key West

Certainly! Here are some cool places to consider for a day trip from Key West: 1. Dry Tortugas National Park: This remote park is accessible only by boat or seaplane, but it's worth the trip for the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic Fort Jefferson.
2. Bahia Honda State Park: Located just over 30 miles from Key West, this park features white sand beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
3. Little Palm Island: If you're looking for a luxurious escape, consider visiting Little Palm Island, a private island resort with secluded beaches, upscale dining, and a relaxing spa.
4. Marathon: This small town situated about an hour's drive from Key West is home to the Turtle Hospital, a facility that rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles. You can also visit the Dolphin Research Center, explore local shops and restaurants, and go fishing or boating.
5. Big Pine Key: This island located about 30 miles from Key West is home to the National Key Deer Refuge, where you can observe the cute and protected Key deer in their natural habitat. The island also offers swimming, snorkeling, and fishing opportunities.
For every travel information about United States of America you can click here.

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