30 Best Things to Do in Key West
Explore the top 30 fun activities for kids & families in Key West, FL. From beaches to museums, find the perfect mix of education & adventure for all ages.
Key West is a beautiful island in Monroe County, Florida. Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, it is known for its lovely beaches, watersports, and pastel architecture.
The island is also known for its nightlife and party scene. However, this is not all the area has to offer. In fact, it is an excellent place for families to take a vacation and experience the island’s lively culture year-round.
There are plenty of things to do with kids while visiting Key West. If you’re up for an educational experience, visit the Key West Shipwreck Museum or Ernest Hemingway House. There are tons of water activities and boat charters to take advantage of as well. Before you leave, go shopping on Duval Street or visit one of many art galleries.
For family travelers, it can be difficult to find and plan kid-friendly excursions for future vacations. On top of locating the best things to do with kids, there are more factors to consider such as age group, cost, and more.
If you are planning a visit to Key West in the near future and need some fun activities to keep the kids occupied, keep reading. We’ve compiled a list of the 30 best things to do with children during your visit that you won’t want to miss!
1.Key West Shipwreck Museum
📍Map It: 1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 292-8990
Hours: Open daily 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
Entrance: $18.26 per adult, $9.66 per child
Age Group: 4-12
The Key West Shipwreck Museum provides an excellent educational opportunity for families with children in Key West. The venue is focused on 1856 Key West and the rediscovery of the sunken Isaac Allerton vessel.
The museum tells the story of these times and significant events with interactive exhibits. Families can easily spend a day here learning about the history of the city. The recommended age group for this attraction is 4-12.
2. Truman Waterfront Park
📍Map It: Southard St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 809-3700
Hours: Open daily 7 am - 11 pm
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Truman Waterfront Park is a public recreation area accessible every day from morning to night. It is free to enter, and there are plenty of unique activities to explore while you’re there.
In addition to beautiful sunsets in the evening, visitors can enjoy water views, playgrounds, and open grassy areas. Some popular activities include picnicking, playing sports, and even doing yoga.
3. Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
📍Map It: 1316 Duval St, Naval Air Station Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-2988
Hours: Open daily 9 am - 5:30 pm
Entrance: $15 per person general admission, $11 per child (4-12), children 3 and under free
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Butterfly Conservatory provides an unforgettable experience for children of all ages. Enter the premises and walk amongst hundreds of colorful butterflies.
The venue is easily accessible by Duval Street. Entry costs $15 per person, or $11 per child 4 years of age and older. It is the perfect activity for children of all ages, as small toddlers under 3 are admitted for free!
4. Dry Tortugas National Park Reservations
📍Map It: Florida, United States
Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Dry Tortugas National Park consists of 100 square miles of islands and water. While it is mostly made up of the surrounding ocean, there are plenty of things to do in and around the open water.
The park is only accessible by seaplane or boat, so travelers should pack all necessities for a fun-filled day trip. Some things to do while you’re there include fishing, paddlesports, and even camping!
5. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum
📍Map It: 938 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-0012
Hours: Open daily 10 am - 5 pm
Entrance: $14 general admission, $6.30 youth (7-18), children 7 and under free
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Lighthouse is a tribute to the island’s rich maritime heritage. The beautiful white structure stands 65 feet tall over the water. Originally built in 1825, visitors can now pay an admission fee to explore inside.
In addition to the lighthouse itself, there is a Keeper’s Quarter Museum on the property to explore. The same general admission fee of $14 for adults and $6.30 for youth grants access to both attractions.
6. Fury Water Adventures
📍Map It: 0 Duval St, Naval Air Station Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (855) 831-5997
Hours: Open daily 8 am - 8 pm
Entrance: Ticket prices vary by chosen tour
Age Group: Ages 12+ recommended
Fury Water Adventures is Key West’s premier rental provider for water sports equipment. Whether you are looking to go snorkeling, parasailing, or cruising, this place has you covered.
One of the most unique features this place has to offer is their Glass Bottom Boat. Tickets can be purchased starting at $53 for a full tour.
Prices for other rentals and charters vary based on chosen activities. It is recommended that you bring children who are at least 12 years of age to ensure everyone can participate and enjoy the water sports.
7. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
📍Map It: 35 Quay Rd, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 809-4759
Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 8 am - 4 pm, closed Monday
Entrance: $10 general admission
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center provides an educational experience through interactive exhibits. It gives insight into the unique animals that live in the Keys, both underwater and on land.
The property consists of several different aquarium tanks and observatories. There are plenty of opportunities for children of all ages to learn and play in this expansive venue.
Related Read: Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park
8. Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
📍Map It: Mallory Square Pier, 420 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (786) 565-7448
Hours: Open daily 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Entrance: Free
Age Group: Open to all, Ages 8+ recommended
The Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is free and open to the public daily. The festivities begin in the evening, and last for only a couple of hours.
The purpose of the celebration is to bring recognition to local artists. During your visit, you will be able to walk around and explore different art displays and handmade goods for sale.
It is the perfect setting to end a night of exploring everything Key West has to offer. This attraction is recommended for children 8 years and older, as the opening hours are late and may interfere with bedtime schedules for younger children.
9. Key West Extreme Adventures
📍Map It: 245 Front St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 508-1951
Hours:Open daily 9 am - 3 pm
Entrance: $89 adults, $49 children 6+, children 5 and under free
Age Group: all ages welcome
Key West Extreme Adventures is a tour agency providing tours of sharks, dolphins, and other marine wildlife. Friendly and knowledgeable staff will take you on board a boat, sailing out to the ocean to view all types of sea creatures.
Sit back and relax on a comfortable boat and learn about all the animals under the sea in Key West. This is an unforgettable experience for children of all ages, and can be accessed daily during your travels to Florida!
10. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach
📍Map It: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 292-6713
Hours: Open daily 8 am - 5 pm
Entrance: Free
Age Group: all ages welcome
The Fort Zachary Taylor State Beach Park is another great recreational area that Key West has to offer. It is open every day during daylight hours and free of charge to the public.
Children of all ages are welcome to visit the park and take advantage of the wide open space. It is the perfect location to spend some time outdoors in the fresh air. For a mid-day excursion, pack a picnic basket and blanket to enjoy lunch as a family under the sun.
11. Duval Street
📍Map It: Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Shops open daily 9 am - 2 am
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Duval Street is a vibrant area in Key West’s Downtown neighborhood. The street runs both North and South, and consists of several shops and entertainment options.
While this area is typically known as the city’s epicenter for partying and nightlife, it can also be a family-friendly adventure. During the day, it is a great place to walk around with kids and enjoy the many shops and restaurants in the area.
12. Oldest House & Garden Museum
📍Map It: 322 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-9501
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 am - 4 pm, closed Sunday
Entrance: $10 per person, children 12 and under free
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Oldest House & Garden Museum is a classic house originally built in 1829. It still stands today, showcasing original furniture from that time period. There are even real family portraits still hanging on the walls to view!
The museum welcomes families and children of all ages to visit. If you happen to be around Duval Street while visiting Key West, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to stop by and view this unique architectural wonder.
13. Truman Little White House
📍Map It: 111 Front St, Naval Air Station Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (295) 294-9911
Hours: Open daily 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Entrance: $26 per adult, $11 per child (4-12)
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Truman Little White House is one of the best historical attractions in Key West. It is famous for being the winter house for United States President Harry Truman. He was there for 175 days in total over 11 visits.
The house can be found in the Truman Annex neighborhood of Key West. Tours of the house and all significant aspects can be booked online, and last about 2.5 hours from beginning to end.
14. Sunshine Scooters
📍Map It: 301 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 414-2976
Hours: Open 9 am -4 pm daily
Entrance: Rental rates vary by duration and chosen vehicle
Age Group: All ages welcome (accompanied by adult)
Sunshine Scooters is a top provider of motor vehicle rentals in Key West. They have a large fleet to choose from, consistent of everything from motorized scooters to golf carts.
It is required that everyone renting a vehicle is licensed to drive and over the age of 18. This attraction is a family activity, requiring adult supervision and vehicle operation. With those things considered, it is a great excursion for children to join along with the family!
15. Conch Tour Train
📍Map It: 201 Front St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (888) 916-8687
Hours: Open daily 10 am - 4pm
Entrance:$35 per adult, $16 per child
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Conch Tour Train provides a unique touring experience of the island of Key West. Instead of opting for a traditional walking tour, guests can hop aboard this colorful vehicle for the tour of a lifetime!
You can expect to see notable landmarks and interesting sites on your tour before the train comes to a stop. Pricing is $35 per adult and $16 per child. It is the perfect family activity friendly for all ages, as no walking is required.
16. Sunset Watersports Key West
📍Map It: 5001 5th Ave, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-2554
Hours: Open daily 8 am - 9 pm
Entrance: Pricing depends on boat choice and rental duration
Age Group: All ages welcome
Sunset Watersports is another top provider of rental equipment and unique marine tours. In fact, it was actually the first watersports company ever created in Key West!
Some activities you can expect to choose from include parasailing and snorkeling. There is also a Sunset Dinner Cruise to participate in after daylight hours. Pricing for your excursion will depend on the chosen rental type and duration. It is recommended to bring children who can swim on their own for parasailing and snorkeling activities.
17. Key West Tiki Boat
📍Map It: 5130 Overseas Hwy, Naval Air Station Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 413-0697
Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance: private charter starts at $700
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Tiki Boat is one of the most unique experiences you can have while visiting the island. The Tiki Boat comes equipped with rows of comfortable seating, enclosed by a Tiki hut canopy.
Boats are rented out by the hour or for the day. During your tour, you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins in the water! Charter prices start at $700 for a 2 hour trip, and increase with more rental time.
18. Ernest Hemingway Home
📍Map It: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-1136
Hours: Open daily 9 am - 5 pm
Entrance: $10 general admission (cash only)
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Ernest Hemingway Home is the original residence of the late novelist. Built in the 1930s, the house still stands today on the popular Whitehead Street.
The American writer’s former home has now been transformed into a museum, and is well-kept by staff. If you happen to be in the area, stop by and take a tour to discover the inspiration for the author’s classic novels.
19. Turtle Cannery Museum
📍Map It: 200 Margaret St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-0209
Hours: Open daily 9 am - 5 pm
Entrance: $10 general admission
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Turtle Cannery Museum provides insight into the historical past of Key West’s wildlife. The exhibits are dedicated to local sea turtles in particular.
They tell the story of exactly how the species went extinct previously in the Florida Keys. Children of all ages are welcome to view the interactive exhibits and gain a valuable educational experience at this venue.
20. Key West Room Escape
📍Map It: 314 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 916-5517
Hours: Open daily 1 am - 9 pm
Entrance: $40 per adult, $25 per child
Age Group: Ages 6+
Key West Room Escape is a thrilling escape room activity for families to enjoy. While children of all ages are welcome to enter, it is recommended for those ages 6 years and older.
The general format of an escape room consists of a group of people working as a team to get out of a themed room using provided clues. If your group can escape before the time runs out, you win; if not, you lose! It is an exciting way to exercise your brain muscles and participate in a team building activity as a family.
21. Key West Gallery
📍Map It: 601 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 292-9339
Hours: Open weekdays 10 am- 10 pm, weekends 10 am - 11 pm
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Gallery is a collection of international art from several artists around the world. Some of these artists include Bill Mack, Mario Jung, and Thomas Arvid, to name a few.
Visitors are welcome to enter the premises and walk around to view the colorful works of art in many different sizes and styles. The gallery is privately owned and operated, and provides a rich cultural experience to visitors and locals of Key West.
Those visiting the island with small children may be interested in browsing the gallery during the day between attractions. Children of all ages are welcome to enter and view the artwork.
22. Key West Firehouse Museum
📍Map It: 1024 Grinnell St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 849-0678
Hours: Open Wednesday-Saturday 10 am - 3 pm
Entrance: $10 general admission
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Firehouse Museum is an excellent educational experience that is both beneficial and enjoyable for children of all ages. The museum is composed of several interlinking exhibits that tell one story. When walking through, you will learn about the Key West Fire Department’s rich history over the years.
The museum is run by local volunteers, offering plenty of insight into the various historic artifacts around the property. The firehouse was originally built in 1907, and is well taken care of by current staff.
One of the most interesting features is the antique red fire truck on the property! Upon paying the general admission fee, families can walk around to learn all there is to know about firefighters in Key West over hundreds of years.
23. Key West Aquarium
📍Map It: 1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 910-2791
Hours: Open Saturday and Sunday 9 am - 5 pm, closed weekdays
Entrance: $20 per adult, $11 per child
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Key West Aquarium is another immersive educational experience on the island open for children of all ages. The aquarium is located in the Mallory Square area, easily accessible by other nearby tourist attractions you may be planning to visit.
Adults are admitted for $20, while children’s tickets cost $11. There is no age limit for entrance into the aquarium, which is perfect for families traveling with small children. Some of the marine species you can expect to see include an array of tropical fish and jellyfish.
24. Smathers Beach
📍Map It: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Hours:Open 24 hours
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Smathers Beach is a family-friendly, free, and fun attraction in Key West. This particular beach is composed of a strip of sand stretching one half mile along the Atlantic Ocean. The unique thing about Smathers Beach is the brown water near the shore that becomes blue as you venture further into the open water.
There are endless activities to participate in while visiting Smathers Beach. In addition to water sports like parasailing, paddle boarding, and snorkeling, guests can sunbathe and picnic in the sand.
Bring along a ball, frisbee, or sandcastle gear for a day of family fun. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits!
25. Dolphin Safari Charters
📍Map It: 7001 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 747-0453
Hours: Open daily 8:30 am - 8:30 pm
Entrance: $109 general admissions, private charters start at $600
Age Group: All ages welcome
Dolphin Safari Charters provides one of the most unique and unforgettable tour experiences in Key West. As the name suggests, the tour company provides boat rides through the ocean, spotting dolphins along the way.
This is a great opportunity to find the best spots for dolphin watching from an experienced local guide. Sit back and relax in the comfortable seats and view the lovely water, sunsets, and, of course dolphins!
General admission prices start at $109 per person for a public tour. If you choose to rent out a boat for a private charter instead, prices begin at $600 per trip, depending on the chosen boat and duration.
26. Higgs Beach
📍Map It: 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Higgs Beach is another great option in the Key West area for families looking to have a relaxing day on a quiet beach. The park is county-owned, and also serves as a memorial for Clarence S. Higgs.
The entire beach stretches across 16.5 acres of beautiful land right in front of the ocean. The public beach is best known for its clear, turquoise waters. There are plenty of things to do here that range from swimming and water sports to visiting the on-site cafe.
27. Gulfstream Fishing Inc.
📍Map It: 1801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-8984
Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance: $67 per adult, $42 children under 12
Age Group: Ages 6+ recommended
Gulfstream Fishing Inc provides outstanding fishing tours in Key West. Take off on a boat with experienced guides to find the best spots to catch fish in the Atlantic Ocean.
This family-friendly activity may be best suited for children aged 6 and up for the highest level of participation. However, children of all ages are welcome to come along for the ride!
28. Southernmost Point
📍Map It: 1400 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Open 24 hours
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Southernmost Point is a distinct landmark in Key West near the popular Whitehead Street. The anchored concrete Buoy is significant for being the “southernmost point” in the United States, as the name suggests.
Along with standing on this unique landmark, families can enjoy restaurants, beaches, and other points of interest nearby. If you happen to be visiting the area of Whitehead Street, it is worth it to check out this neat landmark and gain an experience you can’t get anywhere else/ The kids will be excited to have this experience and will surely have an interesting story to tell their friends when they go back to school!
29. Zazoo Fine Art Gallery
📍Map It: 622 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-8925
Hours: Open daily 9 am - 6 pm
Entrance: Free
Age Group: All ages welcome
Zazoo Fine Art Gallery is a vast selection of paintings and printed artwork. Walk through the gallery to explore different artist’s work from around the world, capturing a variety of styles, colors, cultures, and mediums.
Especially of interest to those who are creative or like art, this is a great family-friendly activity to break up some other nearby tourist attractions. The gallery is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm, making it the perfect place to stop into at almost any time during your trip.
You won’t want to miss the vibrant photography and unique collectibles housed in this neat exhibit. Whether you have school-aged children who may be interested in learning about the artists and their work or younger children who may be more interested in the visual experience, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Zazoo Fine Art!
30. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
📍Map It: 200 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-2633
Hours: Open daily 10 am - 4 pm
Entrance: $17.50 per adult, $8.50 per child
Age Group: All ages welcome
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum concludes this list as the final kid-friendly activity on our list to do in Key West. Given its oceanfront location, the island has centuries of rich maritime history. There are so many facts to learn about and artifacts to view in this cool collection of exhibits.
The museum tours are self-guided, so you will be free to walk around the premises after paying the admission fees. This is ideal for families with small children who won’t have to worry about disturbing other guests on a guided tour.
It is recommended to allow for at least one hour to walk through and view the museum in its entirety. If you are seeking an educational experience for your family during your trip to Key West, visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum to get your fix!
Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.
