How to Spend 24 Hours in Key West?

The Florida Keys, home of sun and fun, are as iconic as they come. However, spending one full day on one of the most attractive archipelagos in the world can be a bit overwhelming. Luckily Key West, the southernmost point in the continental US, only takes up 24 hours. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend that entire day in this unique destination.

Exploring All Key West Has to Offer

Thanks to its Caribbean-flavored atmosphere, Key West has a diversity of attractions. Naturally, there’s the beautiful white-sand beach, which allows for activities like jet skiing, snorkeling, and—perhaps the most classic of them all—lounging. But Key West is a city full of surprises and there are other activities worth trying.

A Trip to Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Start your full day of exploration with a visit to the iconic Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, a National Historic landmark. Here, you will find yourself looking at the house where Hemingway wrote some of his most famous works and view the polydactyl cats that are direct descendants of the ones he raised while living there. The picturesque surroundings of the property offer a unique and beautiful place to take some photos.

Walk Around Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

Head to the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, to learn more about Key West’s colorful salvage diving industry. Here, you can see gold and silver coins from Spanish wrecks from centuries past—as well as artifacts from modern shipwrecks. Don’t miss out on the sunken treasure in glass cases around the building. The museum is open everyday between 9 am and 5 pm, perfect timing for visitors only 24 hours in town.

Shop at Duval Street

No visit to Key West’s is complete without a walk down Duval Street, its main gateway to colorful adventure. It is a small street that spans from the north shore to the southernmost pont; so, there’s more than enough time and space to find souvenirs to purchase. Don’t miss out on shops like Fast Buck Freddie’s, with clothing, lifestyle goodies, candles, and many other items that reflect the free-spirited vibe of Key West.

Escape Reality in The Garden of Eden

For those seeking a little bit more of an alternative experience; the Garden of Eden is located on top of the Bull & Whistle Bar on Duval Street. Officially coined as an “adult fantasyland for adult men’; it is just a rooftop clothes-optional oasis that everyone can revel in its extraordinary views. Though not everyone will be open to showing up in nothing but their own skin; it doesn’t take away from its beauty.

Dinner at La Grignote

Time for dinner! For mouthwatering seafood accompanied by live music, you can go to La Grignote — a renowned restaurant located inside La Concha hotel offering fresh catches and fantastic cocktails. What do we recommend? The yellowtail snapper is incredible— freshly seasoned and cooked to perfection; it melts into your mouth!

Unusual Tour – Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour

To really keep things interesting and mysterious; end your night with an unusual tour—the Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour. Join paranormal specialists and delve into the history and haunted tales of this delightful town; guided through some of its famously haunted bars—all while enjoying sample drinks alon the way! With expert tour guides ready to lead you on a wonderfully spooky journey, you’re sure to receive your fair share of ghostly tales and wicked drinks!

Ending Off Your Experience with a Piece of Sunset

Of course what would a day spent in sunny Key West be without watching its spectacular sunset? Mallory Square is the place to go to grab some food, admire any art available from talented local artisans, and witness one of Florida’s most breathtaking sunsets from its stunning cliffsides. Adorned with delicious restaurants and dazzling views all around, this waterfront plaza is ideal for any sunset lover.

To really make a trip to sunny Key West memorable; exploring its diverse culture, unique attractions, and fascinating history is a must! People of all ages and backgrounds will be able to find something enjoyable; beginning with Ernest Hemingway’s house and ending with one of Florida’s gorgeous sunsets. So don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and your sense of adventure—you can enjoy it all in 24 hours!