things to do in key west with kids
Key West is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, offering a variety of activities and attractions that are suitable for kids of all ages. Here are some fun things to do in Key West with kids:
- Beach Day: Spend a day at one of Key West’s beautiful beaches, such as Fort Zachary Taylor, Smathers Beach, or Higgs Beach. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Take a ferry or seaplane to this unique park, which is home to a historic fort, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant coral reef. Kids can snorkel, swim, and explore the park’s many wonders.
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: This butterfly garden is home to over 60 species of butterflies, as well as birds, turtles, and even a few alligators. Kids can learn about the life cycle of butterflies and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
- Conch Train: Take a ride on this historic train, which offers a fun and educational tour of Key West’s sights and landmarks. Kids can enjoy the train ride while learning about the island’s history and culture.
- Key West Lighthouse: Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for stunning views of the island and the surrounding waters. Kids can learn about the lighthouse’s history and enjoy the scenic views.
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the former home of the famous author Ernest Hemingway, which is now a museum showcasing his life and work. Kids can see the famous six-toed cats that roam the property and learn about Hemingway’s love of cats.
- Key West Aquarium: This small aquarium features a variety of marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. Kids can learn about the importance of marine conservation and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
- Snorkeling and Kayaking: Key West is surrounded by beautiful waters and coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and kayaking. Rent equipment and explore the waters with your kids, spotting marine life and enjoying the scenery.
- Fort Zachary Taylor: This historic fort offers guided tours and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Kids can learn about the fort’s history and enjoy the scenic views.
- Duval Street: This iconic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it a great place to spend an afternoon with kids. Enjoy some food, do some shopping, and take in the lively atmosphere.
- Sunset Celebration: Key West is famous for its beautiful sunsets, and the sunset celebration at Mallory Square is a must-see. Watch street performers, enjoy some food and drinks, and take in the stunning views of the sunset.
- Robbie’s Tarpon T feeding: This unique attraction offers kids the chance to feed tarpon fish and learn about these fascinating creatures. Enjoy the scenic views of the harbor and the interactive exhibits.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Key West with kids. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, Key West has something for everyone.