Key West Must-See Spots: Explore the Island’s Top Points of Interest
Key West Must-See Spots: Explore the Island’s Top Points of Interest
Key West is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering visitors a variety of unique attractions. From historical sites to stunning ocean views, these must-visit locations provide an unforgettable experience.
African Slave Cemetery
1000 Atlantic Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 | Visit Website
Located at Higgs Beach, this memorial honors 295 Africans who perished after being rescued from the transatlantic slave trade in 1860. Cement pillars carved with symbols of West African proverbs mark the burial site, making it a solemn but significant historical landmark.
East Martello Museum
3501 South Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-296-3913 | Visit Website
Originally built as a Civil War fort in 1862, East Martello never saw battle but now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts from Key West’s past. Visitors can explore relics from the wrecking and cigar industries, view sculptures by Stanley Papio, and even meet the infamous ‘Robert the Doll.’
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
907 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-294-1136 | Visit Website
The former residence of Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, this home offers a glimpse into the writer’s life and work during his years in Key West. The property is also famous for its colony of six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s own pet.
Historic Seaport Harbor Walk
William St. to Greene St., Key West, FL 33040 | Visit Website
A scenic stroll along Key West’s famous harbor, the Seaport Walk is lined with shops, restaurants, and marinas. Once a bustling shrimping port, the area now offers sunset cruises, yacht rentals, and lively waterfront dining.
Key West AIDS Memorial
1000 Atlantic Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 | Visit Website
Located at White Street Pier, this solemn memorial honors over 1,100 people who died of AIDS and had a deep connection to the Florida Keys. The names are etched into granite slabs embedded in the pier walkway.
Key West Historic Graveyard
701 Passover Ln., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-292-8177 | Visit Website
An intriguing visit for history lovers, this cemetery dates back to 1847 and features above-ground tombs, unique epitaphs, and memorials, including the USS Maine Monument. Don’t miss the famous tombstone inscription: “I Told You I Was Sick.”
Key West Lighthouse and Lightkeeper’s Museum
938 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-295-661 | Visit Website
Climb 88 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Key West. This historic lighthouse, built in 1848, originally had a female keeper—an unusual role for women in the 19th century.
Key West Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
One Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040 | 786-565-7448 | Visit Website
A nightly tradition, this lively event features street performers, musicians, food vendors, and artists gathering to watch the famous Key West sunset. Fire eaters, tightrope walkers, and animal acts create an unforgettable spectacle.
Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden
5210 College Road, Stock Island, Key West, FL 33040 | 305-296-1504 | Visit Website
The only frost-free botanical garden in the U.S., this lush green space features boardwalk trails, freshwater ponds, and serves as a migratory stop for tropical birds traveling from South America.
Southernmost Point of the United States
South St. & Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040 | Visit Website
Marking the southernmost point of the continental U.S., this iconic buoy-shaped landmark is a must-visit for photo opportunities. It famously reads “90 Miles to Cuba.”
Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center
5901 College Rd., Stock Island, Key West, FL 33040 | 305-296-1520 | Visit Website
A state-of-the-art performing arts center hosting professional Broadway-style shows, operas, dance performances, and locally produced plays.
The Custom House
281 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040 | 305-295-661 | Visit Website
Built in 1891, this stunning building once served as a post office and government center when Key West was the wealthiest city in the U.S. per capita. Now, it houses the Key West Art and Historical Society Museum.
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
1316 Duval St., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-296-2988 | Visit Website
An enchanting indoor paradise where hundreds of butterflies fly freely among lush tropical plants, exotic birds, and turtles. Visitors can stroll through the climate-controlled glass arboretum for a magical experience.
The Red Barn Theatre
319 Duval St., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-296-9911 | Visit Website
For over 25 years, this intimate theater has entertained Key West audiences with drama, comedy, musicals, and cabaret performances, featuring top local and national talent.
Waterfront Playhouse
310 Wall St., Key West, FL 33040 | 305-294-5015 | Visit Website
Florida’s oldest professional theater group, the Key West Players, have performed here for 65 years. Located near Mallory Square, this venue presents high-quality live theater productions year-round.
White Street Pier
Intersection of Atlantic Blvd. & White St., Key West, FL 33040 | Visit Website
Sometimes called the “unfinished road to Cuba,” this long pedestrian pier extends into the Atlantic Ocean, providing spectacular sunrise views and a great spot for fishing, walking, or biking.
Plan Your Key West Adventure
From historic landmarks and museums to botanical gardens and lively performances, Key West offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring its rich history or soaking in the island’s natural beauty, these iconic points of interest ensure an unforgettable experience. Add these to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the magic of Key West!
