1st Timer Guide to Mallory Square, Key West
Key West is the ultimate vacation destination with gorgeous, sun-soaked beaches, tropical vacation villas, and endless things to do. While it would be nearly impossible to list all the ways you could spend your days in Key West, a few places are always at the top of everyone’s list, and one of them is Mallory Square.
Like Duval Street, the Southernmost Point, and the Hemingway Home, Mallory Square is a must-see landmark when visiting Key West. Whether you’re looking to go shopping, enjoy a meal, have cocktails, learn about local history, or find some family-friendly fun, Mallory Square has something for everyone.
Here’s your first-timer’s guide to Mallory Square, Key West!
About Mallory Square
- 400 Wall Street, Key West
- mallorysquare.com
- Free to enter the square. Some attractions have entry fees, and parking is metered.
Situated on the northwest end of Key West, overlooking the gorgeous waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Mallory Square is a large, open-air plaza filled with unique shops, restaurants, attractions, live entertainment, street vendors, and so much more.
It’s the perfect place to spend a day sightseeing, shopping, dining, enjoying live music and street performers, admiring cruise ships, and, of course, catching epic sunset views!
Getting to Mallory Square is easy; it’s within walking distance of many vacation rentals on the northwest side of the island, including the Historic Seaport, Old Town, and Upper Duval Street neighborhoods. It’s also a common stop on most trolley routes and just a short drive away from almost anywhere on the island.
Best Things to Do in Mallory Square
While there’s no shortage of things to do in or around Mallory Square, here are our 7 favorite ways to make the most of your day when visiting the square.
1. Explore the Shops of Mallory Square
Mallory Square is one of the best places to shop in Key West. You’ll find everything from upscale art galleries and trendy boutiques to quirky souvenir shops and artisan street vendors selling handmade jewelry, candles, and other goods.
Take some time to stroll the shops of Mallory Square, get to know the local artisans, and pick up a one-of-a-kind keepsake to bring home.
2. See Some Sea Creatures at The Key West Aquarium
A local landmark for nearly a century, The Key West Aquarium has been bringing the unique, biologically diverse underwater world of The Florida Keys to life since the 1930s. The aquarium is home to numerous fish species, crustaceans, sharks, sea turtles, and much more.
You can browse the aquarium to see various marine life, watch a shark feeding, and even get up close and personal with starfish in the touch tanks. This one is always a favorite among the littlest Key West vacationers!
Check the aquarium schedule and plan ahead if you want to catch a special presentation or tour.
3. Stroll the Sculpture Garden
Take a walk and learn some local history at the Key West Memorial Sculpture Garden, featuring elaborate sculptures of Ernest Hemingway, Harry S. Truman, Henry Flagler, and many others who have left their mark on the island.
The sculpture garden is situated right outside the Waterfront Playhouse Theater and is free to visit.
4. Try the Local Cuisine
You’re bound to get hungry while exploring Mallory Square, but don’t worry; there’s plenty to choose from! Grab some Cuban coffee and pastries at Cuban Coffee Queen or try one of Key West’s (AKA The Conch Republic’s) most famous delicacies, the conch fritters, at The Conch Fritter Stand.
If you’re in the mood for a meal, El Meson de Pepe serves up some of the best Cuban sandwiches, tostones, and mojitos on the island. And, of course, you’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants featuring fresh seafood, Key lime pie, and other Key West staples.
5. Step Back in Time at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
A family-friendly favorite, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum features remnants of a Spanish Galleon, salvaged artifacts, and exhibits outlining the history of “wrecking” in Key West.
With interactive displays, “pirate” treasures to explore, and a 65-foot observation tower with incredible views of Mallory Square and the Gulf of Mexico, The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a must-visit.
6. Take in the Waterfront Sights
While there’s plenty to do in Mallory Square, sometimes, the best thing to do is nothing at all! Take some time to stroll along the bustling waterfront, take in the gorgeous Gulf views, and admire the cruise ships as they come and go.
Of course, there’s plenty to see in the square as well, from street magicians and jugglers to roosters running around, you never know what fun you may find in Mallory Square!
7. Catch the Sunset
If there’s one thing most synonymous with Mallory Square, it’s surely the Sunset Celebration. While The Florida Keys, in general, have some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the world, Mallory Square is known as the place to be in Key West come dusk.
Happening nightly, rain or shine, locals and visitors alike pack the square at sunset to catch gorgeous views, enjoy live music, food, and drink, and watch street performers dance, juggle, jump through fiery hoops, and much more.
If you’re planning to drive to Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebration, be sure to arrive early, as parking tends to fill up fast.
Best Time to Visit Mallory Square
There’s never a bad time to visit Mallory Square; even in the heat or rain of summer, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and indoor attractions to escape the elements. However, some days/times may be better than others, depending on what specific things you want to do.
Some Mallory Square attractions close around 5:00 PM and/or have special schedules for presentations. If you’re hoping to visit one of the museums or catch a shark feeding at the aquarium, be sure to check their schedules and plan ahead.
Come nightfall, we can’t recommend that you stay for the sunset celebration enough. It is something that must be experienced at least once while visiting Key West. Sunset time in Mallory Square is full of good food, good views, and all-around good vibes!
Where to Stay Near Mallory Square
With so many things to see and do, Mallory Square has certainly earned its reputation as one of the top things to do in Key West. Be sure to save a spot on your itinerary to check it out.
Want to make the most of your Key West vacation? Book your stay with Vacation Homes of Key West to enjoy comfortable, spacious vacation homes with premium amenities, including full kitchens, private pools, and hot tubs.
And with several properties within walking distance of Mallory Square and other major Key West attractions, you’ll never be more than just a few minutes away from all the fun!
