FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN KEY WEST
Located in the southernmost part of the continental United States, Key West is a family-friendly paradise that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and education. Whether you’re seeking outdoor fun, cultural experiences, or a chance to connect with nature, Key West has plenty of family friendly activities to think about for your next trip.
1. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum
For families interested in literature and history, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-see. The famed author lived in Key West for almost a decade, and his home has been preserved as a museum where you can explore the lush gardens and learn about Hemingway’s life and works. The guided tour is both educational and engaging for children and adults alike. This was definitely one of my favorite things to do in Key West.
Fun Fact: There are resident cats living on the property and are known for their extra toes!
2. Take a Ride on the Conch Train
The Conch Train takes guests on a 75 minute journey through Old Town Key West. It’s the perfect way to see several sites without having to drive yourself.
3. Enjoy a Day Trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park
A day trip to the Dry Tortugas is a great family friendly activity you can do while visiting Key West. Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remotely located national parks in the United States. Situated approximately 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, the Dry Tortugas are made up of several small islands. The most popular island, and the one you can visit via ferry or seaplane, is Garden Key. You can even camp overnight if you want to spend more than an afternoon in the Dry Tortugas.
4. Learn About Treasure at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
For families with a sense of adventure and a fascination with history, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is an absolute must-see. The museum celebrates the incredible treasure hunting exploits of Mel Fisher, who family discovered the wreck of the Spanish galleon Atocha in the 1980s. Inside, you’ll find exhibits filled with gold, silver, and emeralds recovered from sunken shops, along with artifacts that tell the story of piracy, shipwrecks, and the Spanish Empire’s history in the Caribbean.
5. Visit the Butterfly Conservatory
If your family loves wildlife and nature, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is an enchanting spot. Step into a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of butterflies from all over the world. The conservatory is home to an indoor tropical garden, with lust foliage and colorful flowers. Kids will be thrilled to watch these delicate creatures flutter around them, and there’s even a c chance to learn about the life cycle of butterflies.
Pro Tip: Make sure to visit the “Hatching Room”, where you can observe caterpillars turning into butterflies in real-time.
Key West is an incredible destination for families looking to bond, explore, and have fun. Whether you’re diving into the island’s rich history, exploring it’s natural beauty, or enjoying some good old-fashioned adventure, there’s family friendly actives for everyone. Pack your sunscreen (reef safe, please!), grab your camera, and get ready for a trip filled with fun and memories that will last a lifetime!