Top 10 Places To Visit In The Florida Keys

Last Updated 3 years ago

The Florida Keys are a collection of islands just off the coast of Florida. The islands making up this group range from larger, inhabited ones, to hundreds of smaller, uninhabited lands. Here are the top 10 places to visit on these beautiful islands!

1. The Hemingway Home (Key West)

Learn more about the life and home of the famous author Ernest Hemingway with a visit to the Hemingway Home and Museum! Located on Key West, the museum is currently open for walk-in visits as well as tours.

2. Duval Street (Key West)

Located in downtown Key West, Duval Street is well known for its lively and fun atmosphere. If you’re visiting in the daytime, you can look forward to checking out a huge variety of shops and restaurants. Or, return after dark to get a taste of nightlife in the Keys!

3. Bahia Honda State Park (Bahia Honda)

Located on the mostly uninhabited Bahia Honda island, this state park offers truly stunning and serene views. You can look forward to relaxing on the gorgeous beaches, grilling up some dinner, or checking out the nearby nature trails.

4. Mallory Square (Key West)

This collection of waterfront shops and eateries is one you won’t want to miss! Mallory Square is a well-loved shopping center that is also known for its evening festivals celebrating the area's wondrous sunsets!

5. Dolphin Research Center (Grassy Key)

This nonprofit center aims to educate the public and provide sanctuary for marine mammals. Home to several dolphins and sea lions, you can see the animals for yourself in an educational show or up close with a visit here! The Dolphin Research Center is currently open to the public and accepting visitors.

6. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo)

Here’s a great option for a beach day or for a snorkeling/scuba diving trip! John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the country’s first underwater state park and is home to some stunning coral reefs and wildlife. You can look forward to exploring the reefs by snorkeling or scuba trip, taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat, or relaxing at Cannon beach!

7. The Overseas Highway

The Overseas Highway connects mainland Florida to several of the Florida Keys! A great option if you’re looking for a day trip or a fun road trip route, the journey is just as pretty as the various island destinations along this highway!

8. Smathers Beach (Key West)

Located on Key West, Smathers Beach is a stunning spot with some great views! The largest beach on Key West, it is a popular spot for recreational activities such as parasailing. Thanks to this beach’s shallow, calm waters, it’s a great option for families or those looking to lounge in or near the water without too many rough waves.

9. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas is a national park consisting of several islands. Home to historic sites such as Fort Jefferson – located on Garden Key – as well as natural beauty, this is a great place to visit! You can see the waterfront historic fort, along with the rest of the park, by traveling to the islands via boat or plane. Unlike some of the other keys, the islands that make up Dry Tortugas are not accessible via car. Luckily, there are plenty of groups in the area that offer trips out there!

10. Key West Aquarium (Key West)

See aquatic wildlife up close and personal with a visit to Key West Aquarium! Home to everything from Moon Jellies to sharks to giant isopods, a visit here is sure to be memorable. A great place to spend an afternoon or to learn more about sea life, the aquarium is currently open to the public. Face coverings are currently recommended for visitors and staff, but not required.

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