Must-See Stops Along and Near Duval Street

• Historic Bars and Restaurants: Hop off to visit legendary spots such as Sloppy Joe’s Bar, Captain Tony’s Saloon, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and other popular eateries along Duval Street.
• Audubon House and Tropical Gardens: A peaceful stop featuring natural beauty and historic significance.
• Southernmost House: Anchoring the quiet, scenic Atlantic end of the strip at 1400 Duval Street, this historic Victorian mansion is an architectural icon offering gorgeous oceanfront views.
• Key West Aquarium: Conveniently access marine exhibits with tropical fish, stingrays, and sharks.

Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is a true landmark as the island’s oldest attraction, dating back to 1932. It offers a unique and interactive marine experience. Imagine reaching into a touch tank to feel the texture of various sea creatures — a truly engaging activity for all ages. Beyond the tactile experiences, the aquarium provides the rare opportunity to actually pet a shark under the supervision of trained staff, offering an unforgettable and perhaps slightly thrilling encounter. The exhibits extend beyond touch and sharks, featuring alligators, mesmerizing jellyfish displays and a diverse collection of other marine life native to the Florida Keys. The fact that it was conceived during the Great Depression and originally envisioned as an open-air aquarium adds an interesting historical layer to its story, showcasing its resilience and long-standing presence in Key West. It’s a place where education meets hands-on engagement, making it a memorable stop for anyone interested in the underwater world.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

Just a short stroll from Duval Street, on Greene Street, lies the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, a treasure trove of maritime history and adventure. This museum is dedicated to the incredible discoveries of Mel Fisher, most notably the unearthing of vast riches from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sank in 1622. Stepping inside is like entering a world of gold and silver — literally. You can witness millions of dollars’ worth of emeralds, gold bars, silver coins and intricate artifacts recovered from the wreck. The exhibits meticulously detail the decades-long search, the challenges faced and the eventual triumphant discovery, highlighting one of the most significant finds in maritime history. It’s a captivating story of perseverance and the allure of lost treasure, offering a tangible connection to the age of exploration and the perils of the sea. Being located just steps from the lively Duval Street provides a fascinating contrast, allowing visitors to move from the contemporary energy of the street to the historical grandeur of the museum in moments.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Adjacent to the Mel Fisher Museum, the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens provide a serene and beautiful escape into Key West’s 19th-century past. Built in the 1840s, this meticulously preserved house was once owned by Captain John Huling Geiger, a prominent harbor pilot and wrecker. Today, it stands as a testament to the island’s architectural heritage and offers a glimpse into the lives of its early residents. As you explore the home, you’ll admire the elegant 19th-century decor and furnishings, providing a sense of stepping back in time. However, the experience extends beyond the house itself. The surrounding tropical gardens are a lush oasis, filled with exotic plants, orchids and tranquil pathways. It’s a place to stroll, breathe in the fragrant air and appreciate the natural beauty of Key West. The connection to John James Audubon, who visited the Geiger family, adds another layer of historical significance, although the house wasn’t owned by him. The combination of the historic home and the vibrant gardens offers a peaceful and culturally enriching experience right in the heart of Old Town, near the bustling Duval Street.

Mallory Square

Mallory Square, a stone’s throw from the western end of Duval, is legendary for its nightly Sunset Celebration. As the sun dips below the horizon, the square comes alive with a vibrant mix of street performers — from jugglers and tightrope walkers to musicians and comedians. Local artisans also display their crafts, creating a lively marketplace atmosphere. It’s a quintessential Key West experience, a communal gathering to celebrate the end of the day with breathtaking views and unique entertainment.

Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

A short distance away, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum provides a fascinating look into the island’s intriguing past as a major hub for maritime salvage. Through artifacts and interactive exhibits, visitors can learn about the dangerous but lucrative business of recovering goods from sunken ships that navigated the treacherous Florida Straits. It brings to life the daring tales of wreckers and the fortunes that were made and lost at sea, offering a different perspective on Key West’s history beyond its literary connections.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

For a tranquil escape, the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory offers a lush tropical environment teeming with hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world. Visitors can wander through the enclosed habitat, marveling at the vibrant colors and delicate beauty of these creatures. The conservatory also houses a variety of tropical birds, creating a serene oasis and a chance to connect with nature just a short distance from the bustling energy of Duval Street.

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Finally, for those interested in literature and history, the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, located a few blocks from Duval, is an unmissable experience. This National Historic Landmark offers a personal glimpse into the life of the iconic author during his prolific years in Key West. Visitors can tour the house, which remains much as it was when Hemingway lived there, complete with original furnishings and personal belongings. Perhaps most famously, the property is home to dozens of six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s original feline companions. Exploring the house and gardens provides a deeper understanding of Hemingway’s connection to the island and complements the historical aspects found along Duval Street itself.