Key West’s historic seaport has long been a hub of activity on the island. Hundreds of years ago, sea captains found the area a useful and safe stopping point in their journeys. It was the epicenter for industries including sea turtle fisheries, shrimp and sponge fisheries. Today, the area has maintained its charm, with a lovely mix of old and new and offering visitors not only a scenic view but also a variety of unique attractions in the midst of restaurants, shops and activities.
This historic tower was built in 1862 during the Civil War and is one of three remaining Civil War era structures on the island. Although it was often used for target practice by the United States Navy, the fort was never actually involved in a battle. A visit here is a definite treat. When you reach the top of the tower, you’ll be awed by the breathtaking views of the sea. It is also home to the Key West Garden Club and offers a look at a beautiful collection of exotic plants and trees indigenous to the area. Admission is free and you can visit Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9:30am to 3:15pm. The West Martello Fort is located at 1100 Atlantic Boulevard on Higgs Beach.
The Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden is the only frost-free botanical garden in the continental United States. Here you can see many endangered and threatened flora and fauna. A beautiful and serene respite, this special place allows you to be among butterflies, birds, plants and pretty flowers. Take a self-guided tour and see two wetland habitats, two butterfly gardens, the waterfall wall of tropical plants and more as you learn fascinating facts about the plants native to this area. The garden is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
Natural beauty and balmy sea breezes entice all your senses at the Historic Seaport at the Key West Bight. Just two blocks from Duval Street, it is here that locals and visitors to the area come to enjoy fresh seafood, eclectic shopping and an array of exhilarating water sports. Stop in at BO’s Fish Wagon for food and live music, indulge in a scoop at the Key West Ice Cream Factory and bring home crafts, clothing, art or gifts from any of the unique shops along the way.
Experience a journey like no other aboard the Yankee Freedom III. Take your comfortable seat and enjoy the relaxing ride to the Dry Tortugas National Park Fort Jefferson, just 70 miles west of Key West.
The Yankee Freedom III is recognized for its speed and luxurious accommodations and for transporting thousands of visitors to the beautiful collection of islands called the Dry Tortugas.
An open-air deck provides the ideal place to spot a playful dolphin or sea turtle while gazing upon the picturesque seascape along the way. Or, if you prefer, an air-conditioned cabin offers comfortable seating, refreshments and lovely views. Discover what makes this adventure so special as your captain and on-board naturalist share their knowledge about the area and all it has to offer. Take a day trip or spend a few—but be sure to embark on this unforgettable excursion from Key West.
Come celebrate the triumph of Henry Flagler and his determination to connect Key West with the rest of the U.S. by train at the Overseas Railroad Museum. The station was completed on January 22, 1912 after seven years of hard labor, torrential weather and mosquito infestations.
Don’t spend your precious sightseeing time in search of the perfect parking spot. Drive into the Old Town Garage at the Corner of Caroline and Grinnel and park in a covered spot. Begin you Old Town Trolley Tour at Mac’s Seagarden across Caroline Street from the parking garage. Then hop on board the air-conditioned shuttle to go all around Old Town. The Park N’ Ride shuttle is FREE with your paid parking.
Mangia Mangia
Half Shell Raw Bar
Turtle Kraals
Mac’s Sea Garden
Lazy Way Shops
Harpoon Harrys