Things To Do With Kids in Key West

Things To Do With Kids in Key West

Planning a family escape where sunshine is practically a guarantee and adventure lurks around every corner? Look no further than Key West! This vibrant island at the very tip of the Florida Keys is brimming with unique experiences perfect for creating lasting family memories. Imagine days filled with fascinating encounters with marine life, thrilling tales of shipwrecks and treasure, and leisurely explorations of charming streets bursting with color. 

From interactive museums that spark curiosity to sun-drenched beaches begging for sandcastle creations, Key West offers a delightful array of activities tailored to captivate kids of all ages — and keep parents equally entertained. To kick off your unforgettable southernmost adventure, consider hopping aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley Tours®. This narrated journey provides not only a comfortable and convenient way to navigate the island’s treasures with its flexible hop-on, hop-off system but also an engaging introduction to the many wonders that await your family, all without the fuss of navigating or parking. Get ready to dive into a world of family fun in Key West!

WELCOME TO THE KIDS’ CORNER
Get ready to unlock even more fun for your little explorers aboard Old Town Trolley Tours®! We know that keeping kids engaged on any journey is key, and that’s why we’ve created a special Kids’ Activity Pack designed to turn sightseeing into an exciting adventure. Before you even step aboard, you can download our free kids’ activities, packed with engaging puzzles, fun facts about Key West, scavenger hunts to spot interesting landmarks along the route, coloring pages featuring iconic island scenes, and maybe even a trivia quiz to test their newfound knowledge.

They can color in pictures of the Key West Lighthouse or solve a word scramble related to the island’s maritime history, all while the trolley whisks you effortlessly from one amazing attraction to the next. These activities are crafted to be both entertaining and subtly educational, sparking curiosity and making the history and culture of Key West more accessible and memorable for young minds.

Your kids will thank you for adding this extra layer of fun to their Key West adventure. Instead of the usual travel grumbles, you’ll hear excited shouts of discovery and see focused concentration as they work through their activity packs. And you’ll thank Old Town Trolley Tours® for taking care of the navigation and parking, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience alongside your happy, engaged children on a hassle-free exploration of the Southernmost City with the whole family!

Sails to Rails Museum

The Sails to Rails Museum at Flagler Station offers a unique look into the island’s transportation history. Explore Key West’s transition from sailing ships to railroads, see historical artifacts, and try lifting a real silver bar. Kids will enjoy the interactive elements and engaging storytelling that bring maritime history to life.

Key West Aquarium

Located in Mallory Square, the Key West Aquarium is a must-visit for families. Kids can interact with conchs, sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and more at the touch tank. The daily feedings and up-close marine encounters make this experience one of the most engaging family things to do in Key West. Sea turtles and sharks are also featured, giving children the chance to learn about the island’s unique marine ecosystem.

Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum

Step into the world of 19th-century wreckers at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Live actors, films, and hands-on exhibits help tell the story of shipwreck recovery. Kids can lift a genuine silver bar and climb the 65-foot lookout tower for stunning island views. It’s an immersive experience that combines fun with learning.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

At the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, families learn about famous shipwrecks, including the Henrietta Marie and Spanish galleons. Exhibits focus on conservation, archaeology, and maritime heritage. Programs tailored to kids, such as “Night at the Museum,” make this one of the best family things to do in Key West for history lovers.

Key West Lighthouse Museum

Families can climb the historic Key West Lighthouse, decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard but still standing tall. After making it to the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the island. This site offers an accessible look into Key West’s maritime history and is a quieter stop among the many things to do with kids in Key West.

Higgs Beach and Astro Park Playground

After a day of sightseeing, head to Higgs Beach and Astro Park Playground. The park features playground equipment perfect for younger kids, while the beach offers calm waters for snorkeling and swimming. It’s a great place for a relaxed afternoon, with plenty of shade and open space to unwind. Families can enjoy a shaded picnic or build sandcastles along the shore. It’s a classic choice among family things to do in Key West.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Families of all ages will be enchanted by the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Walk through an indoor habitat filled with butterflies, tropical birds, and flamingos. The learning center explains the butterfly life cycle and has live caterpillars on display. For those looking for peaceful and colorful things to do with kids in Key West, this is a perfect fit.

Southernmost Point

This iconic photo spot is a great addition to your family itinerary. Kids and adults alike enjoy taking a picture by the red-and-black Southernmost Point Buoy, which marks the southernmost spot in the continental U.S. It’s an easy and memorable stop that offers a scenic view and a fun family tradition.

Ride Your Way Through History

Old Town Trolley Tours® brings history to life with live narration and friendly, knowledgeable guides. Families can visit popular landmarks like the Key West Aquarium, Hemingway Home, and the Truman Little White House. It’s a relaxing and educational way to experience top things to do with kids in Key West.

Holiday Sights and Festive Nights® Tour

During December, the Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour® takes families on a nighttime ride through town to see the best holiday lights. Sip cider, enjoy cookies, and wear special holiday glasses that make the lights even more magical. The festive atmosphere and cheerful music make this tour a seasonal highlight.

Fury Parasailing Adventure

For kids age 7 and older, parasailing with Fury Water Adventures is a thrilling experience. Choose a wet or dry takeoff and fly solo or with family. Soaring over turquoise water is one of the most unforgettable things to do with kids in Key West, especially for families seeking adventure.

Conch Tour Train

All aboard the Conch Tour Train, a 90-minute ride through Old Town. It’s led by local guides who share stories about famous residents and local history. With stops near ice cream shops and candy stores, the Conch Train keeps kids entertained while parents enjoy a scenic overview of the island. It’s a fun and nostalgic way to take in the sights without tiring little legs.

Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson

Embark on an unforgettable full-day expedition to the Dry Tortugas National Park aboard the Yankee Freedom III, the official ferry that serves as your gateway to this remote and captivating destination. The journey itself is part of the adventure! As you cruise through the stunning turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, keep a watchful eye out for playful dolphins leaping alongside the ferry or the graceful sight of sea turtles gliding beneath the waves — a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting that will thrill the kids. The anticipation builds as the silhouette of Fort Jefferson emerges on the horizon, a majestic brick fortress rising from the pristine blue.

Upon arrival, you’ll step onto a different world. Fort Jefferson, a colossal hexagonal citadel built in the 19th century, stands as a testament to a bygone era. Exploring its massive ramparts and intricate archways is like stepping back in time. Kids can let their imaginations run wild, picturing soldiers stationed within its walls during the Civil War or imagining tales of pirates who once roamed these waters. Walking along the sandy beaches that surround the fort offers breathtaking views and the chance to collect unique shells.

But the Dry Tortugas isn’t just about history; it’s a natural paradise. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The ferry provides snorkeling gear, and even beginners can marvel at the colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and perhaps even spot sea turtles up close in their natural habitat. It’s an underwater wonderland waiting to be discovered!

The vast expanse of the islands offers plenty of space to roam and explore. Kids can run along the beaches, search for hermit crabs, and discover the unique flora and fauna of this isolated ecosystem. The Yankee Freedom III typically provides information and guided tours, enhancing your understanding of both the natural and historical significance of the Dry Tortugas.

This day trip is more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience that blends history, nature and adventure into one truly memorable outing for the whole family. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, hats and a sense of wonder!

Closing Thoughts

With its sunshine, island charm and wide variety of activities, Key West is a destination the whole family can enjoy. From marine life encounters to scenic tours and exciting history, these family things to do in Key West offer something for every age and interest. Make the most of your trip by combining fun, learning, and a little bit of island magic with these top things to do with kids in Key West.

F.A.Q.

What are the best kid-friendly attractions and activities in Key West?

Key West offers a wide range of fun for kids, including interactive experiences at the Key West Aquarium and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, exploring maritime history at the Sails to Rails Museum and Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, climbing the Key West Lighthouse, playing at Higgs Beach and Astro Park Playground, and taking a memorable photo at the Southernmost Point. Using Old Town Trolley Tours® can help make sure your whole family hits all the hot spots.

Is there a convenient way to see multiple Key West attractions with kids without driving?

Yes, Old Town Trolley Tours® provide a hop-on, hop-off service that stops at many of Key West’s best kid-friendly attractions. This allows families to relax and enjoy sightseeing without the stress of directions and parking.

Which Key West museums are engaging and educational for children?

Several Key West museums cater to kids’ interests. The Sails to Rails Museum explores maritime history with artifacts and interactive elements. The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum brings the era of wreckers to life with live actors and the chance to lift a silver bar. Mel Fisher’s Maritime Museum offers programs specifically for children, and the Key West Lighthouse Museum provides historical insights and island views.

What outdoor activities can families enjoy together in Key West?

Key West’s sunny weather is perfect for outdoor fun. Families can enjoy snorkeling, swimming and picnicking at Higgs Beach; explore the underwater world at the Key West Aquarium; soar above the water with Fury’s parasailing; take a scenic ride on the Conch Tour Train; or embark on a day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park for snorkeling, swimming and exploring Fort Jefferson.

Are there any unique or memorable experiences for kids in Key West?

For unique experiences, families can visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to see hundreds of butterflies and colorful birds, take a photo at the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, or journey to the remote Dry Tortugas National Park and explore the historic Fort Jefferson. The Conch Tour Train, with its engaging conductors, also offers a memorable way to see the island.