The Key West is one of the most wish-listed destinations in Florida, and it's easy to see why. Beautiful beaches, Bahamas-style vibes, and incredible food await eager travelers, and the Florida Keys are more than willing to deliver the perfect vacation. Key West, in particular, can be explored in one day - if a visitor knows exactly where they should be spending their time. For anyone who only has 24 hours to visit Key West, here are some must-do things that can be done in one day.
10 Spend The Morning In Historic Seaport
Not only is Key West's Historic Seaport the perfect way to start out the day, but it's also the perfect free activity. Strolling down the boardwalk means getting to see beachside views before it gets crowded, and visitors can take their time exploring its iconic landmarks. Grab a cup of coffee and take in the atmosphere that this quieter part of Key West has to offer!
9 Visit Bahama Village For True Island Vibes
Key West is a vibe in itself, but Bahama Village offers a level of history that makes it worthy of being explored. From its incredible food offerings to its Bohemian-style architecture, this is yet another free - or, affordable, for those who spend money there - activity to add to the list. Stop by one of its open-air restaurants or take in the people-watching from Nelson English Park.
8 Stop By Blue Heaven For Lunch And A Slice Of The Best Key Lime Pie
It's recommended that reservations are made for Blue Heaven (they are limited) as there can be a bit of a wait to get a table - and for good reason. Blue Heaven is known for serving up the best slice of key lime pie in the state, and their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus are equally amazing.
7 Head To The Key West Lighthouse To See An Iconic Florida Landmark
The Key West Lighthouse is an absolute must, especially for those who are visiting Blue Heaven since it's nearby. This lighthouse measures 65 feet in height and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape, including the glimmering Atlantic. The lighthouse is now decommissioned but is a cornerstone of Key West's historical landmarks and worth seeing in person.
6 Enjoy Florida's Wildlife At The Key West Butterfly And Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to an overwhelming number of butterfly species, but visitors can also see flamingos and other native bird species here. It's worth the experience for kids and adults alike, and always promises a good show for those apt to spend an hour watching colorful butterflies flutter around. Afterward, visitors can stop by the gift shop and pick up something to remember their unique visit by.
5 Be Sure To See The Southernmost Point Of The U.S.
For those who didn't know, Key West also happens to be home to the southernmost point in the continental U.S. Therefore, it's practically a rite of passage to visit on the way down! Visitors always stop to take a picture next to the landmark that commemorates this fact, which makes for the perfect (quick) tourist activity to do with only one day there.
4 Take The Short Walk To Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
With only a ten-minute walk from the Southernmost Point of the U.S. to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, adding this to the one-day itinerary is a no-brainer. The park might seem like the perfect destination for history buffs, but it's also just a beautiful place to spend a few hours admiring the scenery. This Civil War-era park also happens to be home to the best beach in the Keys, so it's perfect for beach lovers, too.
3 Come Back In Time For The Sunset At Mallory Square
The beach isn't the only place to catch a perfect sunset in Florida, and Mallory Square makes for a pretty good contender. This public square is one of the most popular gathering places in Key West, and after dusk, it comes alive with live music and street performers. Who says that everything in Key West has to happen at its beaches when one can watch a professional swallow a sword right in front of them?
2 Head To Duval Street For Some Good Eats
If walking is the mode of transportation, then Duval Street is a must for those with an empty stomach following all of that entertainment. Located directly in the heart of Key West, there's no shortage of great restaurants to try along this road, with plenty of options featuring a myriad of cuisines.
1 End The Night At The Smallest Bar In Key West
Easily located thanks to being named the Smallest Bar, this tiny watering hole is only big enough for a small group. However, it's the experience of visiting the smallest bar in Key West that draws so many to its doors - especially social butterflies! It doesn't get much more local than this, and the Smallest Bar definitely has some stories to share with newcomers.