Day Trips From Key West, Florida: Day Trip to Key West from Fort Lauderdale: An Island Escape

1. Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
2. Overview: Start your day in literary heaven by visiting the former residence of Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway. The house, built in 1851, is a National Historic Landmark and still houses descendants of Hemingway's six-toed cats. Explore the rooms where Hemingway penned some of his greatest works and wander through the lush gardens that inspired him. Rating: 4.6/5
3. Visit Duration: About 1.5 hours
4. Next Stop: Take a short stroll down Duval Street for a mid-morning snack and some shopping.
5. Duval Street
6. Overview: Known as the heartbeat of Key West, Duval Street is a lively stretch lined with colorful shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to indulge in local cuisine, grab a souvenir, or simply people-watch while enjoying the carefree island atmosphere. Don't miss the famous Sloppy Joe's Bar, a favorite haunt of Hemingway himself.
7. Must-Try Delicacies: Conch Fritters, Key Lime Pie
8. Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
9. Overview: Step into a magical world filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies from around the globe. This indoor conservatory offers a serene escape amidst tropical plants and flowers, providing a unique and educational experience for all ages. The peaceful environment is a stark contrast to the bustling Duval Street just outside. Rating: 4.8/5
10. Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
11. Following Activity: Enjoy a leisurely lunch nearby before heading to the next attraction.
12. Southernmost Point Buoy
13. Overview: No visit to Key West is complete without a photo op at the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, marking the southernmost point in the continental U.S.A. Just 90 miles from Cuba, this brightly painted buoy is a symbol of Key West’s unique geographical location and serves as a popular backdrop for visitors wanting to capture their island adventure.
14. Visit Duration: Short stop for photos
15. Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
16. Overview: As the sun dips below the horizon, head to Mallory Square for a Key West tradition – the Sunset Celebration. This daily event transforms the square into a hub of street performances, food vendors, and artists, all celebrating the end of another beautiful day in paradise. Witness a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture.
17. Time: Begins 2 hours before sunset and lasts until after sunset