Things to Do In Key West with Kids: Welcome to the sunny and vibrant island of Key West, where family fun and adventure are never in short supply! With its tropical climate, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque surroundings, Key West is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy some quality time together. From interactive museums and exciting water sports to historical sites and wildlife encounters, there’s an abundance of things to do in Key West with kids that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an action-packed adventure, Key West has something for every family to enjoy. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones in this beautiful island paradise!
Things to Do In Key West with Kids
Find some of the best things to do in Key West with kids.
Key West Aquarium
Key West Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families with kids who are interested in marine life. Located in the heart of Key West’s historic Old Town, this fascinating attraction showcases a variety of marine creatures, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and a wide variety of fish species. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and educational programs that provide a fun and engaging experience for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the ocean’s creatures or just enjoy an entertaining day out with the family, the Key West Aquarium is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is an exciting and unique destination for families visiting Key West. The park is located 70 miles west of Key West and is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it an adventure in itself. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and a 19th-century fort that served as a prison during the Civil War. Families can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the fort and the surrounding natural beauty. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and colorful tropical fish, making it an ideal destination for families interested in marine biology and nature.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a must-visit attraction for families with kids in Key West. This unique conservatory features a tropical paradise with hundreds of butterflies from around the world fluttering freely in a lush and peaceful environment. Visitors can walk among the colorful and friendly butterflies, as well as observe exotic birds, flowers, and plants. The conservatory also offers educational programs and guided tours, making it a fun and informative experience for kids of all ages. The conservatory is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their role in the ecosystem, and conservation efforts to protect them.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a great place to visit with kids in Key West. This state park is not only rich in history, but also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its role in protecting the country during the Civil War, as well as swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the park. Kids can also enjoy a picnic, hike the nature trails, or simply relax on the beach. The park also hosts events and programs throughout the year, making it a great place to visit for families looking for both education and entertainment.
The Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway, also known as U.S. Route 1, is a scenic highway connecting mainland Florida to the Florida Keys, including Key West. The highway features breathtaking views of the ocean and spans over 100 miles, making it a must-visit destination for families traveling to Key West. Along the way, families can stop at various attractions, such as the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, providing endless opportunities for fun and adventure. With its stunning views and numerous attractions, the Overseas Highway is an excellent way to explore the beauty of the Florida Keys with kids.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum is an excellent attraction to visit with your family in Key West. The museum is housed in the decommissioned Cutter Ingham, a National Historic Landmark ship that served during World War II and the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its history, as well as the history of the Coast Guard. The museum also features exhibits on maritime life and the role of the Coast Guard in search and rescue missions. Kids will love seeing the different parts of the ship, including the captain’s quarters and the engine room, and learning about life at sea. This unique museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history or looking for a fun and educational activity to do with kids in Key West.
Mallory Square
Mallory Square is a popular attraction in Key West, Florida, and a great place to take kids. This historic square is located on the waterfront and is famous for its sunset celebrations, which take place every evening. Families can watch street performers, enjoy live music, and purchase food and souvenirs from local vendors. In addition to the sunset celebrations, Mallory Square also offers a range of family-friendly activities during the day, including tours of historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Kids will love exploring this vibrant, colorful square and taking in the sights and sounds of Key West.
Southernmost Point
The Southernmost Point is one of the most iconic and popular tourist destinations in Key West. It is a large concrete buoy that marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, just 90 miles from Cuba. Kids will love taking a photo with the colorful buoy and learning about its history and significance. The area around the buoy is also a great spot to enjoy some street performances, food trucks, and local vendors selling souvenirs. It’s a fun and educational activity that families can enjoy together while exploring the beautiful island of Key West.
Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum
The Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum is an exciting and educational attraction to visit with kids in Key West. The museum showcases the amazing underwater discoveries of Mel Fisher and his team, who searched for and found the wreck of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sank off the coast of Florida in 1622. The museum offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the history of the ship and its treasures, as well as the techniques used to locate and retrieve them from the ocean floor. Kids can participate in scavenger hunts and other activities, and the museum offers special programs and events for families. It’s a fascinating and unique experience that kids will remember for years to come.
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a wonderful place for families to learn about the unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys. The center features interactive exhibits that showcase the diverse plant and animal life in the Keys, as well as the challenges of preserving this delicate environment. Kids can explore a mock-up of a mangrove forest, learn about coral reefs and their importance, and even get up close with a giant model of a sea turtle. There are also educational movies, aquariums, and touch tanks where children can interact with various marine animals. The center is free and open to the public, making it an excellent choice for a fun and educational outing with kids in Key West.