Summer Fun Things To Do In Key West

Looking for something fun to do in Key West this summer? Check out our top things to do in the island city! From snorkeling and swimming with dolphins to exploring the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during vacation. So, whether you’re traveling with family or friends, make sure to add these must-see attractions to your list!

An Introduction to Summer in Key West

Welcome to the Key West summer! This subtropical island is the perfect getaway for any traveler wanting to have some fun in the sun and participate in plenty of activities to keep them occupied. From attending one of the many festivals that take place throughout the season to soaking up rays on the white sand beaches or taking a sunset cruise on a catamaran, there truly is something for everyone here. And, don’t forget about the world-famous seafood joints and tiki bars — this is paradise after all! With its captivating atmosphere, breathtaking views and endless entertainment opportunities, spending summer in Key West is sure to be an enjoyable experience.

Best Things to Do in Key West in the Summer

By Land

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Summer is the perfect time to visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Located in sunny Key West, Florida, this magical conservatory is the perfect escape from everyday life. Home to over 50 species of butterflies and dozens of birds, the conservatory provides an immersive experience with nature. With interactive educational exhibits and panoramic views inside a glass-enclosed atrium, learn about butterfly behavior and natural habitats while witnessing fluttering beauty all around you. Summertime is the best time to come explore the fascinating world in each wing flap of these lovely creatures!

Truman Little White House

The Truman Little White House in Florida is an iconic and historic summer destination that has been visited by many powerful figures over the years. After Ernest Hemingway penned his famous works from his Key West home, President Harry S. Truman started visiting in 1946 as part of his Summer White House. Many other influential leaders have followed suit since then, such as Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and the house remains a draw for travelers looking to explore this piece of presidential history. The Little White House is situated amongst lush palm trees and includes tours, educational programs and events so visitors can learn more about its incredible past.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Summer in the Florida Keys is an exciting time for discovering the area’s incredible natural beauty! Start exploring at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. This interactive educational center features a variety of habitats, from mangrove wetlands to coral reefs. Learn about the delicate ecosystems of this unique area through interactive exhibits and displays and view historical artifacts related to the Keys’ cultures and lifestyles. There are also plenty of outdoor activities available. Make an adventure out of your next visit to the Florida Keys with a trip to the Eco-Discovery Center!

Southernmost Point, Key West

There’s something special about standing at the southernmost point of Key West during the summer — the sky is bluer, the breeze a bit saltier, and the feeling of summer seems to linger in the air. Whether it’s a summer vacation destination or a trip to escape reality for a few days, Key West is a warm reminder of all that summer promises — adventure, relaxation and freedom of spirit. Take in the summer sights and scenes from this historical hot spot and snap the perfect Instagram-able selfie.

Visit Duval Street and Mallory Square

Spending summer in Key West means that a visit to Duval Street and Mallory Square is an absolute must. Duval Street is buzzing with life, from brightly colored buildings to tasty restaurants and neat little boutiques. Taking a stroll along the brick-paved streets takes you past old Southern-style mansions with luxuriant palm trees. Make sure to stay until dusk and catch the stunning sunset at Mallory Square — there’s unbeatable magic about it, especially when street performers put on their mesmerizing shows!

Zachary Taylor State Park

Zachary Taylor State Park is an oasis in the summer, reminding visitors of the beauty of Key West without having to leave the mainland. Visitors can easily access the park by car, boat or bike and be treated to a variety of activities within minutes. The park boasts a whopping 1,200 acres with 19 miles of shoreline perfect for swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking and more! Its idyllic setting makes it no surprise that the park’s popularity continues to rise each summer.

Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum offers a fascinating look back at our history, with interactive displays, artifacts and multimedia presentations that explore Key West’s illustrious shipwreck heritage. Visitors can learn about the naval war in Key West and also get to experience the thrill of uncovering buried treasure. Not to mention, they have something for everyone, with activities such as quizzes and exhibits, and behind-the-scenes knowledge provided by cast members. Explore the tantalizing evidence of Key West’s past at the iconic Shipwreck Museum!

Sails to Rails Museum

Embark on a journey through Key West’s maritime past at the captivating Sails to Rails Museum. Discover the remarkable transition from sailboats to steamships and railways that shaped the island’s history. Explore meticulously preserved artifacts and interactive exhibits, including the opportunity to lift a real silver bar and delve into maritime tales. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Key West’s rich heritage with a Fort Jefferson diorama, offering a glimpse into the island’s strategic importance.

Key West Lighthouse Museum

The Key West Lighthouse museum is a summer must-see! The museum offers visitors incredible views and amazing insight into Florida’s maritime history and culture. Climb the 88 steps to the top of the tower and take in the spectacular sights while learning about 200 years of lighthouse symbolism. After admiring the sweeping vista, be sure to go inside for some truly fascinating exhibits that highlight lighthouses on Florida’s Gulf Coast, including paintings, photographs and artifacts. Plus, there’s a souvenir shop with plenty of unique finds that are great for one-of-a-kind summer mementos.

Key West Museum of Art & History

The summer months are the perfect time to visit the Key West Museum of Art & History. This museum packs a lot of interesting information into its walls, offering visitors insight into Key West’s far-reaching past. Not only can visitors explore vast permanent collections that include photographs, local artifacts and cultural exhibitions, but the seasonal summer programming also provides plenty of reasons to get out and visit. Every summer, the museum hosts educational programs and lectures that teach visitors about the rich history of this area, as well as art classes for children. With something for everyone in the family to enjoy, a summer day spent at this museum is sure to be full of learning and fun!

Key West Aquarium

Visiting the Key West Aquarium is the perfect summer activity for tourists who want to learn about the vibrant marine life that inhabits the Keys. This fun, interactive aquarium showcases a variety of ocean creatures, from lovable sea turtles to curious sharks and fish. Watching their colorful fins glide in their tanks while learning exciting facts about the animals’ natural habitats makes this aquarium an educational experience as well as an enjoyable one!

On The Water

Dry Tortugas National Park

Key West in the summer is the perfect place to explore Dry Tortugas National Park, located in the Gulf of Mexico. This beautiful national park features a vibrant landscape of sandy beaches, tropical islands and teeming coral reefs that rivals any beach getaway. Not only can you take advantage of some incredible snorkeling opportunities, but there’s also plenty more that this destination provides. Relax on the beach or spend time spotting some exotic birds — all while admiring historic ruins like those of Fort Jefferson, which was originally built before the Civil War and is now one of Key West’s most iconic landmarks. With such wonderful natural beauty all around, it’s no surprise that Key West’s Dry Tortugas National Park is truly a treasure trove waiting to be explored and enjoyed!

Enjoy Some Water Sports and a Sunset Sail

Summertime in Key West is the perfect time to enjoy some water sports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking. Feel the warm sun while exploring all the exotic wildlife Key West has to offer. Once you’ve had a blast out in the ocean, come back to shore just in time for a beautiful sunset sailing experience. Enjoy watching a mesmerizingly colorful skyline of pinks and oranges with friends or family and take in Key West’s unique coastline.

Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise

Take an adventure this summer and join the Fury Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise! Enjoy turquoise waters, incredible tropical views and unforgettable experiences while observing wild dolphins as they swim in their natural habitat. This tour will also provide a unique snorkeling experience at the vibrant coral reef of the Florida Keys. Attendees have the opportunity to dive into pristine waters brimming with life and explore a world many never imagined possible.

Travel down to sunny Florida and enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer. From snorkeling and swimming with dolphins to exploring Duval Street and learning about Key West’s history, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get ready for a vacation of a lifetime!

FAQs

Is Key West a good place to visit in the summer?

Every summer, Key West draws in people from all over the world looking for a great vacation spot. With its warm beaches, crystal-clear waters and endless sunny days, Key West is definitely a good place to visit in the summertime. There are plenty of exciting activities to check out, such as snorkeling, parasailing and stand-up paddleboarding, or you can soak up the sun and relax. Key West also offers rich culture and different tours of the island to immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. And, with its lively downtown full of quirky shops and delicious seafood restaurants, there’s something for everyone!

Is Key West crowded in the summer?

Key West is one of those cities that has a never-ending summer vibe. At any time of year, it’s a lively, vibrant city, but come the summer months, Key West really comes alive. Tourists flock to the iconic landmarks, bars and restaurants and give the area an electric atmosphere. With temperatures rarely dropping below 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination during the hotter months. The population more than doubles over the summer months; so, yes, it can definitely get crowded. But, with such awesome attractions and the gorgeous waters of the Gulf of Mexico nearby, Key West is definitely worth visiting in the summertime!

How many days is enough for Key West?

With summer around the corner, what better way to enjoy the sunshine than by getting away to Key West for a few days? Not only can you relax on some of Florida’s most stunning beaches, but you can also explore the local attractions, such as Duval Street, and take part in exciting activities, such as snorkeling and sailing. And, no trip would be complete without tantalizing cuisine and unique places to stay — all of which make Key West a desirable summer escape. If summer plans are taking shape, head down to Key West — three days should do it!

What is the best month to go to Key West?

Summertime is the ideal time to visit Key West. From June through August, experience warm weather, sunshine-packed days and balmy nights. Dive into crystal-clear waters at one of the nearby beaches, or explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or scuba diving. Soar high above the Caribbean Sea in a parasailing adventure, or take a sunset cruise for romantic summer evenings in paradise. Make sure to also spend time strolling around Old Town and popular Duval Street, scooping up souvenirs that remind you of your summer getaway in Key West!

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