5 Things To Do in Key West Besides Drinking

Visit the Hemingway House

Ernest Hemingway was a popular writer who changed literature in the early-to-mid 1900s. Throughout his life, Hemingway lived all over the world during different periods and spent a good deal of time at his home in the heart of Key West.

Today, the house has been preserved to honor Hemingway’s legacy, and those who go on tours can appreciate Hemingway’s life, his time in Key West (including interesting antics like stealing a urinal from a bar that was relocating—it is still in the backyard and is used as a fountain), his novels, and so much more.

This tour is excellent for all visitors, Hemingway fans or not, because it ties so much history together in one spot, as he was that integral to the island during his time there. And as an added bonus, the Hemingway House is also home to a large population of polydactyl cats!

In the mood for other house tours? There are many houses open for tours in Key West including the Audubon House, Truman’s Little White House, and many, many more. The Hemingway House is just one of many historic house tours to consider during a visit!

The Hemingway House is located at 907 Whitehead Street in Key West. Tours are offered at set times throughout the day, typically every 15 minutes- perfect for walk-ins.

Head to the Southernmost Point

Okay, fine, we’ll be the first to admit that the Southernmost Point buoy in Key West is a bit of a tourist trap (albeit a free tourist trap!). This one is quite literally a small monument dedicated to being at the end of the continental United States and just 90 miles from Cuba.

Visitors to Key West flock to this monument to say that they’ve been to the furthest south point in the USA, snag a photo, and then promptly leave as that is all there really is to do at this point (that said, some beaches on the eastern side of Key West are a short walk or drive away).

That said, this location for the Southernmost Point buoy is also a bit ceremonial as other parts of Key West appear to be further south- particularly at the nearby Naval base (inaccessible) and in Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach (below). So, while this one may come with some caveats with the southernmost claim, it is still a must-stop for visitors to Key West.

The Southernmost Point Buoy is located at the intersection of Whitehead Street and South Street in Key West.

Eat Key Lime Pie

It is impossible to visit Key West and miss out on key lime pie. This famous dessert, made with the island’s namesake lime juice, can be found everywhere (and in many forms). From traditional slices of key lime pie to key lime pie on a stick, themed cocktails, and other key lime-flavored treats, you really can’t miss this one!

Still, one of our absolute favorite places for getting key lime pie in Key West in particular is none other than Blue Heaven, a popular restaurant with gorgeous outdoor seating, a rich history, and one of the best slices of key lime pie (with generous meringue) that you’ll find on the island!

For those taking a road trip down from the mainland, don’t overlook stops at Blond Giraffe and Mrs Mac’s Kitchen. While found on other keys further north, these two round out our top three favorite spots for key lime pie!

Blue Heaven is located at 729 Thomas Street in Key West. Blond Giraffe can be found at 92220 Overseas Highway in Tavernier and Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen has two locations on Key Largo.

Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

For those who are history buffs, a visit to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a must. This fort is found on 50+ acres on the southern edge of the island and began construction in 1845. The namesake, President Zachary Taylor, died in office in 1850, and the fort took his name in memorium shortly thereafter. 

The fort remained in Union control during the Civil War and managed a blockade in the region to prevent supply ships from reaching the Confederacy. The fort was modernized in the wars that followed, including updates in the Spanish-American War and the World Wars of the 20th century. In the 1960s, excavations found many guns, ammunition, and other relics from the Civil War, and the fort is now thought to have the largest collection of Civil War-era cannons in the USA. 

As an added bonus, visitors to the state park can also access the nearby beach, which is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Key West (and we’d go as far as saying the entire Florida Keys, too).

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is located at 601 Howard England Way. Note that state parks have paid admission.

Catch a Beautiful Sunset

Finally, we have a great way to say goodbye to the day at Key West- catch a sunset at Mallory Square.

Due to its prime location, Mallory Square is located along the western edge of Key West and has a nearly front-row seat to some of the best sunsets you can experience (weather permitting). With the aptly named Sunset Key in the distance just offshore, the sunsets here can be quite dramatic if you are lucky.

Another reason why this particular square is a fun spot to go is because it is known for the Sunset Celebration spot on the island. Hundreds upon hundreds of visitors flock to the square to witness the sunset on a beautiful night, and buskers, street performers, and other vendors flock to provide food and entertainment as well. When the sunset is good, it really can be quite the party!

Mallory Square is located on the western side of Key West, just outside of the main business district.

Do you have a favorite thing to do in Key West that doesn’t involve hitting the bars? Comment below to share! 

If you’re planning on driving into Key West on a road trip from the mainland, be sure to check out what to see on a Florida Keys road trip outside of Key West!