10+ Things to Do in Key West & the Florida Keys

Heading to Miami, but hoping to explore the lands and waters further south? You’re not alone – many people begin their journeys in South Beach but travel down the Florida Keys to Key West for some more excitement and adventure.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
key-west-famous-duval-street

There are plenty of great attractions and activities in Florida and Key West, from alligator tours to watersports. And while the main emphasis is on outdoor activities, there are some indoor options as well. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Key West and the Florida Keys during your trip to South Florida, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...

  • Key West Trolley Tour
  • Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
  • Paddle Boarding
  • Parasailing
  • Everglades Alligator Farm
  • And more!

Save on Key West & Florida Keys attraction admission

Admission to many of these top Miami attractions and activities and more are included on the Go City® Miami pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. 

Things to do in Key West

Trolley Tour

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Explore Key West’s many historic sites and cultural hotspots on this hop-on hop-off trolley tour. Featuring over 50 points of interest from the historic Seaport Harborwalk to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, there’s something to appeal to every interest in Key West. Use this comprehensive tour as your introduction to this diverse city. 

Getting In: Key West Trolley Tour is separately ticketed.

Rise and Reef Morning Snorkel

Head out to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for a snorkeling adventure you’ll never forget. This adult-friendly activity allows you to snorkel this beautiful coral reef and enjoy fresh juice and a delicious breakfast together. Expert staff will get you sorted with all the equipment and instruction you need, making this tour perfect for everyone from first-time snorkelers to experienced sea explorers.

Getting In: Rise and Reef Morning Snorkel tickets are available on the Go City® Miami Explorer pass only.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Key West

Kids and adults alike will love this quirky attraction. Ripley’s Believe or Not! has made an international name for itself, and this Key West location is no exception to its legacy of weird and wonderful fun. Be sure to check out the exhibits that are unique to Key West! 

Getting In: Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Key West is separately ticketed.

Sunset Watersports Paddle Board Rental

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For those of you who can’t get enough of being in the water – and you’ve come to the right place for that – a paddle board rental is a great choice. Paddle along the water while standing up for a surprisingly great workout, and keep one eye out for sea creatures that might be passing by below. 

Getting In: Key West Paddle Board Rentals are available on the Go City® Miami Explorer pass only.

Island Safari Bike Rental

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Who doesn’t want to spend as much time as possible outside on a Key West vacation? Hop aboard a bike and explore this charming island on your own, taking advantage of discoveries like small boutiques and enticing little restaurants. 

Getting In: Key West bike rentals are separately ticketed.

Key West 2-Hour Kayak Rental

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What better way to explore Key West, one of the country's most famous islands, than by water? Hop aboard your choice of a single or double kayak and get out there. Depart from Smathers Beach and head out along the gorgeous coastlines. Kids and adults will both enjoy this unforgettable experience.

 Getting In: Key West kayak rentals are available on the Go City® Miami Explorer pass only.

Sunset Watersports Key West Parasailing

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Head to Smathers Beach or Key West Bight first thing in the morning for an amazing excursion high above the sand. With unbelievable views of the coast and the beaches below, you’ll never want the experience to end. This is my favorite thing to do in Key West - the views from high above are absolutely amazing. It's certainly one to cross off your bucket list! 

Getting In: Key West parasailing is separately ticketed.

Conch Tour Train

A delightful option for families with kids, the Conch Tour Train provides informative and entertaining narration along a 90-minute tour of the city’s best landmarks. Some of the highlights of your tour include the Key West Lighthouse, the Hemingway Home & Museum, and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. 

Getting In: Conch Tour Train ride tickets are available as an option on the Miami Explorer Pass only.

Mallory Square

One of the most popular places in all of Key West to watch the sunset, Mallory Square is a delightful little neighborhood area filled with street performers, artists, and music. You can also enjoy fare from street vendors and explore the little local shops – just be aware many things close early. 

Getting In: Admission to Mallory Square is free.

Things to do in the Florida Keys on the way down to Key West

Everglades Alligator Farm (Homestead, FL)

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Nature lovers rejoice – if you’ve come to Florida on your vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Explore one of the country’s most beautiful and wild stretches of land alongside its most famous denizens, the fearsome alligator. But don’t worry; an alligator farm is a safe and family-friendly way to encounter these iconic critters. 

Getting In: Everglades Alligator Farm tickets are available as an option on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass.

Everglades National Park

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Another one for the outdoorsy folks, Everglades National Park is an attraction not to be missed. Drive along scenic park roads for a chance to soak up all the natural beauty, and pay attention to local wildlife, from alligators and crocodiles to manatees and diverse birds. Be sure you’ve got a camera charged and ready for this trip!

Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise (Key Largo)

Sail out to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for the underwater views of a lifetime. The vessel is conveniently glass-bottomed (hence the name), so you can see straight down to the vibrant life that teems in the waters below. Along the way, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Keys and the waters beyond. Another don’t-forget-your-camera experience. 

Getting In: Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise tickets are available on the Go City® Miami Explorer pass only.

Planning to visit lots of Miami and Key West attractions?

With Go City® you won't miss a thing, plus with a pass, you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning! 

☀️Compare Boston passes☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 –  ✈️ Buy a pass ✈️ 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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