BEST Key West Day Trip Itinerary

Known as the Conch Republic, Key West is part of the Florida Keys archipelago and is the southernmost point in the United States. It is known for its crystal blue water and as the former home to Ernest Hemingway. If you’re planning a day in Key West and looking for things to do, we have a great Key West day trip itinerary for you.

Key West Day Trip Itinerary

When planning a day trip to Key West, it is crucial to plan your time effectively.

This means deciding on the things you want to do and purchasing tickets in advance when you can.

Morning: Take a Key West Train Tour 

A great way to get your footing in Key West is to take a tour.

While there are several to choose from, we really enjoyed the Key West Conch Train Tour.

This 90-minute sightseeing tour of Key West takes you to many of the most popular sites on the island.

You can hop on & off as you so choose if you wish to explore areas and sites on your own further.

Plan on purchasing your tickets in advance and arriving early.

The first tour starts at 10:15 am & you can pick it up on Front Street.

What you can see on the Key West Conch Train Tour:

Hemingway House

Hemingway House in Key West is a must-see for anyone interested in the life and works of Ernest Hemingway.

Located on Whitehead Street, the house was built in 1851 and purchased by Hemingway and his second wife, Pauline Pfeiffer, in 1931.

It has remained largely unchanged since then, giving visitors an authentic look into Hemingway’s daily life.

What People Have to Say about Hemingway House in Key West on Trip Advisor:

The tour really gives you a feel for his life and family and the house is amazing, a really cool old house but still feels modern. We were pressed for time and did the self guided tour but it was highly detailed and interesting as are the myriad plaques around the house and garden. It was also cool to see the studio where he wrote 70% of his works. My favorite were the Spanish dining room chairs that could hold a sword and the boxing stories in the garden. I would highly recommend this.

It gained the name Little White House since President Truman made some of his most important decisions there.

It was left exactly as it was in 1949 with its original furnishings.

What People Have to Say about the Little White House in Key West on Trip Advisor:

If you enjoy US history, the Truman Little White House is a definite stop for you. Lasting just about an hour, the tour is quite informative on the huge impact made by President Truman from 1945-1952. I walked away with a greater appreciation of the “Man from Independence,” having learned a few new things about him and his presidency.

Southernmost Point

The Southernmost Point in Key West is an iconic monument that marks the southernmost point of the continental United States.

Located at the corner of Whitehead and South Streets, this famous buoy-shaped monument stands as a testament to the unique culture and history of Key West.

A popular thing to do in Key West is to take pictures of the landmark.

Lunch: Duval Street

Mallory Square is a great place to grab a bite to eat and do some souvenir shopping.

You will find plenty of spots along the waterfront to sit & dine, or you can just grab something to take and eat while you walk around.

Afternoon:

Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House

The Key West Custom House opened in 1891 and served as Key West’s Customs Office, District Court, and Post Office.

This historical landmark features two floors of permanent and temporary art exhibits by local artists.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is a great museum for those interested in the maritime history of Key West.

It houses a huge collection of items recovered from both Spanish galleons Nuestra Señora de Atocha and Santa Margarita (1622),

Other Option for a Day Trip to Key West: Snorkel the Coral Reefs

If you aren’t into history and would rather explore the beauty of the Key West coast, consider going snorkeling.

With its warm, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine life, it is no wonder that snorkelers flock here year-round.

The area around Key West is home to some of the best spots for snorkeling in the entire state of Florida.

Some popular sites include:

• Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: features an array of tropical fish and soft corals and sea turtles!
• Smathers Beach: has calm waters with shallow areas where you can spot smaller reef creatures and colorful fish.
• Dry Tortugas Islands: enjoy vibrant coral gardens and more diverse fish species

There are also plenty of snorkel tours available that will take you to the best spots in the area.

Not interested in Snorkeling, but want to hit the beach? Check out Smathers Beach.

It is considered one of the best Florida Keys Beaches to visit.

Before You Leave: Enjoy Some Key Lime Pie

Your Key West day trip will not be complete without having a fresh slice of Key Lime Pie!

This is a regional specialty, and there is nothing quite like it anywhere else in the United States.

If you aren’t someone who likes pie, there are plenty of other Key Lime items to bring home with you.

Who has the Best Key Lime Pie in Key West, Florida?

That is a question for the locals, and even they can’t agree. You won’t go wrong with one of these 4 Key Lime Shops in Key West:

• Key Lime Bakery. This is one of the most well-known places for Key Lime Pie. You can get a slice of traditional Key Lime Pie for $5.95.
• Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe. This shop not only has Key Lime Pies, you can also enjoy it while sitting outside and relaxing by the Koi Pond.
• Key West Key Lime Pie Co. Want to learn how to make Key Lime Pie like you get in Key West? This is the place where you can both buy pies by the slice and create your own to take home with you!
• The Florida Key Lime Pie Company. Grab some Key Lime Pie and home made ice cream on the side at this store in Key West. You can also get pics with their pet Alligator Sweetie.

Have you had a chance to spend a day in Key West? What was your favorite part of your trip?

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