J Martin, Author at Cheap Florida Keys

Attractions in the Florida Keys and Key West

From the upper to the lower keys, there’s plenty of exciting things to do and attractions in the Florida Keys with no shortage of fun in the sun! From the treasures of a shipwreck, to more than a dozen museums, the Florida Keys offer more than 100 miles of opportunities.

In addition to the water and sky views on both sides of the Overseas Highway, the scenic drive south from Miami to Key West (about three hours) also includes plenty of opportunities to learn about the history of this island chain.

Attractions in Islamorada

The History of Diving Museum is hard to miss when passing on the road as paintings of underwater sea creatures decorate the building in ocean blue colors along with an old diving helmet. The museum (mile marker 83 bayside) houses a large collection of diving helmets and artifacts, charting 4,000 years of diving history. Finds include a gallery on treasure hunter Art “Silver Bar” McKee; an exhibition of 45 historic diving helmets from 24 countries; nearly 2,500 books on underwater exploration; and free monthly seminars. Open daily (except holidays), 10 am-5 pm Adults, $15; kids 5-11, $7.

The Keys History and Discovery Center is located at the Islander Resort, Guy Harvey Outpost (mile marker 82 oceanside). Exhibit topics include the early inhabitants of the Florida Keys, shipwrecks and salvage, pioneer families in the island chain, offshore and sport fishing legends, and the Flagler Railroad. Open Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults, $12; Children 13 and under enter free.

For some retail therapy and local artisan gifts, stop by the Village Square. This enchanting bohemian village features an open air, curated collection of island shops including homemade gifts and home decor at Boo Kee Sue Botanics, delicious burritos at Bad Boy Burrito, and much more. Perfect for a chill Islamorada afternoon.

Attractions in Marathon

Pigeon Key Foundation and Marine Science Center located on the old bridge parallel to the Seven Mile Bridge on a coral island used as a camp between 1908 and 1912 for the 400 workers working on the Henry Henry Florida Keys Overseas Railroad Flagler that spread from Miami to Key West. The island is home to quaint homes and a museum filled with old photos, artifacts, and memorabilia. Marine educational programs are held on the island, which is also a great place for picnicking and snorkeling. Adults, $15, children 5-13, $12. Ferries sail to the island from the Pigeon Key Visitor Center (mile marker 47, ocean side of the road), 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m.

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center, mile marker 50 bayside, features nature trails, a butterfly garden, a children’s activity center, and a natural history museum . Artifacts in the museum’s collection include a 600-year-old canoe and the remains of pirate ships. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm; Sundays.

Attractions in Key West

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, 907 Whitehead St., offers guided tours of the house where he lived for most of the 1930s and wrote some of his most notable works, including “To Have and Have Not.” Between 40 and 50 cats have taken over the house and gardens, and many of them have an extra toe, just like a six-toed cat that Hemingway owned. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm Adults, $17, children 6-12, $7, one of the most popular attractions in the Florida Keys and Key West.

Custom House Museum, 281 Front St., near Mallory Square, is a national landmark operated by the Key West Art & Historical Society. The four-story building was once home to the island’s customs office, post office, and district courts and now displays art and historical collections, among other artifacts related to the history and culture of the Florida Keys. Open daily (except Christmas), 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Adults $16; children 7 and over, $8. Pro tip: save $2 off admission if you purchase online!

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, 200 Greene St., displays treasures from the 1622 Spanish galleons discovered by Fisher, an American treasure hunter known for his 1985 discovery of the wreck of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha. The museum includes a rich collection of 17th century maritime and shipwreck artifacts. Open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 9:30am-5pm Adults, $17.50, children 6-12, $8.50.

With 100 miles ready to be discovered, there are plenty of attractions in the Florida Keys!

Things to do in Key West

The sun, the sea and the sand make a multitude of tourists flock to Key West every year. Here, the sunsets are more spectacular and the water a little more spectacular, it’s hard to believe we’re not in the Caribbean!

This special island has a particular way of life for those who call it home and those who are lucky enough to visit. This Conch Republic offers a relaxed, slower pace and island vibe all its own.

Located at the southernmost point of the United States, surrounded on one side by the Atlantic Ocean and on the other by the Gulf of Mexico, this island town is second to none. Key West is a paradise that attracts anyone and everyone. How many wonderful things can be done here surrounded by so much beauty in one day?

Here are at least five things to do in Key West on your next visit. And you’ll easily see that this island paradise can be dangerously addictive because you may never want to leave!

1. The most beautiful sunsets in Key West

In Key West, sunsets are so beautiful that crowds turn out to watch them every day. The best place to see them is Mallory Square. The fall of the Sun in the middle of the sea together with artists, jugglers, food and drinks for all tastes provide a unique and unforgettable experience. A place for romantics, and bohemians to come together. Two hours before sunset people gather on the pier celebrating a unique sky that shines in a color palette of red, pink, and orange… like a painting in the sky.

As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, an art festival springs into action. People from all over the world enjoy a gathering of street performers, food vendors and artists. There are musicians, magicians, clowns, jugglers, arts and crafts exhibitors, psychics and many more. Colorful and vibrant, this fusion of talents captivates everyone.

It’s really hard to describe the sunset at Mallory Square in words. The important thing is that this place is paradise and being here calls for such a big celebration that it has to happen every night! You have to experience it and that’s when you realize it’s so much more.

2. There is something for everyone to do in Key West.

Who wouldn’t want to visit paradise? Key West is a generous island. It’s all about selecting the right accommodations and there’s no reason why you can’t have it all. There is something for all tastes and for every budget.

Select a gem like Margaritaville Resort Marina. It is located along the waterfront of Old Town Key West, near the popular MallorySquare and Duval Street, the main street of Key West. There you stay in the heart of the city enjoying all the best that the destination offers.

Enjoy a cocktail at The Gardens, hotel with grounds so lush, so tropical, so inviting, that you won’t even want to leave to explore the rest of Key West!

Every morning, you can go out in search of the beach or the water sports that are offered to enjoy the warm sun and the fresh breeze or go shopping, eating and entertaining, with the endless opportunities.

Then, after a day of activity, it’s best to take a break in the spacious, modern and cozy rooms that feature magnificent views of the marina. Each offers great comfort, furnished in a contemporary style, with a natural color palette.

Amenities include luxury bedding, separate bathtub and premium bath products, Wi-Fi access, ceiling fan, balcony, jetted tub, sofa bed, and sitting area.

Aside from the beach, there’s an on-site pool, fitness center, spa, marina and water sports, and dining options. Really, what more could you ask for?

3. Food with a stunning view

As if the sights of nature weren’t enough, Key West also seduces visitors with delicious food in a magnificent setting. Bistro 245 is the place to dine, choose from Key West shrimp, exquisite Angus beef or fresh pasta to satisfy your cravings. Even the locals love this restaurant – which is to say how wonderful the place is.

This leads us to discover why Key West is also known as the Conch Republic. Here it is fished and it is sold in restaurants in different preparations and preparations, each one more delicious. Among the best places to find premium conch are Louie’s Backyard, Conch Republic Seafood Company, and Schooners Wharf.

Try Bahamian conch chowder with hot pepper sauce at Louie’s backyard, or you can try the fried conch at Conch Republic Seafood Company and Schooners Wharf to see which you like best. Very difficult decision since both are delicious.

Of course, all three restaurants offer beautiful views that allow you to appreciate your food amidst the stunning landscapes surrounding the island.

4. Experience the freedom of the ocean.

You can enjoy the magnificent waters of Key West in many ways. If you like the beach there are endless opportunities for you to relax. But if you want something more, Key West has it all too.

There are plenty of companies that offer sailing tours and cruises, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel over the coral reefs.

Probably the best part is the Florida Keys Coral Reef tour, the only living coral reef in North America. It is located seven miles off the coast of Key West and its shallow waters safely allow beginning snorkelers a hypnotic view of the richness of marine life. There is no age limit to enjoy this experience, from children to grandparents can find pleasure in it.

It is the ideal activity to do as a family.

5. Taste Cuba on American soil.

The closest distance between Cuba and Key West is only 103 miles. We can find in Key West the influence of Cuban culture. The most notable is the rum. During the time of prohibition, the rum trade flourished in Key West.

It can be said that the island was saved, thanks to Cuban rum. These days, Key West makes its own specialty rum for a perfect blend of Cuban and local influences.

We can say the same about Cuban cigars. Here, having a cigar is an experience. The tradition began in the mid-19th century when Cuban refugees flocked to its shores. It didn’t take long for Key West to become the Cigar Capital of the World.

Even now, you can still enjoy excellent Cuban-style cigars handcrafted from cured and aged tobacco leaves here. If you are a cigar connoisseur, this is definitely the place to be.

The Gardens Hotel Key West

At Cheap Florida Keys we’re endlessly searching for the ultimate tropical vibe to feed our soul, and we found exactly that at The Gardens Hotel – it’s everything you imagined your Key West hotel experience should be!

A hotel with grounds so lush, so tropical, so inviting, that you won’t even want to leave to explore the rest of Key West! In fact, we’ve spent days on the grounds relaxing by the pool and our private lanai without ever stepping foot onto the hustle and bustle of Duval, and we promise you, that’s perfectly fine! It’s your vacation to do whatever you please.

The Gardens Hotel, the most beautiful hotel in Key West

Proclaimed as “the prettiest hotel in Key West” this stunning property prides itself on its quintessential Key West architecture and meticulous grounds meant for getting lost in paradise and named one of the 5 things to do in your visit to this island paradise. With winding paths leading to hidden hammocks, a private and airy gazebo overlooking the pool, and plenty of lounge chairs strategically scattered throughout, there is no shortage of places to privately relax and unwind. In fact, you’ll feel like the only one there.

The guest rooms are classy, comfortable, cozy, and each come with a private lanai with two large patio chairs for enjoying the warm Florida breeze. Grab a complimentary glass of champagne upon arrival and kick back while you wait for the sun to go down before heading out to dinner on Duval.

At Cheap Florida Keys, we’re all about value and spending where we feel it’s worth it. And let us tell you, The Gardens Hotel is worth it. Averaging $350-$500 per night, depending on the season, this exceptional hotel is right in line with the going rate in Key West so why not actually get something for your money? So bring on all the tropical vibes because this hotel certainly delivers on that!

Check out our pictures from our many stays and book yourself a little getaway to The Gardens Hotel in Key West – you won’t regret it!