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 are going on a Key West day trip and looking for things to do, we have a great Key West day trip itinerary.
Key West Day Trip Itinerary
When making the day trip to Key West it is important to plan your time in advance. This means deciding what thing 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 enjoy 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 further explore areas and sites on your own.
Plan on getting there when they open. 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.
Little White House
Located in the heart of Old Town Key West, the two-story Victorian winter home of former President Harry Truman.
It gained the name Little White House since President Truman made some of his most important decisions there.
It was left in the exact manner as it was in 1949 with its original furnishings.
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: Mallory Square
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: Snorkel the Coral Reefs
Snorkeling in Key West offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant and colorful underwater world.
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 Smather’s 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, another way to enjoy the same flavors of a Key Lime Pie is with a Frozen Chocolate Covered Key Lime Pie on a stick! It is one of the best things I have ever eaten. Seriously, it is that good.
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 West Key Lime Pie Company. This is one of the most famous bakeries making Key Lime Pie. You will be able to get a slice of traditional Key Lime Pie for $6.50.
- Kermit’s. This place is so popular among locals that they have 2 stores. Grab a slice of traditional Key Lime pie or one of the chocolate-covered Key Lime Pies on a Stick for $4.50.
- Old Town Bakery. Instead of a traditional graham cracker crust, this bakery makes theirs from gingersnaps. Each slice of Key Lime pie is $3.75.
- Salute on the Beach. At $9 a slice, this pie is a bit pricey, but what you get is a full experience of flavor. Instead of topped with whipped cream, you will find a 4″ layer of Meringue.
How to get to Key West from Miami
If you are visiting Miami, you will find that many companies make a day trip from Miami to Key West. It is a great way to be able to experience Key West if you can’t afford to fly directly there.
Have you had a chance to spend a day in Key West? What was your favorite part of your trip?
Binny
Friday 20th of April 2018
You got me at the Key Lime pie! Now I just need to sneak a little trip to Key West, never been there yet.
Katherine
Thursday 19th of April 2018
The Conch Train tour sounds awesome! I am such an idiot that I never knew that Key West was the southern-most point of the US. At least now I have an idea of where I'm going!
Lauren
Thursday 19th of April 2018
Haha this is awesome!!! Key West is a stop on a long cycling tour I've been planning to do, so this is super helpful as I'm usually only in cities for a short period of time. The beaches sounds perfect!
Ashley
Thursday 19th of April 2018
Key West is always on our short list when we discuss upcoming vacation locations! We've never been, but the two Waldorf Astoria resorts there are calling our name! So is that key lime pie! ;)
ARI
Thursday 19th of April 2018
I hope one day to be able to make a KEY LIME PIE as good as the one I tried (all over Key West) when I visited, years ago. But believe me when I say that nothing has come close since. Ahhhh! Love the sun and the feel of sleepy key west in Off Season!