Family-Friendly Adventures in Key West!

Mallory Square

Why Visit?

Welcome to Mallory Square, the pulsating heart of Key West, where rich history and vibrant street culture converge by the Gulf of Mexico! Start your family adventure by arriving early to soak in the colorful atmosphere. Mallory Square is easily accessible by foot, bike, or car with ample parking nearby.

Begin your exploration at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. Just a short walk from the center of the square, this museum offers a glimpse into the lucrative 1850s shipwreck salvage industry. Engage with actors portraying historical figures and climb the 65-foot lookout tower for breathtaking views of the island.

Next, head to the Key West Aquarium, located directly in Mallory Square. It’s one of the oldest aquariums in Florida, opening in 1934, and offers touch tanks and guided tours that illuminate the diverse marine life of the region. It"s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about conservation and the local ecosystem.

As the afternoon sun begins to dip, grab a spot along the waterfront to experience the world-famous Sunset Celebration. This nightly festival features street performers, local artisans, and food vendors. Watch jugglers, musicians, and magicians perform while enjoying a tropical shaved ice.

Don’t forget to visit the nearby Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, just a 15-minute walk from the square. This magical spot houses over 50 different species of butterflies in a beautiful, controlled indoor environment, making it a serene experience for the whole family.

Finish your day with a casual dinner at one of the many eateries around the square, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while reflecting on the day’s adventures. Mallory Square is not just a destination; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Key West’s charm and cultural richness.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival in Key West

Begin your adventure in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Check into a family-friendly hotel and spend your evening exploring Mallory Square where kids can enjoy street performers and the famous sunset celebration.

Day 2: Key West Eco Tours

Start your morning with a guided kayak tour through the mangroves with Key West Eco Tours. This hands-on experience will allow you to learn about local wildlife and the unique ecosystems of the Keys. After lunch, visit the Key West Aquarium, where children can touch starfish and learn about the sanctuary’s marine species.

Day 3: Snorkeling at Looe Key

Drive about 30 minutes to Big Pine Key, then join a snorkeling tour to Looe Key, part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This reef is known for its spectacular coral formations and abundant marine life. It"s an excellent spot for families to snorkel together and discover the underwater beauty of the sanctuary.

Day 4: Visit the Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Head to Marathon, about an hour"s drive from Big Pine Key. Visit the Turtle Hospital to learn about their rescue, rehab, and release programs. It"s a fantastic educational opportunity for kids to learn about marine conservation.

Day 5: Explore Key Largo

Drive north to Key Largo for a visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can take a glass-bottom boat tour—a perfect way to see the coral reef without getting wet. Wrap up your day with a nature walk on one of the park’s trails.

Day 6: Departure

Before heading home, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and one last stroll along the beaches of Key Largo, collecting shells and making final memories of a wonderful family trip to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Why Visit?

Day Trip Itinerary to Dry Tortugas National Park

Morning: Departure & Arrival

Start your adventure early by catching the Yankee Freedom III ferry from Key West; it’s the most accessible and educational way to get to Dry Tortugas National Park. The ferry ride is a relaxing 2.5-hour journey, during which you might spot dolphins or sea turtles! The ferry offers a comfortable ride with insightful commentary about the park’s history and ecosystems.

Mid-Morning: Fort Jefferson Tour

Upon arrival, begin with a guided tour of Fort Jefferson—this massive coastal fortress is one of the largest in the United States and is rich with Civil War history. Kids will be fascinated by the story of Dr. Samuel Mudd, imprisoned here for his role in Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Explore the fort’s walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

Lunch: Picnic at the Beach

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the white sandy beaches. The ferry provides complimentary snorkeling gear, so gear up after lunch for an underwater adventure.

Afternoon: Snorkeling and Exploring

Spend your afternoon snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The coral reefs here are vibrant and teeming with life, offering a chance to see colorful fish, coral, and maybe even a shipwreck! The shallow waters around the fort are perfect for families and first-time snorkelers.

Late Afternoon: Return Journey

Head back to the ferry by 2:45 PM for the return trip to Key West. Relax on the deck, share photos from the day, and enjoy the serene ocean views as you conclude your day trip.

Note: Remember to book ferry tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Also, carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats to protect from the sun. Enjoy your family adventure to one of America’s most secluded national parks!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fort Zachary Taylor

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family adventure at Fort Zachary Taylor, a historic gem nestled in Key West, Florida. This coastal fortress, dating back to 1845, offers a blend of rich history, scenic views, and beachside fun.

Morning: Historical Exploration

Start your day early by heading to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, located at the end of Southard Street on Truman Annex. Parking is readily available. Begin with a guided tour of the fort, which starts at 11 AM. As you wander through the maze of red-brick corridors, learn about the fort’s role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Children will be fascinated by the largest collection of Civil War cannons in the U.S., and the tales of pirates and soldiers.

Afternoon: Picnic and Beach Time

After exploring the fort, unwind with a family picnic under the shade of Australian pines. The park has picnic tables and grills available. Post-lunch, change into swimwear and head to the beach, renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling; rental gear is available onsite. As you relax, keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that populate the area.

Evening: Sunset Celebration

Conclude your day with a stroll to the western end of the park to witness a spectacular Key West sunset, a sight not to be missed. The park closes at sunset, so timing your visit to coincide with this daily spectacle is perfect.

Interesting Fact

Fort Zachary Taylor played a crucial role during the Cuban Missile crisis, serving as a base for U.S. Navy ships.

This itinerary promises a fulfilling day at Fort Zachary Taylor, blending educational tours with leisurely beach time and spectacular natural beauty, ensuring that every family member has a memorable experience.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Southernmost Point of the Continental USA

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to the Southernmost Point of the Continental USA - Key West, Florida

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

- Morning: Start your adventure in Key West by visiting the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street. It"s a brightly painted buoy that marks one of the most photographed spots in the U.S. It"s just 90 miles to Cuba from here! Arrive early to avoid the crowds and get that perfect family photo.

- Afternoon: After snapping your photos, take a leisurely stroll to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, located about a 15-minute walk north. This magical spot houses over 50 butterfly species and several exotic birds, making it a delightful experience for kids and adults alike.

- Evening: As the sun sets, head over to Mallory Square, about a 20-minute walk from the conservatory. This historic location is famous for its daily "Sunset Celebration," where street performers, food vendors, and artists gather to celebrate the evening. It’s a vibrant, festive atmosphere that’s perfect for families.

Day 2: Historical Adventures and Beach Time

- Morning: Start your day at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, a short 10-minute walk from the Southernmost Point. Tour the beautiful Spanish Colonial house where the famed author wrote many of his works. The kids will love seeing the six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s original pets.

- Afternoon: After grabbing lunch, spend your afternoon at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, a quick drive or bike ride away. It’s not only a beautiful beach with clear waters but also a significant historic site with Civil War-era fort tours available.

- Evening: End your day with dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches and perhaps a slice of Key lime pie, a must-try local specialty.

Tips

- Getting Around: Key West is very walkable, and there are plenty of bike rentals available. For a more unique experience, consider renting a golf cart for your family.

- Stay Hydrated: Key West can be warm, so carry water bottles during your explorations.

Enjoy your family trip to the Southernmost Point, filled with culture, history, and unforgettable seaside views!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.