Fantasy Fest, the annual 10-day party in paradise, is a major event in Key West that attracts a significant crowd. While the exact number can vary from year to year, it’s estimated that the festival draws approximately 75,000 people from all over the world. This figure accounts for both local residents who partake in the festivities and tourists who travel to Key West specifically for the event. The significant attendance underscores Fantasy Fest’s popularity and its role as a key contributor to the local economy.
Steeped in a rich cultural history and drenched in sun-soaked beauty, Key West offers more than just an idyllic beach escape. A hidden gem in the crown of this tropical paradise is its vibrant festival scene. An essential part of planning your getaway to Key West should be the annual festival calendar. These events are a vibrant blend of local tradition, artistic expression, and jubilant celebration that beautifully encapsulate the spirit of Key West, offering an unparalleled and authentic experience for any traveler.
Key West Spring Festivals
Marathon Seafood Festival
As one of the oldest seafood festivals in the Florida Keys and the second-largest event in the region, the Marathon Seafood Festival is a much-anticipated highlight of Key West’s spring festivals. Originating from the tight-knit community of Marathon in the heart of the Keys, this festival was born out of local love for fresh-off-the-boat seafood and camaraderie among the fishers.
The festival is renowned for its showcase of a bountiful selection of seafood, fresh from the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Visitors are treated to a gastronomic extravaganza featuring lobster, shrimp, stone crab, and a variety of fish, all prepared with a unique Keys flair.
The Marathon Seafood Festival isn’t just about food, though. With its live music, crafts, and activities for kids, it’s a celebration of the maritime heritage and community spirit of the Keys, making it a must-visit event for both locals and tourists alike.
Conch Republic Independence Celebration
The Conch Republic Independence Celebration is an eccentric week-long festival that celebrates the spirit of independence and the unique culture of Key West. This event commemorates the day Key West declared itself a “micronation” back in 1982 in response to a U.S. Border Patrol blockade. This tongue-in-cheek secession led to the birth of the Conch Republic, a term that has affectionately stuck around to characterize the city’s distinctive charm and quirky sense of humor.
Throughout the week, the island is awash with a myriad of activities, including parades, parties, and a variety of contests, all encompassed by a vibrant, carnival-like atmosphere. The festivities culminate in a symbolic “battle” involving local boats and “bombs” made from stale Cuban bread — a playful nod to the Republic’s rebellious origins.
More than just a celebration of its historical past, the Conch Republic Independence Celebration aims to highlight the independent and irreverent spirit of its citizens while emphasizing its main goal: to bring more “humor, warmth and respect” to the world. This festival is an embodiment of the eccentricities of Key West, making it an unmissable event for those seeking to experience the local way of life in its purest form.
Key West Songwriters Festival
The Key West Songwriters Festival, founded by the music visionary Charlie Bauer, is another spring event that has become a staple in the Key West festival scene. Spanning five days and nights, this festival is the largest of its kind in the world. It offers an intimate look into the minds of the people who pen our favorite songs, celebrating the unsung heroes behind the hits.
Founded over 25 years ago by Bauer, the festival’s primary aim is to honor those who create musical magic behind the scenes. Today, it has transformed into a showcase of musical storytelling, attracting top songwriters from across the globe. The festival is spread across various iconic venues in Key West, including bars, theaters, and even sunset sailing trips, offering a unique experience at each turn.
Attendees have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of activities, from larger Key West concerts to smaller “in-the-round” song swaps, where songwriters share the stories behind their songs and the inspirations that led to their creation. Plus, with free shows making up the majority of the 50-plus shows across the five days, it offers an accessible music experience like no other.
Bauer’s vision for the festival was not just to celebrate songwriters, but to create an environment where creativity and collaboration could flourish. Consequently, the Key West Songwriters Festival isn’t just a series of concerts — it’s a community, a weeklong celebration of the art of songwriting that unites audiences and performers alike in their shared love of music.
Key West Summer Festivals
Key West Pride
Key West Pride is a vibrant weeklong celebration that honors openness and diversity, embodying the inclusive spirit that Key West is known for. This festival, hosted by the Key West Business Guild, is a celebration not only of the LGBTQ+ community but also of every individual’s right to be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.
The festival events range from lively street fairs to extravagant parades and include an assortment of parties and culture-inspired activities. One of the highlights is the parade, a spectacular event filled with flamboyant costumes, lively music, and rainbow flags fluttering in the sea breeze.
In line with the spirit of the festival, a rainbow flag, a globally recognized symbol of the LGBTQ+ community, adorns Duval Street throughout the festival. This flag is especially significant, as it was created by artist and gay rights activist Gilbert Baker. His original eight-striped version first flew in the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade in 1978.
Key West Pride is also proud of its association with the Guinness Book of Records. In 2003, Key West unfurled a 1.25-mile-long, sea-to-sea rainbow flag during the Pride festival. This monumental flag, created by Gilbert Baker himself, not only symbolized the unity of the LGBTQ+ community but also set a record in the Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s longest flag.
The Key West Business Guild, an organization established in 1978, is at the helm of planning and executing the Pride festival. One of the oldest LGBTQ+ business organizations in the U.S., the Guild’s mission is to promote LGBTQ+ tourism to Key West through marketing and the promotion of specialty events. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in establishing Key West as a welcoming and inclusive destination, with Key West Pride being one of its most successful and celebrated events.
Hemingway Days
Hemingway Days is a weeklong festival that celebrates the life, work, and enduring legacy of one of America’s greatest literary figures, Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961). This festival turns the spotlight on Hemingway’s time in Key West, where he lived and wrote during the 1930s, and his love for the island’s vibrant lifestyle and natural beauty.
The festival features a series of literary readings, theatrical performances, a short story competition, and fishing tournaments, reflecting Hemingway’s diverse passions. One of the main attractions of Hemingway Days is the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Held at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a favorite Hemingway haunt, this event attracts scores of burly, bearded participants each year, all hoping to be crowned as the best “Papa” look-alike.
These “Papas,” as they are affectionately known, don replicas of Hemingway’s signature attire — khaki safari clothes, wool fishermen’s turtleneck sweaters, and the occasional pair of boxing gloves (Hemingway was a boxing enthusiast). The contest, judged by a panel of previous winners, is not just about the physical resemblance. Contestants are also evaluated on their portrayal of Hemingway’s charisma and demeanor.
Hemingway Days, while honoring the author’s life and work, also encapsulates the spirit of Key West — its appreciation for history, literature, fishing, and most of all, a good party. Through this celebration, the island pays homage to its famous resident, keeping his legacy alive, and affirming its status as a haven for writers and artists.
Lobsterfest
Key West Lobsterfest is an annual summer extravaganza that marks the start of lobster season with a lively four-day celebration. This event is a deep dive into all things lobster, offering both locals and visitors a chance to indulge in this delectable crustacean in myriad ways. From street fairs and food-tasting events to lobster brunches and lively concerts, Lobsterfest is an immersive experience that paints the town with the spirit of the sea. With an array of activities that cater to all ages, it’s not just a culinary feast but a cultural experience that encapsulates the vibrant lifestyle of Key West. Indeed, the Key West Lobsterfest is not just one of summer’s biggest parties but also a testament to the city’s seafood heritage, making it a must-experience event for any seafood lover.
Key Lime Festival
The Key Lime Festival is an annual extravaganza celebrating the Florida Keys’ national fruit — the tart, tangy Key lime. This festival, inaugurated in the 1990s, glorifies the tiny citrus fruit’s significant role in the region’s cultural and culinary identity. A unique part of the festival’s history is the involvement of Indian Key Fill, a state park that was once home to the Seminole and Calusa tribes of the Keys. The tribes used the Key lime in their diet, and the festival pays tribute to this historical linkage.
The first lime festival kicked off on December 5, 1953, with Chamber of Commerce President Harry Harris introducing former U.S. Senator Claude Pepper and Florida’s Secretary of State R. A. Gray during a ceremony at Indian Key Fill. Spanning five full days, the festival is a delightful blend of tradition, entertainment, and gastronomy.
Each day brims with an array of activities that cater to a wide audience. Food-focused events dominate the schedule, in which attendees can sample an array of Key lime recipes, from the classic Key lime pie to more inventive dishes infused with the fruit’s distinctive flavor.
Baking enthusiasts can participate in the Key Lime Pie Making Championship, while those with a robust appetite may enter the Key Lime Pie Eating Contest. For those interested in history, there are walking tours exploring the Key lime’s impact on the region’s economy and culture.
Art and craft workshops offer attendees the chance to create Key lime-themed crafts, and live performances by local artists add a vibrant rhythm to the festival. The festivities culminate with a grand parade comprising local schools, businesses, and community groups, all marching under the tropical sun, their processions reflecting the local love for this diminutive fruit.
The Key Lime Festival not only celebrates a fruit but also embodies the community spirit, history, and culinary creativity of the vibrant Keys region. It’s a testament to the unique culture of the Keys and an unforgettable experience for both residents and visitors alike.
Key West Mermaid Festival
The Key West Mermaid Festival is a five-day aquatic extravaganza that draws mermaid enthusiasts from across the globe to the picturesque island of Key West. This whimsical festival, full of shimmering tails and oceanic festivities, is not only a celebration of the mythical sea creatures but also a significant event that highlights the importance of ocean conservation.
The festival’s schedule is brimming with a multitude of mermaid-themed events, designed to cater to all ages. These include mermaid meet-ups, swim encounters, ocean-themed parties, and a weekend mermaid- and ocean-inspired marketplace at Truman Waterfront Park. One of the festival’s highlights is the Mermaid Masquerade Ball, where attendees don exquisite mermaid attire and dance under the starlit Key West sky. However, the festival is more than just a celebration of mermaid lore.
A substantial focus is placed on raising awareness about the ocean’s delicate ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. The festival teams up with Reef Relief, a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding the marine life and coral reefs of the Florida Keys.
Reef Relief’s efforts are showcased through educational seminars, workshops, and cleanup drives during the festival. Attendees learn about the importance of coral reefs, the threats they face, and the simple, everyday actions they can take to protect these vital underwater habitats. The festival also raises funds for Reef Relief, ensuring the continuation of their vital work.
In essence, the Key West Mermaid Festival is a magical blend of fantasy and reality. It’s where mermaid dreams come to life against the backdrop of the beautiful Key West beaches, all while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural marine world. This annual event serves as a reminder of the enchanting beauty beneath the ocean’s surface that’s worth preserving.
July Fourth Celebrations
(U.S. Independence Day)
The July Fourth, also known as Independence Day, celebrations mark a pivotal moment in the history of the United States. On this day, the nation commemorates its liberation from England and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. An eloquent testament to the democratic spirit, this historic document was masterfully drafted by Thomas Jefferson and signed by our founding fathers, asserting the fundamental rights that every citizen should enjoy. While the Revolutionary War persisted until 1783 (England, determined to maintain control, prolonged the struggle), the States ultimately claimed victory, giving birth to a new nation. Today, the Fourth of July is celebrated with an exuberance that mirrors the joy and relief felt by those early patriots. It’s a day that not only reflects on the nation’s past but also celebrates its ongoing journey toward liberty and justice for all.
In Key West, the Independence Day festivities are truly unique, infusing the day with local flavors and traditions. The celebrations feature a slice of the region’s famous Key lime pies, providing a tangy tribute to the national fruit of the Florida Keys. The Key West Mermaid Festival intersects with the holiday, its shimmering mermaid-themed parades adding a dash of whimsy to the festivities. Live performances by local jam bands create a vibrant, rhythmic backdrop to the jubilations, keeping the spirit of liberty alive and beating.
As the day draws to a close, the skies over Key West light up in a spectacular display of fireworks, casting their brilliant hues over the sandy beaches and azure waters. These dazzling light shows serve as a visual echo of the sparks of revolution that ignited the nation’s fight for independence, reminding us of the bravery, resilience, and unity that continue to define America.
Key West Fall Festivals
Key West Brewfest
The Key West Brewfest is a flagship event of the fall season, traditionally held during Labor Day weekend. This festival is a paradise for beer connoisseurs, offering a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of brews amid the laidback, tropical ambiance of Key West. The main feature of the festival is the beer-tasting event on Saturday, which showcases an impressive selection of craft beers from renowned brewers spanning the country.
Different flavors, styles, and brewing techniques are celebrated, offering a diverse sensory experience for all attendees. But Brewfest isn’t merely confined to one day. Throughout the weekend, visitors can partake in a series of beer-themed events, including specialty beer dinners, beer brunches, pool parties, and even beer-inspired yoga sessions. The Key West Brewfest not only promises good beer but also a memorable experience in this picturesque oceanside town.
Key West Fantasy Fest
The Key West Fantasy Fest is an iconic annual event that has been enchanting the Florida Keys since its inception in 1979. It was initiated by a visionary quartet comprising Bill Conkle, Tony Falcone, Joe Liszka, and Frank Romano, who sought to bolster tourism during the quieter season with a vibrant celebration. The festival has since evolved into a grand spectacle, noted for its lavish parades, elaborate costumes, and unabashed revelry.
One of the key highlights of the festival is the grand parade that takes over Duval Street, featuring intricately designed floats that are a testament to the creativity and artistic talent of the locals. These floats, while an impressive spectacle, can cost thousands of dollars to construct, reflecting the significant investment and commitment of participants.
Every year, the festival crowns a king and queen, a tradition that adds a regal touch to the proceedings. The selection process for these honorary titles is not merely about festivity; it’s a significant fundraising endeavor for AIDS Help, a local nonprofit organization. Candidates campaign for weeks to raise funds, and the ones who raise the most are crowned the king and queen of Fantasy Fest.
From its humble beginnings, the Key West Fantasy Fest has grown into a premier event that is a testament to the spirit, creativity, and generosity of the Key West community. It’s a festival where fantasy is embraced and celebrated, and where everyday life is momentarily eclipsed by the extraordinary.
Goombay Festival
The Goombay Festival, a vibrant celebration created by locals Roosevelt Sands, his father Charles Major Sr., and Fred Scholl, all part of the Neighborhood Improvement Association, takes center stage in Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood. This lively festival has become synonymous with island-style cuisine, arts and crafts, nonstop live entertainment, and spirited dancing in the streets.
An annual event, the Goombay Street Festival serves as a high-energy tribute to the cultural ties between Key West and the Bahamas. Drawing thousands of attendees each year, the festival offers a visual feast of African and island arts and crafts, allowing visitors to purchase unique and culturally rich creations. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of ethnic delicacies, inviting festivalgoers to savor the flavors of this vibrant cultural exchange.
The highlight of the Goombay Festival is the lively atmosphere, where the streets transform into dance floors, and locals and visitors alike come together for two rollicking evenings of celebration. This annual event has become an integral part of Key West’s cultural tapestry, showcasing the shared heritage and lively spirit that defines the connection between Key West and the Bahamas.
Key West Womenfest
Key West Womenfest stands as a beacon, drawing thousands of lesbians, bisexuals, queer, transwomen, and allies to what is widely regarded as the premier LGBTQ+ vacation destination in the country. This vibrant festival, with a simple yet profound goal, sets out to celebrate all women.
The essence of Womenfest lies in its diverse offerings that cater to those who seek a space to socialize, embrace their true selves, bask in the sun, and then revel in the joy of lively parties and dance-filled nights. The festival has evolved significantly since its inception over 20 years ago, transforming into a standard for celebrating women of all ages, specifically those aged 21 and over.
Key West Womenfest embraces a spectrum of activities as varied and diverse as the attendees themselves. From poolside gatherings to sunset sailings, and competitive bull riding to comedy shows and live music events, the festival offers an array of experiences to cater to every taste and preference. Attendees can also participate in engaging workshops and panel discussions that delve into topics relevant to women and the LGBTQ+ community, fostering meaningful dialogue, understanding, and solidarity.
In essence, Key West Womenfest has become more than an event; it is a testament to inclusivity, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of Key West as an LGBTQ+ haven. The festival embraces the kaleidoscope of identities within the community and provides a platform for women to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories in the heart of Key West.
Key West Winter Festivals
Key West Lighted Boat Parade
The Key West Lighted Boat Parade is an enchanting annual celebration that seamlessly intertwines with the Harbor Walk of Lights to usher in the Christmas holiday season. Each year, a delightful array of boats takes center stage, transforming their sails, masts, and hulls into vibrant canvases adorned with Christmas lights and festive decorations.
Hosted by the Schooner Wharf Bar, this event has become a cherished tradition, etching its place in the memories of all who witness its magic. Key West locals enthusiastically participate by adorning their boats with holiday decor, creating a spectacular display of shining lights, twinkling stars, and even Santa making a grand entrance on a yacht.
The Key West Lighted Boat Parade is a community-wide spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Over 25 boats gracefully line up, illuminating the night with their festive displays. It’s an evening where people from near and far come together to revel in the holiday spirit, enjoying the picturesque sight of these illuminated boats as they glide through the waters, creating a luminous holiday panorama that truly shines in the vast night.
Key West "Bight" Before Christmas
November
The Key West “Bight” Before Christmas is a monthlong celebration held in November that illuminates the Historic Seaport with festive spirit and twinkling lights. This event, centered along the Nautical Harbor Walk of Lights, pays homage to Key West’s rich maritime history with a series of sea-themed decorations and events.
The Fishing Buoy Christmas Tree, a unique and colorful display, serves as the centerpiece of the celebration. Crafted from authentic, weathered fishing buoys, it represents the vibrant, hardworking spirit of the local fishing community.
Another highlight is the real pine Nautical Christmas Tree. Decked with seashell ornaments and nautical stars, it serves as a nod to the harbor’s rich seafaring traditions.
Also not to be missed is the Lobster Trap Christmas Tree. Constructed from genuine lobster traps, this distinctive tree offers a creative twist on traditional holiday decor, celebrating the role of lobster fishing in the area’s economy and culture.
The Bight plays host to a variety of events during this festive period, making it a hub of holiday cheer. From artisan markets to live music, the “Bight” Before Christmas truly captures the uniqueness of Key West’s holiday celebrations, blending tradition with coastal charm in a distinctly maritime tribute to the holiday season.
Key West New Year's Eve Celebrations
Key West is known for its vibrant and unique New Year’s Eve celebrations that draw thousands of visitors from around the world. The city, bathed in festive lights, comes alive with joy and anticipation, offering four distinct celebration points, each more fantastical than the last.
Perhaps the most famous of these is the descent of the “pirate wench” from the tall ship at Schooner Wharf Bar in the Historic Seaport. As the clock ticks closer to midnight, a local actress dressed in full pirate regalia descends from the mast of a tall ship, her progress marking the countdown to the New Year.
On Duval Street, thousands gather outside Sloppy Joe’s Bar to watch the annual “conch shell drop.” In a quirky twist on the traditional ball drop, a giant conch shell descends the balcony of the bar, marking the countdown to the New Year.
Meanwhile, at the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House complex, a glamorous drag queen named Sushi is lowered in supersized red high heels. This colorful event, known as the “Red Shoe Drop,” draws a large LGBTQ+ crowd and is covered live by CNN every year, bringing Key West’s New Year’s Eve celebrations into the living rooms of millions of viewers worldwide.
Finally, for those looking for a harbor-side view, the Historic Seaport offers the “A&B Marina’s ‘Harbor Walk of Lights’ New Year’s Eve Celebrations,” featuring live music, dancing, and an impressive fireworks display at midnight.
Key West New Year’s Eve celebrations encapsulate the city’s eclectic charm and free-spirited atmosphere. Whether it’s pirates, conch shells, drag queens, or fireworks, Key West offers a New Year’s Eve experience like no other, making it a must-see on any festive travel itinerary.
Mile 0 Fest
Mile 0 Fest is a unique four-day Red Dirt Americana music festival that takes place at the end of January. This boutique festival, which strictly observes an attendance cap to maintain an intimate and premium experience, seamlessly merges music appreciation with the natural beauty and relaxed island vibe of Key West. Set against the backdrop of swaying palms and clear blue waters, the festival presents music enthusiasts and holiday-goers with the rare opportunity to enjoy some of the finest Red Dirt Americana music in a tropical paradise. The festival not only showcases a diverse lineup of talented performers but also allows festivalgoers to partake in a variety of other experiences, such as beachside BBQs, fishing charters, and exploring the enchanting city. The Mile 0 Fest, in essence, offers a unique and unforgettable blend of music, leisure, and scenic beauty, encapsulating the true spirit of Key West.
Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival
The Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival is a cherished tradition that has delighted locals and tourists alike for the past 18 years. Held at the picturesque Bayview Park in Key West, this event is more than just a celebration of the sea’s bounty; it’s a community gathering that promises a memorable culinary adventure. Seafood enthusiasts are drawn to the festival’s wide array of fresh, locally sourced seafood, ranging from succulent lobsters to flavorful snappers. More than just a feast for the palate, the festival also serves as a platform for promoting sustainability and educational initiatives. By partaking in this event, attendees are not only indulging in some of the finest seafood but also contributing to the preservation of the marine ecosystem and supporting the local fishing industry. The Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival thus offers a unique blend of gastronomic pleasure, community spirit, and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Key West’s celebrations and festivals are a testament to its eclectic charm and vibrant cultural scene. From the unique maritime tribute of “Bight” Before Christmas, the exuberant New Year’s Eve celebrations to the bustling Fantasy Fest and the gastronomic delight that is the Key West Seafood Festival, there is a multitude of experiences waiting in this tropical paradise. The city’s musical landscape mirrors its cultural diversity, with festivals featuring an array of genres to cater to every music lover’s taste. So, whether you’re enticed by the prospect of a pirate wench climbing down a mast, a seafood feast, or a musical journey, Key West promises unforgettable experiences steeped in sea, sun, and fun.
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TOUR KEY WEST AND TWO MUSEUMS
Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
Visit Florida’s only presidential museum at the Harry S. Truman Little White House built on the waterfront of the harbor of Key West.
Journey back to the mid-19th century in the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Highlights include displays and video presentations on the history of wreck salvage in the Florida Keys and the sinking of the legendary Isaac Allerton.
- Conch Tour Train:
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- Harry S. Truman Little White House:
- See the home Harry S. Truman came to relax and rest
- Visit where Eisenhower recuperated from his heart attack in 1956
- Thomas Edison resided here during World War I
- Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum:
- Discover the world of Shipwrecking
- Hear the story of the Isaac Allerton which wrecked off Key West
- Climb a 65' Captain's Observatory
- Attraction tickets do not have to be used on the same day
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TOUR KEY WEST AND TWO TOP ATTRACTIONS
Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
Discover the undersea world at the Key West Aquarium. A Window of Wonder comes alive as expert guides explain the mysteries of the water surrounding the Florida Keys.
Journey back to the mid-19th century in the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Highlights include displays and video presentations on the history of wreck salvage in the Florida Keys and the sinking of the legendary Isaac Allerton.
- Conch Tour Train:
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- Key West Aquarium:
- Daily turtle feedings
- Touch Tank offers guests hands on experience
- A wide variety of fish including grouper, moray eels, barracuda, tropical fish and more
- Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum:
- Discover the world of Shipwrecking
- Hear the story of the Isaac Allerton which wrecked off Key West
- Climb a 65' Captain's Observatory
- Attraction tickets do not have to be used on the same day
Save up
to 5%
Conch Tour Train Tickets
to 5%
Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places including Mallory Square, The Harry S. Truman Little White House, Overseas Railroad Museum, the Key West Aquarium and more. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- FREE Full color map
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FAQ
The Key West Seafood Festival is held at Bayview Park in Key West, Florida. This popular event is a celebration of the sea’s bounty, offering an array of fresh seafood caught in the surrounding waters. From lobster and shrimp to snapper and conch, festival-goers can indulge in a variety of delectable dishes, all while enjoying the park’s scenic views and vibrant atmosphere. The festival also features live music, local artisans, and a fun-filled kid’s zone, making it a must-visit for both foodies and families.
Stone crab season in Key West runs yearly from October 15 to May 15. This period is the only time when these prized crustaceans can be harvested legally. Stone crabs are known for their delectable claws, which are a delicacy served chilled with mustard sauce, or warm with drawn butter. Unique to the harvesting of stone crabs is the practice of taking only one claw from each crab, allowing it to regenerate the lost one, thus promoting sustainability. The season’s start in mid-October is greeted with much anticipation, with local seafood festivals and restaurants celebrating the arrival of these beloved crabs on their menus.
The music festivals in Key West showcase a diverse array of genres, reflecting the city’s vibrant cultural scene. From rock to reggae, folk to funk, these festivals present a rich tapestry of sounds. The Key West Songwriters Festival, for instance, is renowned for its focus on country and folk music, attracting top songwriters from across the globe. On the other hand, the Key West Jazz Festival celebrates the best of jazz, bringing together both local and international talent. Additionally, the island’s Caribbean influence is apparent in the prevalence of reggae and calypso music at many events. No matter your musical preference, Key West’s music festivals promise an immersive and eclectic auditory experience.