Key West, FL offers visitors an escape from the hassles of everyday life. This laid back oasis located at the end of the Florida Keys is a definite must for those looking to get away from the stress in their lives. Head down to Old Town and Duval Street, and forget about what you left behind. Below you’ll find the top 10 places you have to go when you’re in Key West.
1. SOUTHERNMOST POINT
Whitehead and South Street Key West, FL 33040
A tourist trap indeed, but one you’ll want to take advantage of. 90 miles from the coast of Cuba, this landmark draws tons of visitors to take a picture of the giant “buoy”. People line up in droves at this monument so you’ll want to make plans to go early in the day to avoid the rush.
2.PEPE’S CAFÉ
806 Caroline St, Key West, FL 33040
http://www.pepescafe.net/
Claiming to be the oldest restaurant in town, Pepe’s is a must for those looking for a great meal and inviting atmosphere. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself there for every meal. This place is the quintessential establishment that usually is overlooked by visitors, but known by all who live in Key West that this is the place to eat.
3. FORT ZACHARY STATE PARK – BEACH
560 Porter Ln, Key West
http://www.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor/
This beach is hands down the best beach in Key West. The ultimate relaxation spot to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and watch the cruise ships come and go. There are also beach chair and umbrella rentals, clean restrooms, and a snack bar that has those “chocolate covered key lime pies on a stick. While it deters some visitors due to the longer than average walk to get there and admission fees, you won’t find another beach like this in Key West.
4. MALLORY SQUARE
1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Around 5:00 p.m. you’ll want to head over to Mallory Square and take in the Sunset Celebration. Local vendors set-up shop and conduct performances, sell crafts, and entertain all. Here you can buy a great picture of the sunset to take home, some yummy conch fritters, and an amazing mojito. With all those in hand, find a spot by the pier and watch one of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see.
5. IRISH KEVEN’S
211 Duval St # C, Key West, FL 33040
There are a lot of bars in Key West, but none come close to this laid back and irresistible spot. Live music is performed nightly, and it’s a guarantee that your favorite songs will be played. Irish Kevin’s is so popular that it’s not uncommon to see a bride and groom hammering beers right after their wedding reception. Just be prepared to join in on the singing, this isn’t a place to come and hide.
6. MARGARITAVILLE
500 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
http://www.margaritaville.com/
No trip to Key West would be complete without a stop at Margaritaville. This hangout is always hopping, so go on in and grab a cheeseburger and fries, an icy cold ‘rita, and listen to the live band. This is paradise.
7.ANGELINA’S PIZZARIA
208 Duval St, Key West, FL
http://www.angelinaspizzakeywest.com/
After a long night of bar hoping stop by Angelina’s Pizzeria and grab a slice from the entertaining guys behind the counter. While pizza isn’t a specialty of Key West, it is a staple of the American diet, as well as a low cost meal option.
8. PARADISE RENTALS
1112 Fitzpatrick St, Key West, FL 33040
Key West only measures two by four miles, so what better way to see it all than to rent a bike! This is the best way to travel throughout the island, as parking is extremely limited. Plus, you don’t have to worry about following a map, just take off an see where you end up, Key West is too small to get truly lost.
9. CONCH TOUR TRAIN
1805 Staples Ave # 101, Key West, FL 33040
For those who want a more relaxing way to site see, the Conch Tour Train is the way to go. This 90-minute ride brings you through Old Town, letting you enjoy the sites without the chance of missing a key landmark. No need to worry about wearing yourself out, this tour brings Key West to you.
10.BLOND GIRAFFE KEY LIME PIE
107 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
http://www.blondgiraffe.com/
Before you leave Key West, be sure to stop by the award winning Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie factory and pick up something to take home. Nothing compares to the Key lime pies here, but that’s not all you’ll find, they also have Key Lime Rum Cake, and 100% Arabica coffee. And if you find yourself missing Key West when you get home, don’t worry, you can order a pie to be sent right to your door. Sweet.
