Family trips are often hard to plan because of how heavily scheduled everyone is these days.
Most kids are juggling sports and school, and parents are organizing carpooling after work while
keeping up with household tasks and caring for older parents. You know that all of you need a
break, but where? Key West. You can be there in just a few hours of flying time, and there’s
enough to do so that even the pickiest family members will have a great vacation. Who knows, it
could even become an annual trip for your family! Here’s why families love Key West.
Great Food
If you’re dealing with everyone’s different food preferences, getting a meal may seem like a real
challenge. The good news is that Key West has plenty of places that are highly regarded when
it comes to American, Spanish, Vietnamese, French, Mediterranean, and Caribbean dishes.
Among the stand-out spots is Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant. The menu
showcases freshly caught seafood favorites prepared as crab cakes, grilled lobster, fish tacos,
and conch fritters. There’s plenty of casual outdoor dining space available, or you can take your
order to go. This is ideal when you’d like to picnic or relax after a long day back at your hotel
room.
You’ll quickly notice that key lime pie is everywhere in Key West. It’s the signature dessert here.
Visit Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe for a wide selection of from-scratch pies that include
the traditional key lime as well a creative alternative like strawberry key lime. Enjoy a slice or
buy a whole pie, and don’t miss the chance to browse the rest of Kermit’s key lime products.
The shop stocks plenty of snacks like crackers, cookies, and candies as well as great kitchen
accompaniments like sauces and chutneys. And don’t forget the practical key lime lip balm, too!
More top restaurants include Duetto’s Pizza and Gelato, which is locally famous for its hand-
tossed pies and homemade gelato. Locals and tourists have been loyal to Duetto’s for years,
and once you try their food, it’s easy to see why.
Engaging Museums
Key West is so full of culture and history, and the many museums here reflect that. But these
are far from the staid and straight-laced museums you might be thinking of. Here in Key West,
even the cultural attractions are a little more exciting. Popular museums include the Key West
Lighthouse Keepers Quarters and Museum, President Harry S. Truman’s Little White House,
and Ernest Hemingway’s home.
For an up-close look at shipwrecks and sunken treasure, definitely check out the Mel Fisher
Maritime Heritage Museum. Exhibits and artifacts share with visitors more about who were the
earliest visitors to the Americas and what these travelers carried with them. You’ll also be
introduced to the life and work of trailblazing explorer Mel Fisher, whose efforts made this
museum possible. Learn about real-life Caribbean pirates and how shipwrecks are located and
their cargo recovered. The museum even offers behind the scenes tours where you can learn
more about the conservation of these important discoveries.
The Thrill of Outdoor Adventures
The fishing in Key West is legendary, and with the availability of charter boat fishing, it’s
practically effortless for all of you to enjoy. All In Fishing Charters customizes your excursion
depending on what’s in season and what type of fishing you are interested in, such as deep
water or flats fishing. Typically, charters are available for half-day and full-day trips, and all the
fishing gear you need is provided to you. All you need to pack is your lunch and things like your
hat and sunglasses. All In Fishing’s vessel is comfortable and well-stocked for anything, and the
captain is a local who knows the waters well to ensure you get the fishing experience you want.
The island of Key West also has multiple local beaches where swimming, sunbathing, and
snorkeling are free and easy. These beaches also typically offer beach chair and umbrella
rentals, as well as snorkeling gear rentals. And if you’re traveling with your family dog, check out
Higgs Beach where dogs are welcome to play at the dog park. On the southwest side of Key
West, check out the local state park, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Along with tours
offered regularly, you can swim, bike, hike, and fish, which makes it easy when family members
want different activities. Because many hotels offer bicycle rentals or loans, you’ll find it easy to
access these local parks and beaches.
Making Memories That Last
If you’re used to stressful family vacations, Key West may seem like a breath of fresh air. There
is so much to do for kids of all ages, you may even find your family wanting to return year after
year! So the next time you’re considering a family getaway, put Key West on your list.
