13 Things to Do in Key West With Kids

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If you are considering bringing your kids to Key West, Florida, you’ll be surprised to learn about all the exciting things to do there.

From Key West Dolphin Watch to Do it All Watersports Adventure, there’s something for the entire family to take part in.

Key West used to be called Bone Island.

When the Spanish settled in Key West, they named the island Cayo Hueso, which means Bone Island due to the number of scattered bones throughout.

So, if you are having a hard time trying to decide which attractions to visit on your vacation to Key West, this guide will provide you with some of the most kid-friendly attractions for kids.

13 Things to Do in Key West With Kids

1. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

601 Howard England Way l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-292-6713

You may not find immaculate beaches all over Key West, but you will if you head on over to Fort Zachary.

You will find various water sports, beach chairs, and umbrellas across 54 acres of land.

If you enjoy nature, you are going to enjoy the nature trails and reefs.

Fishing is also allowed in certain areas.

This is a perfect place to bring your kids and the entire family to have a picnic or engage in a few water sports.

2. Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise

231 Margaret St l Key West, FL 33040 l 786-933-8324

This attraction is ideal for children between the ages of 1 and 3.

It is fun, accessible, affordable, and educational.

If your kids love dolphins, this is the perfect opportunity to see them.

You can even participate in snorkeling.

You will feel relaxed as the breeze hits you from the sea.

Your kids will enjoy watching the dolphins jump high as if they are giving you a show.

The beauty of this attraction is amazing.

3. Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure

245 Front St l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-508-1951

Depending on the city you visit, you won’t get to enjoy many water activities.

However, you will have the opportunity to see various wildlife and sharks right here at Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure.

It all begins with a boat ride off.

There will be baits to attract the sharks.

This is your chance to see them.

Before you know it, you will see sharks surrounding your boat.

But besides sharks, your kids will get to see turtles, dolphins, and stingrays.

The entire attraction lasts about two hours.

4. Sheriff’s Animal Farm

5501 College Rd l Key West, FL l 305-292-7000

If you have kids that enjoy farm animals, Sheriff’s Animal Farm is the perfect place to be.

It is a unique attraction that is home to more than 150 exotic farm animals.

It is located right under the Stock Island detention center.

So, that means that the inmates of the detention center are in charge of taking care of abandoned and abused animals that live there.

It’s a great educational experience for children of all ages.

5. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

35 Quay Rd l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-809-4750

If you have young toddlers and aren’t sure where to bring them, the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a great idea.

Not only is the cost to get in free but there’s a great learning opportunity for all.

The eco-center provides visitors with an in-depth look at the natural ecosystems in Key West.

There are also many exhibits to check out including a 2500-gallon aquarium and various satellite maps.

There are also many activities for your kids to participate in such as crafts, games, and puzzles.

6. Shipwreck Treasure Museum – Key West

1 Whitehead St l Key West, FL 33040

Another great destination to bring your kids to Key West is the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum.

It is half a museum and half a theme park.

This is the perfect destination to bring your kids to hear stories of more than 400 shipwrecks that have occurred right here in the Keys.

You will be greeted with a 15-minute storytelling presentation prior to entering the museum.

You will have the opportunity to check out artifacts that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

There are also many video presentations and recordings that you can check out.

7. Sunset Celebration

Mallory Square Pier 420 Wall St l Key West, FL 33040 l 786-565-7448

If you have kids on your next trip to Key West, don’t forget to check out the Sunset Celebration.

It is full of entertainment, lively crows, and gorgeous skies.

This is perfect for the entire family.

You will also see everything from musicians, jugglers, psychics, and even flying cats.

Don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs and take some underwater pictures before you head out.

8. Key West Garden Club

1100 Atlantic Blvd l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-294-3210

If you’re looking for a nice relaxation spot in Key West, look no further than the Key West Garden Club.

This attraction is perfect for the whole family. It is located within West Martello Fort.

You will be enticed by the immaculate brick pathways, courtyards, and abundant grounds.

You will also be able to check out a rare group of flora featuring beautiful waterfalls and a water lily pond.

You can sit back, relax, and stroll on through with your family or enjoy a nice picnic.

9. Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum

200 Greene St l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-294-2633

If you’re looking for a museum that is perfect for your little kiddos, bring them to Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum.

It is dedicated to Mel Fisher, who is a famous treasure hunter.

The museum is home to many natural objects dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

These artifacts are ones that were discovered by Mel in the 1960s.

Additionally, the museum has also added several new additions to educate guests about pirates, Spanish coins, and shipwrecks.

10. U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum

Southard St l Key West, FL 33041 l 305-292-5072

If you’re looking for another exciting learning attraction for your kids and family, consider the Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum.

It is considered one of the most furnished warships in the United States.

Cutter Ingham served in several wars.

This museum is dedicated to his service and other veterans who served the country.

It is also a tribute to the service and life of the ship.

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the sunset in a special viewing area.

11. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

1316 Duval St l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-296-2988

Whether it’s a rainy day or too hot outside, and you’re looking for an escape for your kids, consider the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

The conservatory features more than sixty types of butterflies in addition to floral plants, birds, and much more.

There are also various displays on site such as a butterfly nursery.

You may even just stumble upon a monarch butterfly hatching right before your eyes.

It is perfect for kids of all ages.

12. Old Town Trolley

1 Whitehead St Naval Air Station l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-296-6688

The entire family will enjoy the Old Town Trolley in Key West.

It is ideal for children of any age.

This is a great opportunity to see and learn about Key West’s history.

If you aren’t up for driving, you and the kiddos can hop on and off the trolley right here at Old Town Trolley.

You can stop and get off to check out everything that the district has to offer.

A voucher must be purchased for every passenger on board.

It allows you to conveniently tour the area.

13. Audubon House

205 Whitehead St l Key West, FL 33040 l 305-294-2116

Located only several blocks away from Ernest Hemingway’s home is Audubon House.

Perfect for the entire family, you will get a chance to check out the beautiful herb garden, a plant nursery, brick walkways, and much more.

You will also be able to check out paintings from the guy himself, John James Audubon.

The building itself is fascinating because it features architectural designs from the stairways to the woodwork accents.

Key West Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Key West Safety Review

Safety Index:

67

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM