20 Attractions to Explore Near Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

The Fort East Martello Museum is an exciting destination for history buffs and curious thinkers alike. From its unique collection of artifacts - ranging from memorabilia from the battles of the Spanish-American War to a plethora of relics from Key West's days as a cigar manufacturer - to its outdoor courtyards filled with century-old artillery and cannons, this museum is sure to provide hours upon hours of enriching entertainment.

Largest public beach in Key West. The beach is lined with coconut trees, and is approximately a half mile long.

Edward B. Knight Pier is a stunning beachfront destination on the Atlantic Coast. It is well-known for its expansive boardwalk that stretches around 1,100 feet of crystal clear waters and glistening white sands. Anglers love to cast their lines off of the pier, hoping to catch some mackerel or snapper while admiring the majestic views of surrounding Florida Keys. All visitors are treated to an array of outdoor activities like parasailing and dolphins watching boat tours as well as green spaces.

The West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club, are a fascinating mix of history and nature. The West Martello Tower is a Civil War-era stronghold that was initially built in the 1860s for defensive purposes but has since been transformed into an award-winning historic site and gardens area. Meanwhile, the Key West Garden Club is dedicated to cultivating native tropical flowers throughout the Key West area and hosts various events including art festivals and educational programs.

The Key West Cemetery is a unique and interesting place. Established in 1847, this cemetery is the oldest cemetery in the area and has 2 historic monuments located on the grounds. The graves represent a diverse range of people, including many immigrants who passed away while traveling through Florida's Key West region. The cemetery was created to honor those individuals as well as other prominent citizens of the Keys area.

Louie’s Backyard is a beautiful spot located in Monroe County, Florida. With its scenic views of the gulf and beautiful vegetation, the serene nature makes it a great destination for anyone looking to get away from it all. Whether you’re interested in a funny fishing trip with your friends or an opportunity to let loose and relax, Louie’s Backyard has something for everyone. The charming cabanas are perfect for lounging, while the tiki bar provides refreshments and drinks to savor.

The Sails To Rails Museum offers an amazing journey through the history of transportation in the area. Here visitors can explore some of the changes to local industry and commerce that have occurred since the 19th century. Visitors will be able to view maps and photographs depicting the switch from railroad transport to air travel. Exhibits also showcase different types of watercraft used throughout the region's history, including sailboats and trading ships.

Butterfly park that houses from 50 to 60 different species of live butterflies from around the world in a climate-controlled, glass-enclosed habitat.

It's a small but stunning island full of white sand beaches and crystal clear waters that offer some of the best snorkeling and fishing experiences in the world. The area is surrounded by its own state park, which serves as a hub for salutary activities like boating, kayaking, bird-watching and eco tours. And if you’re looking to stay overnight while adventuring around Bahia Honda Key, there are plenty of options available ranging from primitive campsites to secluded cabins with all amenities.

The Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A is located in Monroe County, marks the most southern spot in the United States. It is an unassuming yet symbolic concrete buoy designated with a white “90” indicating 90-degree longitude coordinates at latitude 25° 0’ 24" N and 80° 00’ 34" W. This landmark serves as a reminder of how vast our country really is and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Key West Harbor Channels, mangroves, and tropical foliage around it.

Residence of author Ernest Hemingway from 1931 to 1939, although he retained title to the home until he died. it is now populated by six- and seven-toed cats that are descendants of Hemingway's cats.

The Key West Lighthouse is an iconic sight and a local landmark. Standing tall atop its brick round foundation at the southernmost point of the United States, it offers stunning landscape views and a mesmerizing beam of white light that shines for miles across the night sky. It stands 80 feet tall and was built in 1847. During its lifetime, it has undergone several renovations to repair damages from numerous hurricanes, yet remains steadfastly standing on its hillside with great conviction.

Sloppy Joe's is a local favorite since 1937, serving up delicious comfort food. Sloppy Joe's is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner any day of the week, with American classics such as burgers and fries or their signature sandwich - the Sloppy Joe. The atmosphere within this eatery is reminiscent of a small-town diner, adding to its cozy charm. They have an impressive selection of beer and wine that pairs well with their traditional eats.

The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is an exciting attraction that visitors to the area won't want to miss. Situated near the heart of Old Town Key West, this historical landmark offers tours throughout it's extensive grounds. Built by Waldo Sexton in the 1920s and now a popular vacation destination, this unique property boasts gardens from around the globe, captivating 19th century buildings, and myriad native species of birds that thrive in the area.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is famed for its spectacular display of artifacts and treasures recovered from the sunken 1622 Spanish fleet. From cannons to coins, each item tells a piece of history that paints a beautiful story of the fight between the Spanish Armada and a developing America. With multiple attractions involving pirate ships, interactive exhibits, educational tours, and even treasure hunts often offered onsite.

Key West Shipwreck Museum is a unique experience for visitors. The museum takes guests on a historical adventure by showcasing the wreckage of various ships which sunk off the coast of Key West throughout the years. Items on display include starfish and shells found near the wreckage as well as artifacts that survived being underwater for over 500 years. Hands-on activities like panning for 'gold' in a replica San Miguel shipwreck are also popular attractions.

Built in 1891 as a United States customs house and post office, it houses 3 floors of permanent and visiting exhibitions featuring Key West’s wealth of cultural resources including maritime artifacts, plaster casts of Key West artists’ works, original 19th century music boxes, photographs of early Florida life and more. It also features three rotating classrooms and exhibits that showcase vibrant local culture, such as the annual art exhibition by the Historical Architectural Review Board.

Truman Annex Park is a breathtaking destination for anyone looking for a high-quality place to spend their leisure time. This beautiful park offers many great features for its visitors, such as disc golf, tennis courts, playgrounds and walking paths, a large pavilion that can be rented out for events, picnic tables and barbeque grills scattered throughout the entire area and charming ponds. The grounds are also well maintained and even have pet waste stations.

The Key West Aquarium offers a great opportunity to explore undersea life and observe some of the most amazing species from around the world. From dolphins and manatees to harbor seals and stingrays, there's something for every ocean enthusiast. Visitors can participate in guided tours to learn more about sea life and conservation, plus interactive shows like “touch tanks”! Plus, there’s a special play area with games, mazes and puzzles just for kids.

Every evening around sunset, Monroe County’s Mallory Square gathers many tourists and locals alike for the vibrant Sunset Celebration. Here you can experience a wide variety of vendors offering art and craft items, enjoy tasty snacks from food carts, and watch thrilling street performers including daredevil jugglers and fire eaters. As the sun sets, feel the energy build until its full glory is reached with crowd cheers. This event is a fantastic way to end each day in beautiful Monroe County.