Relax and Unwind: The Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a unique chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and laid-back island vibes, the Florida Keys are a popular destination for travelers worldwide. With so much to see and do, there’s no shortage of adventure in this tropical paradise.
One of the most popular activities in the Florida Keys is to relax and soak up the sun. With miles of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, visitors can lounge in the sun, swim, and snorkel to their heart’s content. But, of course, there are also plenty of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the Florida Keys are home to some of the best fishing in the world. From offshore fishing for marlin and sailfish to inshore fishing for tarpon and bonefish, there’s something for every angler. And with world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, visitors can explore the coral reefs and see a wide variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks.
Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Key West, Florida, is the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A. It’s a concrete monument with a sign on top that claims to be the southernmost point in the United States.
You can access the location from several different points. The closest is about a 10-minute drive from the airport. However, you can also get there by bike or by hiring a pedicab. Another option is to take a bus to the Southernmost Point. Alternatively, you can walk it.
People come worldwide to get a picture with the symbol on the buoy. In addition, there are restaurants and “southernmost” branded gift shops.
The location is on the southernmost point of the mainland, but the island is privately owned. So, it may not be the southernmost point of the continental United States.
Sloppy Joe’s
Sloppy Joe’s is a well-known bar located at the corner of Greene and Duval Streets in Key West, Florida. The establishment has been in operation for over 80 years. Known for its excellent food and drinks, it is a staple for tourists and locals. It is open 365 days a year.
Although there are several other famous bars in the Keys, Sloppy Joe’s is the most famous. With a variety of drinks, great food, and live music, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular places in the area.
One of the most prominent features of Sloppy Joe’s is the original Sloppy Joe sandwich. This sandwich has been a staple in the Keys for many years.
Truman Little White House
Truman Little White House in Key West, Florida, is a presidential retreat and museum. The house was built initially for naval officers, but after WWII, it became the private sanctuary of Harry Truman. In addition to being a presidential retreat, it served as a base of operations during the Cold War. It is the only Presidential Museum in Florida and is open to the public.
During the Cold War, the Little White House was home to several key summits, including the Marshall Plan and the creation of the Department of Defense. Presidents Jimmy Carter, George Bush, Bill Clinton, Dwight Eisenhower, and Barack Obama have all visited this Key West landmark.
The house was deeded to the State of Florida on January 1, 1987. It was restored with the help of private donations and has been turned into a museum. There are numerous exhibits showcasing the history of the Naval Base and its role in naval conflicts.
Schooner Wharf Bar
If you’re a fan of the classic yachts of Key West, the Schooner Wharf Bar is the place to be. This waterfront bar has served delicious local seafood and live entertainment for decades. Aside from being the perfect place to hang out with friends and family, the bar offers plenty of specials and events.
The Schooner Wharf’s Open Air Art & Music Affair is held in the historic Seaport district. It’s an annual event highlighting the talents of local artists and musicians. Not only is the event fun, but it’s also a great way to help support local artists while enjoying the company of a few well-made cocktails.
There are several other events held at the Schooner Wharf during the year. These include the Minimal Regatta, Battle of the Bars, Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, and Victory Party.
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
The Eco-Discovery Center in the Florida Keys is a great place to learn about the ecosystems of the Florida Keys. This museum features interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations on East Quay Road in Key West. It is free to visit and offers a variety of educational activities.
At the Eco-Discovery Center, you can learn about the ecosystems of the Florida Keys, from the coral reef to upland habitats. There are over 6,000 square feet of exhibits in this air-conditioned facility. They include a replica of the underwater research laboratory Aquarius.
The Eco-Discovery Center also has an underwater video camera that lets guests observe coral spawning and assess the damage caused by boat grounding. Guests can also learn about the management efforts of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.