Things to Do in Key West With Kids — From Your Cruise Port

Key West guide: family-friendly attractions. Real, specific, no fluff.

Discover the Charm of Key West with Your Family

Located at the southernmost tip of Florida, Key West is a tropical paradise that's perfect for a family vacation. The island offers a range of kid-friendly attractions, activities, and amenities that make it easy to create memories with your little ones.

One of the best ways to get around Key West is by bike, and there are plenty of kid-friendly bike rentals available. You can also use the Key West Transit bus system, which offers a convenient and affordable way to get around the island.

Must-Visit Family-Friendly Attractions

Key West is home to a variety of attractions that are perfect for families with kids. Here are some of the top spots to visit:

• The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: This historic house-turned-museum is a must-visit for literature lovers, and kids will love seeing the six-toed cats that roam the property.
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: This beautiful conservatory is home to a stunning array of butterflies and tropical plants, and kids can even get up close and personal with the butterflies in the interactive exhibits.
• The Key West Lighthouse: Take a climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for breathtaking views of the island, and kids will love learning about the history of the lighthouse.

Exploring Key West by Bike

One of the best ways to see Key West is by bike, and there are plenty of kid-friendly bike rentals available. You can rent bikes at various shops around the island, and many of them offer kid-sized bikes and trailers for little ones.

Some popular bike routes for families include the Overseas Highway, which runs along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the ocean, and the bike path that runs through the Key West Cemetery, which is a fascinating place to explore.

Bike Rentals and Safety Tips

Before you head out on your bike adventure, be sure to rent bikes that are suitable for your family's needs. Many bike shops offer kid-sized bikes and trailers, and some even offer bike seats for little ones.

Be sure to wear helmets and follow all traffic laws, and consider bringing sunscreen and water to keep your family safe and hydrated.

Delicious Kid-Friendly Food Options

Key West is famous for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants that serve up delicious meals that your little ones will love.

• The Blue Heaven: This popular restaurant is known for its homemade pancakes and waffles, and kids will love the outdoor seating area with a play area.
• El Siboney Restaurant: This family-friendly restaurant serves up delicious Cuban cuisine, and kids will love the outdoor seating area with a playground.
• Bo's Fish Wagon: This casual eatery serves up fresh seafood, and kids will love the outdoor seating area with a play area.

Grabbing a Quick Bite

You can grab a quick bite at the Key West Lobsterfest, which offers a variety of seafood options, including lobster rolls and fish tacos.

Another great spot for a quick bite is the Southernmost Beach Cafe, which serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options, including omelets and sandwiches.

Getting Around Key West with Kids

Getting around Key West with kids can be easy, thanks to the island's convenient transit system. The Key West Transit bus system offers a range of routes that cover the entire island, and kids can ride for free with a paying adult.

Some popular transit routes for families include the #1 bus, which runs from the Key West Cruise Terminal to the Key West Lighthouse, and the #2 bus, which runs from the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to the Key West Cemetery.

Transit Tips and Tricks

Before you head out on the transit system, be sure to check the schedule and plan your route in advance. You can also use the Key West Transit app to track your bus in real-time.

Consider bringing snacks and water on your transit ride, and be sure to hold onto your kids' hands when walking to and from the bus stop.

Accommodations and Amenities

Key West offers a range of accommodations that are perfect for families, from cozy vacation rentals to kid-friendly hotels.

• The Marker Waterfront Resort Key West: This stylish resort offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant with a kids' menu.
• The Southernmost Beach Resort: This family-friendly resort offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a playground, and a restaurant with a kids' menu.
• The Westin Key West Resort & Marina: This upscale resort offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant with a kids' menu.

Many of these resorts also offer amenities specifically for families, such as kid-friendly pools and playgrounds, and some even offer kid-friendly activities and programs.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Key West is a magical place that's perfect for families, and with these tips and recommendations, you'll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories with your little ones.

Don't forget to take advantage of the island's many amenities and services, including the Key West Transit system and the many kid-friendly restaurants and attractions.

And when you're ready to exchange your money for some souvenirs or snacks, consider using a service like Portability to get the best exchange rates and avoid unnecessary fees.