A Snowbird's Long Stay Key West Itinerary
Your Perfect Vacation Destination
Let me guess... you’re daydreaming of a warm winter getaway in a milder climate, but the usual hot spots don't entice you; you’re looking for somewhere a little unexpected & new. If you're sick of spending winter inside curled up next to the radiator, check out our favorite five warm-weather experiences in Key West during the winter. If you’re looking to spend longer in Key West than the average tourist, then these places are must-visits. You should also check out our guide to living like a local if you’re looking to really immerse yourself like a true Key-Wester.
As we always say, Key West has something for everyone, and it’s home to the most colorful festivals and eclectic events all year round for locals and visitors. Whether you're an art, culture, foodie, music, or sports enthusiast, you'll find something fun and unique here while vacationing in the sun.
Moving on to our Snowbird Itinerary, here is the official bucket list for Key West.
Once you arrive, you can't miss exploring every single corner of this secluded island full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from nature trails to wacky historical spots.
Start your trip by visiting the Everglades National Park: Explore one of the largest national parks in the states. This enormous wetland park is home to manatees, crocodiles, and enough birds to satisfy the most serious binocular enthusiasts among us. If you’re a nature lover, this is a must-do for sightseeing!
Drive North to Shark Valley for a sunset adventure: If you’re looking for an afternoon expedition, drive north to Shark Valley, one of the best spots in Everglades National Park for wildlife viewing. End the day with an airboat ride through the Everglades.
Dive into the Biscayne National Park: Located in the south of Miami. 95% of this park is water, so the best way to explore it is by boat. You will love this park if you’re into any water activity, such as, snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, or simply cruising around by boat.
Continue your water activities and go snorkeling in Key Largo: Key Largo is world-famous for its diving and snorkeling. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the best place to go. Numerous dive and snorkeling companies will take you out for a few hours or longer. Take a look at some providers here.
Go island hopping to Fort Jefferson National Park and the Dry Tortugas: A small collection of islands off the coast of Key West, heading to the Dry Tortugas is a must for any visitor. You travel to the islands by ferry, which often includes a meal, before embarking on the islands to check out the sites. Fort Jefferson is one of the top spots to see as it’s an old Civil War site that held many inmates, including the doctor that treated John Wilkes Booth. You can also go to the beach to relax or snorkel off the coast!
Taste Key West flavors: With its proximity to the Atlantic and the Gulf, locally caught, deliciously fresh seafood is the star of the show here. Key West is known for its pink shrimp, crab, spiny lobsters, and other water-bound delicacies. Although seafood is king here, there’s lots more to choose from. Keep reading to discover our favorite dining spots (not in any particular order!).
Explore self-guided nature and wildlife trails: The dazzling colors of wildlife, and beautiful seascapes stretching to the sky, await. Lucky for us, our two-by-four-mile island features gorgeous, leisurely walks through some of the natural ecosystems of the Florida Keys, but where are they hidden? Here we share our four favorite trails in this island's pristine nature.
Learn a bit about history & scandalous history facts about Key West: You can go visit the Hemingway museum based in his old residence and the rare multi-toed cats that live there… or for true history hunters, there's a rich background full of quirky facts that won't surprise most Conchs, but might raise some eyebrows from our visitors. As Mayor Tony Tarracino said, "Key West is an insane asylum. We're just too lazy to put up the walls or fences." Learn more here.
Experience Key West like a Local: Who doesn’t like to live every travel experience like a local? We’ve already gone through how not to be a tourist in Key West. Take a look at the top offbeat attractions & unique things to do in Key West, get off Duval Street and into the quirky side of the Keys, starting off with a spooky option.
Enjoy a full day of amour for you and your boo: If you’re into romantic dinners, beautiful nature, and unforgettable adventures, there's no better place to do all of the above than in this couple’s paradise. It’s packed with plenty of cheesy things to do across this island. From dinners overlooking stunning sunsets to exploring turquoise waters with your better half, we’ve compiled a full day of amour for you and your boo.
Explore the dark side of Key West: Do you get a thrill out of the paranormal? Does the macabre tickle your fancy? If so, you’re in the right place. Let’s take a midnight stroll through the eery, cobwebbed history of Key West. Dubbed one of “the most haunted” cities in the world, its terrifying past has inspired books, tours, and more than one tourist to drop their ice cream in fright. The seemingly ordinary streets of the Conch Republic were once bathed in the blood of murder victims, pirates, Civil War soldiers, and so much more. Take a look at the ghost city tours here.
Last but not least,
Dive into Key West Holiday Events and Activities: Sip cider and indulge with holiday cookies at the Holiday Sights & Festive Nights; this list is another excellent way to get in the spirit of the holiday season.
Get A Free Travel Plan for Your Long-Stay Vacation
Key West is a magical place beloved by snowbirds. You are in for a real treat if you have never visited before. Let us help you plan your perfect vacation for free & get you the authentic Key West experience.
As we mentioned above, from action-packed adventures to low-key relaxation, Key West is the perfect destination to vacay at your own pace and in your own style.
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