Non-touristy things to do in Key West

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, in our recent blog about experiencing Key West like a local.  We also dive into the insider's to-do list, from ditching the typical hotels to how to discover authentic, hidden foodie gems. 
Today we’re going to highlight top offbeat attractions & unique things to do in Key West, and most importantly, where to stay when vacationing in the sun. (Spoiler alert, includes a free travel plan).
What follows are our five suggestions to get off Duval Street and into the quirky side of the Keys, starting off with a spooky option.

#1 Find the Wacky Epitaphs at Key West Cemetery

A fan of the creepy and unusual, huh? We’ve got you covered. We know a cemetery isn’t a typical tourist attraction, but this distinct cemetery from the 1800s has many curious and wacky epitaphs that you can stumble upon during your visit (hopefully, not literally.) 

Here are two of our favorite ones: "I Told You I Was Sick," - B.P. Roberts, and "If You're Reading This, You Desperately Need A Hobby." - Alan Dale Willcox.

We know what you might be thinking: is there anyone famous buried in Key West Cemetery? And the answer is yes, actually Key West is the final resting place of “Sloppy” Joe Russell, a well-known local bar owner and fishing guide for Ernest Hemingway, as well as “General” Abe Sawyer, a famous little person who requested to be buried in the grave of a full-sized man. 

Get your own map of Key West’s intriguing cemetery located in the heart of Old Town below.

#2 Scuba Dive Through The Vandenberg

If exploring a main attraction for top world divers intrigues you, then you need to go check out the 2nd largest artificial reef in Key West, which is actually a missile-tracking ship!

Believe it or not, The Vandenberg was intentionally sunk in 2009 to create an artificial coral reef. Yup, this ‘reef’ now helps to protect natural coral reefs. It also increases the amount of marine life, provides a new location for research and education, preserves the history of the ship, not to mention boosting the local economy, as it attracts scuba divers from around the world.

#3 Travel in Time to the Romantic Key West of Pepe’s

Can you smell it? Fresh out-of-the-oven Key Lime pie, biscuits, and freshly squeezed orange juice… just like in 1909. From the outside, Pepe’s looks like it hasn’t been improved since its first opening back in the 1900s. But don’t let the facade fool you - the food is actually one of the locals' faves when it comes to breakfast selections. 

If you’re a brunch lover, this menu is truly mouthwatering. Its variety and custom menu are based on what’s fresh and newly harvested. Where is it? Pepe’s is located on Caroline Street on the old commercial waterfront.

#4 Laugh it Off at Comedy Key West 

If you think that you’re hilarious (most of us do) you're more than welcome to join us for an open mic every Tuesday. This offbeat Key West activity involves comedy, drinking, and wet paint. Unusual comedy experiences like “paint ‘n’ chug” and uncommon “spelling bee” contests are knocking at your door, at Comedy Key West, the funniest club on the island (and the only one). 

Where to Stay in Your Key West Vacay

Whether it’s a private cottage on a nearby island or a one-of-a-kind villa near Duval Street… we have it all. 

B&B’s, Private getaways, luxury exclusive experiences, and budget-minded stays are available in your custom Key West experience. The most important question is where do you want to stay? Because we’re telling you, there's something for everyone on this side of paradise.

The best part? You can book it for free. Our relationships with local partners allows us to pass savings on to you, meaning you can book and plan your stay 100% free using our planning service. Leave it up to the local experts.