Key West offers a mix of history, adventure, and relaxation, making it a great stop for cruise visitors. Our recent short cruise on the Celebrity Constellation from Tampa to Key West, Cozumel and Costa Maya was a 16th birthday trip for Payton, and we had a great time in Key West. If you only have one day in Key West, here are our cruise port tips!
History
Key West was originally inhabited by the Calusa people before being claimed by Spain in the 1500s and later transferred to the U.S. in 1822. In the 19th century, it flourished as a center for shipwreck salvaging, cigar manufacturing, and naval operations.
There are lots of historic buildings in Key West, here are just a few:
- History lovers can tour the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where the famous writer lived, and enjoy his 6-toed cats!
- Visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House, a former presidential retreat.
- The vibrant red brick Custom House Museum is a beautiful Romanesque building from 1891.
- The Oldest Schoolhouse, also known as the Patterson-Baldwin House, was built in 1847.
You can explore Key West in a hop on, hop off trolley, where you can get on and off as you wish. Or you can journey on your own, with plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from.
Iconic Landmarks
For iconic landmarks, a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy, just 90 miles from Cuba, is a must. The Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West is a boldly painted concrete marker set at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets, marking the southernmost point in the continental U.S.
Fun fact: The buoy isn’t actually the absolute southernmost land, the true point lies a short distance away on restricted Navy property!
Created in 1983 to replace a frequently stolen wooden sign, this 12‑foot-tall, 7‑foot-wide buoy was designed by local artist Danny Acosta and has since become one of Key West’s most iconic photo spots.
The Key West Lighthouse, originally built in 1825 and reconstructed in 1848 after a hurricane. Today, the lighthouse is preserved as part of the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum, where visitors can climb the 88 steps to the top for panoramic views of the island.
Take a picture with one of the Conch statues: The Conch Shell Statue is located in Bayview Park, and is shaped like a large, vibrant conch shell, representing the maritime heritage of the Florida Keys.
The “Man with Conch Shell” statue, officially titled The Musician, is a bronze sculpture located outside the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House. It depicts a man blowing into a conch shell — a traditional act symbolizing communication and cultural heritage in the Keys.
Watersports & Aquarium
Those looking for adventure can snorkel or kayak at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, known for its clear waters and coral reefs. Alternatively, take a glass-bottom boat tour or a jet ski excursion for a thrilling way to experience the island’s waters.
The Key West Aquarium, established in 1935 as the nation’s first open-air public aquarium, showcases over 250 species, including sharks, sea turtles, and rays. You can learn about marine conservation through interactive exhibits like shark feedings and educational presentations.
Chill Out in Key West
For a more laid-back experience, stroll down Duval Street, lined with lively bars, unique shops, and local eateries. Mallory Square is another great spot to soak in the island’s atmosphere, especially if you have time for its famous Sunset Celebration.
Be sure to try some Key Lime Pie and Conch Fritters before you leave. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island’s waterfront restaurants.
Cruise Stop Guide to Key West
Overall, Key West features a wide variety of activities without feeling overly touristy. We made our way around the city without swimming through crowds. There’s something for everyone, from historical sites to culinary hotspots to cute cats roaming the town. It’s a great day trip and also somewhere we would like to stay for longer.
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