Down in the southern most part of the continental United States, lies a string of islands in Florida that are known for their laid back & tropical atmosphere. These string of islands are actually called keys, because unlike islands, which form due to volcanic action or tectonic plate movement, keys are small, low-elevation islands that are built or formed on top of coral reef. The Florida Keys span more than 120 miles, are comprised of 44 major keys, and 42 bridges. Each Key has something unique to offer, but the southernmost key, Key West, is famous for being an island paradise.

Every livable of Key West’s tiny 7 square miles is packed with color, music, and amazing food (and drinks!), and there is truly never a dull moment. The plant and animal life are shockingly beautiful and bursting with life and the sunsets are beyond stunning.

We feel so blessed to have been able to have visited for a full week this June, so we have been able to visit my family’s favorite spots that they have come to love over the past 20 years. If you are planning a visit, read on for a few of our most-loved things to do, see, and eat!

Whether you are planning for first or your fortieth trip to Key West, I always think it’s a good idea to learn something from the Old Town Trolley. It’s a great way to start your first morning comfortably adjusting to the heat and seeing the entire island. It’s a hop on and off trolley, so if you see something you want to do, you can get off on one of the 13 stops and then get back on later. My parents love to ride the whole tour once for the full 90 minutes and then stay on to go to whatever stop they want to visit first. The tour guides are impressively knowledgable and each tour guide adds their personal anecdotes and flair to the trip. You could easily ‘wing’ your trip and pick out things to do just from riding the trolley alone! Or…

If you don’t want to wing it, check out our next post for the top things to do in Key West, FL!