Museums
Despite being a sun-drenched paradise island with a Caribbean vibe, Key West has more to offer than relaxing island life. This cool, eclectic spot’s home to some fab museums, perfect for when you need respite from the soaring heat. Florida Keys – Eco Discovery Center
A replica of the Aquarius undersea laboratory isn’t the only colorful offering at this fun-filled center. You can also discover appealing exhibits explaining the importance of the unique ecosystems of the Keys including its mangroves, beaches, and marine life. The free admission makes it purse-friendly, too.
35 East Quay Road, Key West FL 33040. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Part museum, part interactive reenactment, this museum’s a place to step back in time and learn about the island’s maritime heritage. Join "wreckers" dressed in period costumes reliving the adventures of Key West’s early pioneers, and don’t miss a trip up the 65-foot lookout tower.
1 Whitehead Street, Key West FL 33040.
Marine life
Kids love animals, it’s a fact. So if you’re looking to occupy little minds, Key West’s prime animal-filled attraction is bound to do the trick. Key West Aquarium
If your little ones are wondering what lies beneath Key West’s cyan seas, head to the tropical fish-filled Aquarium. Watch as clouds of jellyfish bob past, or stroll down to the shark-feeding exhibit to spy nurse, sandbar and bonnethead sharks snapping at their fishy snacks.
1 Whitehead Street, Key West Florida 33040.
Fun in the sun
Key West’s scattered with stretches of palm tree-speckled shore, perfect for dreamy picnic days on the beach. Plonk your stuff on a shaded table and enjoy frolicking among the soft grains of sand. Smathers Beach
An upbeat family-filled coastal spot brimming with sun loungers, Smathers Beach is Key West’s longest and most popular. Active teens and their parents can rent surf boards and jet skis, or grab a volleyball to play a game on the hot sand, while little ones will be happily occupied building sandcastles on the shoreline.
S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West FL 33040
Family dining
Seafood’s the king in Key West, but if your little ones aren’t big on fish, there’s still plenty of choice of family restaurants. These include colorful shacks dishing out tasty lunchtime snacks – pretzel anyone? – to child-friendly bistros serving up pasta dishes, pizza, and other family faves. Garbo’s Grill
If you fancy a taste of some of Key West’s best snack food, seek out Garbo’s Grill. Mums and dads can feast on yummy fish tacos, while little ones munch on fresh from the grill burgers and hot dogs, all of which are served up from a food truck - great for grabbing snacks on the go.
409 Caroline Street, Key West FL 33040.
Dante’s
Impress teenagers with a trip to Dante’s. Arguably one of Key West’s hippest restaurants, head here for a lazy poolside lunch or a lively dinner serenaded by the latest resident DJ. Food at Dante’s is reliably good with a down to earth menu that’ll suit the whole family.
951 Caroline Street, Key West FL 33040.
