Key West Cruises: Depart from Miami or Tampa
If you're thinking about a cruise departing from Miami or Tampa, Florida, consider an itinerary that includes a stop in Key West. A cruise to Key West provides the opportunity to visit the southernmost point in the United States and immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. You'll discover many stunning sights and engaging activities on a cruise to Key West, along with a variety of delicious local dishes to savor. Continue reading to find out why visiting Key West is easy with Dinogo.
Notable Sights & Attractions in Key West
Key West is brimming with captivating and historic landmarks. This sun-soaked destination offers an abundance of unique attractions. Here are a few historical sites to explore during your cruise.
Make sure to visit the marker for the southernmost point in the United States. Interestingly, Key West is actually closer to Havana, Cuba, than Miami. At this iconic photo opportunity, you'll find a sign declaring that Cuba is just 90 miles away. You're also conveniently located near the famous South Beach, known as one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. Another great photo spot is Mile Marker 0, which marks the beginning of U.S. Route 1, extending all the way to Maine.
Southernmost Point, Key WestDuval Street is the main thoroughfare in Key West. Though it's just a mile long, it's packed with some of the finest shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Be sure to take a leisurely stroll down Duval if you can.
Don’t miss visiting some of the historic homes and buildings in Key West, including the Harry S. Truman Little White House, where Truman spent 175 days during his presidency. Another must-see is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Hemingway and his wife fell in love with Key West and decided to build their home here in 1851. This residence was notable for being the first on the island to have indoor plumbing and a swimming pool.
Harry S. Truman Little White HouseActivities to Enjoy in Key West
Consider hopping on the Key West Old Town Trolley or the Key West Conch Tour Train. Both offer a journey back in time. This 90-minute guided tour highlights over 100 historical sites throughout Old Town. Given that Key West boasts one of the largest historic districts in Florida, a transportation tour is essential to see everything. Alternatively, you can opt for a walking or bicycle tour if you prefer a more active experience.
For those eager to get on the water, booking a catamaran sail and snorkel trip is a great option, taking you to some of the finest coral reefs where you can swim among vibrant tropical fish and stunning coral. If you're torn between options, the Key West by Land and Sea tour combines both experiences, featuring a ride on a glass-bottom catamaran followed by a tour on the Conch Tour Train, a favorite in Key West since the 1950s.
Train enthusiasts should check out the Historic Seaport District, home to the Flagler Museum, which honors Henry Flagler and the railroad that linked the Florida mainland to Key West. Another must-visit is the Key West Shipwreck Museum at Mallory Square, perfect for maritime lovers. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower for stunning views of the island.
Additional activities include visiting Key West's Aquarium and Butterfly Nature Garden and Conservancy. Start by exploring hundreds of marine species, and don’t miss the touch tank for a closer look at local sea life. Afterward, enjoy the sight of free-flying butterflies and beautiful birds from around the globe — a perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos.
Delicious Eats in Key West
The renowned key lime pie of Key WestNo trip to Key West is complete without indulging in the iconic key lime pie. While key limes are rare in Florida today, bakers in the Florida Keys source them from Mexico or the West Indies. These limes are both bittersweet and highly acidic, making them ideal for this beloved dessert. Since not all key lime pies are created equal, seek out a spot that bakes them fresh every day.
For savory options, don’t miss trying conch, which comes from the beautiful pink shells found in many souvenir shops. The most popular preparations include conch fritters and conch chowder. Due to Florida's regulations protecting conch, any you enjoy will be farm-raised or imported from the Bahamas.
If seafood is your preference, be sure to sample Caribbean spiny lobster and Key West's famous pink shrimp, often referred to as "Key West pinks." They’re caught right off the coast and can be ordered steamed, as peel 'n' eats, or featured in a delightful dish.
Thanks to its proximity to Cuba, Cuban cuisine is prevalent throughout the Florida Keys. Along with the delicious Cuban sandwich, be sure to try local specialties like ropa vieja and camarones al ajillo.
Key West LighthouseStill unsure about which Key West cruise suits you best? If you're in the midst of planning your trip, consider signing up for email updates from Dinogo to stay informed about cruise deals and special offers. You’ll receive the latest news and exclusive discounts directly in your inbox. Where will your next cruise take you? Share with us in the comments!
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