I can’t believe that it took us 15 cruises to finally have a cruise port day in Key West.
Key West is a great cruise port stop with many options walkable from the cruise terminal. It’s especially easy to navigate with Google Maps because U.S. cruisers we could take our phones out of airplane mode and use them just as we would at home.
There is so much to see and do in Key West and it has such an interesting history. You can visit Hemmingway’s house, take a pic at the Southernmost point or even go on a ghost tour. This was our first time in Key West so I wanted to see a little bit of everything.
First Stop – The Hop on Hop off Key West Conch Tour Train
The Conch Tour Train seemed like a great way to get an overview of the area, not missing any of the highlights! My plan was to ride the route in its entirety and then make the loop again “hopping on and off” where we wanted to explore more closely.
The tour was narrated by the driver who was quite entertaining but fast-talking. In fact, the tour was quite fast. The Train didn’t really stop and look at anything in particular. It was a drive-by viewing. 😉 If you are looking for a tour that pauses for you to take a quick pic or two, this one may not be for you.
Our guide pointed out many highlights and we did get a great overview of the area. We also received a fun history lesson on the Conch Republic as well as a few fun Jimmy Buffet references. There were two scheduled stops along the way. The first was to see if anyone wanted to hop-on or hop-off and the second was at a little gift shop/convenience store. This stop was for those that needed a restroom break, wanted to purchase a quick souvenir or try a bite of key-lime pie. The Conch train tour was not the hop-on, hop-off variety where you could get out at Hemingway’s House or directly at the Southernmost point.
As planned, we remained on the train until it returned to the original station. At that point, we decided that we were ready to walk and explore on our own. The tour was a good option to get a little bit of history and a quick view of the sights, especially if you have mobility issues. But, we enjoy walking and exploring and I wish that we had kept the $62.90 (for two people) in our pocket. You can save a few dollars by purchasing your tickets in advance online here.
One of the interesting places we noticed while on the train was the Key West Lighthouse and of course the photo opportunity at the Southernmost Point. So, we decided to head off on our own!
The Key West Lighthouse & Keepers Museum
The Key West Lighthouse & Keepers Museum entrance fee for adults of $12. You can find additional information here.
The Lighthouse was built in in 1847. The area is very well-kept and a great place to check out while you are in Key West. The view from the top is worth the hike up the very steep 88 step, curved staircase. Unfortunately, it was very cloudy and raining during our visit which limited the view but on a clear day, it would be fantastic! We could even check out Empress of the Seas from the top.
One word of caution, there is only one way up/down the lighthouse which probably seems obvious. However, passing people who are climbing up while you are descending can be a little scary. (Maybe it’s just me).
Cruise Port Day in Key West Must Include the Southernmost Point
Following our lighthouse adventure, we headed to the Southernmost point. This is when the rainy/cloudy day worked to our advantage because the line wasn’t too long!
After our photo opportunity at the Southernmost Point, we headed toward the marina and checked out the beautiful boats. Brian enjoyed a flight of beer at Waterfront Brewery and later I had a margarita at The Boathouse (great service!) I recommend both!
Our final stop before returning to the Empress of the Seas was to visit Rodriguez Cigar Factory – a recommendation from my friend Jessalynn a.k.a. The Nerdy Traveler.
Getting a cigar was high on Brian’s wish list when we were scheduled to visit Cuba so this was the next best thing. We had a great time with our friends and while they enjoyed their cigars, I enjoyed some yummy Cuban coffee.
Did We Enjoy our Cruise Port Day in Key West? Yes!
Key West can be crowded although we REALLY lucked out being the only ship in port. It can also be touristy and pretty pricey. However, it also has a very cool vibe. There is art everywhere you look and everyone we met was very friendly. If you are into Instagram-worthy spots, check out Key West!
My favorite part was walking along the marina and stopping for a snack or a drink along the way. I kept hearing Jimmy Buffet’s, “Boat Drinks” in my head and it made me smile and truly thankful to be there.
Key West is a pretty special place and I truly hope we can visit again soon.
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Happy Travels!
Jillian
