If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable family getaway, you’ll find it in Key West. It’s a welcoming place where your children will find plenty to do, and you’ll have a great time, too. As part of the Florida Keys, this tiny island city is readily accessible from practically all major airports, and it’s also within driving distance of Miami. The wide range of accommodations, activities, and dining options reflect a wide range of interests and preferences, so it’s easy to plan the ideal trip. Here’s just a sampling to get you started.
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Comfort and Convenience
Key West has resorts, hotels, motels, and campgrounds for every budget and family vacation style. There are also multiple private homes, condos, and cottages for rent. Consider whether you want amenities like on-site dining, kitchen access, pools, organized kids’ camps or spa facilities available to help you decide. Resorts and hotels may also offer greater opportunities for socialization with other kids and family programs like movie nights or lawn games; on the other hand, private accommodations give you greater flexibility and may be more affordable if you have a large family and will need multiple hotel rooms. You may also be able to rent or borrow bicycles, which allow you to explore Key West at your leisure.
Book a Family Fishing Trip
There’s nothing like fishing in Key West, even if you are an avid family of anglers at home. A charter fishing trip is a great way to spend an afternoon together, and the best part is that experienced and novice anglers alike are welcome on All In Fishing Charters’ trips. All the gear you need is included, and you’ll have a great time because the captain is a Key West local; he knows what’s in season and where the best locations are to make the catch of a lifetime. And don’t forget to see about entering your catch in one of the many on-going fishing tournaments that happen in Key West!
Join the Sunset Celebration
With the Sunset Celebration that’s held nightly at Mallory Square, there’s no FOMO–the party goes on, night after night. Join fellow tourists and lots of locals, along with musicians, performers, food trucks, and craft vendors for a family-friendly and fun-filled experience. Mallory Square is located at the end of Duval Street, making it easy to get to, and the early hour of the celebration means even the youngest can participate, as the event revolves around the setting sun. If you arrive with time to spare, check out the numerous shops around the area.
Enjoy the Grilled Lobster at Eaton Street Seafood Market
Fresh seafood is one of the big draws to Key West, and dining at Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant truly delivers. Every day, the crew at Eaton Street gets the best seafood delivered from local fishermen so customers get only the best grilled lobster, fish sandwiches, fish tacos, conch fritters, and more. And for the little kids (or big kids) who don’t like seafood, the menu includes chicken fingers, too, so even choosy guests will find something to enjoy. Meals are offered to-go for convenience or you can grab a seat in the charming outdoor dining area. If you’re staying in a place with a full kitchen and like to prepare your own meals, you can also buy your seafood from Eaton Street to make your family’s favorites.
Explore the Outdoors
Key West offers plentiful opportunities for children of all ages to get outside and discover the unique flora and fauna that sets this island apart from anything they’re likely to encounter at home. Local beaches allow snorkeling, and you can also enjoy the sport at Dry Tortugas National Park, where multiple coral reefs are there for discovery. Check out the local botanical gardens and don’t miss the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory for an up-close and interactive tour you’ll never forget. Entering the enclosure where butterflies are free to fly among beautiful trees and flowers is like stepping into a whole new world.
Discover Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
While you may initially think that adding a Civil War-era state park to your itinerary will get nothing but groans from your kids, you may all be pleasantly surprised by all this park offers. Of course, there’s the historic fort itself where you can take a tour and learn more about how Key West fits into American history. But this park is so much more than that! There are hiking and biking trails, beaches, and a fishing jetty. The park’s snack bar makes it convenient to grab a light meal or snack, and the views from shore offer amazing opportunities for great photographs.
A Winter Break They Won’t Forget
There’s something about traveling with kids that tends to make everything feel new again when you experience even the most familiar things through their eyes. The time your kids get off for winter break is enough to thoroughly enjoy a warm weather vacation to someplace that’s fun and welcoming. Key West delivers comfort and convenience so that all of you can have a good time, and really, that’s what family vacations are all about.