Navigating the US: Getting Around in Key West, Florida
The islands of Key West are known for their accepting, laid-back culture. Despite over one million tourists making their way to the islands for food, sunshine, and sand every year, the islands have maintained their individual identity and offers an array of activities for the most active to the most laid-back visitor.
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Recommended Modes of Transportation
The best way to get around Key West is by bicycle, golf cart, motor scooters, or on foot. If renting a golf cart, keep in mind you have to pay for parking for a golf cart as well. Scooters and bikes are convenient since they can be parked right outside your destination, but you’ll want to make sure you have insurance incase anything is damaged or stolen. Driving can be difficult in the area, and parking is expensive. If you plan to travel or stay anywhere between Sugarloaf Key to Florida City you will need a car.
Major Highways and Roadways to Know
Driving into Key West is simple since the Overseas Highway links all the towns in the Keys with mainland Florida, which then connects into the US Interstate network. The main street in Key West is Duval Street, where restaurants, shopping, and nightlife are abundant.
Alternative Ways of Seeing the City
Consider joining in a Key West Pub Crawl or the Southernmost Bike Tour for a unique way of discovering the Keys and meeting new people!
Best Places to Park
Parking in Key West can be tough. This guide has tips, tricks, and insider information to make sure you know all the ins and outs of parking in the area. If you’ll be driving, we highly recommend you take some time to learn the local parking expectations and nuances.
Also keep in mind that free parking is available in front of the USS Mohawk Museum, at the intersection of Southard St and Fort St.
Airports and Car Rentals
Key West International Airport is served by many major airlines, although most flights are routed through Miami International Airport or Atlanta, and can be quite expensive. Many visitors choose to fly into Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale International Airport.
If you are planning to rent a car upon your arrival to Key West International Airport, be aware that Enterprise and Alamo desks are not located at the airport. You will need to call their shuttle for a ride to the Truman Av. location.
Hotels and Attractions
According to tripadvisor.com, here are some of the highest-rated hotels:
- Romantic: Orchid Key Inn
- Best Value: Almond Tree Inn
- Vacation Rental: Key West Seashell Cottage
- Trendy: Santa Maria Suites
There is certainly no shortage of activities for the whole family. From water sports and beach-lounging to shopping and nightlife, there really is something for everyone (although, if you’re bringing the family along, we recommend avoiding spring break, when Key West gets flat-out wild).
Here is our list of must-see attractions.
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
- Vandenberg Wreck
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- Duval Street
- Swimming with Dolphins
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The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.