Key West: Things To Do

Audubon House and Gardens Once a sea captain’s home, some believe that legendary naturalist/artist John James Audubon stopped by to sketch birds in 1832. Out back, find an acre of tropical gardens with carefully labeled flora. 205 Whitehead St.; 877-294-2470; www.audubonhouse.com
family | history | nature

Ernest Hemingway House See where Hemingway cranked out many of his novels and short stories when he wasn't fishing or throwing one back at Sloppy Joe's Bar. Descendants of his famous cats still roam about. 907 Whitehead St.; 305-294-1136; www.hemingwayhome.com
family | history

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Tour the fortress completed in 1866 or skip to the beach at the southern end for snorkeling, picnic tables, nature trails, and a snack bar. Entrance at Southard and Whitehead Sts.; 305-292-6713; www.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor
beach | family | outdoors | history

Key West Aquarium Sea World it is not, but kids still love the indigenous nurse sharks, stingrays, and Tarpon fish and the hands-on interaction touch tanks provide with creatures like starfish and hermit crabs. 1 Whitehead St.; 800-868-7482; www.keywestaquarium.com
family | nature

Key West Museum of Art & History Visit the imposing red-brick 1891 Custom House (once a post office, later a government center) with its dramatically steep gables. Art and exhibits demonstrate Key West’s heritage. 281 Front St.; 305-295-6616; www.kwahs.com/customhouse.htm
family | culture | history