Key West Trolley Tour: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the City

Historical Significance

Key West has a rich history that spans over 400 years. The island played a significant role in the early exploration and settlement of the New World, serving as a strategic location for pirates, wreckers, and smugglers. Today, visitors can learn about the island's fascinating past by taking a tour on the Old Town Trolley.

One of the most notable figures in Key West's history is Ernest Hemingway, who lived on the island for over a decade. Hemingway's former home is now a museum and popular tourist attraction. Visitors can see the author's writing studio and learn about his life and work in Key West.

In addition to Hemingway's legacy, the island has many other historical sites and landmarks. The Old Town area of Key West is home to a number of beautifully preserved Victorian homes and buildings that date back to the 1800s. The trolley tour takes visitors past more than 100 points of interest, including the historic Key West Cemetery, the Truman Little White House, and the Southernmost Point Buoy.

The Old Town Trolley Tour is a great way to explore the island's rich history and learn about the people and events that shaped Key West. The fully narrated tour provides visitors with a comprehensive overview of the island's history and culture, and allows them to see all the best sights and attractions. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun and informative way to explore the island, the Old Town Trolley Tour is a must-see attraction in Key West.

Notable Stops and Attractions

Old Town

The Old Town is one of the most popular stops on the Key West Trolley Tour. The area is rich in history and architecture, with many of the buildings dating back to the 1800s. Visitors can explore the charming streets and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the town. Some of the notable attractions in the Old Town include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Harry S. Truman Little White House.

Mallory Square Key West

Mallory Square is a vibrant and bustling area in Key West, located on the waterfront. The area is known for its street performers, artists, and vendors. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean and watch the famous Key West sunset. Some of the notable attractions in Mallory Square Key West include the Key West Aquarium, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, and the Shipwreck Treasure Museum.

Hotels in Mallory Square

There are many hotels and accommodations available in Mallory Square Key West. Some of the popular options include the Ocean Key Resort & Spa, the Pier House Resort & Spa, and the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa. These hotels offer luxurious amenities and stunning views of the ocean.

Sunset Celebration in Key West

The Sunset Celebration is a daily event that takes place in Mallory Square Key West. Visitors can watch the famous Key West sunset and enjoy live music, street performers, and local food vendors. The event is free and open to the public.

Southernmost Point In US

The Southernmost Point in the US is a popular attraction in Key West. Visitors can take a photo with the landmark buoy that marks the southernmost point in the continental United States. The area is located just a few blocks away from the famous Duval Street.

Southernmost Point Guest House

The Southernmost Point Guest House is a historic bed and breakfast located in the heart of Old Town Key West. The guest house offers charming rooms and suites, as well as a relaxing pool area and a complimentary breakfast.

Duval Street

Duval Street is the main street in Key West and is known for its lively atmosphere and unique shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore the street and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Some of the notable attractions on Duval Street include the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, the Key West Museum of Art and History, and the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum.

Truval Village

Truval Village is a charming neighborhood in Key West that is known for its colorful houses and unique architecture. Visitors can explore the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Some of the notable attractions in Truval Village include the Key West Cemetery and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

East Martello Fort

The East Martello Fort is a historic fort located in Key West. The fort was built in 1862 and is now home to the Key West Art & Historical Society. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of Key West and the surrounding area.

Museums and Points of Interest

When visiting Key West, one of the best ways to explore the city is through the Old Town Trolley Tours. With more than 100 points of interest, visitors can hop on and off at various stops to explore the city's museums, attractions, and landmarks.

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

One of the most popular stops on the trolley tour is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This museum is located in the heart of Old Town and was once the home of the famous American author, Ernest Hemingway. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and see where Hemingway lived and wrote some of his most famous works. The museum also houses a collection of Hemingway's personal belongings, including his typewriter and hunting trophies.

Key West Aquarium

Another popular stop on the trolley tour is the Key West Aquarium. This aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish. Visitors can take a guided tour of the aquarium and learn about the different species that live in the waters around Key West. There are also interactive exhibits where visitors can touch and feed some of the animals.

Shipwreck Treasure Museum

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum is another must-see stop on the trolley tour. This museum tells the story of the many shipwrecks that have occurred off the coast of Key West over the years. Visitors can see artifacts that have been recovered from these shipwrecks, including gold and silver coins, and learn about the history of salvaging in the area.

Sails to Rails Museum

The Sails to Rails Museum is located in the historic Key West Railroad Station and tells the story of how Key West went from a bustling port town to a major railway hub. Visitors can see exhibits on the history of the railway in Key West and learn about the people who worked on the trains.

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a unique stop on the trolley tour. This indoor conservatory is home to hundreds of butterflies from around the world. Visitors can walk through the conservatory and see the butterflies up close as they fly around and land on flowers and plants.

Overall, the trolley tour is an excellent way to explore the museums and points of interest in Key West. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the city while also seeing some of its most famous landmarks and attractions.

Exploring Beyond Key West

While Key West has plenty to offer, visitors may also want to explore the surrounding areas to get a taste of the wider Florida Keys. One popular option is taking a day trip from Miami to Key West, which offers a chance to see the sights along the famous Overseas Highway.

The drive from Miami to Key West takes around 3.5 hours, but the journey is a treat in itself, with stunning views of the ocean and the chance to stop at other Keys along the way. Once in Key West, visitors can take a trolley tour to get a sense of the city's history and landmarks.

For those who want to venture further afield, there are plenty of other day trips to consider. Visitors can take a boat tour to the Dry Tortugas National Park, which is home to Fort Jefferson and some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Keys. Another option is a trip to the nearby island of Marathon, which offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere than Key West.

Back in Miami, visitors can continue their exploration of South Florida with a variety of day trips. The city's famous beaches, such as South Beach and Miami Beach, are always popular, as are attractions like the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Miami Seaquarium. For those who want to get out of the city, the Everglades National Park is just a short drive away.

Overall, there are plenty of options for visitors who want to explore beyond Key West. Whether it's a day trip from Miami or a boat tour to a nearby island, there's always more to see and do in the Florida Keys.

Additional Experiences

In addition to the standard trolley tour, there are several other experiences that visitors to Key West can enjoy. These experiences cater to a variety of interests, including history, the supernatural, and more.

For those interested in the supernatural, the Ghosts & Gravestones tour is a must-see. This expert-led tour takes visitors through some of the most haunted locations in Key West, including the notoriously spooky Fort East Martello. The tour also includes a stop at the island's oldest cemetery, where visitors can learn about the history of Key West's most notable residents.

For those looking for a more in-depth tour experience, the Expert Tour is a great option. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes visitors off the beaten path and into some of Key West's lesser-known neighborhoods. Along the way, visitors will learn about the island's unique history and culture, as well as some of its most interesting residents.

For those looking to make the most of their Key West vacation, there are several package deals available that include multiple tours and activities. These packages often include trolley tours, as well as other popular activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and more.

Overall, there are plenty of additional experiences to be had in Key West beyond the standard trolley tour. Whether you're interested in ghosts, history, or just want to make the most of your vacation, there's something for everyone in this unique and fascinating island town.

Key West Hotels on the Beach

Key West is a beautiful tropical paradise located at the southernmost point of the United States. Visitors flock to this island to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. One of the best ways to experience the island is by taking a trolley tour, which allows visitors to see the sights and sounds of Key West in a comfortable and convenient way. However, when it comes to finding a place to stay, many people want to be close to the beach. Here are some of the best hotels in Key West that are located right on the beach.

Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is a luxurious hotel located on the southern end of the island. The hotel has its own private beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The hotel also has two oceanfront pools, a spa, and a fitness center. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including ocean view rooms, suites, and cottages. The hotel also has several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar.

The Reach Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

The Reach Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is another luxurious hotel located on the southern end of the island. The hotel is situated on a beautiful stretch of beach and has its own private pier, which is perfect for fishing and boating. The hotel also has an oceanfront pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including ocean view rooms, suites, and cottages. The hotel also has several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar.

Southernmost Beach Resort

Southernmost Beach Resort is a charming hotel located on the southern end of the island. The hotel is situated on a beautiful stretch of beach and has its own private pier, which is perfect for fishing and boating. The hotel also has two oceanfront pools, a spa, and a fitness center. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including ocean view rooms, suites, and cottages. The hotel also has several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar.

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa is a modern hotel located on the western end of the island. The hotel is situated on a beautiful stretch of beach and has its own private pier, which is perfect for fishing and boating. The hotel also has an oceanfront pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including ocean view rooms, suites, and cottages. The hotel also has several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar.

Overall, there are many great hotels in Key West that are located right on the beach. Visitors can choose from luxurious resorts or charming boutique hotels, depending on their preferences and budget. Regardless of where you stay, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful tropical paradise.

Key West Pet Friendly Hotels

For pet owners, finding a hotel that accommodates their furry friends can be a challenge. However, in Key West, there are several pet-friendly hotels that offer comfortable and convenient accommodations for both humans and pets.

One such hotel is the Sunrise Suites Resort. This hotel offers pet-friendly rooms, with a maximum of two pets allowed per room. There is an additional pet fee, but the hotel provides amenities such as a pet wash station and a dog park. The hotel is located just a few miles from the famous Duval Street, and guests can enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to the downtown area.

Another pet-friendly hotel in Key West is the Hyatt Residence Club Key West, Beach House. This hotel is located right on the beach and offers pet-friendly rooms with a maximum of two pets allowed per room. The hotel provides pet bowls, beds, and treats upon request, and there is a designated pet relief area on the property.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Best Western Key Ambassador Resort Inn is a great choice. This hotel is located just minutes from the airport and offers pet-friendly rooms with a maximum of two pets allowed per room. There is an additional pet fee, but the hotel provides amenities such as a pet walking area and pet waste stations.

Overall, pet owners visiting Key West have several options for pet-friendly accommodations. From luxury beachfront hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something for every budget and preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the stops on the Key West trolley?

The Key West trolley tour has 13 stops that cover all the major attractions of the island. Some of the popular stops include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Southernmost Point, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Key West Aquarium.

How long is the Key West trolley tour?

The Key West trolley tour is a 90-minute fully narrated tour of the island. However, with the 13 stops, free re-boarding, and an all-day pass, visitors can take as much time as they want to explore and enjoy the attractions.

How much does it cost to ride the trolley in Key West?

The cost of the Key West trolley tour varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. The standard one-day ticket costs $47.83 for adults and $23.92 for children. Discounts are available for military personnel, seniors, and groups of 10 or more.

Is there a free trolley in Key West?

No, there is no free trolley in Key West. However, visitors can purchase a one-day pass for the Key West trolley tour, which allows them to hop on and off the trolley at any of the 13 stops throughout the day.

What is the difference between the Key West hop-on hop-off trolley tour and the Old Town Trolley Tours?

The Key West hop-on hop-off trolley tour is operated by Old Town Trolley Tours. The main difference between the two tours is that the hop-on hop-off tour allows visitors to explore the attractions at their own pace, while the Old Town Trolley Tours is a fully narrated tour that covers all the major attractions of the island.

What are some popular Key West tours that include the trolley?

There are several popular Key West tours that include the trolley, such as the Hemingway Home and Key West Trolley Tour, the Conch Tour Train and Trolley Tour Combo, and the Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour. These tours combine the trolley tour with other attractions and activities to provide visitors with a comprehensive experience of the island.