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Key West, Florida, is one of the best places to visit in October. It’s so relaxed, it’s got gorgeous beaches and it has so much to do that it’s worth the trip. The summer crowds are dwindling, temperatures are cooler and the city comes alive with special seasonal events. There are enormous things to do in Key West Florida in October whether you are a history buff, an adventurer or a nightlife enthusiast. You will find something for everyone to ensure you have a wonderful time in the island paradise.
10 Best Things To Do In Key West Florida In October
Explore this coastal paradise and enjoy a playful vacation with the best things to do in Key West Florida in October:
1. Celebrate Fantasy Fest: Key West’s Iconic October Festival
Photo: Cayobo / Wikimedia Commons
Fantasy Fest is one of Key West’s most popular annual festivities in the final week of October. The 10-day festival is a lively, colourful affair of theme parties, costumes and parades that litter the streets of Key West. In its Mardi Gras style, Fantasy Fest attracts thousands of attendees every year who are all trying their hands at colourful and elaborate games. The festival is truly amazing in creativity and the streets are lined with costumes and floats. Though most events are open to adults, some are open to children, so it is an open party for everyone.
Location: Duval Street, Key West
2. Discover Marine Wonders At Dry Tortugas National Park
Photo: Lindsey C. Straub / Wikimedia Commons
Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely a stop one shouldn’t miss on a trip to Key West in October. Located 70 miles west of the island, this special place is endowed with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and the historic Fort Jefferson. Visitor access is only possible by ferry or seaplane. A day trip here can be truly unforgettable, filled with snorkelling, scuba diving and exploring marine life. October is one of the best months for good weather conditions, thus making it ideal for underwater activities. The park also has rich birdlife, perfect for a day out for nature lovers.
Location: 70 miles west of Key West (via ferry or seaplane)
3. Tour The Historic Ernest Hemingway Home And Museum
Photo: Andreas Lamecker / Wikimedia Commons
One of Key West’s best attractions is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can experience the author’s life. The house where Hemingway spent time, producing many of his best-known writings, is filled with relics. This includes his typewriter and his own belongings. It is cooler in October, so you can take a stroll through the garden around the house. Here dozens of six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s original pet cat, are kept. The tour also teaches you much about Hemingway’s life and Key West, and it’s an absolute must-see for book lovers and history buffs.
Location: Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040
4. Set Sail On A Memorable Sunset Cruise
Photo: Pjotr Mahhonin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A sunset from a cruise is one of the best things to see in Key West Florida in October because the sky is clear. These cruises usually showcase the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico, rendering the sky into a canvas of colour. Most cruises feature live music, drinks and food. This makes it an entertaining yet pleasant way to end your day. It is popular for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as well as families seeking an enchanting evening. Make sure to reserve your space early because these cruises sell out fast.
Location: Departs usually from Mallory Square and Key West Harbor
5. Enjoy Water Sports At Higgs Beach
Photo: Bohao Zhao / Wikimedia Commons
Higgs Beach is an amazing place for people who love to have a wide variety of water activities in Key West. The mild weather is ideal for renting a kayak, paddleboard or jet ski in October. The sea is cool, and the sand is less crowded, making it an ideal place to swim, snorkel and relax. The beach also has an old pier, kid’s playground and shaded picnic tables, being perfect for families. For both beginners and more experienced water sports enthusiasts, Higgs Beach is a fun and safe spot for water activities of any sort.
Location: Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
6. Visit The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
Photo: Martin E. Walder / Wikimedia Commons
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is a quiet haven away from the chaos of Key West. The conservatory features hundreds of butterflies, as well as a tropical garden of exotic trees, waterfalls and birds. It is perfect to go in October because the butterflies are at their most prolific during cooler, milder months. You can take a tour by yourself or participate in one of the staff’s guided tours. The conservatory is a great destination for kids, nature lovers and anyone who enjoys the serenity and beauty of a private nature walk.
Location: Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
7. Take A Ghost Tour To Uncover Key West’s Haunted History
Photo: Dominuz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Key West is no stranger to ghost stories, and October is a great time to visit for a ghoulish ghost tour. These ghost tours guide you through haunted houses, graveyards and ancient monuments. The guides tell you horror stories about pirates, shipwrecks and haunted houses. The Halloween spirit of October makes the whole thing a little more interesting and fun. The tours are kid-friendly but a little creepy, so brace yourself for a few goosebumps. It is a great way to discover the darker side of Key West history while having a unique and engaging activity.
Location: Various departure points, often starting at Mallory Square
8. Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Photo: Marc Averette / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is an attraction for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts. The park is home to a Civil War-era fort that offers informative tours to teach you about Key West’s military past and wartime strategic significance. The park is also home to one of the most beautiful Key West beaches. It has crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The best time to visit the park is in October as it is cooler. You can comfortably walk through the nature trails and picnic by the beach. The park’s view of the Gulf of Mexico is a nice perk.
Location: Key West, FL 33040
9. Attend The Key West Songwriters Festival For Live Music And Entertainment
Photo: vedi Note legali / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Key West Songwriters Festival is a special event that brings songwriters from all over the country together. This is for a concert at different locations on the island. The main festival tends to occur in the spring, though there are a few special shows and music events in October. It’s a great way to see live music in a smaller venue and meet new artists. October’s mild weather permits comfortable listening in the open air at local bars, beaches and parks. Country, rock or folk, the Songwriters Festival has music for every musical palate.
Location: Various venues across Key West, including The Green Parrot Bar and Smokin’ Tuna Saloon.
10. Explore The Key West Aquarium
Photo: Marc Averette / Wikimedia Commons
The Key West Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in Florida and is great for a family-friendly and educational trip. The aquarium has been around since the 1930s and includes exhibits and touch tanks. Here you can get up close and watch some of the fishes, sharks, stingrays and sea turtles. The guided excursions available at the aquarium explain the marine life of the area and the conservation work behind it. Children particularly enjoy feeding and the opportunity to explore different sea life. You can also take a train tour around the aquarium.
Location: Key West, FL 33040
Key West in October is an ideal setting to visit and see all that this tropical paradise offers. With fewer people, pleasant weather and a host of festivals, such as Fantasy Fest, it is the best time to rest and play. There is no shortage of things to do in Key West Florida in October, be it a trip to historical monuments, some adrenaline-charged water sports or just enjoying the local festivals. Prepare for an unforgettable October vacation in Key West with TripXL this fall.
Cover Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons
