When you make your way to the “Southernmost point in the United States,” is easy to get wrapped up in the party vibe for which Key West, Florida, is known. Yes, drinking your way up and down Duval Street is a wildly popular way to spend some time there. But there’s no disputing how much wildlife is roaming freely around the island — largely in the form of chickens, birds and lizards. In fact, odds are high that it’s a rooster that will wake you each morning while you’re there.
When you’ve had your fill of the cocktails and are ready to enjoy something different and just as entertaining in Key West, turn to the animals. Here’s an animal lover’s guide to the Conch Republic.
Key West Wildlife Center
A well-kept aviary at the Key West Wildlife Center is home to all sorts of birds, such as this double-crested cormorant.
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The red dragonflies are quite captivating.
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Stop by the Key West Wildlife Center during visiting hours (Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and you can wander the serene nature path while spotting birds and turtles. A modest aviary houses birds in the various stages of rehabilitation. May your way all the way to the pond, and you can try to spot a variety of turtles, cranes and even beautiful red dragonflies. Admission is free, though donations are gladly accepted. The friendly volunteers will answer any questions, and don’t forget to grab a free sticker on your way out. Afterward, head across the street to walk the pier and continue looking for marine wildlife.
Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm
The Sheriff’s Animal Farm capybara enjoyed a little salad snack while we visited.
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Feel free to pet or hold the ferret and other animals the deputies have out while you’re there.
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For a truly wacky experience where you’ll make countless memories, a visit to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm is a must! Open the second and fourth Sunday of the month from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., this free (donations accepted) “farm” is housed on the ground-level parking garage underneath the county’s Stock Island detention center. Sheriff’s deputies are on-site with animals to touch and hold, and the rest of the space offers self-led opportunities. Tortoises, ferrets, snakes, lemurs and even a capybara can be found. It’s a super-fun outing for all ages!
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
A variety of butterfly species await at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
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The tropical environment lends itself well to the flamingoes.
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For a fascinating indoor experience, head to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Experience caterpillars and butterfies in various stages as you meander throughout the space with water features and beautiful plant-life as your backdrop. Keep an eye out for turtles and even a flamingo or two. Make sure to swing by the gift shop for a take-home souvenir. Prices range from $12.50 to $17.50. Children 3 and younger are free.
Eco Tours
Paddling through the mangroves is a magical experience.
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This spotted sea hare was a great find!
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There are a variety of options to take to the sea by paddleboard or kayak. We opted for Lazy Dog Eco-tour, where an excited and knowledgeable tour guide led us through the mangroves in search of sea life. For two hours, we paddled our way through tunnels, spotted jellyfish of all sizes, and even saw a barracuda jump up in front of us. Crabs, birds, and even a spotted sea hare rounded out the amazing creatures we saw. It’s definitely an experience worth taking.
The Hemingway Home & Museum
Hemingway loved cats and allowed his house to be overrun with them. The tradition continues to this day.
©Richard Gunion/iStock via Getty Images
Hemingway lived in Key West from 1931 to 1939.
If felines are more your thing, then head to The Hemingway Home and Museum where you can mingle with the cats and learn some literary history. This was the home of literary great Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s, and legend has it that he was gifted a six-toed cat by a sea captain. Some of the cats that still wander the grounds today are thought to be descendants of that original cat.
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
And finally, for a quick but educational outing, head to the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, where all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits that teach about sea creatures and the importance of preserving the waters in which they live. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Afterward, head to the Truman waterfront sprayground, where little ones can enjoy getting soaked.
