Things to do in Key West on a rainy day
Getting caught in a rainstorm can ruin outdoor plans in Key West. Luckily, this island offers many fun indoor activities and attractions for visitors. This post will guide you through top museums, nature conservatories, tours, entertainment spots, and dining options that are perfect for a rainy day.
Keep reading to find your next adventure indoors!
Key Takeaways
- Key West offers top indoor attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which served as the author’s residence from 1931 to 1940, and often features six-toed cats descended from Hemingway’s pets.
- The city has unique nature experiences indoors, such as over 50 butterfly species at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
- You can explore local history by touring the Truman Little White House, where President Harry S. Truman stayed during his presidency (1946–1952), or visit the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum with WWII exhibits.
- Enjoy cultural sites like the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, which displays treasures from shipwrecks including gold coins and silver ingots from Nuestra Señora de Atocha; or see Florida Keys ecosystems at the Eco-Discovery Center’s 2,500-gallon aquarium.
- Other fun indoor options include watching a movie at Tropic Cinema, riding an Old Town Trolley Tour for site-seeing without getting wet, or taking hands-on art classes at The Studios of Key West.
Popular Indoor Activities on a Rainy Day in Key West
Rainy days in Key West bring unique opportunities for exploration. Engaging indoor activities await, from historic homes to vibrant nature conservatories.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the famous author. Located in Key West, this historic site showcases Hemingway’s former residence from 1931 to 1940.
Visitors can explore his home and gardens, filled with tropical plants and unique architecture. The museum features personal items, manuscripts, and photographs that highlight his remarkable career.
This attraction also emphasizes Hemingway’s connection to Florida’s culture. Guests often see descendants of the author’s six-toed cats roaming freely around the property. A guided tour provides insights into his writing process and influences while allowing you to enjoy a beautiful indoor experience on a rainy day.
Hemingway believed in writing honestly about life.
Explore the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Explore the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory for a unique experience. This indoor attraction features over 50 species of butterflies. You can walk through the lush, tropical habitat filled with colorful flowers.
The beautiful environment invites butterflies to flutter all around you. This conservatory also provides educational exhibits about these fascinating creatures.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you observe butterflies in their natural habitat. You might see them feeding on nectar or resting on plants. Bring your camera to capture stunning photos of these delicate insects.
Don’t miss this chance to connect with nature while staying dry indoors in Key West.
Tour the Truman Little White House
After exploring the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, take a tour of the Truman Little White House. This historic site served as President Harry S. Truman’s winter retreat from 1946 to 1952.
Visitors can view rooms where Truman conducted meetings and relaxed with family and friends.
The house features period furniture and displays about its significance in American history. Knowledgeable guides share stories about Truman’s presidency and his time in Key West.
Enjoy this cultural experience as you learn about past leaders while sheltered from the rain in this indoor attraction.
Sample rum at the Hemingway Distillery
After touring the Truman Little White House, head over to the Hemingway Distillery. This place offers a unique experience in Key West. You can sample rum made from high-quality ingredients.
Enjoy guided tours that share the distillation process and the history of Ernest Hemingway’s love for this spirit.
The distillery produces various rums, each with its distinct flavor profile. Visitors often appreciate learning about rum-making techniques while enjoying tastings. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for both enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
This experience highlights cultural aspects of Key West along with delicious drinks to enjoy on a rainy day indoors.
Learn about Key West’s maritime history at the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum offers a unique chance to discover Key West’s maritime history. This historic ship served in World War II and the Vietnam War, making it an important part of America’s naval heritage.
Visitors can walk aboard the vessel and explore its many rooms while learning about its missions.
Interactive exhibits tell stories of brave coast guardsmen who protected America’s waters. Guests will find artifacts, photographs, and displays that highlight key events in maritime history.
The museum provides an engaging experience for tourists interested in culture and historical attractions during rainy days in Key West.
Must-Visit Museums and Galleries on a Rainy Day
Key West offers vibrant museums and galleries that captivate visitors. You can immerse yourself in local art, history, and culture while staying dry inside.
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center offers a fascinating look at the unique environment of the Florida Keys. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that showcase local marine life and ecosystems.
The center features a 2,500-gallon aquarium filled with colorful fish and other sea creatures. Tourists will enjoy learning about coral reefs, mangroves, and more.
This indoor attraction provides educational programs for all ages. Guests can participate in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of key environmental issues. The Eco-Discovery Center allows you to appreciate Key West’s natural beauty even on rainy days.
Enjoy this cultural experience while staying dry!
Alan S. Maltz Gallery
After exploring the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, visit the Alan S. Maltz Gallery. This gallery showcases vibrant photography that captures Key West’s beauty and spirit. Visitors can admire stunning images of nature, architecture, and culture.
Alan S. Maltz, a well-known photographer, runs this gallery. He focuses on preserving the essence of life in the Florida Keys through his art. The collection features local wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
You can also find unique prints available for purchase as souvenirs or gifts at this indoor attraction in Key West.
Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House
The Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can admire a variety of art pieces that highlight local artists and key historical events.
The museum, located in a beautiful 1891 building, offers engaging exhibits about Key West’s past and its influence on modern culture.
Explore interactive displays that provide insights into daily life in this vibrant town. Enjoy learning about important figures like Ernest Hemingway and how they shaped Key West’s identity.
This indoor attraction invites you to immerse yourself in art, history, and cultural experiences during your rainy day adventure. Next up is the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, which also offers fascinating insights into Key West’s nautical past.
Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum
Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum captures the spirit of treasure hunting and maritime history. This museum showcases artifacts from shipwrecks, especially those discovered by Mel Fisher himself.
Visitors can see gold coins, silver ingots, and other treasures recovered from the famous Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha.
The exhibits tell stories of adventure and exploration in the waters around Key West. You can learn about Florida’s rich maritime heritage through engaging displays. Artifacts highlight historic shipwrecks and their significance to Key West’s past.
Enjoy educational programs that deepen your understanding of this vibrant cultural experience while you stay dry indoors on a rainy day in Key West.
Other Indoor Activities to Enjoy on a Rainy Day
On a rainy day in Key West, you can catch a movie at Tropic Cinema or enjoy a fun Old Town Trolley Tour. Explore the vibrant streets with Duval Crawl or unleash your creativity in a class at The Studios of Key West.
Each activity offers something unique for those who want to stay dry while having fun! Curious about more options? Keep reading!
Watch a movie at Tropic Cinema
Tropic Cinema offers a great escape on a rainy day in Key West. This charming theater features a mix of current films and classic movies, providing options for all tastes. Guests can enjoy comfortable seating while indulging in popcorn and drinks from the concessions.
The cinema showcases both independent films and popular blockbusters. It often hosts special events, including film festivals and themed nights. Tropic Cinema also embodies the local culture, making it a unique attraction for tourists.
Plan your visit to enjoy quality entertainment while staying dry indoors.
Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour
Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour for a fun way to explore Key West. This tour offers comfortable seating and informative commentary about the island’s history and attractions. The trolley makes several stops at popular sights, allowing you to hop off and explore each one.
You can visit famous spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home or the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center.
This activity provides a unique perspective of Key West’s historic sites while staying dry from the rain. Enjoy learning about local culture as you ride through charming neighborhoods.
After your trolley adventure, consider catching a movie at Tropic Cinema for more entertainment options on this rainy day.
Explore the island with Duval Crawl
Continuing from the Old Town Trolley Tour, a Duval Crawl offers another vibrant way to enjoy Key West. This self-guided tour takes you down the lively Duval Street. Here, you will find numerous bars and restaurants offering unique dining options and entertainment.
As you explore the island, discover local hotspots like Sloppy Joe’s and The Green Parrot Bar. Each place serves delicious drinks and food while showcasing the area’s culture. Stroll along this famous street at your own pace.
Check out shops or enjoy live music as part of your indoor activities on a rainy day in Key West.
Take a class or workshop at The Studios of Key West
The Studios of Key West offers an array of classes and workshops. Tourists can learn painting, pottery, or photography from skilled instructors. Each class caters to various skill levels, making it easy for everyone to join in.
Participants create unique pieces while discovering their artistic talents.
These sessions provide a great way to express creativity indoors. The vibrant atmosphere inspires many artists and hobbyists alike. After enjoying a workshop, consider visiting nearby museums for more cultural experiences.
Conclusion
Key West offers plenty of fun, even on rainy days. You can explore fascinating museums and historic sites while staying dry. Try a rum tasting or visit the butterfly conservatory for a burst of nature indoors.
Enjoying local dining options can also make your day delightful. No matter the weather, Key West has something for everyone to enjoy inside!
FAQs
1. What indoor activities can I enjoy in Key West on a rainy day?
You can visit museums, explore nature conservatories, or spend time at the aquarium. These indoor attractions give you fun ways to learn and stay dry.
2. Are there tours available when it’s raining in Key West?
Yes, several tours run indoors or under cover. You might join guided visits of historic sites or take cultural experiences that highlight local history and art.
3. Where can I find entertainment during bad weather in Key West?
You have many options for entertainment such as movie theaters, live shows, and escape rooms. These venues offer engaging experiences away from the rain.
4. Is there good dining on rainy days in Key West?
Key West offers diverse dining options inside cozy restaurants and cafes across town. Many spots also provide views of the city while you enjoy your meal.
5. Can I go shopping if it rains in Key West?
Yes; shopping is a popular activity with many stores located indoors along Duval Street and nearby areas where you will find unique gifts and souvenirs out of the weather.
