Key West Nature Attractions

While the Duval Crawl is a staple of most Key West vacations, the island also offers an array of nature attractions for visitors who want to take a closer look at the flora and fauna of the island. A walk through a butterfly garden or short hike through a tropical forest can help you to relax and unwind on your trip, also offering you a glimpse of Key West’s natural beauty.

Key West Nature Conservatory

Voted the #1 Key West attraction on Trip Advisor, this is the perfect place to escape the sounds and sights of Duval Street. Watch 50-60 different butterfly species fly around you in the beautifully landscaped conservatory. Learn about the migratory world of monarch butterflies in the monarch butterfly exhibit. Also, check out their excellent gift shop. Open 9-5 daily. $12 general admission. 1316 Duval Street

Key West Tropical Forest & Butterfly Garden

This natural, tropical garden isn’t manicured and houses man endangered and threatened flora and fauna. The tropical forest also has the last two fresh ponds that exist on Key West. Check out the trails and exquisite plants on the grounds. Open 10-4 daily, $7 entry. 5210 College Road

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Explore coral reefs, predator reefs and more at this interactive museum. Guests can snorkel in tanks, and those who like a safe distance can stand back and watch. Stingray and tidepool touchtanks available for all ages. Adult admission is $20, open 9-5 daily. 11710 Overseas Highway, Marathon

Florida Keys Discovery Center

This national marine sanctuary system protects Florida Keys and its ocean waters, with interactive exhibits that will teach you all you want to know about native plants and ocean diversity. Check out exhibitions on Florida’s pinelands, hammocks and beach dunes. It’s also home of the only underwater ocean lab in the world, located 60 feet underwater. Free admission. 35 E Quay Road