Key West, Florida, is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and rich history. This guide provides comprehensive details on accessible attractions, transportation options, accommodations, and more to help wheelchair users make the most of their visit to this charming island.
Attractions
Key West offers a variety of attractions that cater to wheelchair users. From historical sites to natural wonders, here’s a rundown of accessible places to explore.
- Mallory Square: Mallory Square is a bustling waterfront plaza famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers, food vendors, and stunning views. Paved pathways throughout the square. The Sunset Celebration area is wheelchair-friendly. Crowded during sunset celebrations, which may make navigation challenging. Accessible restrooms available at the square.
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the historic home of the renowned author Ernest Hemingway, now a museum showcasing his life and works. Ramps and accessible pathways throughout the garden. Main house access is limited due to historic architecture. Some areas in the main house have steps and narrow doorways. Accessible restrooms on-site.
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory offers a tranquil environment to observe hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds. Fully accessible pathways throughout the conservatory. Accessible restrooms available.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Explore the historic fort and enjoy beach access at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, a site rich in history and natural beauty. Paved pathways and beach mats for wheelchair access. Some areas may have uneven surfaces. Accessible restrooms and picnic areas.
- Southernmost Point: The Southernmost Point buoy is a famous landmark marking the southernmost tip of the continental United States. Paved pathways lead to the monument, but crowds can make getting close to the monument difficult. Nearby accessible restrooms at Southernmost Beach Cafe.
Accessible Beach Mats
Key West beaches with accessible mats provide wheelchair users with the opportunity to enjoy the sandy shores without difficulty.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Beach: Located within Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Accessible mats are installed near the main entrance, providing a stable pathway from the parking lot to the shoreline.
- Smathers Beach: Located along South Roosevelt Boulevard, accessible mats are found at several points along the beach, offering easy access from the parking areas to the water.
Outdoor Activities
Key West’s natural beauty offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure. Many activities, such as snorkeling and boating, are adapted to be inclusive of wheelchair users, ensuring everyone can enjoy the island’s stunning landscapes.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world of Key West with accessible snorkeling and diving tours, offering a glimpse of the vibrant marine life. Fury Water Adventures offers accessible boats and assistance with equipment.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Experience the serene waters around Key West with accessible kayaking and paddleboarding adventures. Lazy Dog Adventures offers adaptive equipment and accessible launch areas.
- Key West Eco Tours: Key West Eco Tours offers guided eco-tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding adventures tailored to provide accessible outdoor experiences. Adaptive equipment and accessible pathways.
Transportation
Getting around Key West is convenient with various accessible transportation options. Whether you prefer public transit, taxis, or rental cars, there are services available to meet your needs.
- Public Transportation: Key West Transit buses are equipped with lifts or ramps and designated seating for wheelchair users.
- Accessible Taxis: Five 6’s Taxi and Taxi in KW.
- Rental Cars: Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers vehicles with hand controls. Avis Car Rental provides wheelchair-accessible vans. Hertz offers hand control vehicles upon request.
Accommodations
Finding suitable accommodations is key to a comfortable trip. Key West offers several accessible hotels and resorts that cater to the needs of wheelchair users, providing amenities like roll-in showers, pool lifts, and accessible beach access.
- Ocean Key Resort & Spa: Offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views, conveniently located near many attractions. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible beach access, and accessible restrooms.
- The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton: Provides a blend of modern luxury and classic charm, with easy access to the beach and other island activities. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible beach access, and accessible restrooms.
- Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort: A historic resort offering elegant accommodations and a range of amenities for a comfortable stay. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible beach access, and accessible restrooms.
