Duval Street - Went on a bike ride with my boyfriend in Key West on Duval Street
1 / 10

Duval Street

4.7
·612 reviews·Key West, United States

Key West's iconic main drag, buzzing with shops, bars, live music, and vibrant energy day and night.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoons

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Duval Street - Went on a bike ride with my boyfriend in Key West on Duval Street

Duval Street

Best Time

Late afternoons

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Key West's iconic main drag, buzzing with shops, bars, live music, and vibrant energy day and night.

4.7
(612 reviews)

"Amazing street to walk down. Lots of neat things to see, older buildings, shopping and food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Bikeable

Duval Street is best explored on foot or by bike. Rent a bike to cover more ground and soak in the island vibes.

🍽️ Foodie Research

With many dining options, research restaurants beforehand to find your perfect bite.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sloppy Joe's Bar

Sloppy Joe's Bar

901 Duval Street

Iconic Key West bar with a lively atmosphere, live music, and a rich history. A must-visit for a true Duval Street experience.

Southernmost Point Buoy

Southernmost Point Buoy

1400 Duval Street

Snap a photo at this famous landmark, a symbol of Key West's unique location. It's now in a pocket park between The Southernmost House and Lopez House.

Duval Street Shopping

Duval Street Shopping

Throughout Duval Street

Explore a diverse range of boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries offering unique finds and local crafts.

Street Performers

Street Performers

Various spots along Duval Street

Enjoy the eclectic talent of street musicians and performers who add to the vibrant, energetic atmosphere of the street.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Duval Vibe

Duval Street is Key West's vibrant heart, buzzing with shops, bars, and live music. It's a pedestrian-friendly hub, but expect crowds, especially during peak hours. Research your must-sees beforehand to make the most of your visit. TikTok

Nightlife & Early Closures

While Duval Street is famous for its nightlife, many bars wind down by 11 PM, with some closing by midnight. Plan your evening accordingly, perhaps starting with sunset drinks and enjoying the lively atmosphere before it quiets down. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (before 11 PM)
Why
Lively bars & music
Crowd
High
When
Early mornings
Why
Quieter strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Drop your favorite Duval Street spots in the comments! #keywest #floridacheck #floridakeys #traveltiktok #foodreview #travelguide #floridalife
@theshayspence
39.8K likes • 778K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Bikeable

Duval Street is best explored on foot or by bike. Rent a bike to cover more ground and soak in the island vibes. Instagram

🍽️ Foodie Research

With many dining options, research restaurants beforehand to find your perfect bite. TikTokInstagram

✨ 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗽: Don't just do Duval Street in Key West! Your Island Charter takes you to the real Florida Keys paradise 🏝️: a secluded Sandbar with crystal clear water & no crowds. Perfect for floating, snorkeling🤿 , and spotting wildlife 🐬. Book your 4-6 hour #KeyWestBoatTrip https://yourislandcharter.com or call/text: 305-849-4709 📞 #keywest #sandbarlife #floridakeys #Summer #boatlife
@your.island.chart
3.9K likes • 66.4K views
Morning stroll down Duval Street. Too early for the bars 😎🎉 - #duvalstreet #keywest
backyardsofkeywest
5.2K likes • 151.4K views

💰 Budget-Friendly Stays

Look for hotels slightly off Duval for better rates, or consider vacation rentals. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss photo opportunities, especially near the Southernmost Point Buoy. Instagram

✨ Big news in Key West! ✨ The iconic Southernmost Point Buoy—one of the most photographed landmarks in the world—is now at 📍1400 Duval Street, ocean front in the Pocket Park, right between The Southernmost House and Lopez House. 🌴🏠 We’re loving our new neighbor – and now there’s even more reason to plan your visit or stop by to snap a pic, and soak up the Key West vibes with us. 🌴☀️📸 ➡️ Who’s e...
southernmosthouse
180 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Bikeable

Duval Street is best explored on foot or by bike. Rent a bike to cover more ground and soak in the island vibes. Instagram

🍽️ Foodie Research

With many dining options, research restaurants beforehand to find your perfect bite. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget-Friendly Stays

Look for hotels slightly off Duval for better rates, or consider vacation rentals. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss photo opportunities, especially near the Southernmost Point Buoy. Instagram

🎶 Live Music Scene

Enjoy the constant stream of live music from various bars and venues along the street. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(612 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Duval Street is a vibrant and entertaining hub with a fantastic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars, offering endless people-watching opportunities. Visitors love the lively atmosphere and unique Key West charm. However, some find it can be a bit noisy at night and wish it were cleaner.

"Amazing place to hangout and tons of shops and restaurants"

Natasha Russell

"So much to do and see. Do a little research before arriving. Plenty of places to eat, drink and people watch."

Jackie Interian

"Amazing street to walk down. Lots of neat things to see, older buildings, shopping and food."

Alex Avalos

What People Like

Lively atmosphere
Diverse shops & food
People-watching

What People Dislike

Can be noisy
Cleanliness concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Duval Street is the main thoroughfare in Key West, easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. If you're staying nearby, walking or biking is highly recommended. Parking can be challenging and expensive, so consider parking further away and walking or biking in. Instagram

Absolutely! Duval Street is very walkable, and it's the best way to experience its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and restaurants. Many visitors find it enjoyable to stroll its length. Instagram

Yes, biking is a popular way to get around Key West, including on Duval Street. Many rental shops are available. Be mindful of pedestrians and follow local traffic laws. Instagram

Besides walking and biking, consider using the local Conch Tour Train for a narrated overview, or hop on a trolley. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for longer distances. TikTok

Key West has limited public bus service, but it's not the most convenient way to reach Duval Street for most tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing are more common. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking on Duval Street is free and open to the public. There are no tickets required to experience the street itself. TikTok

While walking Duval Street is free, individual attractions like bars, restaurants, and shops will have their own pricing for food, drinks, and merchandise. Some specific events might require tickets. TikTok

Duval Street is always open, but individual businesses have varying hours. Shops typically open mid-morning, and bars and restaurants stay open into the evening, though many quiet down by 11 PM. InstagramReddit

Yes, many Key West tours, including walking tours, food tours, and pub crawls, include stops or extensive time on Duval Street. TikTok

While Duval Street is a constant celebration, 'Duval Day' might refer to specific local events or festivals. It's best to check local Key West event calendars for any scheduled happenings. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the iconic Sloppy Joe's Bar, the Southernmost Point Buoy for a photo op, and the numerous shops and galleries. Don't miss the vibrant street performers! TikTokInstagram+1

You'll find a wide variety of shops, from souvenir stores and t-shirt shops to art galleries, boutiques, and specialty stores selling local crafts and goods. Instagram

Duval Street can be family-friendly during the day, with shops and restaurants. However, it becomes more adult-oriented at night with its bar scene. TikTok

The atmosphere is lively, energetic, and often described as a party. It's a melting pot of tourists and locals enjoying the unique Key West vibe, with music and people-watching opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Duval Street can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, weekends, and evenings. Visiting in the early morning can offer a less crowded experience. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Duval Street offers a huge range of dining, from casual to upscale. Popular spots include Sloppy Joe's for classic bar food, Bagatelle for seafood, and Nine One Five for inventive American fare. TikTokInstagram

Many restaurants on Duval Street feature fresh seafood. Bagatelle is known for its seafood focus, and you'll find plenty of other options offering local catches. Instagram

While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like pizza slices, casual cafes, and grab-and-go spots if you look around. TikTok

Sloppy Joe's is a classic, but explore others like The Green Parrot Bar (a short walk off Duval) or Irish Kevin's for live music and a good time. TikTok

Yes, many cafes and restaurants along Duval Street offer breakfast options, perfect for starting your day of exploration. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Southernmost Point Buoy is a must-capture. Also, look for colorful architecture, unique shop signs, street performers, and the general vibrant street life. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons during golden hour provide beautiful lighting. Instagram

While not specifically photography tours, many general Key West tours will take you to photogenic spots. You can also explore independently. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for street scenes and a zoom for capturing details. Instagram

Generally, yes, but it's polite to ask permission or offer a small tip if you're focusing on a particular performer. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Duval Street can be a fun experience for families during the daytime. Explore the unique shops, grab an ice cream, and enjoy the colorful sights. The Southernmost Point Buoy is a great photo opportunity for everyone. Instagram Consider taking the Conch Tour Train for a narrated overview of the area, which kids often enjoy. TikTok

As the evening approaches, Duval Street transitions into a more adult-oriented nightlife scene. If you have younger children, it's advisable to plan your visit earlier in the day or explore family-friendly activities slightly off the main drag. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the general atmosphere is usually welcoming during daylight hours.

💰 Budget Travelers

Duval Street offers ways to enjoy it on a budget. While some restaurants and bars can be pricey, look for happy hour specials and casual eateries for more affordable meals. Instagram Many shops offer souvenirs at various price points. Instagram

Consider renting a bike instead of relying on taxis or ride-shares for getting around, as this is often more cost-effective and allows you to explore at your own pace. Instagram Staying in hotels near Duval Street rather than directly on it can also save money. Walking the street and enjoying the street performers is a free and entertaining activity. TikTok

🥂 Couples & Nightlife Enthusiasts

Duval Street is perfect for couples looking for a lively night out. Enjoy romantic dinners at one of the many restaurants, followed by bar hopping to experience the diverse nightlife. Instagram Catch live music at venues like Sloppy Joe's or Irish Kevin's for a fun and energetic evening. TikTok

While the party can wind down by 11 PM, the earlier hours offer a fantastic atmosphere for enjoying drinks and soaking in the unique Key West vibe. Consider a sunset cocktail at a bar with a view before diving into the heart of Duval's entertainment scene. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Duval Street: A Local's Perspective

Duval Street is the pulsating artery of Key West, a mile-long stretch that transforms from a bustling shopping district by day to a lively entertainment hub by night. It's a place where tourists and locals mingle, drawn by the eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, shops, and live music venues. While it's often compared to Bourbon Street, many find Duval to have a more laid-back, yet equally vibrant, island charm. TikTok

Key to experiencing Duval Street is understanding its rhythm. Mornings are quieter, perfect for leisurely strolls and browsing shops before the midday sun. As the afternoon progresses, the energy picks up, with street performers adding to the ambiance and bars starting their happy hours. Evenings are when Duval truly comes alive, with music spilling out of every doorway. However, it's important to note that the party often winds down earlier than expected, with many establishments closing by midnight. Reddit

For the best experience, consider renting a bike or simply walking. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds without the hassle of parking. Keep an eye out for unique architectural details, colorful murals, and the ever-present scent of tropical air mixed with delicious food. Instagram

Where to Stay: Hotels on and near Duval Street

Finding the perfect place to stay near Duval Street is key to maximizing your Key West experience. Options range from historic inns directly on the street to hotels a few blocks away, offering varying levels of convenience and tranquility. Staying directly on Duval Street means you're in the heart of the action, with immediate access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife. TikTokInstagram

However, hotels on Duval Street can be pricier and potentially noisier due to the constant activity. If you prefer a slightly quieter environment while still being close, consider hotels near Duval Street or hotels close to Duval Street. These locations often provide a good balance, allowing you to walk to the main attractions within minutes while offering a more peaceful retreat. Reddit

When searching for hotels on Duval, look for options that suit your budget and desired amenities. Some popular choices might include boutique inns or larger hotels. For those seeking more affordable options, exploring places to stay near Duval Street a few blocks away can yield better deals. Always check recent reviews for insights into noise levels and proximity to the main attractions. Reddit

Dining Delights: A Culinary Tour of Duval Street

Duval Street is a culinary playground, offering a diverse array of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. From casual beach bars serving up fresh seafood to upscale eateries with inventive menus, there's something for everyone. Sloppy Joe's Bar is a legendary spot, famous for its lively atmosphere, live music, and classic American fare. TikTok

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Bagatelle offers a seafood-focused menu in a historic setting with wraparound balconies, while Nine One Five provides inventive American dishes in a stylish old house with a large patio. Instagram Many restaurants also boast excellent happy hour deals, making it possible to enjoy delicious food and drinks without breaking the bank. Instagram

Beyond the sit-down restaurants, you can find quick bites, ice cream parlors, and cafes perfect for a midday snack or a refreshing treat. Exploring the side streets off Duval can also lead to hidden culinary gems. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2