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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Duval Street
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Key West's iconic main drag, buzzing with shops, bars, live music, and vibrant energy day and night.
"Amazing street to walk down. Lots of neat things to see, older buildings, shopping and food."
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Duval Vibe
Nightlife & Early Closures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Look for hotels slightly off Duval for better rates, or consider vacation rentals.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss photo opportunities, especially near the Southernmost Point Buoy.
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.
🍽️ Foodie Research
With many dining options, research restaurants beforehand to find your perfect bite.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Look for hotels slightly off Duval for better rates, or consider vacation rentals.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss photo opportunities, especially near the Southernmost Point Buoy.
🎶 Live Music Scene
Enjoy the constant stream of live music from various bars and venues along the street.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on Duval Street is free and open to the public. There are no tickets required to experience the street itself.
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.
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.
Yes, many Key West tours, including walking tours, food tours, and pub crawls, include stops or extensive time on Duval Street.
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.
🎫 📍 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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, many cafes and restaurants along Duval Street offer breakfast options, perfect for starting your day of exploration.
📸 📸 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.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons during golden hour provide beautiful lighting.
While not specifically photography tours, many general Key West tours will take you to photogenic spots. You can also explore independently.
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.
Generally, yes, but it's polite to ask permission or offer a small tip if you're focusing on a particular performer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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. 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.
🥂 Couples & Nightlife Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Duval Street: A Local's Perspective
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.
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.
Where to Stay: Hotels on and near Duval Street
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.
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.
Dining Delights: A Culinary Tour of Duval Street
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. Many restaurants also boast excellent happy hour deals, making it possible to enjoy delicious food and drinks without breaking the bank.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit