Key West Adventure: A Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary from Miami on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring

Key West, Florida

10:00 AM

Breakfast at Las Olas Cafe

Start your day with a delightful Cuban breakfast at Las Olas Cafe, renowned for its café con leche and hearty breakfast sandwiches.
From Miami, hit the road to Key West via US-1.
USD10, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Visit The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Take a self-guided tour of the historic Ernest Hemingway Home, where you can explore the lush gardens and view beautiful six-toed cats.
Drive approximately 10 minutes from the cafe to the museum.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Garbo's Grill

Enjoy a tasty and budget-friendly meal from this food truck famous for fresh fish tacos and burgers.
A short 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from the museum.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Relax at South Beach

Spend the afternoon at South Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the clear waters and sandy shoreline with your family.
Drive 5 minutes from Garbo's Grill to South Beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Gather with locals and tourists at Mallory Square to watch a fabulous sunset, complete with street performances and local treats.
A quick 5-minute drive from South Beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at One Love Food Truck

Savor a delicious and affordable Jamaican meal featuring vibrant flavors in a casual atmosphere.
A short 5-minute drive from Mallory Square.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure and Nature

Key West, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cuban Coffee Queen

Fuel your day with a Cuban breakfast sandwich paired with strong coffee at this local favorite café.
A 10-minute drive from your accommodation.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Dry Tortugas National Park

Board the ferry to this secluded paradise known for its exceptional snorkeling and beautiful beaches.
Depart from Key West Ferry Terminal; book tickets online ahead of time.
USD40 (round-trip), All day

12:30 PM

Pack a picnic lunch

Prepare sandwiches and snacks from local shops to enjoy on the beach at Dry Tortugas.
Assemble your picnic before boarding the ferry.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Snorkeling and Relaxation

Join in on the snorkeling adventures to discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life, or relax on the picturesque beaches.
Explore various snorkeling spots at the park.
Free (if you bring your own gear), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Key West

Enjoy the scenic ferry ride home after a fulfilling day of exploration.
Board the ferry for the return trip.
Included in the previous cost, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sloppy Joe's

Unwind with a casual dinner at Sloppy Joe's, known for its lively atmosphere, burgers, and local music.
Only a short drive or a 20-minute walk from your accommodation.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Local Flavors

Key West, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the New York Bakery

Start your morning with delicious bagels and pastries that are perfect for fueling your day ahead.
A short 5-minute drive from your hotel.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Explore the indoor tropical paradise filled with butterflies and exotic birds in a serene atmosphere.
Drive 10 minutes to the conservatory.
USD15, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Walk along Duval Street

Experience the lively environment of Duval Street, full of unique shops and art galleries to browse.
A 5-minute walk from the conservatory.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Trattoria

Share a delightful Italian lunch featuring pizza and pasta made from fresh local ingredients.
A 5-minute walk from Duval Street.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Explore the historical fort and enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, picnicking, and walking trails.
Drive 5 minutes from La Trattoria.
USD6 (entrance fee), 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Conch Republic Seafood Company

Taste the local seafood scene with fresh conch fritters and enjoy beautiful marina views.
A quick 5-minute drive back.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return & Wrap-Up

Miami, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Don's Place

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this homey diner known for generous portions and good vibes.
A quick drive from your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute shopping and souvenirs

Take a leisurely stroll through local shops to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts.
Walk around the historic district near your lodging.
Varies, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Depart Key West

Begin your drive back to Miami, soaking in the final views of the beautiful Keys.
Take US-1 toward Miami.
Gas (approx. USD30 round trip in total), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hialeah Restaurant

Enjoy your last meal featuring fresh seafood dishes while reflecting on your Key West adventure.
Once you arrive in Miami, head to Hialeah.
USD18, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Miami Beach

Wrap up your trip with some leisure time at Miami Beach to experience its vibrant atmosphere.
A 15-minute drive from Hialeah Restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return Car & Wrap Up

Conclude your adventure by returning the rental car and reminiscing about the wonderful time spent with your family.
Return to the car rental location.
Rental fee varies., 1 hour
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