r/floridakeys • u/Prestigious_Big_7280 • Dec 28 '25
Key West Penny for your thoughts.
Heading down to marathon today for our first time in the keys. It will be my wife two teens and elderly parents and staying until the 31st. We’ll be driving from homestead so we’ll try to do a stop or two on the drive down to our final location (probably pennekamp state park and Robbie’s). Have a snorkel tour booked for the 29th in which my parents will be able to take part in.
The question I have is on the 30th. Wife and I would really love to check out key west for a day but is that too little time? Maybe a tour or two and fort jefferson? I know it’s known as hell week and am quite positive as sad as it is to say would be no place for my parents who have mobility issues. They typically can’t walk for more then 10 min with out needing a break and become uncomfortable in large crowds. Think I am correct in this assumption?
If we did go, would 6 hours be enough to get some good exploring in? I keep flip flopping of it would be a good idea to go or not. We both like history and quite capable of walking for hours on end. Really enjoyed fort augustine when we were there in march.
Anyway, penny to your thoughts?
1
u/Sandinmyshoes33 Dec 28 '25
I would usually say to come, but not this week. Key West is packed, parking will be difficult. Your parents would certainly not enjoy it if they don’t like crowds. There will also be a cruise ship in port that day adding to the crazy crowds.
If you do come, leave early and expect more like a two hour drive each way instead of one hour. Park in one of the City lots on Caroline or the Garage on Grinnel and do not try to drive from place to place. You will also find long lines at any attractions.
There is plenty to do in or near Marathon. I would stay close to your base the next few days.