So you’ve had an epic Thanksgiving in Key West. This Black Friday, take it easy - you’ve earned it! Whether you’re looking to participate in the busiest shopping day of the year or are skipping the lines entirely, we’ve put together a list of ways to survive (and save) during Black Friday in Key West. 

1. Shop Local at the Best Shops in Key West

Support independent business and get a jump on holiday gift shopping at Key West’s local boutiques. Check out our list of Key West-centric gifts and island wear to get you started.

2. Eat Food to Fuel Your Black Friday

We're all about the Thanksgiving leftovers, but you’ll need to eat on-the-go to keep you fueled and focused as you hunt down the island’s best bargains. If you like shellfish, we suggest starting with our guide to the best places to get Key West pinks. The “pink gold” season begins in November and the island’s menus are bursting with delicious shrimp dishes. Browse our Food & Drink guide for more dining ideas.

3. Take it Easy at The Gates Hotel

Following one of the biggest holidays of the year, a rest at The Gates Hotel may be in order. Our spacious guest rooms provide all the comforts of home. Stylish, streamlined, and modern rooms outfitted with thoughtful amenities set the scene for the ultimate Black Friday retreat. Spend the day at the pool. As the central hub of The Gates Hotel, the pool area is designed to celebrate the fine art of doing nothing. Take a break, borrow a classic from our ‘Underwater Library’, and relax with pool loungers, cabanas, and poolside beverages from Rum Row.

4. Visit the Key West Artisan Market for ‘Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza’

The Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza is back for another year at Truman Waterfront Park from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Shop mom-and-pop businesses, artists, crafters, makers, and providers for gifts, unique handmade items, art, and culinary delights at this annual shopping event.

5. Let Someone Else Handle Transportation

Transportation is an important part of a successful Black Friday. Escape all driving and parking woes in Key West and get a ride to Old Town to peruse the sales. The Gates Hotel’s air-conditioned shuttle will take away the stress of parking far from Old Town’s shops, plus it can haul you and your bags straight back to New Town. Just grab a shuttle pass at the front desk!

6. Visit the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

Participate in the complete opposite of retail madness by opting to spend the day in nature. The historic Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is the only frost-free, subtropical, natural conservation habitat, native plant botanical garden in the continental United States. Explore the 15.2 acres of garden and forest, boardwalks, and nature trails in the company of native flora and fauna. Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Black Friday.

7. Plan a Key West Vacation and Save with The Gates Hotel

Put your hard-earned money towards a super fun Key West experience. The Gates Hotel has deals to take advantage of this Black Friday. Save more when you book direct, plus get exclusive savings on things like longer stays, parking, breakfast, bike rentals, and so much more. We also have special savings for seniors, government workers, AAA members, and Florida residents. See which of our special offers works for you.

8. Make it a ‘Free’ Friday

Spend no money at all this Black Friday. Visit the beach, walk along the Historic Seaport, or visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, scheduled to re-open in November with all new exhibitions. Key West is rife with activities that don’t cost a dime. See more free things to do here.

9. Have a Drink

Looking to round-out your Black Friday with a Cuban cigar and a cocktail? Go bar hopping this Black Friday at the local watering holes. From noteworthy happy hours to outdoor spots for sunset sipping, the absolute best Duval Street bars, and a fun guide to Key West cocktails, our Key West Bars & Nightlife Blog has all you need for a lively night on the town.

10. Sweat it out on ‘Fitness Friday’

Instead of getting geared up to find sales, work up a sweat in Key West. When you book your Key West stay with The Gates Hotel, you’ll get exclusive access to our Running Maps that provide the best routes for a 5K, 10K, or a leisurely stroll, with some popular selfie stops along the way. We also provide Bootcamp in a Box, a self-guided, instructional workout with minimal equipment that outlines 30 minutes of cardio blasts with strength training and balance challenges.

Stay and save! Check out special offers at The Gates Hotel, a Condè Nast award-winning hotel, and book your next getaway to Key West.