5 Ways to Celebrate Springtime in Key West

Blooming flowers, glorious weather, seasonal cuisine, and lots of only-in-Key-West things to do hit the calendar every spring in Key West. With the promise of warmer (and longer) days, it’s not hard to see why so many locals eagerly greet spring with open arms. Welcome the new season with these ways to celebrate springtime in Key West.

See Spring Flowers at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

Hit the ground running this spring with a visit to the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden on Stock Island. You’ll see nature reawakening as colorful flowers from native flora like the Lignum Vitae, Sweet Acacia, Locustberry, Simpson’s Stopper, and Plumeria pudica come into full bloom. The only frost-free, subtropical, natural conservation habitat and native plant botanical garden in the continental United States has over 15 acres of garden and forest to explore. Best of all, the garden is just a 10-minute walk from The Gates Hotel.

Watch the Butterflies at The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Although Key West’s seasonal changes are subtle, they are still a wonderful excuse to embrace spring. Visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservancy on Duval Street. Like spring, butterflies represent renewal. The famed butterfly park houses between 50 and 60 species of butterflies from around the world in an enclosed habitat. It is also home to over 20 species of exotic birds, including bright pink flamingos. The birds are getting busy outside as well! See if you can spot migratory birds like the Least Tern and Antillean Nighthawk that pass through Key West each spring.

Welcome the Longer Days with a Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

The increased daylight spring brings means it's time to celebrate. Join other visitors from around the world at Mallory Square for a nightly Sunset Celebration. The festival brings all sorts of people, street performers, and food vendors together for an incredible cultural experience. Find out when the sun sets here and jump on our free air-conditioned shuttle to be whisked to Mallory Square to partake in the shenanigans.

Eat Meals with Seasonal Ingredients

Pick up some fresh in-season produce and cuisine to match at the Truman Waterfront Market on Southard Street every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. Every week you’ll find a wonderful assortment of seasonal farmer’s market fare like produce, fruits, and fresh seafood, as well as food stands and trucks serving items like poke, smoothies, freshly baked bread, and Indian and Mediterranian cuisine. Eating in-season food is a delicious way to usher in spring. Stay up to date with where to find Key West’s delicious eats and chilled libations on our Blog.

Enjoy Leisure Time Outdoors

Spring is the sweet spot of Key West weather, with clear skies and temperatures averaging around 80 degrees. Get that extra spring in your step by taking in the fresh air with an outdoor adventure. Be it walking, biking, exploring, or simply eating and drinking al fresco, embrace the sunshine and make the most of the springtime that lies ahead.

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Planning a spring break in Key West? Choose from our best rates and special offers when you book direct with The Gates Hotel, a Conde Nast award-winning Key West destination. The Gates Hotel offers hourly shuttle services to Mallory Square, great amenities, onsite food and beverage options, and a spectacular swimming pool.