If you find yourself in Key West around Halloween, you’ll see that it’s a rather busy time of year. Whether you’re stopping by via cruise ship or visiting the island especially for Fantasy Fest, we've got you covered on all things Halloween in Key West for 2023.

Although we strive to provide the most current information, events mentioned may be canceled without notice. We recommend checking the official individual websites for updates before visiting.

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1. Participate in FYT’s 4th Annual Haunted Hunt

Gather your costume-clad team of 4 - 10 and meet at the historic Curry Mansion (511 Caroline St.) for FYT Key West’s annual Haunted Hunt. The eerie escapade takes you around Old Town to decipher riddles and follow cryptic clues that will lead you closer to your prize. The afterparty will be held right where you began, at the Curry Mansion, with costume prizes, spooky cocktails, and a DJ. Register for the Haunted Hunt in advance, tickets are $25 per person. Oct. 21, Check-in at 7 p.m., Hunt at 8 p.m.

2. Dress up for Zombie Zone - A Red Carpet Event

Here at The Gates Hotel, we’re bringing the Fantasy Fest and Halloween fun straight to you by hosting a very special Zombie Zone Red Carpet Event. Participants of the annual Zombie Bike Ride are invited to attend this pre-party complete with live music, food and drink specials, free bike parking, and the opportunity to walk the red carpet, show off their zombie costume, and get their picture taken. Oct. 22, 12 - 8 p.m.

3. Visit Robert the Doll at the Fort East Martello Museum

Once belonging to a prominent Key West family in the early 20th century, legend has it the handmade doll has supernatural abilities that allow it to move, change facial expressions, and giggle. Others claim the doll has moved objects around the room, disappeared, and caused "car accidents, broken bones, job loss, divorce, and a cornucopia of other misfortunes.” Visit the Fort East Martello Museum on Halloween to see Robert for yourself...if you dare. Open daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

4. See ‘Scarecrows in the Forest’ at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween at the Botanical Garden’s annual Scarecrows in the Forest event featuring locally designed scarecrows constructed entirely from natural and recycled materials. Help choose the ‘Best in Show’ winner. Kids visit free. Open daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

5. Hop on the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

Take a ride to Key West’s dark side on the Trolley of the Doomed. The trolley will take you to the most famous ghostly sites on the island while telling tales about Captain Tony’s Saloon (where not all spirits are stored in bottles), the infamous Lady in Blue, and the haunted history of the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Check the Ghost and Gravestones website for tour dates and times and reserve your spot ahead.

6. Bring the Kids to ‘Screaming Green Halloween’ at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

The family fun continues at the Botanical Garden’s 15th annual Screaming Green Halloween. Explore the Garden pathways and secret locations for candy, games, crafts, a bounce house, and costume contests for kids. Oct. 28, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

7. Step Back in Time on a Key West Ghost Tour or Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a healthy dose of Halloween scares, you’ve come to the right place. Key West is regarded as one of the most haunted places in America! A ghost tour or haunted pub crawl will fill you in on the island’s spooky past and local haunts. Check websites for dates and times and reserve your spot ahead.

8. Rock on With Your Smock On at Fantasy Fest’s Official Paint & Drink Party

The exciting and fun-filled art class at The Gates Hotel’s Sunset Green (next door at Republica Lounge at 24 North in case of rain) includes all the art, supplies, and instruction you need to create your own masterpiece. Artistic experience is not required and everyone is welcome! Reservations to Fantasy Fest’s Official Paint & Drink Party are required. Oct. 26, 4 - 6 p.m.

9. Party at Fantasy Fest

Be your best self and live out your costumed fantasy. Fantasy Fest takes costuming to another level, with countless opportunities for dressing up or down. Every day is Halloween during this 10-day festival (Oct. 20 - 29), with themed parties including the Toga Party at Sloppy Joe’s, Party in Plaid at Capt. Tony’s, body painting parties, and more.

10. Watch The Rocky Horror Show at Waterfront Playhouse

As part of Fantasy Fest, Richard O’Brien’s notorious The Rocky Horror Show comes to the Waterfront Playhouse and features all the whacky and quirky sing-alongs that have kept this musical a cult classic for nearly 50 years. See the show from Oct. 18 to Nov. 27. See more of Fantasy Fest’s weirdest events.

11. Take a Stroll in the Key West Cemetery

Do you have the courage to venture into the cemetery on the most haunted day of the year? Check out this map of the historic Key West Cemetery. It directs you to noteworthy sites in the burial place. Please visit respectfully.

12. Allow Yourself a Few Illusions at Schooner Wharf’s Magic Show

Magician Frank Everhart performs special up-close-and-personal magic shows five nights a week at Schooner Wharf Bar, and has been doing so for 20 years! Grab a drink, settle in, and suspend disbelief as miracles unfold in front of your eyes. Oct. 25 - 29, 7 p.m.

Planning your Halloween staycation? The Gates Hotel is a Condè Nast award-winning hotel located in New Town - and the perfect home-base for spending Halloween in Key West. Choose from our best rates and exclusive offers when you book direct.