Let’s face it, we all crave adventure! We are enamored by new experiences and love the rush that comes with stepping out of our comfort zone. Some of that adventure we crave either consists of traveling to a new location, deep sea diving or maybe even skydiving. With that said, some adventure supersedes other quests we want to conquer.

Reflecting on what defines an adventure of a lifetime, we asked ourselves, what would make an ordinary experience go from just an experience to being “bucket list worthy?”

As we dabbled in this thought, it did not surprise us that the Key West Historic Seaport held the key to that question. With national landmarks, America’s Only Living Barrier Reef and the nightly green flash phenomenon — It was no surprise that our very own Historic Bucket List was just outside our shores.

1.Henry Flagler’s Oversea Highway

Let’s back up for a minute. In 1928, Henry Flagler was the first man to connect Key West to the rest of the United States. He had a dream and a vision. As time progressed and society evolved, the Key West Historic Seaport has kept up with that change while honoring the past. Consistently voted one of the top scenic drives in Florida, the Seven Mile Bridge does not disappoint. If you are arriving at the Historic Seaport by land, driving down US-1 over the seven-mile bridge, is a Bucket List must. This drive encaptures all that makes Florida beautiful. With elevated panoramic views of the ocean, you cannot escape seeing the original foundation Henry Flagler and his men laid down over eighty years ago. It is the perfect blend of a time gone by with a new modern feel.

2. America’s Only Living Coral Reef  

It comes as no surprise that the Key West Historic Seaport is the gateway to the nations finest aquatic playground. From daily water excursions to sunset sails or deep sea fishing; you can almost guarantee that all your island dreams will be catered too. With America’s Only Living Coral Reef right in our backyard, the Key West Historic Seaport has created an endless yearly itinerary for you to witness this preserved underwater paradise. Stretching 221 miles from Florida’s southeast coast from Key Biscayne to the Dry Tortugas National Park, the area provides vibrant marine life, the only of its kind in North America. This undersea city is not only a divers dream but also Bucket List worthy.  Located six nautical miles west of the Historic Seaport, America’s Only Living Barrier Reef is the perfect place for you to view one of the most gorgeous ecosystems in the world.

3. Schooner Nation

The Key West Historic Seaport is home to some of the most beautiful Schooners in the world. If you have ever seen a Schooner on the water, the view alone will leave you breathless. With the rays of the sun shining through the masts, these unmistakable Schooners are a vision on the open waters.  These tall-ships are a type of sailing vessel with fore-and-aft sails on two or more masts. Commonly, each Schooner has two masts with the foremast being shorter than the main. All the Schooners docked at the Historic Seaport have a story to tell. Each ship captain has strived to maintain the preservation of these gorgeous ships in order for you to see for yourself as well as hear their stories while embarking on a sail across the open seas. Booking your next adventure afoot one of the many Schooners is a must when visiting the Key West Historic Seaport. Where traditions of the past meet new, your next Bucket List adventure awaits you.

4. Green Flash at Sunset

With the sun setting in the west, the Key West Historic Seaport has become one of the most sought after places for viewers to witness the sun doing her nightly disappearing act. While viewers eagerly await the glowing pink and red sun sinking into the Gulf of Mexico Horizon, the nightly Green Flash phenomenon has become something of an urban legend. This green flash is caused by light refracting in the atmosphere and is rarely ever seen. However, if you are patient and persistent, you’ll be able to see these green flash moments before the sun breaks into the earth’s atmosphere. The green flash happens when the sun is almost entirely below the horizon and only the upper edge of the sun still remains visible. For a split second that upper rim and edge of the sun will appear green in color. Viewers and locals lineup, night after night, to view this incredible phenomenon. Book a sunset sail excursion, sit back and simply enjoy a cocktail aboard the vessel of your choosing. You do not want to miss this Bucket List must and your chance in seeing the incredible green flash!  

5. The Dry Tortuga’s National Park

Located at the Southernmost tip of the United States you’ll find one of the Key West Historic Seaports best-kept secrets. Seventy nautical miles away from land is home to the Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson Museum. This Key West staple was first discovered by Ponce De Leon in 1513 and was declared a Nation Landmark in 1992. Famous for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, beaches, coral reefs, campground and array of activities both in and out of the water, The Dry Tortugas in high on our Bucket List. Here you’ll discover some of the most exotic marine life, unique birds, nesting sea turtles, and gorgeous underwater wonders. If you’re looking for something fun and unique to do, you won’t want to miss this incredible national landmark. Located at the Key West Historic Seaport, book your trip aboard the Yankee Freedom III, the Dry Tortugas National Ferry, and enjoy a once in a lifetime experience. Now that’s a Bucket List marvel!

It goes without saying, the Key West Historic Seaport is filled with incredible moments and experiences. We pride ourselves on creating beautiful memories for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a day excursion or checking something off your Bucket List, the Key West Historic Seaport adventure of a lifetime awaits you!

Key West Historic Seaport: Your Gateway to Everything Key West!

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