Alongside excellent beaches and fun activities, Key West is also known for its nightlife.
If you’re in town…
…you would be crazy to not check it out!
This article breaks down the best bars in Key West. Each bar is different; that’s why we have broken this article into multiple sections.
Here is the breakdown:
- Best outdoor bars in Key West
- Most unique bars
- Key West bars with live music
- The best dive bars
- Your guide to Key West nightlife
Jump to:
Best Outdoor Bars in Key West
Old Town Tavern and Beer Garden
Opening Times:
Monday: 11am – 2am
Tuesday: 11am – 2am
Wednesday: 11am – 2am
Thursday: 11am – 2am
Friday: 11am – 2am
Saturday: 11am – 2am
Sunday: 11am – 2am
One of the best bars on Duval Street is Old Town Tavern & Beer Garden.
Why do people love this bar?
…glad you asked!
One thing that stands out is the menu. It’s not catered towards one style of good. Instead, you can find a mix of English, Irish, Scottish, and Australian food.
Forget about traveling the world to try different cuisines.
You can find it all here!
Like most places in Key West, the interior is old-school. This gives it a local feel, rather than a touristy one.
But here’s the best thing…
There is an outdoor seating area. It’s the perfect place to enjoy your meal while soaking up the Florida sunshine.
McKee’s Tiki Bar
Opening Times:
Monday: 11am – 8pm
Tuesday: 11am – 8pm
Wednesday: 11am – 8pm
Thursday: 11am – 8pm
Friday: 11am – 8pm
Saturday: 11am – 8pm
Sunday: 11am – 8pm
Looking for breathtaking views, palm trees, and lush green grass?
Then you have to check out McKee’s Tiki Bar. This outdoor bar is the perfect place to enjoy some drinks with friends and family.
Because it’s located on the beach, you can also take in the ocean views.
Now that’s our type of vacation!
It’s also next to the hotel pool, which is surrounded by sun loungers. If you’re traveling with kids, they can go swimming while you relax around the pool.
Most Unique Bars in Key West
The Garden of Eden
Are you looking for something unique?
The Garden of Eden is ‘more than unique’.
Here’s why:
Clothing is optional.
Yes – you heard that right.
…Turn up to this bar naked and nobody will bat an eyelid.
You’ll fit in perfectly with the countless other naked people sipping cocktails.
The Garden of Eden is located on the rooftop.
That makes it the perfect place to catch a tan.
…without having to worry about tan lines.
*wink*
Keep in mind that you can still visit the Garden of Eden fully clothed. It’s a mix, so don’t feel like you need to arrive naked.
Captain Tony’s Saloon
Opening Times:
Monday: 10am – 2am
Tuesday: 10am – 2am
Wednesday: 10am – 2am
Thursday: 10am – 2am
Friday: 10am – 2am
Saturday: 10am – 2am
Sunday: 10pm – 2am
Captain Tony’s Saloon is also unique.
…but you can keep your clothes on.
Only joking.
It’s also optional.
You can also find bras hanging from the ceiling.
Doesn’t get any more unique than that, huh!?
It’s known as the oldest bar in Key West. The building was built in 1851, and named after Tony Tarracino; a popular local known for his gambling, political ties, and owning multiple saloons.
Even though Tony Tarracino owned this bar for many years, more famous people have set foot through the door…
These include Truman Capote, Shel Silverstein, Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and Jimmy Buffet.
Drinking here is like taking a trip back in time.
Key West Bars With Live Music
Durty Harry’s
Opening Times:
Monday: 8am – 3am
Tuesday: 8am – 3am
Wednesday: 8am – 3am
Thursday: 8am – 3am
Friday: 8am – 3am
Saturday: 8am – 3am
Sunday: 8am – 3am
Are you into rock music?
The Durty Harry’s is the place to be.
A popular rock band that plays here is the Durtbags. They are an all-time favorite among locals and visitors alike. You can find them at Durty Harry’s every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
And if you feel like a chilled night in…
You can catch them on a weekly Facebook live stream (Fridays and Saturdays).
Durty Harry’s is a semi-outdoor space, depending on where you’re located. That means you get plenty of fresh air.
…And you’re gonna need it!
All that dancing is sure to break a sweat!
Sloppy Joe’s
Opening Times:
Monday: 9am – 2am
Tuesday: 9am – 2am
Wednesday: 9am – 2am
Thursday: 9am – 2am
Friday: 9am – 2am
Saturday: 9am – 2am
Sunday: 12pm – 2am
There are many popular bars in Key’s West…
…but nothing comes close to Sloppy Joe’s.
They have over 10,000 excellent reviews. That’s not surprising considering they have great food, personable staff, and live music that’s too damn good!
To see which bands are lined up, you can check their events calendar.
You can also check out their live webcam before visiting. This gives you an idea of what to expect before spending your hard-earned money.
And don’t forget to check out their online shop.
After all, who doesn’t want to support the most famous bar in Key West!?
Best Dive Bars in Key West
Green Parrot Bar
Opening Times:
Monday: 10am – 2am
Tuesday: 10am – 2am
Wednesday: 10am – 2am
Thursday: 10am – 2am
Friday: 10am – 4am
Saturday: 10am – 4am
Sunday: 10am – 2am
Old-school decor, low lights, and cheap drinks.
Does that sound like you?
…then let me introduce you to Green Parrot Bar in Key West.
Green Parrot Bar is great during the day. However, it really comes alive at night; with live bands, a friendly atmosphere, darts, and a pool table.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab some popcorn.
There is a free popcorn machine.
Popcorn and beer, anybody!?
The Green Parrot is similar to Captain Tony’s Saloon in many ways. It was built in 1890 and is favored by both locals and tourists.
The only real difference is you get to keep your clothes on.
Don’s Place
Opening Times:
Monday: 7am – 4am
Tuesday: 7am – 4am
Wednesday: 7am – 4am
Thursday: 7am – 4am
Friday: 7am – 4am
Saturday: 7am – 4am
Sunday: 7am – 4am
You won’t find exotic drinks in Don’s Place.
Cheap and cheerful is how we would describe Don’s Place.
…but with so much character.
There are not many tourists in Don’s Place. However, who wants to only visit the touristy spots when on vacation!?
Not us!
It’s all about experiencing the local culture. Don’t you agree?
Key West Nightlife: The Only Blueprint You Need
Aqua Nightclub
Aqua nightclub is different from most nightclubs.
It’s open at night, but also during the day.
…and it’s not just a boring bar.
There are drag shows that take place in the evening.
For more information, you can visit the Aqua daytime events page.
Virgilio’s Nightclub
Opening Times:
Monday: 6pm – 2am
Tuesday: 6pm – 2am
Wednesday: 6pm – 2am
Thursday: 6pm – 2am
Friday: 6pm – 2am
Saturday: 6pm – 2am
Sunday: Closed
There’s a reason everybody loves Virgilio’s.
…because it’s so damn good!
Virgilio’s is not like your typical nightclub. It’s a little more laid back; the type of place you visit for a relaxing atmosphere.
It’s perfect for escaping the manic atmosphere of Duval Street.
If you’re a cocktail lover, you will love Martini Mondays. You can get Martinis for only $5.
And there are countless options to choose from!
