Duval Street: The nightlife scene along Key West’s Duval Street is legendary, but even by day the buildings and shopping along the historic thoroughfare encapsulate the Key West experience.

Southernmost Point: There’s not all that much to see at this buoy on the southern tip of Key West, but it’s a bold reminder that when you’re in this part of the state, you’re closer to Cuba than you are to Miami.

Dry Tortugas National Park: The seven islands that make up the Dry Tortugas National Park sit about 70 miles offshore from Key West, and the only symbol of civilization is the remains of Fort Jefferson; still, visitors flock here for the pristine natural environment as well as snorkeling and boating activities.

National Key Deer Refuge: The tiny key deer that live on Big Pine Key are small in stature and in numbers; this wildlife refuge — with its imposing fences and hard-to-miss signage — is dedicated to their preservation.

Bahia Honda State Park: This state park is home to one of the few beaches in the Keys, which also happens to be one of the best in the state. The combination of rugged naturalism and pastoral ocean-side beauty makes this park as popular as it is unique.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Some of the best snorkeling in all the Keys — in all of the United States, for that matter — can be done within the vast boundaries of this state park. From vibrant coral reefs to a Christ of the Abyss statue, there is plenty for amateur and professional divers to see in these offshore waters.