Mallory Square Florida – Best Things To Do

Last Updated on 15th September 2025 by admin

Mallory Square is one of the first locations that we imagine when we think of Key West. This is an energetic waterfront location and one of the most renowned places of hangout in Florida. You simply cannot ignore it, in case you are making a visit to Key West. It is a place that you can simply arrive and enjoy without much planning.

So, what makes Mallory Square so special? This is where we all come at the end of the day to see the sun go down below the Gulf of Mexico. The views of the sunset in these places are magical. Mallory Square is not all about sunsets. We are going to walk through it because there is so much to do and see here.

The Famous Sunset Celebration

We will begin with the most famous attraction at Mallory Square the sunset celebration. Each evening, approximately two hours to sunset, the square is filled with street entertainers, artisans, food booths and smiling travellers who are here to appreciate the sight. It is not about waiting until the sun goes down. Jugglers, magicians, musicians and even acrobats are performing. We are able to take a drink, listen to live music and simply enjoy the atmosphere.

It is a relaxed atmosphere and we are all at a large outdoor party and when the sun at last reaches the horizon, the entire multitude applauds. It is like one of those little things that you never forget. In case you enjoy photographing, then this is the best moment to take some of the most beautiful images of your trip.

Street Performers and Local Artists

The Mallory square is also one of the best spots to experience free live shows without purchasing tickets. Street performers exhibit their talent every evening in the square. A few of them have been playing here years and they know how to get the people smiling and applauding. We are free to transition between acts, jugglers throw flaming torches, magicians entertain the crowd with tricks, and musicians perform everything including an island tune and classic rocks.

Besides the performers, there is also a multitude of local artists who will place small stalls in the area surrounding the square. They market every type of handmade products such as jewelry, colorful paintings, wooden carvings and other special crafts. It is the ideal location to get a souvenir that is not something you would encounter in a large store but something special. Although we may not intend to make any purchases, it is worth the walk just to see how creative people are.

Food and Drinks

This walking around and sightseeing can make us hungry and Mallory Square offers lots of choices. Food stalls and small vendors are everywhere offering conch fritters to Key Lime pie. It is an enjoyable experience of trying some local cuisines without having to sit in a fancy restaurant.

When we feel like having some drinks, there are bars around the area which we can get a cocktail or cold beer. Watching the sunset as one sips a beverage is one of those old time Key West experiences that we cannot afford to miss.

Visit the Museums

There are also some interesting museums around Mallory Square. We can check them out, if we happen to have some spare time before the sunset. The Key west shipwreck museum is exactly close by, and it narrates how shipwrecking was once one of the primary industries in Key West.

The other place that should be visited is the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, a place that is dedicated to the shipwreck treasures and underwater archaeology. These museums will be an excellent addition to the day and will provide us with a glimpse of how life used to be in Key West several years back.

Shop for Souvenirs

Mallory Square is not only a sunset and performance venue, it is also an excellent place to make a little shopping. Around the square itself are numerous little shops and stalls where you can buy all sorts of fun souvenirs. They have colorful T-shirts with Key West prints, seashell decorations and bizarre gifts that are just perfect to get home.

Most of the sellers are local and make their products, so it is pleasant that we are helping local businesses and then buying something unique. There are hand-made candles, pieces of art in beach forms, and even pieces of driftwood and shells recycled into pieces in your neighborhood shores. Thus, need a small keychain, a decoration to adorn your house, or a simple memento of the visit, Mallory Square has many options.

Watch the Boats and Cruise Ships

Watching the boats pass by Mallory Square is one of the most comfortable activities that are possible. As it is literally on the waterfront, you are in the front row to observe whatever activity there is on the water. Throughout the day, you can see small fishing boats, sailboats and even luxury yachts passing. In some cases, a huge cruise ship will be parked around and it makes the square even livelier with tourists walking around the square.

In the evening when the day is already over, the scene is even better. The sunset is also reflected in the water and it forms the ideal background to take pictures beside the boats in the background. It is a quiet time and a pleasant respite between shopping at the stores and seeing the shows. You may simply lean on the railing, breathe the sea air and observe the view- it is one of those simple luxuries which makes a visit to Mallory Square memorable.

Explore Historic Landmarks

Mallory Square is not only a cool place to have a good time but also a historical landmark of Key West. Most of the buildings surrounding the square were constructed in the 1800s when this was a busy shipping and trade center. It is like losing time in walking round here. You are able to view old brick warehouses that were formerly utilized to store shipwreck goods and some of these have been transformed into shops, galleries, and museums.

You may also visit the memorials and plaques surrounding the square where we can read the story of the early days of Key West. It is a pleasant manner of learning a bit of history and still enjoying the relaxed ambiance. Going even further you may visit the nearby museums such as the Key West Shipwreck Museum that makes those old tales come alive.

Tips for Visiting Mallory Square

Here are a few simple tips that can make your visit even better:

• Get there at least an hour before sunset so you can grab a good spot and enjoy the performers.
• Wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking and standing for a while.
• Bring a camera or phone for photos, the sunset is worth capturing.
• Keep a little cash with you for tipping performers or buying small items from local vendors.

Mallory square is the place where you can really touch the spirit of Key West. It is joyful, vivid, and charming. It is a warm and welcoming experience, whether you are here to watch the famous sunset, or watch the performers, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy the view. Then when you are next in Key West you know where to dry up to when the sun begins to set. Mallory Square is welcoming us with a good mood, beautiful scenery and a memory you will carry home with a smile.