Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Explore Key West with a Flexible Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

The Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers an engaging way to see more than 100 points of interest across the island city. Priced at $55.60 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes narrated tour provides a rundown of Key West’s most iconic sights. With an unlimited 1- or 2-day pass, travelers can hop on or off at various stops at their own pace, making it ideal for those seeking both convenience and flexibility. An included perk is free admission to the Sails to Rails Museum, adding extra value for curious visitors.

This tour consistently earns a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on over 1,300 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and wide coverage of the island’s highlights. While some note that the long wait times between trolley arrivals can be a challenge for frequent hopping, overall, it remains a popular choice for first-time visitors and explorations that combine sightseeing with some leisure.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on hop-off format allows exploring Key West at your own pace
• Over 100 points of interest included across the route
• Guided narration shares stories, history, and legends of the city
• Includes free admission to the Sails to Rails Museum and two free walking tours
• Trolleys arrive approximately every 30 minutes, with longer waits possible during peak times
• Suitable for most travelers, with accessible options for wheelchairs and service animals allowed

Starting Point at Mallory Square

The tour begins at Mallory Square, in front of the Sponge Market, adjacent to the Key West Aquarium. This spot is iconic, offering immediate access to lively street performers and vibrant sunset views. The trolley pulls up near the American flag and shark sculpture, making it easy to spot.

Visiting the Historic Waterfront and Mac’s Sea Garden

Next, the Historic Waterfront/Macs Sea Garden stop is located on a service road between Margaret and William streets. Visitors can wait inside Mac’s Sea Garden Gift Shop for convenience, enjoying a quick browse while waiting for the trolley. This stop provides a chance to appreciate the harbor views and maritime atmosphere.

Exploring Simonton & Green Streets

The Simonton & Green Streets stop is on the corner of Simonton Row, directly outside Diver’s Direct. This area is perfect for sightseeing and quick shopping breaks, with Key West Aloe across the street. A bench is available for waiting guests, making it easy to relax during the tour.

Duval Street and Crowne Plaza La Concha

The Duval Street/Crowne Plaza La Concha stop is right in front of the La Concha Hotel, one of Key West’s most recognizable landmarks. This central location offers easy access to the vibrant nightlife, shops, and eateries along Duval Street. The trolley stops directly at the hotel entrance, making it a convenient point for starting or ending your exploration.

Visiting Bahama Village and the Market

At the Bahama Village Market stop, visitors find themselves in a culturally rich neighborhood. The Bahama Village complex is on the street corner, providing a lively atmosphere and opportunities to browse local shops or grab a bite. This stop highlights Key West’s diverse neighborhood charm.

Staying at Fairfield Inn & Suites

The Fairfield Inn & Suites stop is located centrally within the hotel’s parking lot, making it easy for hotel guests to connect with the tour. This location offers quick access to the tour route for those staying in the area and looking for an efficient way to start or end their day.

Roosevelt Station at Gates Hotel

The Roosevelt Station at the Gates Hotel is temporarily in front of the hotel. This stop provides access to the northern parts of Key West, including beaches and nearby attractions. The service aims to serve both hotel guests and visitors exploring the island.

Visiting the Best Western Key Ambassador

The Best Western Key Ambassador stop is situated at the hotel’s front area, where guests can wait inside the lobby for the trolley’s arrival. This makes it a convenient point for hotel guests to hop on and explore the city’s sights.

East Martello Civil War Fort

A highlight for history enthusiasts is the East Martello Civil War Fort stop. Located in front of the East Martello Museum, the site offers a glimpse into Key West’s military past. The fort’s front overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, providing scenic views and photo opportunities. The trolley parks in the parking lot, making access straightforward.

Casa Marina Resort & Beach House

The Casa Marina stop is at the Waldorf Astoria Casa Marina Hotel, a historic landmark built by Henry Flagler. The trolley pulls into the hotel’s parking lot, stopping at the front doors—an ideal point for a quick visit to the beach or a luxurious stroll along the coast.

Southernmost Point Trolley Stop

At the Southernmost Point gift shop, this stop offers quintessential Key West photo moments. The trolley stops right in front of the shop, where visitors can browse or sit on benches outside while waiting for the next trolley. It’s a key photo spot and a convenient access point to the southern tip of the island.

Truval Village and Angela Street Depot

The Truval Village stop is located on the southeastern side of Duval Street, near the Truval Village shopping and dining area. The Angela Street Depot is at the northwest corner where Angela meets Duval, offering easy access to more local shops, restaurants, and neighborhoods.

Logistics and Additional Inclusions

The tour includes narrated commentary from local guides, providing stories, legends, and historical insights about each stop. The tour price covers all local taxes, and children aged 0-3 ride for free. Conveniently, two free walking tours are also included, perfect for those wanting to explore specific areas in more depth.

The trolleys run from 10 am to 5 pm, arriving about every 30 minutes. The unlimited pass allows multiple re-boarding within the chosen days, making it flexible for those wanting to revisit favorite spots. Service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate, with collapsible wheelchairs accommodated.

Recognized for Its Value and Accessibility

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and humor of the guides, making the tour both educational and fun. The inclusion of free museum admission and walking tours enhances the experience. The price point is considered reasonable, especially considering the extensive coverage and flexibility it offers.

However, some reviews mention that waiting times between trolley arrivals can be longer during busy periods, which may limit the ability to hop on and off frequently. This is something to consider if your schedule relies on tight timing.

Final Thoughts on the Key West Trolley Tour

The Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley provides a comprehensive, flexible way to explore the city’s highlights in a short amount of time. Its extensive stops, engaging narration, and included extras make it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed overview of the island.

While the longer wait times between trolleys are a drawback for some, the ease of access and expert guides often outweigh this concern. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate self-paced exploration without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is one full rotation of the trolley?
The Old Town Trolley Tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, but with 13 stops and unlimited re-boarding, the total touring time can be as long as the visitor desires.

Where can I start my Hop-On Hop-Off Tour?
You can redeem your ticket at any of the listed locations and board the trolley from any stop on the route.

How often do the trolleys arrive?
Trolleys arrive roughly every 30 minutes, though this can vary due to traffic or demand, especially during peak times.

What if the trolley is full when I arrive at a stop?
Dispatchers send additional trolleys during busy periods, typically arriving in less than 15 minutes if the initial trolley is full.

Are strollers allowed on the trolley?
Yes, strollers must be folded and stored during the ride, and children cannot ride in the stroller while on the trolley.

Can I bring food and drinks onboard?
Food and drinks are welcome, but alcoholic beverages are not permitted for safety reasons.

Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are permitted onboard, with other animals not allowed.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, collapsible wheelchairs are accommodated, and some trolleys are equipped with lifts for non-collapsible chairs or scooters.

What are the tour operating hours?
The tour operates from 10 am to 5 pm, with frequent trolley arrivals during these hours.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and children aged 0-3 ride free. The tour is generally accessible and family-friendly.

Does the tour include any guided commentary?
Yes, narrated by local guides, the commentary covers history, lore, and legends of Key West at each stop.

Can I purchase the pass on the day of my visit?
Yes, the unlimited 1- or 2-day passes are available for purchase, with most bookings made 22 days in advance for the best availability.

The Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour combines convenience, informative guides, and the freedom to explore at your own pace—making it an excellent way to discover the city’s highlights.