Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters: Your Guide to Fantasy Fest 2025 in Key West

Welcome to Fantasy Fest 2025! Every October, Key West transforms into a playground of imagination called Fantasy Fest, a 10-day carnival of creativity, costumes, parades, and pure island energy.

This year’s festival runs October 17–26, 2025, and the official theme – “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” – invites you to dream big and dress even bigger. Fantasy Fest is often described as “Mardi Gras meets Halloween” in Key West’s tropical, anything-goes atmosphere – a wild, artistic, and liberating celebration where grown-ups come out to play.

From whimsical fairy-tale characters to spooky creatures of the night, expect to see revelers wearing everything from elaborate handmade costumes to nearly nothing at all, adorned in dazzling body paint, feathers, and sequins. It’s an unforgettable experience for those ready to let loose and celebrate eccentricity without judgement.

But Fantasy Fest isn’t just about partying – it began as a local solution to a quiet tourism season and has since become a beloved tradition that also raises money for charity and showcases the Keys’ unique spirit.

How a Local Street Party Became a Key West Tradition

Fantasy Fest started in 1979 when a group of Key West business owners dreamed up a grand costume party to boost tourism during the slow fall season . That first parade was small but outrageous, and it did the trick – visitors flocked to Key West for some off-season fun.

Over the years, Fantasy Fest grew into the premier masking and costuming extravaganza of the Keys, “a festival of costumed parties in true Key West style,” now encompassing more than 60 themed parties, street fairs, parades and balls. By the 1990s, tens of thousands were attending and Fantasy Fest was bringing an economic boost of around $35 million annually to the region.

Today, it’s not only the wildest extravaganza in town, but also an event that fills every hotel and guest house with up to 75,000 revelers each year, extending the tourist season and showcasing local businesses and artists. In many ways, Fantasy Fest embodies the imaginative, free-spirited culture of Key West – it’s a party with a purpose, supporting local charities (like the King & Queen Campaign for the local SPCA) and inviting visitors to discover the Keys’ creative heart. No wonder it has become a must-see annual staple for both locals and visitors, eagerly awaited each October.

Who Is Fantasy Fest in Key West For? (Adults, Adventurers & Even Families)

Fantasy Fest is primarily geared toward adults and partygoers – it’s known as a 10-day “party in paradise for grown-ups” filled with late-night revelry, costume competitions, and lively bars along Duval Street. In fact, much like New Orleans’ Mardi Gras, most events tend to be adult-oriented and some costumes can be risqué (during the final weekend a city “Fantasy Zone” even permits body-painted nudity as an exception to local laws). This means that if you’re an adult traveler who loves creative costumes, energetic crowds, live music, and perhaps a dash of debauchery, Fantasy Fest will be your dream come true.

But families and more casual travelers, take note: Fantasy Fest isn’t entirely off-limits to you! While late-night street parties may not be kid-friendly, the festival offers many fun daytime events for all ages. For example, the opening Goombay Festival is a two-day family-friendly street fair celebrating Caribbean culture with food, art, and music in the Bahama Village neighborhood. Mid-fest, the adorable Pet Masquerade invites pets and their owners in costume – always a hit with animal-loving kids. And on the final Sunday, Children’s Day at Bayview Park is dedicated to the little ones, with games, rides, and a costume contest just for kids.

In short, Fantasy Fest welcomes everyone – it’s beloved by free-spirited adults and costume enthusiasts, but families can also partake in select events or simply soak up the carnival atmosphere by day. (Just plan accordingly: perhaps adults hit the late-night parties while grandparents and kids enjoy a movie night back at your accommodations.) The key is knowing which events match your comfort level,

and we’ve got you covered on that below!

Fantasy Fest 2025 Highlights: Events & Activities Day by Day

Fantasy Fest is actually a 10-day series of events, each with its own flavor. With the “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” theme this year, expect many events to incorporate storybook fantasy or monster-mash fun. Here’s a day-by-day look at some of the can’t-miss Fantasy Fest 2025 events (so you can plan your costumes – and your energy!):

• Opening Weekend (Fri Oct 17 & Sat Oct 18) – The festival kicks off with the lively Bahama Village Goombay Festival, a free, family-friendly street party in Key West’s historic Bahama Village. From noon to midnight, Petronia Street comes alive with island music (reggae, soca), Afro-Caribbean crafts, and delicious local food. It’s a great daytime event for all ages.

  
  

  Friday evening also brings the Royal Coronation at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, where the community crowns the new Fantasy Fest King and Queen in a gleeful two-hour stage show featuring performances by the candidates and local talent. (This beloved tradition is the finale to a charity fundraising competition – a true local spectacle for a good cause.)

  
  

• Sun Oct 19 – Zombie Bike Ride: As dusk falls on Sunday, one of Fantasy Fest’s quirkiest traditions unfolds – the Zombie Bike Ride. “Undead” cyclists of all ages gather (many with incredible zombie makeup and tattered costumes) and pedal en masse along the South Roosevelt waterfront into Old Town. The afternoon kickoff at Fort East Martello includes live entertainment, food trucks, body painting stations and even a kids’ zone to get everyone in the ghoulish spirit. By evening, thousands of zombies on wheels take to the streets – an unforgettable spooky-fun procession (and yes, spectators are welcome to line the route and cheer on the horde!).

  
  

• Mon Oct 20 – Themed Parties Galore: As the new week begins, the nightlife revs up. Iconic Duval Street bars host themed costume parties nightly. For example, Monday features Sloppy Joe’s “Comic Book Cape-ers” Party, where you can don your favorite superhero or villain outfit and dance to live rock music – there’s a costume contest for the best caped crusaders. Over at the Sunset Pier, a tongue-in-cheek “Mrs. Roper’s Romp” invites everyone to channel the 1970s sitcom character Mrs. Roper with flamboyant caftans and wigs for a funky evening of disco, games and laughs. These parties are lighthearted and casual – perfect for anyone who loves a good themed dress-up night.

  
  

• Tue Oct 21 – Tutu Tuesday: Pack your frilliest tutu for one of Fantasy Fest’s most famous traditions: Tutu Tuesday! On this night, everyone wears a tutu – the sillier and more colorful, the better – and a multi-venue dance party overtakes the Caroline Street district. DJs spin at different bars, revelers hop between venues, and the only real rule is you must wear a tutu. It’s a fantastic way for even first-timers to jump in and feel part of the fun (because who can be uptight in a tutu?). Also on Tuesday, art lovers can swing by the Fantasy Fest Poster Signing Party at the La Concha Hotel to meet the artist behind this year’s poster and pick up festival souvenirs.

  
  

• Wed Oct 22 – Pet Masquerade & Headdress Ball: Wednesday brings a mix of adorable and fabulous. In late afternoon, head to the Coffee Butler Amphitheater for the annual Pet Masquerade, an over-the-top costume contest for pets (and their human companions). You’ll see dogs dressed as superheroes, cats as princesses – even a parrot or pot-bellied pig might make an appearance! Prizes are awarded in categories, and all entry fees support the local animal. It’s heartwarming, hilarious, and very family-friendly.

  
  

  Later that night, glamour takes center stage at the 42nd Annual Headdress Ball, one of Fantasy Fest’s headline events. Hosted by the Key West Business Guild, this ticketed gala is all about spectacular hand-crafted headdresses – think giant feathered creations, glittering sculptures worn on the head, each more elaborate than the last. Models showcase their headdresses in a pageant-style revue with live music and performances. It’s elegant, artistic, and jaw-dropping – truly “out-of-this-world headdresses” on display. (Insider tip: the Headdress Ball is LGBTQ-hosted and welcomes all – it sells out, so if you love drag glamour and costumes, secure tickets early!)

  
  

• Thu Oct 23 – Throwback Parties: As the weekend nears, the festival’s playful side ramps up. Thursday’s highlight is often the famous “80s Throwback Party” at Irish Kevin's. Also on Thursday, the streets fill with music at the Local’s Masquerade March rehearsal and the final touches go into floats for the big parade. It’s a great night to wander Duval Street and take in the pop-up costume contests and live bands at various bars. There’s anticipation in the air – the big weekend is about to begin.

  
  

• Fri Oct 24 – Masquerade March & Street Fair: Friday is when Fantasy Fest really hits its stride. By day, Duval Street is closed to traffic for the Fantasy Fest Street Fair, a mile-long open-air market of food vendors, arts and crafts, costumes and cocktails right in the street. Stroll among tents selling locally made jewelry, sample tropical margaritas or conch fritters, and admire the impromptu costumes of folks gearing up for the evening. As late afternoon arrives, costumed crews gather at Frances Street for the beloved Captain Morgan Masquerade March (fondly nicknamed the “Locals’ Parade”).

  
  

  This is a less formal, participatory parade where anyone in costume can join – and hundreds do! Groups of friends choose creative themes and parade through Old Town’s streets, stopping at historic guesthouses that hand out complimentary drinks to marchers. Picture pirates, mermaids, superheroes, and monsters all promenading together in a joyful cacophony. Spectators line the streets to cheer, local bands often play, and the whole march feels like a big walking block party. Before the march, participants strut down Paparazzi Row, a pre-parade photo op zone on Fleming Street where photographers snap pictures of the best costumes. By Friday night, Key West is one giant costume party — every bar and sidewalk overflowing with fantastical creatures. The excitement for the next day’s parade is palpable!

  
  

• Sat Oct 25 – The Grand Parade: This is the night. Saturday evening, tens of thousands of people converge along Whitehead and Duval Streets for the spectacular Fantasy Fest Parade at 7pm. If you attend only one event, make it this. The parade is a dazzling procession of enormous floats, marching bands, dance troupes, and costume krewes winding from the Gulf of America to the Atlantic. Each float embodies the “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” theme in a unique way – you might see a gigantic Storybook Castle float with fairy-tale characters dancing, followed by a gaggle of “Wild Things” monsters on bicycles, followed by a glowing bed carried by “nightmare” ghouls. The creativity is off the charts. Floats often reach two stories tall, decked in lights and special effects, with costumed riders tossing beads and trinkets. Royalty waves from one float – the newly crowned King and Queen of Fantasy Fest ride in glory, celebrating the funds they raised for charity.

  
  

  The parade lasts several hours and is truly an awesome island tradition dating back to 1979. Expect loud music, dazzling lights, confetti, and some risqué humor (viewer discretion advised for little kids – many families choose to enjoy the earlier parts and then bow out as the more “adult” floats roll by). By parade’s end, you’ll understand why people work on their costumes and floats all year for this night. It’s pure Keys magic.

  
  

• Sun Oct 26 – Closing Fun & Children’s Day: After the big parade, Sunday winds things down on a wholesome note. From noon to 5pm, Children’s Day takes over Bayview Park, offering a mellow family carnival with rides, face painting, arts and crafts, and a kids’ costume contest to let the youngest costumers shine. It’s a relaxed, happy daytime event – a nice breather after a wild week.

  
  

  Meanwhile, for the adults not quite ready to quit, the festival’s official last call is the “The Fat Lady Sings” Tea Dance at legendary La Te Da on Duval Street. This daytime dance party is all about celebrating until the fat lady sings, with DJs spinning energetic tunes (and plenty of feather boas in sight!). By sunset on Sunday, Fantasy Fest officially comes to a close – and everyone starts dreaming of next year (in fact, the 2026 theme announcement is scheduled for Monday, Oct 27!).

As you can see, each day of Fantasy Fest 2025 has its own unique events and charms – from cultural street fairs to zany bike rides, pet parades to glamorous balls, a massive street parade to kids’ carnivals. Whether you’re an early bird browsing the art booths or a night owl dancing till 2am, there’s something to enjoy. And throughout, you’ll feel the camaraderie and creativity that make this festival special – locals and visitors alike coming together to celebrate the quirky, colorful spirit of Key West.

Why Attend Fantasy Fest 2025? (And Why You Should Book Now)

If you love unforgettable experiences, Fantasy Fest 2025 is calling your name. Here are a few compelling reasons to attend this year – and why you’ll want to start planning ASAP:

• One-of-a-Kind Theme: “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” promises to unleash everyone’s inner child and inner wild side at once. It’s a theme that spans the sweet and the spooky, encouraging incredible costumes from classic fairy-tale heroes to creepy creatures. Long-time attendees are already buzzing with ideas – meaning the parade and parties will be especially creative this year. You’ll witness Key West’s streets teeming with storybook characters and imaginative monsters come to life. If ever there was a year to costume up and jump in, this is it! “It’s a playground for the imagination,” says Fantasy Fest Director Nadene Grossman Orr, “and we can’t wait to see how celebrators bring it to life.”

  
  

• Unmatched Festive Atmosphere: Fantasy Fest is not just a festival, it’s a feeling – a contagious joy and freedom that sweeps up the whole island. Picture yourself dancing in a shower of confetti as a float passes by, or laughing with newfound friends at a costume party under the stars. Many compare it to Mardi Gras or Carnival, but with a unique Keys twist of tropical vibes and an inclusive, come-as-you-are attitude. It’s the kind of exuberant celebration that leaves you with stories (and photos!) you’ll reminisce about for years. If you’ve been craving some pure, unfiltered fun – the kind that makes you feel like a kid again – Fantasy Fest delivers in spades.

  
  

• Something for Every Traveler: Perhaps you’re an adventure-loving couple eager to party all night, or a group of friends planning a reunion trip, or maybe a family looking to enjoy the gentler side of Keys culture. Fantasy Fest’s schedule is so varied that you can truly choose your own adventure. Want wild nights? You got it. Prefer arts and culture by day? Plenty of options. There are races (like a 5K Zombie Run), live mural painting events, even golf cart scavenger hunts – you can participate as much or as little as you like. And let’s not forget the natural paradise around you: by day you can beach hop or snorkel (October’s weather is warm and clear), then join the festivities by night. In 2025 especially, with a theme that bridges whimsical and eerie, the festival is catering to a broad audience – from fantasy book nerds to Halloween horror fans, casual observers to dedicated costume pros. Everyone gets to play in their own way.

  
  

• Support a Great Cause: Fantasy Fest is fun, yes, but it’s also “a party with a purpose.” Many events double as fundraisers for local charities. For instance, the Royal Coronation supports the Florida Keys SPCA, and numerous parties donate proceeds to nonprofits. By attending, you’re indirectly contributing to the community – all while having a blast. It feels good to know your revelry helps others. In 2025, after some challenging years past, the local businesses and organizations appreciate visitor support more than ever. Your trip makes a difference.

  
  

• Perfect Timing & Weather: Late October is an ideal time in the Keys. The summer humidity has eased, hurricane season is tapering off, and evenings are balmy. Plus, it’s the end of off-season – meaning you enjoy a slightly calmer vibe in the days before and after Fantasy Fest. If you come for the festival and stay a little longer, you’ll catch Key West in the beautiful late-October calm before winter high season kicks in.

Now, a word on urgency: Fantasy Fest is hugely popular, and with each passing week in 2025, more people are locking in their plans. Key West’s population swells dramatically during the festival – up to 75,000 people will attend – which means hotels and rentals in Key West book up fast. Many loyal “Festers” reserve their favorite accommodations months (or even a full year) in advance. If you wait too long, you may find yourself scrambling for a place to stay, or paying peak prices. Booking early not only secures you a spot in the action, but often saves you money as rates tend to rise as availability shrinks.

The same goes for event tickets: marquee events like the Headdress Ball or certain themed parties can sell out in advance. So if you’re reading this and getting excited, truly – now is the time to plan. Secure that lodging, lock in that vacation time, and start dreaming up your costume ideas. You don’t want to be the traveler saying “maybe next year” when you could be joining the fun this year!

Speaking of where to stay… that brings us to one of our best insider tips for Fantasy Fest:

Home Base in Paradise: Why Stay at Casa Feliz in Marathon

With the frenzy and fun of Fantasy Fest, you might assume staying in Key West is a must. But here’s a secret: savvy travelers often choose to stay in nearby islands like Marathon, making the most of both the festival and a tranquil Keys vacation. Casa Feliz, our luxury vacation rental in Marathon’s Grassy Key, is the ideal home base for your Fantasy Fest 2025 adventure – and here’s why.

Peace When You Need It, Proximity When You Want It: Marathon is located about 50 miles (1-hour scenic drive) from Key West – close enough to easily attend Fantasy Fest events, yet far enough to escape the 24/7 hustle. After a night of dancing in Key West’s streets, imagine returning to a peaceful haven where the only sounds are gentle waves and rustling palms. Casa Feliz offers exactly that: “It’s peaceful here while being only minutes from Marathon’s best restaurants, bike trails, and family-friendly adventures,” notes the owner.

You can have a wild night out and then genuinely relax and recharge by your private pool or on the hammock the next day. No rowdy crowds outside your window, no surprise 3am rooster (Key West has many!) – just serene comfort. And when you’re ready for more Fest fun, Key West is a straight shot down the Overseas Highway.

Spacious Luxury for Groups & Families: Unlike cramped hotel rooms in the city, Casa Feliz is a spacious 4-bedroom, 4-bath private home that sleeps 8+ comfortably. It’s perfect for groups of friends or multigenerational families traveling together. Everyone can be under one roof, yet with plenty of privacy and room to spread out across three floors. There’s a full gourmet kitchen for breakfasts or group dinners, multiple decks with ocean views, and even a home theater room for cozy movie nights. Traveling with family to Fantasy Fest? Casa Feliz gives you a safe, friendly sanctuary to retreat to if the little ones (or the grandparents) need a break from the excitement.

Adults can attend the late-night parties knowing the kids are back home in a comfortable, secure environment with other family members – a scenario much easier to manage in a private house than across multiple hotel rooms. Guest reviews often mention that Casa Feliz “had everything we needed for meals at home… and plenty of seating… The location on Grassy Key was perfect for day trips to both Key West and Key Largo”. In other words, it’s versatile: party when you want, put your feet up when you don’t.

Amenities That Outshine Any Hotel: Casa Feliz isn’t just a place to sleep – it’s a destination in itself. You have your own private beach and dock on the Atlantic Ocean, where you can sip coffee at sunrise or kayak in the afternoon. The property boasts a resort-style heated pool with waterfalls and a spa – perfect for lazing away a recovery morning after a big night out. Lush tropical landscaping creates a secluded oasis, so while Key West is in party mode, you can still find total tranquility here.

Want to host your own mini celebration? Fire up the poolside grill and tiki torches and have a cocktail night by the pool – the stars overhead, the ocean breeze – it’s an entirely different kind of Keys magic. High-speed WiFi, a dedicated work space, and concierge services are available too (for any last-minute costume emergencies or a private chef hire) – Casa Feliz has all the luxuries and comforts to make your stay effortless. Our concierge can even stock the fridge or arrange transport, so you focus on fun.

Authentic Keys Experience – Beyond the Tourist Zone: By staying in Marathon, you’ll get to experience a more authentic, laid-back side of the Florida Keys that many Fantasy Fest visitors miss. Marathon is known as the Heart of the Keys – centrally located, with a friendly small-town vibe. You can chat with locals at the farmer’s market, go fishing, visit the sea turtle hospital (more on that below), and really immerse in the Keys lifestyle. Then, when you crave the high-energy buzz of Key West, it’s right there for you. Many guests tell us this combination of “vibrant Key West and relaxed Marathon” gave them the best of both worlds. And if you’re driving down from Miami, Marathon cuts off a good portion of the drive compared to Key West – meaning you start your vacation sooner.

Better Value & Flexibility: During Fantasy Fest, Key West lodging prices skyrocket and strict minimum stays often apply. Marathon, by contrast, offers more value for your budget. You’ll likely find that a luxury home like Casa Feliz (which can be split among a group) is more cost-effective than multiple hotel rooms in Key West, especially during festival week. Plus, you avoid the congestion – after enjoying the festival, you won’t be fighting traffic in jam-packed Key West streets to get to your accommodation. Instead, you’ll take a scenic moonlit drive up the Overseas Highway back to Marathon, reflecting on the day’s fun. The drive over the Seven Mile Bridge under the stars is its own little adventure.

In short, Casa Feliz in Marathon offers comfort, privacy, and convenience that simply can’t be matched by a hotel in Key West during Fantasy Fest. You get to dip into the party on your terms and then retreat to a refined haven that feels like home. Our past guests have loved pairing the high-octane excitement of Fantasy Fest with the low-key luxury of Casa Feliz. It creates a balanced vacation filled with both connection and ease – the thrill of celebration and the joy of serene moments with loved ones.

Beyond Fantasy Fest: October Activities Around Marathon for Everyone

Maybe not everyone in your group is into Fantasy Fest’s revelry – or maybe you’re staying a bit longer to enjoy the Keys after the festival. Either way, October is a fabulous time to explore Marathon and the Middle Keys, which offer a wealth of relaxing, nature-based, cultural, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a hand-picked list of alternate October activities in and around Marathon that can delight travelers of all ages (so you can make memories, Fantasy Fest or not!):

• Beach Day at Sombrero Beach (Marathon) – Visit one of the Keys’ rare sandy beaches right in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a beautiful city park beach with soft white sand and calm, shallow water – perfect for swimming and sandcastle building. The park features picnic pavilions, a playground, volleyball courts, restrooms and showers, and it’s totally free and pet-friendly. Locals love its family-friendly vibe and scenic palm-lined shore. In October, the beach is especially lovely (and not too crowded). Bonus: it’s a sea turtle nesting beach, so you might see roped-off turtle nests or even hatchlings if you’re lucky (nesting season runs through October)!

  
  

  Why go: To relax under the sun, enjoy a picnic lunch, or catch a spectacular sunrise. It’s an easy, no-cost day of bliss for all ages.

  
  

• Tour The Turtle Hospital – Marathon is home to the world-famous Turtle Hospital, a small non-profit veterinary hospital for injured sea turtles. They offer guided tours daily where you can see recovering sea turtles up close and learn about the amazing rehabilitation work being done. It’s both educational and heartwarming to meet patients like “Bubble Butt” or “Rusty” the sea turtles and understand their rescue stories. Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the hands-on experience of feeding a sea turtle or observing a surgery through the hospital viewing window. As their mission says: “Rescue, Rehab, Release” is the goal – and many turtles do get returned to the wild.

  
  

  Why go: It’s a meaningful, family-friendly activity that supports wildlife conservation. Tours often sell out, so call ahead for a reservation.

  
  

• Meet Dolphins at Dolphin Research Center (Grassy Key) – Just a few minutes from Casa Feliz is the Dolphin Research Center, a renowned dolphin sanctuary and education facility. This center offers an unparalleled experience for animal lovers: you can watch fun daily dolphin and sea lion shows, participate in interactive programs like dolphin swims or family dolphin splash, or simply enjoy seeing these intelligent creatures play in lagoon. The DRC is dedicated to research and conservation, so you’ll also learn a ton. It’s frequently cited as one of the best things to do in Marathon for families. In October, the weather is ideal for their outdoor programs.

  
  

  Why go: Where else can you laugh at a dolphin’s antics, shake a flipper, or even paint with a dolphin? It’s “fun-filled, educational, and allows visitors to engage with dolphins in a meaningful way” – a Keys memory you’ll treasure.

  
  

• Snorkeling at Bahia Honda State Park – A short drive south (about 20 minutes from Marathon) lies Bahia Honda State Park, often heralded as having the best natural beaches in the Keys. This tropical park boasts award-winning beaches with crystal-clear shallow waters teeming with fish. You can rent snorkel gear or take a snorkel boat tour to the offshore reef. The historic old Bahia Honda railroad bridge offers a scenic viewpoint and a touch of history. Walking the nature trails, you might spot colorful butterflies or wading birds.

  
  

  Why go: To enjoy a relaxing day in nature – swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or picnic under the coconut palms. Bahia Honda’s beaches (Sandspur or Calusa Beach) have even been ranked among the top beaches in the U.S. before. It’s a little slice of paradise and a nice contrast to the bustle of Key West. (Tip: Go early in the day to snag a picnic table and experience the calm morning waters.)

  
  

• Hands-On Fun at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters (Marathon) – This interactive aquarium in Marathon allows you to not just see sea creatures, but touch and feed them! It’s perfect for families. You can hand-feed stingrays, feel the rough skin of a nurse shark, and marvel at turtles and tropical fish up close. They have a coral reef tank you can snorkel or dive in and even a predator lagoon where (under staff guidance) you can feed sharks through a small opening – talk about an adrenaline rush! There are touch tanks for kids, educational exhibits, and tours with marine biologists.

  
  

  Why go: It’s “hands-on, up-close, and perfect for families”, as one review raves – a chance to get face-to-fin with Florida’s marine life in a safe environment. Afterward, you’ll appreciate the ocean even more when you encounter wild fish while snorkeling. Plus, it’s a great rainy-day backup activity since much is under cover.

  
  

• Nature & History at Crane Point Museum & Nature Center (Marathon) – Tucked in the middle of Marathon is Crane Point, a 63-acre tropical preserve and museum that offers a quiet retreat into the nature and history of the Keys. Stroll through hardwood hammock trails to view native plants and wildlife (you might meet rehabilitated birds at the Wild Bird Center). Visit the modest Natural History museum which houses artifacts like a 600-year-old canoe and exhibits on indigenous Keys culture. You can even get a “fish pedicure” in a pond where tiny fish nibble at your toes – kids find it hilarious! Crane Point also contains the historic Adderley House (a Bahamian pioneer home from 1903).

  
  

  Why go: It’s an enriching, low-key outing where you can learn about Florida Keys ecology and history while enjoying the shade of nature trails. After days of partying or sun, a peaceful walk under the tree canopy here brings balance. It’s also budget-friendly and usually uncrowded.

  
  

• Sunset Celebration at Marathon or Islamorada – If you crave the famous Key West sunset festivities but want to avoid the crowd of Mallory Square, consider checking out sunset in the Middle Keys. The 7 Mile Bridge has a Sunset Grill right by the water, or take a sunset cruise from Marathon harbor. Alternatively, drive up to Islamorada’s Morada Bay (about 30 minutes north) for their monthly Full Moon Party or simply a sunset dinner – in October the sunsets are particularly vibrant.

  
  

  Why go: The Florida Keys are renowned for sunsets, and enjoying one with family or friends – whether on a quiet dock at Casa Feliz or a local waterfront spot – can be just as magical as any festival. It’s a moment of joy and connection with nature that reminds you why the Keys are special.

These are just a sampling – other honorable mentions include charter fishing trips (October is great for sailfish and tuna), kayaking the mangroves at Curry Hammock State Park (keep an eye out for herons and mangrove crabs), visiting the tiny historic Pigeon Key island via a ferry or the old 7-Mile Bridge, or even a day trip north to Key Largo’s Pennekamp Coral Reef Park for more snorkeling. The Middle Keys and surrounding areas truly offer something for every interest, from adventure to pure relaxation.

At Casa Feliz, we’re happy to help tailor your Keys experience – whether that means pointing you to a tranquil secret beach or arranging transportation for a Fantasy Fest night. Our goal is for you to feel the ease, joy, and togetherness that come from a well-rounded Florida Keys vacation.

After all, the beauty of an October stay at Casa Feliz is the freedom to craft your own adventure. Spend one day reveling in Fantasy Fest’s glittery chaos, the next day kayaking through a silent mangrove tunnel with your family. Dress up as a magical monster by night, then play marine biologist at the dolphin center by day. However you mix and match, you’ll find that the Keys in October offer endless opportunities for meaningful memory-making.

As the Fantasy Fest slogan says, “All grown-ups need to play.” We’d add: and all of us, young and old, need to relax too. Casa Feliz invites you to do both – to join the party and have a peaceful haven awaiting your return. This fall, let us be your home for an unforgettable Keys adventure.

Ready to embark on your own Bedtime Story in the Keys? We welcome you warmly to Casa Feliz. Book your October stay now and get ready to create some magical, monster-fabulous memories of your own!