Beyond the horizon at Mallory Square – The big sunset party

If you want to experience the whole of crazy Key West at once, head to Mallory Square in the evening, a square in the center of Key West. Here, tourists meet hippies, shrill and funky characters, musicians and all kinds of performers, from fire-eaters to tightrope walkers.

When the sun casts long shadows, the crowds of visitors flock towards Mallory Square. They all marvel at and celebrate the most amazing sunsets as a large community – evening after evening after evening.

The course is located near the US coast in the historic Old Town district at the northern end of Duval Street. Depending on the time of year, the sun sets here on the horizon of the Gulf of Mexico or over Sunset Key or Wisteria Island. Even though the sunset ceremony is the tourist highlight in Key West, it is an essential part of a visit. However, romantics should switch to any other location.

What makes Mallory Square special

Mallory Square is famous for its spectacular sunsets – but if you only wait for them, you will miss out on the true magic of this place. Because from late afternoon, the square transforms into Key West’s liveliest open-air theater.

Street artists, musicians and fire-eaters from all over the world perform here – from juggling unicyclists to living statues. Many of them are an integral part of the scene and have been performing for years. Their shows are not only entertaining, but also part of Key West’s cultural identity.

In addition to the performances, it is worth visiting the small galleries and souvenir stores dotted around the square. If you want to delve deeper, visit the town’s Shipwreck Museum just around the corner or the historic Custom House Museum with exhibitions on the history of the island.

Tip for connoisseurs

While other visitors are standing on the pier, grab a drink or snack from the surrounding food stalls or bars – e.g. a freshly fried conch fritter – and enjoy the spectacle from a distance. This not only makes for better photos, but also a real vacation atmosphere.