So I normally write long and detailed reviews, but this one will just be a quick one so I can review my recent vacation while the memories are still fresh! So obviously I am going to give this Key West cultural landmark and plaza 5 stars because IT SHARES MY NAME!! Like many others have said, this is a tourist hot spot with lots of beachy shopping, restaurants, and museums. My dad made sure to take lots of photos of me by my namesake plaza while we visited Key West on family trips back when I was a kid. I wasn't so enthused to pose back then but I am now as an adult!! Mallory isn't a common name so I have a biased opinion of anything or anyone that is named Mallory. I can't wait to come back and get even more time in MY square! :) read more

Mallory Square - Mallory posing next to the Shops at Mallory Square! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

First off - there is Mallory Square which is a great place to catch the sunset and then there is the Shops at Mallory Square. I point this out only becasue some folks get Mallory Square - the outdoor entertainment area confused with the Shops at Mallory Square - the building with lots of shops and dining areas. When you ask for directions, most locals will give you directions to the outdoor entertainment area. This is a great location to catch the sunset, see street performers, do some people-watching or to grab a bite to eat. read more

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Where else in the Southernmost part of Florida can you go for free to see a beautiful sunset, street performers, and great people watching? This would be the place. There is everything from the wacky, weird talents to people casually walking their dogs and enjoying the local vibe. If you have never been, this should be a bucket list item while visiting the lower keys when the weather is almost always nice. read more

We visited Mallory Square several times during our visit for both the nightly Sunset Celebration with various street performers and also during the daytime. Our daytime visit was tasked with sampling several food and drink establishments, as well as procurement of souvenirs and hostess gifts. Lovely area near the water and bustling with plenty of local and tourist activity most of the time we were there. read more

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We spent Friday afternoon and evening in and around Mallory Square checking out the shops and attractions and making sure to see the sunset. We parked in the lot which is $7 an hour and walked around enjoying live music and entertainment just before and after sunset. It was really nice and packed with people even in winter so if you love crowds and people watching, this is definitely the place for you! read more

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This is a cute shopping area in the main tourist area near Duval St. This is also where a couple of the train/trolleys tours start and end. You can also buy tickets here for other tours. There is a few shops selling souvenirs. It's also close to the Key West cruise port. read more

Mallory Square - entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

We went to Mallory Square specifically to watch the sunset, and it's easy to see why it's so popular. If you want a front-row view, plan to arrive at least an hour early. Even with the crowds, it was a beautiful and memorable experience. read more

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Mallory Square is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset or take a nice walk along the boardwalk, looking out into the Gulfs horizon. If you arrive here two hours before sunset, you can partake in their nightly festival featuring magicians, jugglers, clowns, psychics, local musicians, artists, food and jewelry vendors. We stopped by twice during our visit to the area and we're able to experience two amazing shows from two different performers each time. Just know that it's free to see the performances; however, they do ask for onlookers to tip them what they can afford as they wrap up the show. The shops of Mallory Square and The Museum of Art History are in close proximity to Mallory Square, so you can easily spend a 1/3 of your day boping around this area. All-in-all, a great place to walk around and get some exercise, shop, see some live entertainment and watch the sunset. I highly recommend stopping by while in the Keys. read more

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If you went to Key West and didn't go to Mallory Square were you even there? The square allows for stunning a views in the daytime and at sunset. There is a Cuba spot that has a great shop, bar, and restaurants. So there for the views, people watching, a bite, and for core memories! read more

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Everyone knows "Mallory Square" for the famous Sunset Celebration (so famous that it has it's own Yelp listing: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sunset-celebration-at-mallory-square-key-west-2?osq=sunset+celebration&override_cta=Request+pricing+%26+availability But there is more to the fun times to watch than just street performers and tourists.... this place has history and some other attributes that are probably looked over. Did you know this large area of paver stones with some architectural points of interest and very little landscaping or shade once upon a time played a huge role in Key West industry long before tourism.... the WRECKING / SALVAGE INDUSTRY. Mallory Square was the area that housed warehouses to store wrecking equipment and salvaged goods that were housed until they were auctioned off. If you ever read about Key West history, you'd be amazed by so much you wouldn't expect and the Wrecking/Salvage was a huge part of it. A lot of the buildings and entertainment surrounding the open area are also part of Mallory Square, like the buildings that include the Shell Warehouse, Sponge Market, the Aquarium, Waterfront Theatre and more... An amazing history and now arguably the most popular tourist stop in Key West read more

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The heart of Key West with lots of roosters , t shirt shops & coffee places. It's quiet in the morning as the tourists from our ship. At sunset it fills with tourists, street performers and locals. This is the place for people watching. read more

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Folks, if you want to experience one of the all time great spots to take in a sunset, come here. See my photos as they say it all. This was in December and the sun position is perfect. Come early to get a spot on the seawall. Huge number of vendors pop open displays a little before sunset and vanish as the crowds break up. read more

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We went to Mallory Square the first night, but the Sun was down. It is called civil twilight. Still very bright, but the Sun is 6" below the horizon. It was not too crowded, and there were a couple of performers in the square. The second night we arrived earlier, and took a few great photographs. It was a wonderful event to share with others. This night we were able to see 2 other bright lights in the sky. I believe one was the planet Venus. Hopefully not UFO's On the negative, the public bathroom was disgusting. New plumbing equipment is needed. Just cleaning it, is not enough. It needs a makeover. Even maintenance workers concurred. read more

Mallory Square - CIVIL TWILIGHT AT MALLORY SQUARE 10/15/2025 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

There are sunsets, and then there's Mallory Square. The nightly celebration at the edge of Key West isn't just about the sun dipping into the Gulf--it's about people. In the 1990s, this place was lightning in a bottle. As a kid, I remember it transforming every evening into a carnival of madness and wonder. A sword swallower daring gravity and anatomy. A tightrope walker strutting above the crowd as if the Conch Republic itself would hold him up. Magicians, jugglers, fire eaters--every inch of the square was alive. Not all of that survives. Many of those performers are retired now, older, quieter. The energy has softened, like a great band that no longer tours but still plays a few bars when the mood strikes. It's a shadow of what it was--and yet, somehow, still pure magic. Because legends don't die here. You can still hear Gazzo, the legendary magician, commanding a crowd with that gravelly voice, sharp wit, and cups-and-balls routine that has probably fooled more people than tequila ever has. Seeing him work a crowd is a privilege, one that earns five stars on its own. Mallory Square may not be what it was in the 1990s, but it remains the best sunset celebration in the world. The performers may come and go, the crowds may change, but when that orange ball of fire sinks into the water and everyone claps like it's the first time the sun ever set, you understand: the magic isn't gone. It's just different now. Mallory Square is proof that even when the show changes, the sunset never does--and that's the real headliner. read more

For some reason, I took great pictures but never did my reviews on a few Key West landmarks, so here it goes. At the end of each day I go here to watch the beautiful sunset with jugglers, food and local jewelry tables set up for the tourists. Am I still considered a tourist if I come to visit Key West several times every year? This view of the sunset is unmatched anywhere in Florida. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

We had heard about the sunsets at Mallory Square and wanted to see what the hype was about. Before we go any further, we did not make it to sunset, so this review is for the square itself and the immediate surrounding area. We came about an hour before sunset and there was hardly anyone there. The vendors and performers were still setting up. So we walked around and saw the cruise ships and "hall of fame" little park that had busts of all of the famous people around Key West. We came back about 20 minutes later and there was some activity. The performers were just ok and the acts the same as you would see in any major city. It never got too crowded and we decided to head elsewhere for the actual sunset. read more

Mallory Square is a tourist haven for a good reason; it provides a truly mesmerizing sunset viewing experience. There are certainly lots of folks selling their wares, and you'll have to get there early to get a good spot, but once that sun starts dipping on the horizon, whew. Stunning. I've been twice and the second time the sun decided to hide, but it was still a pretty view regardless. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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We enjoy ending everyday in Mallory Square at the far end of Duval Street in Key West, FL. As the sun is setting with an unobstructed crazy view of the reddish orange sun lowering with a drink in hand. There are a few high end resort style hotels surrounding the square where people can sit around the pools or at the patio bars. Mallory Square is famous for the entertainment too not just the sunset. There are fire stick jugglers and local jewelry sales set up for hundreds of the tourists and locals every day. 4.5 stars here. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

This is a plaza in the Old Town portion of Key West. It's near the cruise ship port and Key West Shipwreck Historeum museum. It's a lovely spot to view the sunset because it faces the Gulf of Mexico. It's an open, flat area, and a great place to hangout and relax. There is the popular Sunset Celebration that happens every day, two hours before sunset; hundreds of people celebrating, there are food, art vendors, and street performers. There is a Memorial Sculpture Garden that has bronze sculptures of people who played an important role in Key West. It's awesome and eerie, especially at night because it almost gave me cemetery vibes; the sculptures seems to have life and the faces stare back at you. There's an ordinance for the cruise ships to leave the dock two hours before sunset and they're allowed to return after the sun sets, so that they don't obstruct the view of the sunset. Definitely a place you can't miss if you're in KW. read more

Mallory Square is a major tourist spot in Key West located along the water, near the cruise ship terminal. It is home to the Key West Aquarium, Waterfront Playhouse Theater, Shipwreck Treasures Museum, Mallory Square Festival Market, Florida Keys Historical Military Memorial, Key West Historic Memorial Sculpture Garden, and Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum. It has a lot of history and dates back to the early 1800s. There is also the Mallory Square Mall, which has a few galleries and shops, but I found their restroom the most useful. There is metered street parking available and it is home to a small mall, and vendors with homemade goods, crafts and souvenirs. You will find some amazing sunsets here. They are so beautiful that they host daily sunset celebrations. I spent a lot of time in the square. I recommend bundling your attractions if you plan on doing any. It will save you a few bucks. They offer a discount for visiting the aquarium and shipwreck museum, which are right next.door from each other. If you are a tourist, visiting Key West, it will be hard to skip the Square. In addition to its many attractions, great views, decent shopping opportunities, and sunsets, many tours originate or go through the area. I found the Square to be relatively clean and easy to navigate. This is definitely a must see if you are on the island. read more

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If you've seen one sunset, you've seen them all - NOT TRUE! Second time here and it still amazes how spectacular the sunset is here. Pretty sure the vibe has a lot to do with it. Hundreds of people here to quietly and peacefully watch the sun go down. It's a truly amazing experience! read more

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Great place to come and see some of what's going on in Key West. Lots of small shops for souvenirs in the area as well as some restaurants. Beautiful place to catch the sunset over sunset key! And after the sunset we caught some fun acts and booths selling items, cutting coconuts to drink, psychic and tarot readings. Was a great place to spend our Tuesday evening! read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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Stop here to catch the sunset like everyone else! The square is right along the water and there are plenty of spots to sit and watch the sunset. It does get busy so if you want a front row view, get there at least 35 minutes before the sunset to claim your spot. They have local vendors selling tourist items and hotdogs also street performers are there too. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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I know it's a "touristy" thing to do - but I'm so glad we visited twice to see the beautiful sunset. The crowd atmosphere was incredible too! read more

Mallory Square - I'm sure the view from this boat was amazing! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

Mallory Square in Key West is popular with tourists and locals alike for its views of the sunset and its many shops and restaurants. If you ask anyone in Key West where to go to catch the sunset, most everyone will tell you to come to Mallory Square. I have been to the Sunset Celebration many times in the past, this last time, we just strolled after sunset and it was much quieter and peaceful. Around 8pm most of the street vendors had already left and only a few remained. Mallory Square is home to the Key West Aquarium, Waterfront Playhouse Theater, Shipwreck Treasures Museum, and Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum. Mallory Square has been a gathering place for locals and visitors since the early 1800s. In 1823, Commodore David Porter established a base of operations here for the US Navy's West Indies Squadron. During the American Civil War, Mallory Square was used as a base by both Union and Confederate forces. In 1961, the City of Key West and the Old Island Restoration Foundation decided to restore this area to its 19th-century appearance, making it one of the top destinations on the island...or...should I say the Key, the Cayo, the Cay. read more

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The view of the sunset was amazing. Thankfully there wasn't any cruise ships in that day. The area is congested and has a lot of street performers and vendors. We had an amazingly fresh guacamole which was so good! It's a prime spot for the sunset but I prefer a "less prime" area that doesn't have the crowds. read more

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Lively area to visit in the evening with lots of street vendors and performers. Also the best place to watch a sunset in Key West! read more

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Been coming here 35 years. Spent many a night fishing off this pier in the 80s. It's changed a lot but still has those memories Fun tourist stop for sunset. Parking is $$$. Come early. Don't buy anything it's all over priced. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

Mallory Square so much fun! This is the place to be if you want to watch the sunset. Key West celebrates the sunset every day. Come to Mallory Square and watch street performers and shop from local artists. Watching the sunset down in this town is a party. Be sure to arrive early, so you can get a good spot. There are public bathrooms (not exactly the cleanest). Grab a Mojito at El Meson de Pepe and dance salsa music. There are also food vendors and restaurants. It's pretty quiet during the day. It's nice to just see the boats sailing by. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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Wonderful location along waterfront where the nightly sunset watching ritual occurs by locals and tourists. The square has street performers, various vendors and plenty of restaurants, bars and music. When in Key West, this is a must see. read more

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The place where all the tourists go to watch the sunset; that makes it insanely busy as the place isn't that big. Your best bet is to get there one hour earlier and secure your spot towards the right hand side, but watch out you don't fall into the water! There are also some interesting street performers in the square to watch and kill time before the sunset. read more

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Good Shopping for Key West Souvenirs Good shopping only if you are looking for souvenirs that say "Key West". Lots of "Shoshkis". The prices are all very similar to other stores; however LOOK FPR THE COUPON in the Key West booklet. We used a 25% off booklet and were able to save $$ of items we wanted to bring home for co-workers. read more

Mallory Square - Mallory Square marker - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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2-19-22 My last trip to Key West would not have been complete if we did not go to Mallory Square. To me it is truly the heart of Key West. If you are lucky enough to be here at sunset than you will take in the celebration. There is street performers and merchants selling souvenirs. Before and after sunset it is an open area located at the waterfront. I love watching the performers as it is very unique and crazy to Key West. Also there is many bars in the surrounding area to quench your thirst. You can walk around town with your drinks not like other tourists destinations. Notice in the attached photos the cruise ships still do come in however as I sailed in here twice in 2019 they leave before sunset not to block the view. Little known fact the citizens of Key West voted against the ships to come in. However the port they are docked at is private and therefore can't be regulated by the citizens. read more

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The vendors, the music, the atmosphere, the sunset! The epitome of what makes Key West so perfect. Add this to a must do when visiting. read more

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The sunset at Mallory Square is the end of day activity and it did not disappoint. There was entertainment, food and souvenir vendors. You have to get there early to get a good spot because it gets crowded really quick and becomes elbow to elbow. Although not you may have seen plenty of sunsets in your lifetime this one was as spect as advertised. The clear water creates a green hue as the sun sets and you are in awe of nature. read more

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This is one of those obligatory places to visit when in Key West and rightly so, the view of Sunset Key and the waters around this part of the island is beautiful. Come in the evening and enjoy the show - several performers doing various acts. It's a touristy thing to do, but worth it and a "must see" when in town! read more

Best way to end our visit was to explore Mallory square. The view of the ocean is beautiful. Yes, it is definitely a tourist spot but it has many unique things to see like the gift shops with an impressive variety of sea shells and starfish which my kids and myself enjoyed. At the other end of the shops you find yourself looking at a boat aground and the shipwreck museum. The key west Conch tour train is also here if your up for a tour without the hassle of driving and parking. Traffic here is a bit hectic and gets expensive in the lots and full fairly quickly. read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

Awesome view. Go early to get a good spot. Several places to get a drink or food nearby

We came here twice out of the four nights we were on the island. It was definitely a nice place to see the sunset. There was a long stretch of concrete for people to sit along. The breeze was nice. It was quite relaxing to wait for the sunset while watching the people on the square and the boats on the water. There were also performers and street vendors. I wish there were more though. I remember at least a few vendors selling paintings, shells with names, and jewelry. There were also vendors selling conch fritters, hotdogs, popcorn, and snow cones. There were 2 performers - a juggler "on wheels" and a musician (that's it). And there was also a preacher speaking on salvation. Farther away from the water but still on the square was a souvenir shop selling shirts, mugs, ornaments, magnets, etc. I was looking for a rooster shirt and found one there for $11. I also purchased a simple rooster mug. The souvenirs were reasonably priced. Next to the shop was a bar with a band playing Salsa and "Santana like" music. Parking was like everywhere else... expensive ($5 per hour)! read more

Mallory Square - Rainbow sighting! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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Nice shopping area. Can find cool things here. If in the area definitely stop by it's a must See! read more

Mallory Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Key West, Florida

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