I may take a day ferry to Key West when I visit Fort Myers Beach in two weeks, which would give me around 5 hours there. I've never been and wonder what I should see in that short time. I like to get a sense of "place" (I am a city planner) and relax for a drink or two. What would suggest? What is within walking distance of the ferry terminal?

I'd walk the entire length of Duval, take a classic tourist picture at the southernmost point, then wander back and tour Hemingway House. Wander down either Simonton or Whitehead, stop at Blue Heaven (one block off Whitehead) for either a drink or lunch (they have great mojitos). Keep wandering back towards the docks. Then I would sit down at Schooner Wharf, listen to the music, watch the people and wait for the ferry back to Fort Myers.

Key West is a great wandering town.

Jean

Take the Conch Tour Train and learn about the island, it's history, the houses and the people. That way you get to see most of the island and still have a few hours to explore on your own. The Little White House tour is nice, as is the Hemingway house, Audubon House and the Mel Fisher museum..gold from the Spanish Galleon Atocha that he found.

I agree, the Conch Train tour is the best way to see the island and you can get off the train at various stops and then get back on the next train that comes by. There is an outside bar at the Pier House that I've always enjoyed - have fun!

I also agree that you should take the Conch Train. It's a great overview of the island.
I would also recommend Schooner Wharf for a drink- now that place screams Key West!
My parents have taken that ferry and it has always worked well. Have fun!

if you have any history of motion sickness, take something prior to leaving on the ferry...my mother was terribly seasick on that boat last year, and she claims the sea wasn't even that rough...just a thought