Key West, our two-mile by four-mile subtropical island paradise, is famously known as the southernmost city in the continental U.S.

But did you know it’s also considered one of the most haunted cities in the country? In fact, its original name, Cayo Hueso — meaning “Isle of Bones” — hints at its eerie past.

If you’re intrigued by tales of restless spirits and haunted landmarks, you’ll find plenty to explore here. For those brave enough to be spooked, Key West offers several year-round ghost tours that are as entertaining as they are chilling.

Established in 1996, the Key West Ghost Hunt is a nightly walking tour through historic Old Town, complete with an interactive ghost-hunting experience. The journey begins at 301 Whitehead St., beside the building that once marked the 1927 birthplace of Pan American World Airways.

The tour highlights some of the island’s most haunted spots, guided by knowledgeable experts who demonstrate how to use ghost-hunting tools to detect supernatural activity.

Another spine-tingling adventure is the Ghosts & Gravestones of Key West trolley tour, hosted by a costumed “ghost guide” who shares strange but true tales of local curses, tragedies, and paranormal happenings. The tour ends with a visit to the famously haunted Key West Shipwreck Museum.

No exploration of Key West’s supernatural side would be complete without The Robert the Doll Experience — a ghost hunt at Fort East Martello Museum, a Civil War–era fort. The highlight is a lockdown with Robert himself, known as “the world’s most haunted doll.” Gifted in 1904 to local boy Robert Gene Otto, the mischievous 40-inch figure now resides behind glass at the museum and has achieved legendary paranormal status.

The Robert the Doll Experience was created by author, historian, and ghost hunter David Sloan, who wrote the book “Robert The Doll,” in collaboration with the Key West Art & Historical Society, which operates the museum.

Keep in mind that these ghost tours are especially popular around Halloween, so advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Looking to turn up the scare factor on your next Key West visit? Consider staying at the Artist House, once home to Robert the Doll himself. Other reportedly “spirited” lodgings include Marrero’s Guest Mansion — an adults-only inn where guests say Mrs. Marrero’s ghost still visits her old room, number 18.

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