Arriving on Thanksgiving Day

Question

Hello all,

We are arriving on Thanksgiving Day at 1:00 and cannot check in to our hotel until 3:00. We will be hungry and just want somewhere to grab a bite and relax until we can drop our bags at our hotel. We are staying at the Hibiscus. I was thinking we would grab a bite in that area (walkable to the hotel), but is anything open without reservations on Thanksgiving day?

Thank you in advance! We are SO looking forward to exploring the island.

Julie

Answer

Hi Julie,

Welcome to Key West! It’s great to hear that you’re looking forward to your trip. On Thanksgiving Day, many restaurants in Key West will be open, though some may be offering a special holiday menu or may require reservations due to the holiday. Since you’re staying at the Hibiscus Hotel, there are a few options nearby where you can relax, grab a bite, and enjoy the island vibe while you wait for check-in.

Here are some restaurants and spots within walking distance to the Hibiscus Hotel that are likely to be open on Thanksgiving Day:

Blue Heaven – A Key West staple with a relaxed, outdoor atmosphere. Known for its laid-back vibe and great food, Blue Heaven is a popular spot for brunch or lunch. While it may get busy, they often accept walk-ins, so you should be able to get a table if you arrive early.
The Lobster Shack – Just a short walk from your hotel, this casual spot offers delicious seafood, including lobster rolls and fresh oysters. It’s a great spot for a quick bite and should be open on Thanksgiving. It’s a no-fuss place, perfect for grabbing a bite and relaxing.
The Southernmost Beach Café – If you’re in the mood for something near the water, this restaurant offers great beach views and a casual atmosphere. It’s usually open on Thanksgiving and would be perfect for a relaxed meal while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Sloppy Joe’s – Famous for being a Hemingway hangout, this historic bar and restaurant is a fun place to stop by for a drink and some food. Sloppy Joe’s is likely to be open on Thanksgiving, though it might get a bit busy as it’s a popular destination.
Caroline’s Café – This is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner in Old Town, just a short walk from your hotel. They often have a Thanksgiving menu, so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a festive meal.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Since Thanksgiving is a busy holiday, it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially if you’re hoping to snag a table without a reservation. Some places may have shorter wait times if you arrive before peak dinner hours.
If you’re interested in a more traditional Thanksgiving dinner, many restaurants in Key West do offer a holiday menu, but reservations may be required for those. You may want to check with your hotel for any recommendations or places that might still be taking walk-ins.

I hope this helps you enjoy your first few hours in Key West! It’s a beautiful place to explore, and there’s plenty to see even if you're just walking around while waiting to check in. Enjoy your trip, and happy Thanksgiving!

Arriving on Thanksgiving Day

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