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Key West, Florida is a tropical island city at the southernmost point of the continental United States. This iconic destination, located at the end of the Overseas Highway, has captivated visitors for generations with its unique blend of Caribbean culture, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back island atmosphere. As the county seat of Monroe County, Key West serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the Florida Keys archipelago, a chain of 1,700 islands stretching into the Gulf of Mexico.
The city’s geographic isolation has shaped its distinctive character. Located just 90 miles from Cuba, Key West has long been influenced by Bahamian and Cuban cultures, creating a melting pot unlike anywhere else in America. This is evident in the architecture, cuisine, and most notably, the unique dialect spoken by longtime residents, which incorporates elements of Caribbean English and Spanish.
Key West has been home to a remarkable array of famous residents and visitors throughout its history. The city has attracted writers, artists, musicians, and adventurers seeking inspiration in its exotic setting. Ernest Hemingway made Key West famous, writing some of his most memorable works in his historic casa tropical, while today visitors can explore his former home and the famous six-toed cats that still roam the property.
Key West’s history reads like a chapter from a maritime adventure novel. The island was originally inhabited by the Calusa people, who lived off the rich waters of the Florida Straits for centuries before European explorers arrived. Spanish sailors were the first Europeans to map the area, and by the early 1800s, the island had become an important port and naval base.
The city truly came into its own during the 1800s as a center for the wrecking industry. Located on the dangerous reefs off the Florida Keys, Key West became famous (or infamous, depending on your perspective) for the wreckers—salvage operators who would rescue ships and cargo from the treacherous waters, earning handsome profits in the process. This “golden age of wrecking” brought wealth and prominence to the small island community.
The 20th century brought dramatic changes. The Navy established a major base at Key West during World War II, transforming the quiet island into a strategic military outpost. After the war, tourism began to replace the declining sponge fishing and wrecking industries. The construction of the Overseas Highway in the 1930s, later expanded into the modern Overseas Railroad, made Key West accessible by car for the first time, opening the island to mass tourism.
| Era | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1800s | Calusa habitation | Indigenous presence |
| 1800s | Wrecking industry | Economic foundation |
| 1890s | Sponge fishing boom | New industry |
| 1930s | Overseas Highway | Automobile access |
| 1940s | Naval base | Military significance |
| Present | Tourism | Primary industry |
Key West offers an abundance of activities that take advantage of its unique setting. The island is small enough to explore on foot, bicycle, or golf cart, and its compact downtown is packed with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Duval Street, the famous mile-long pedestrian thoroughfare, is the heart of the action, lined with bars, restaurants, and the iconic Sloppy Joe’s where Hemingway was a regular.
| Activity | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Duval Street | Historic downtown | Shopping, dining, nightlife |
| Mallory Square | Sunset celebrations | Daily sunset viewing |
| Hemingway House | Historic estate | Cats, gardens, tours |
| Southernmost Point | Iconic landmark | Photo opportunity |
| Snorkeling/Scuba | Reef diving | Coral reefs, marine life |
| Kayaking | Eco tours | Mangroves, dolphins |
| Dry Tortugas | Day trip | Fort Jefferson, snorkeling |
Mallory Square hosts the famous Sunset Celebration, where crowds gather nightly to applaud as the sun dips below the horizon in a spectacular blaze of color. This tradition has drawn visitors for decades and represents the quintessential Key West experience.
For nature lovers, the Dry Tortugas National Park offers an unforgettable day trip. Accessible by ferry or seaplane, this remote park encompasses a cluster of seven islands famous for their coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the impressive Fort Jefferson, one of the largest coastal forts ever built. The snorkeling here ranks among the best in the Florida Keys.
Key West enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a popular winter destination for visitors seeking escape from northern cold.
| Season | Avg. High | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 75°F | Perfect weather, dry season | Crowded, higher prices |
| Spring | 80°F | Spring break, flower season | Can be windy |
| Summer | 88°F | Hurricane season, deals | Humid, storm risk |
| Fall | 86°F | Fewer crowds | Hurricane season |
Winter brings the best weather—low humidity, blue skies, and comfortable temperatures in the 70s. This is peak tourist season, and visitors should expect crowded streets and higher hotel rates. The annual Key West Literary Seminar in January draws book lovers from around the world.
Summer offers the lowest rates and smaller crowds, though humidity is high and hurricane season runs from June through November. Those who don’t mind the heat and potential for storms can find excellent deals on accommodations.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Key West. Pick your favorite!
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of colonial furniture, period architecture, tropical greenery, and the renowned artist and naturalist John James Audubon. Prepare to be amazed at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, n…
If you’re eager to discover the captivating history of Key West but find yourself short on time, fear not! The Conch Tour Train is the perfect solution for you. Hop aboard this narrated tour that lasts 75 minutes and takes you on a loop through the…
When you’re in Key West, don’t miss the chance to explore Duval Street. It’s a vibrant and lively street that stretches for just one mile. You’ll find an array of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and souvenir shops along the way. Duval Street is co…
Ernest Hemingway, the famous writer and journalist, is a beloved figure in Key West. Although he wasn’t born on the island, he is considered one of its cherished residents. His former home, located in the historic Old Town, holds great significance…
If you’re looking for the cleanest beach and best waters in Key West, make your way to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, located at the westernmost point of the island. This park offers a variety of activities all in one place, including sunb…
The Little White House, initially constructed in 1890 as the naval command headquarters for the Spanish-American War and both World Wars, holds an intriguing history. President Harry Truman discovered this charming abode during his winter vacation i…
The Key West Aquarium may not have fancy displays, but it offers a delightful experience for the whole family. Despite its compact size, the aquarium showcases a diverse collection of creatures. Kids will enjoy exploring the touch pools and discover…
Key West is not just about admiring the beautiful waters from the beach. You can have an amazing experience by taking a boat tour. There are various companies that offer exciting options such as sailing, snorkeling, kayaking tours, sunset cruises, a…
Step into a world of enchantment at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, a paradise for butterfly enthusiasts. Here, you’ll encounter a captivating display of approximately 50 to 60 vibrant butterfly species gracefully fluttering through an…
Come visit the Key West Cemetery in Old Town, a historical site established in 1847. It’s a fascinating place to explore and definitely worth a stroll. The unique spirit of the city is evident even in its burial grounds. Unlike traditional tombstone…
In 2012, Key West welcomed its First Legal Rum Distillery since the Prohibition era. This distillery offers an exciting experience for visitors who can explore a fully functional rum production facility. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the s…
The Key West Lighthouse offers breathtaking views from its top, but be prepared for tight spaces and heights if you decide to make the climb up its 88 steps. Despite the limited space, recent visitors assure that the panoramic vistas are worth it. O…
Looking for a stunning view of the Key West sunset? Make your way to Mallory Square, located at the northwest tip of the island. Get ready to experience the Sunset Celebration, a fantastic arts festival that takes place every evening, approximately…
Smathers Beach in Key West is the liveliest beach on the island, especially during spring break. While Key West may not be famous for its beaches, this one stands out among visitors. According to recent travelers, Smathers Beach is clean, serene, an…
Key West offers a delightful activity that has become a favorite among visitors: capturing a photo with the vibrant buoy that signifies the southernmost point of the United States. This striking striped buoy, located where Whitehead and South street…