This quirky haven is for snorkelers and history buffs.
As the southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West, Florida, is a warm-weather destination unlike any other. From the colorful homes to the loads of cultural institutions, this island town has a welcoming charm. From the former home of Ernest Hemingway to the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, there is an educational side to Key West. But there's always an opportunity to let loose and dance on the sand. The city's adventure-seeking spirit is around every corner — after all, it's the quirky community that keeps Key West lively.
Explore Key West
- Bahama Village
- Key West Historic Seaport
- Old Town
Bahama Village
Overview
Just west of Duval Street, where you’ll find plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants, Bahama Village is a quiet residential pocket that’s filled with a history all its own. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s former home or take in panoramic views of the surrounding restored Bahamian clapboard-style houses from the top of the 173-year-old Key West Lighthouse.
Known For
Architecture, Literary History
Key West Historic Seaport
Overview
Set on the north side of town with views of Wisteria Island, the Key West Historic Seaport offers great waterfront vistas and puts on a breathtaking sunset display. Lining the seaport are shops, restaurants and museums, plus the dock for Key West Express ferries that’ll take you on rides around the island.
Known For
Sunset Views, Boat Rides
Old Town
Overview
Old Town Key West is the heartbeat of this island, with shops, restaurants, cultural institutions and beautiful architecture abounding. The streets are lined with palm trees and dotted with restored centuries-old homes, but don't be fooled: Duval Street offers up quite the party once the sun sets.
Known For
Dining, Museums, Cultural Institutions
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Find Out Why Key West Is Florida’s Must-Visit Cultural Hub
Immerse Yourself in History
Start your trip with panoramic views of the island from the top of Key West Lighthouse — a 173-year-old landmark in the center of Bahama Village. Then make your way to Duval Street to scope out the shops and restaurants that line this 1.25-mile-long strip that runs from the Historic Seaport to the south of the island.
Head Out on the Water
You’re on an island after all, so you’ve got to hit the water at some point. Catch one of the ferries from Key West Boat Trips for a trip around the island, then head back to explore the boutiques and eateries that line the marina.
Hit the Beach
Cap off your trip by spending a day at Higgs Memorial Beach Park, where you can lounge in the sand before touring the bucolic Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens. And for a final dose of history, make sure to leave time to visit West Martello Fort — a historic Civil War-era tower that’s on the National Register of Historic Places.