The southernmost city in the continental U.S. has clear waters, sandy beaches, and a lively atmosphere. It's known for its LGBTQ+ community and laid-back island vibe.
Key West, the southernmost city in the continental United States, is a small island with a distinct character. You can walk through Ernest Hemingway's former home, see street performers at Mallory Square, or drink mojitos in a Duval Street bar. The island has clear waters, pastel-colored conch houses, and a relaxed atmosphere that sets it apart from other Florida destinations.
Exploring Duval Street
Duval Street runs through the heart of Key West, stretching from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. This active street has bars, restaurants, and shops in Victorian buildings. During the day, you can browse art galleries or buy souvenirs. At night, music plays from open-air bars. Visit Sloppy Joe's, where Ernest Hemingway often drank, for a cocktail and live music. For a calmer evening, go to the Green Parrot Bar, a local favorite known for its jukebox and diverse crowd.
Hemingway's Key West
Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West for nearly a decade, and you can see his impact throughout the island. Tour the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to see where the author wrote some of his most famous works. The Spanish Colonial-style house looks much as it did when Hemingway lived there, including his writing studio and saltwater pool. Look for the descendants of Hemingway's six-toed cats that still live on the property. After your visit, walk to Captain Tony's Saloon, formerly Sloppy Joe's, where Hemingway drank and talked with locals.
Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
Every evening, people gather at Mallory Square to watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. This event includes more than just the view. Street performers, such as jugglers, acrobats, and musicians, entertain the crowds before sunset. Food vendors sell conch fritters and key lime pie. Get there early to find a good spot along the water. As the sky changes color, you'll see why this tradition has continued for decades.
Cuban Flavors in Key West
Key West's location near Cuba has influenced its food. Start your day with a Cuban coffee, a strong espresso with sugar added during brewing. For lunch, try a Cuban sandwich – ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between Cuban bread. Go to El Siboney for traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef in tomato sauce) or lechon asado (roasted pork). Finish your meal with a slice of key lime pie, a local dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors in a graham cracker crust.
Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
About 70 miles west of Key West, you'll find Dry Tortugas National Park, a group of seven small islands you can reach only by boat or seaplane. The park includes Fort Jefferson, a large 19th-century fortress built to protect the Gulf of Mexico shipping channel. You can snorkel in the waters around the fort to see fish and coral reefs. Bird watchers might spot frigate birds, sooty terns, and brown noddies nesting on the islands. You can camp overnight on the island if you bring all necessary supplies, as there are no services available.
