Key West is one of the most fascinating and unique cities in the United States. Located at the tip of the Florida Keys, the city is tropical and the atmosphere is eclectic. Famous writers, artists, and musicians have called Key West home. The storybook architecture and carnival atmosphere contribute to the overall laid-back vibe.
Many homes, boats and businesses in the Florida Keys were severely damaged by Hurricane Irma in September 2017. However, Key West was less impacted by the hurricane, and most businesses and tourist sites were open within a few weeks. .
The Keys were first made accessible in 1912 when Henry Flagler of Miami built the railroad line to Key West. A hurricane destroyed the tracks in 1935, and the railroad line was never rebuilt. Today, the 123-mile Overseas Highway with 42 bridges links the Keys to the mainland. Although the Keys are a short drive from Miami, the city has managed to maintain a mix of New Orleans, the Caribbean, and just plain fun. The drive from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic in the United States.
However, it is also a great city to visit from a cruise ship traveling to the Caribbean.
Key West is certainly an easy port of call for cruise ship passengers to navigate. Cruise ships can dock near Mallory Square, Key West’s premier park, or at the nearby Truman Annex. All the shops, restaurants and bars on Duval Street and Whitehead Street are within walking distance of the boats.
Three Important Historic and Geographic Sites in Key West
When you only have one day in port, it is important to use your time wisely. Many guests find a bar and simply enjoy the laid-back Key West vibe. Others enjoy strolling the streets and visiting some of the interesting shops. Those who want to experience some history and have their photo taken at Key West’s most photographed site (not Jimmy Buffett’s) should check out these three sites.
The Little White Truman House and the tour trolleys are within walking distance of Mallory Square. President Harry S. Truman made 11 trips to this former home at Naval Station Key West and often used it as a place to escape in the winter to work and avoid the weather in Washington, DC. Today the Little White House is a museum. It is an interesting place to visit for those who love to learn more about the presidents and politics of the United States.
The most famous resident of Key West was probably the writer Ernest Hemingway, who lived in a charming old house, now called the Hemingway Home, in the heart of the city for about ten years. Hemingway and his wife Pauline moved to Key West in 1928, and he continued his habit of writing in the early hours of the morning and then exploring the city (and the bars) later in the day. Shortly after moving to Key West, he discovered the joys of deep-sea fishing, which was very popular in the area. A tour of the house is a step back almost 100 years ago, and seeing Hemingway’s office, the famous swimming pool (the first in Key West), and the 6-toed cats that still inhabit the grounds is a great way to spend a good time. few hours.
A trip to Key West is not complete without a photo facing the southernmost point of the continental United States. There is usually a line, but it moves fast. The Trolley Tour bus or the Conch Train stop near this point, so get off and take a photo.
The best way to see Key West
Cruises offer tours to many of the highlights of this charming tropical city, but the best way to see Key West is aboard the Old Town Trolley and Conch Tour trains. The hour-long drive takes you past key West sites including Hemingway House, the southernmost point in the US, Harry Truman Little White House, and Duval Street. The trolley / train covers more than 14 miles of old Key West and is narrated with entertaining stories about the city. Walking or biking the back streets of Key West is also a good way to get around the small town.
An organized tour is not really necessary to enjoy Key West, but the Old Town Trolley and Conch Tour Train are both certainly entertaining!
