Key West, Florida
Key West is one of the most captivating islands in the Florida Keys, known for its colorful history, tropical scenery, lively arts scene, and unforgettable sunsets. Visitors return again and again for the walkable Old Town, historic homes, waterfront activities, and relaxed island atmosphere. For first-time travelers, Key West is especially easy to explore thanks to its compact layout, sightseeing trains and trolleys, bike and scooter rentals, pedicabs, and rideshare service.
About the Community
Take a pedicab, hop aboard a tour train or trolley, rent a bike, or simply walk to absorb the ambiance of this historic island city where Ernest Hemingway lived and figures such as Harry S. Truman, Thomas Edison, and Tennessee Williams all spent time. Key West is steeped in history, with architecture and property records that reflect its long Spanish, Cuban, Bahamian, and American influences.
Old Town is a delight to explore, with winding lanes, tropical gardens, live music, and a distinctive collection of restored wooden homes, conch houses, and tin-roofed cottages. Duval Street remains the island’s best-known corridor for dining, nightlife, and people-watching. Do not miss the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, and consider spending time in the historic Bahama Village neighborhood, where Bahamian heritage continues to shape the area’s culture, food, and character.
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Vicinity of Key West
Additional Details
The Historic Seaport district, known locally as the Key West Bight, is still an active waterfront area and a great starting point for time on the water. From here, visitors can book deep-sea fishing charters, snorkeling and diving trips, sailing excursions, eco-tours, kayak outings, and sunset cruises. It is also a pleasant place to stroll, watch the boats, and enjoy fresh seafood at waterside restaurants. Depending on season and operator availability, you may also find glass-bottom boat trips, sandbar outings, dolphin-watching cruises, and backcountry adventures.
Visit local art galleries for work by established and emerging Key West artists. At Mallory Square, the famous Sunset Celebration remains one of the island’s signature experiences, typically featuring street performers, musicians, artisans, and crowds gathering to watch the sky change over the water. Timing, entertainment, and vendor participation may vary.
After dark, Key West comes alive with sidewalk cafes, open-air bars, live music venues, theaters, and a wide range of restaurants serving seafood and island-inspired cuisine. The city has long been known for its welcoming spirit, and LGBTQ+ residents and visitors have played an important role in shaping modern Key West culture. Because so many attractions are concentrated in a compact area, it is possible to combine beaches, museums, historic districts, shopping, water sports, and nightlife in a single visit. Golfers can also find an 18-hole course on the island.
