Where is Key West?
Key West is an island located in the South-western Florida, United States of America. It spread around 100 miles from the mainland and 1.5 miles from the Florida Keys. It is also called a southernmost subtropical paradise, known for diverse culture, history, cuisines, climate, and natural beauties.
City of Key West is the county seat in Monroe County, which includes the majority of Florida’s Keys. 5.6 sq. km is a total area with a population of 30,000. Interestingly key west city combinations of Dredgers, sunset, Fleming and stock island keys.
As a traveler there are many places available to explore and discover from gingerbread mansions to tin roofed houses. Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishops are those who discovered the places in the early periods of history.
There are a lot of things which travelers can do, especially world famous sunset views, exploring coral reefs, museums and parks, and cities famous dishes are worth exploring. In this article we clearly discussed what are the interesting facts and things to do in Key West. Let’s discuss one by one;
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Top 10 things to do in Key West
1. Duval Street- Drag of downtown
We insist on starting your day in Key West from one of the greatest Bars and Legendary venues Duval Street. Such a great place to spend a quality of time with drinking, dining and shopping’s. This vibrant strip is also labelled for world famous shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Never miss to explore iconic landmarks like Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, San Carlos theatre, St. Paul Episcopal Church. Under Duval Street, Tony’s saloon is known as one of the oldest bars in the entire city.
2. Visit Mallory Square- a Perfect place for Sunset Celebration
I think you will never see such a great place like Mallory Square for enjoying the breath-taking views of the sunset. Most of the tourists would prefer to involve themselves here for sunset views along with shopping’s and its restaurants. Mallory square has a very long history, since 1800 starting to gather locals and international tourists in its lap. If you visit during evening time you will see there are a good number of street performers, live music, and food vendors that create a lively atmosphere. It is hub for Key West aquarium, waterfront playhouse, shipwreck treasures museum and Mel fisher heritage museum. Near miss to catch the sunset views as the day ends, most recommended one.
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3. Explore Coral Reefs- Take a snorkeling trip
Key West is home to the third-largest barrier coral reef system in the world. Coral reefs witness a good number of marine species like sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and mammals. These species are only visible in in order to join a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to explore the vibrant underwater world. It spans around 120 miles of areas, where it is possible to snorkeling by Wild Dolphin Encounters. It is known for popular spots like Dry Tortugas National Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
4. Hemingway Home and Museum- Make an association with Hemingway
You feel quite interesting, yes. Ernest Hemingway, is a person who lived in Key West during 1930 a famous American author. He had a very beautiful home/ museum, which is famous for “Hemingway Cats”’, his book which he wrote is very close to him. Visit his former residence, now a museum, to learn about his life, read his books, view his literary works, and meet the descendants of his six-toed cats. Apart from that, its green gardens and Spanish colonial architecture will also make me feel more proud.
5. Visit Fort Zachary Taylor State Park- Discover Southern Edge of Key West
A very calm and adventurous park which provides a charming and relaxing day by Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. Undoubtedly a recognized historic site with a beautiful beach, picnic areas, and nature trails, ideal place for swimmers, fishing lovers and bird watching. Fort Zachary has a historical background and a world’s largest civil war arms collection. Southernmost state park in the U.S, mostly even recommended for Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, fort built in history in the mid-1800s, or simply bask in the sun while enjoying the breath-taking views.
6. Dry Tortugas National Park- Feel through seaplane or boat
Located about 70 miles west of Key West, one of the most remarkable places in the entire West Key. 100 sq. miles park accessible by boat or seaplane. It is a remote and pristine national park which is situated in the Southern tip of the United States. Interestingly it is home to Fort Jefferson, blue water, coral reef systems, and areas of bird life. Never miss doing activities like go snorkeling in the turquoise waters, seaplane or boat tour and explore birdlife are great ways to provide an unforgettable experience.
7. Visit Key West sunset cruise- Greatest Experience of Sunset
Just a 2 hour Sunset cruise is a really phenomenal travel experience, where we can embark on a sunset cruise aboard a sailboat or a catamaran. Under that Mallory Square is a great place to celebrate the end of the day with sun. There are a good number of cruises that provide live music, complimentary drinks, and even a chance to spot dolphins during the journey. During sunset we can relax or soak up in the stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon. Such a great place to enjoy the street performances, food festivals, artist points along with sunset views.
8. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory- For nature lovers
Never worry if you are a nature or wildlife lover, such a fantastic place to see more than 60 unique species of butterflies and 20 sorts of birds. Immerse yourself along with your children’s to soaring glass domed butterfly habitants. Walk among thousands of colorful butterflies, exotic birds, and lush plants with a leisure friendly climate-controlled tropical paradise. Above all, where you can buy and browse butterfly and nature related gift shops. Butterfly gallery and art of Sam Trophia are great things to enjoy here. Such a great place to make a peaceful walk and magical experience for nature enthusiasts.
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9. Visit Mel Fisher Maritime Museum- Explore the seafaring lore
Such a great history along with seafaring lore. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is seafaring history which attracts its put treasures like gold and silver displays, cannon, swords and other bottoms of the sea. Learn about shipwrecks and treasure hunting through engaging exhibits and artefacts, through onsite conservation labs. Here you will see treasures recovered from the Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de Atocha, solid gold belt, gold/silver/ coins, religious and secular jeweler and silverwares.
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10. Taste Key West’s food scene- Like a food Festival
There is no doubt that Key West offers a wide range of culinary delights. Ranging from Sample fresh seafood to classical desserts foods. Including the famous Key West pink shrimp, key lime pie, coconut water, spiny lobster, legal rum and conch chowder. Key lime pie offers a wide range of galleries to foods and bars along with sea based activities too. For a unique experience, hop on the Key West Food Tour to savor the flavors of the island along with exploring and learning about its rich history.
10 Quick Facts about Key West
- During the mid-1800s, Key West was considered as one of America’s wealthiest cities. Most of the revenues are generated from trading.
- Key West was initially called “Cayo Hueso”. Spanish people who settled here once called Key West as Cayo Hueso, translated as Bone Island.
- One of the first female Whitehouse keepers lived here.
- Interestingly, Key West is much closer to Cuba and Havana than Florida or Miami. It is just Key West to Cuba- 145 km, Miami stands 240 km.
- Key West situated in the southernmost end of the United States. Located at the end of the Florida Keys.
- The 3rd largest barrier coral reef is in Key West. Coral reefs witness a good number of marine species like sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and mammals.
- Locals believed this island was haunted. Yes, too many ghost stories are spread throughout the island even from Robert the Doll to Key West cemetery.
- John Simonton bought the whole Key West for $ 2,000 in 1822.
- Local peoples are called Conchs. Some might consider you a “freshwater conch”.
- Sunset in Key West is a major event. Absolutely yes, more than 1000 people every day gather in Mallory square to send the data off.
Key West Sunset
There are several things which Key West will attract you. Sunset in Key West is really an amazing experience which will give a long lasting experience compared to the rest of the things. Sunset got world recognition and offers unobstructed views of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico, offering a stunning natural spectacle. Its red and yellow mixed sun layer colors blend together in the sky, reflecting on the water, is truly a magical experience to travelers.
Travelers can gather along the waterfront, on beaches, and even on cruises in order to feel the beauty of sunset. The community has embraced this daily event, and it has become a cherished tradition. Its tremendous sunset view includes various artwork designs, photographic even literature.
Even in some season’s people, especially photographers, are visited just to take a glimpse of sunset capture. Travelers can enjoy and celebrate live music, street performances, and beach side parties. Make sure that no such place in the whole U.S provides great views along with natural beauty, cultural richness and even some travel benefits. So, don’t miss it if you are in the U.S.
Key West Weather
Normally Key West has mild temperatures but the average temperature in Key West ranges from 70°F (21°C) in the winter months and in summer months around 89°F (32°C). So, the result of these temperature ranges is high humidity levels of weather experienced with the highest being in the summer.
Sometimes it is also witnessing hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season. Normally this starts from the 1st month of June to the end of November. It’s always good to stay updated on the weather forecast before stepping down.
Best Time to Visit
Key West offers a pleasant tropical climate, which makes it a perfect travel destination for backpackers. Not only has that it, become a popular destination for travelers looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Spring months, normally between “March and April” are highly recommended to visit Key West. Temperatures range from 79°F in March and 85°F in April. Shoes springs are so friendly to explore to backpackers. You can expect less rainfall during these months here (around 1.8 inches of rainfalls).
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Q: Where is Key West?
A: Key West is an island located in South-western Florida, United States of America. It spread around 100 miles from the mainland and 1.5 miles from the Florida Keys. It is also called a southernmost subtropical paradise.
Q: What made Key West famous?
A: Key West famous known for many travel aspects like Sunset Views, Coral Reefs, Museums and Parks. Along with Key West also labelled for street performances, music’s venues, cuisines and cruise tours.
