KEY WEST, FLORIDA
A-FLORIDA KEYS- Florida Keys are south of Miami and made up of over 1700 islands and in which 32 are inhabited. It forms the southernmost portion of the continental United States. The islands lie along the Florida Straits, dividing the Atlantic Ocean to the east from the Gulf of Mexico to the northwest.
a-KEY LARGO - Key Largo, the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys, is an hour's drive from South Florida's and is 54 miles south-southwest of Miami. Key Largo has earned the moniker of Diving Capital of the World. The longest island of the Keys chain, Key Largo is the site where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall battled both Edward G. Robinson. Home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park and all the underwater delights of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Each year, Key Largo hosts the Humphrey Bogart Film Festival, the only one of its kind. Key Largo is flanked by the Everglades National Park to the west, a premier destination for kayakers, birders and other eco-tourists. Spiegel Grove, a retired Navy landing ship dock that's sunk off Key Largo, is open to divers.
i- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - It's home to the 70-square-mile (181-square-kilometer) John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The park encompasses some 63,845 acres covering uplands and submerged areas. The park's entrance is at mile marker 102.5. It is the first undersea park in the United States, opened in December 10, 1960. Experience the Park's underwater attractions, beaches, canoe, kayak and boat rentals and nature trails. Visitors can do the park's popular water activities including viewing the reef on glass-bottom-boat or snorkel and scuba tours, as well as canoeing and kayaking on mangrove-lined waterways. Descended on the iconic underwater Christ of the Abyss statue.
ii- Jules' Undersea Lodge- If you are already SCUBA certified, you can visit Jules' Undersea Lodge for three hours or an overnight. Have lunch in the Lodge, do a three hour Mini Adventure, or sleep underwater. Jules' is the world's only underwater hotel. Just to enter the Lodge, one must actually scuba dive 21 feet beneath the surface of the sea. Entering through an opening in the bottom of the habitat, the feeling is much like discovering a secret underwater clubhouse. The cottage sized building isn't short on creature comforts: hot showers, a well-stocked kitchen (complete with refrigerator and microwave), books, music, and video movies. Enjoy a three-hour visit to Jules' Undersea Lodge and have a pizza lunch. $150.00 per person and includes the lagoon fee. Two-person minimum.
b-ISAMORADA-The centrepiece of a group of islands called the "purple isles". Situated between the saltwater wilderness of Everglades National Park and the deep blue waters of the Florida Strait is Islamorada, made up of six islands: Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key and the offshore islands of Indian Key and Lignumvitae Key. Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World", Islamorada is known for its angling diversity. It has the world's highest density of professional offshore charter boats. Activity includes hand-feeding hungry tarpon at the docks of Robbie's Marina, or catching a dolphin, sea lion and parrot show at Theater of the Sea marine mammal park.
i- Theater of the Sea- Theater of the Sea is family owned and operated since 1946 and one of the oldest marine mammal facilities in the world. The lagoons and lush, tropical gardens are home to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, sea turtles, tropical and game fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, marine invertebrates, and birds. At Theater of the Sea you can have animal interactive programs with a sea lion wade, meet and paint with a dolphin, swim with the rays, swim with the shark and meet the sea turtles and guided marine life tour, lagoon-side beach, and bottomless boat ride. The 30-minute dolphin swims include both trained behaviors like dorsal tows, kisses, and hugs as well as swimming and snorkeling with dolphins. General Entry-$32.00
ii- Giant Lobster- “Big Betsy” is at the entrance to Treasure Village in Islamorada, Florida. Betsy, a symbol of Florida Keys wildlife, and is the World's Largest Lobster. When entering the Keys, she is on the right hand side of the road. Located at US 1, mile marker 86.7, in front of the Rain Barrel Artist Village.
c-MARATHON-Marathon is a 10-mile-long island situated in the middle of the Keys island chain, comprised mainly of Vaca Key, Fat Deer Key and Grassy Key. Marathon also is home to Crane Point Hammock, a 63.5-acre land tract that is one of the most important historical and archaeological sites in the Keys. The area contains evidence of pre-Colombian and prehistoric Bahamian artefacts and was once the site of an entire Indian village. At Crane Point is the Museum of Natural History of the Florida Keys and the Children's Museum.
i-Florida Keys Marathon International Airport – The airport services privately owned, corporate and charter aircraft. It is located gulfside in the City of Marathon at US 1 Mile Marker (MM) 52, in Florida's Middle Keys. From here one can have Helicopter tours throughout the Florida Keys.
ii- The Turtle Hospital- The Turtle Hospital is a small non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles.The hospital Rescue, rehab, and release sick and injured sea turtles.
iii- Dolphin Research Center- Dolphin Research Center promotes peaceful coexistence, cooperation and communication between marine mammals, humans and the environment. Dolphin Research Center offers many ways, including swimming with dolphins, where you can interact with dolphins and sea lions. Admission Price: Adults: $28:00
a-KEY LARGO - Key Largo, the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys, is an hour's drive from South Florida's and is 54 miles south-southwest of Miami. Key Largo has earned the moniker of Diving Capital of the World. The longest island of the Keys chain, Key Largo is the site where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall battled both Edward G. Robinson. Home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park and all the underwater delights of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Each year, Key Largo hosts the Humphrey Bogart Film Festival, the only one of its kind. Key Largo is flanked by the Everglades National Park to the west, a premier destination for kayakers, birders and other eco-tourists. Spiegel Grove, a retired Navy landing ship dock that's sunk off Key Largo, is open to divers.
i- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - It's home to the 70-square-mile (181-square-kilometer) John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The park encompasses some 63,845 acres covering uplands and submerged areas. The park's entrance is at mile marker 102.5. It is the first undersea park in the United States, opened in December 10, 1960. Experience the Park's underwater attractions, beaches, canoe, kayak and boat rentals and nature trails. Visitors can do the park's popular water activities including viewing the reef on glass-bottom-boat or snorkel and scuba tours, as well as canoeing and kayaking on mangrove-lined waterways. Descended on the iconic underwater Christ of the Abyss statue.
ii- Jules' Undersea Lodge- If you are already SCUBA certified, you can visit Jules' Undersea Lodge for three hours or an overnight. Have lunch in the Lodge, do a three hour Mini Adventure, or sleep underwater. Jules' is the world's only underwater hotel. Just to enter the Lodge, one must actually scuba dive 21 feet beneath the surface of the sea. Entering through an opening in the bottom of the habitat, the feeling is much like discovering a secret underwater clubhouse. The cottage sized building isn't short on creature comforts: hot showers, a well-stocked kitchen (complete with refrigerator and microwave), books, music, and video movies. Enjoy a three-hour visit to Jules' Undersea Lodge and have a pizza lunch. $150.00 per person and includes the lagoon fee. Two-person minimum.
b-ISAMORADA-The centrepiece of a group of islands called the "purple isles". Situated between the saltwater wilderness of Everglades National Park and the deep blue waters of the Florida Strait is Islamorada, made up of six islands: Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key and the offshore islands of Indian Key and Lignumvitae Key. Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World", Islamorada is known for its angling diversity. It has the world's highest density of professional offshore charter boats. Activity includes hand-feeding hungry tarpon at the docks of Robbie's Marina, or catching a dolphin, sea lion and parrot show at Theater of the Sea marine mammal park.
i- Theater of the Sea- Theater of the Sea is family owned and operated since 1946 and one of the oldest marine mammal facilities in the world. The lagoons and lush, tropical gardens are home to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, sea turtles, tropical and game fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, marine invertebrates, and birds. At Theater of the Sea you can have animal interactive programs with a sea lion wade, meet and paint with a dolphin, swim with the rays, swim with the shark and meet the sea turtles and guided marine life tour, lagoon-side beach, and bottomless boat ride. The 30-minute dolphin swims include both trained behaviors like dorsal tows, kisses, and hugs as well as swimming and snorkeling with dolphins. General Entry-$32.00
ii- Giant Lobster- “Big Betsy” is at the entrance to Treasure Village in Islamorada, Florida. Betsy, a symbol of Florida Keys wildlife, and is the World's Largest Lobster. When entering the Keys, she is on the right hand side of the road. Located at US 1, mile marker 86.7, in front of the Rain Barrel Artist Village.
c-MARATHON-Marathon is a 10-mile-long island situated in the middle of the Keys island chain, comprised mainly of Vaca Key, Fat Deer Key and Grassy Key. Marathon also is home to Crane Point Hammock, a 63.5-acre land tract that is one of the most important historical and archaeological sites in the Keys. The area contains evidence of pre-Colombian and prehistoric Bahamian artefacts and was once the site of an entire Indian village. At Crane Point is the Museum of Natural History of the Florida Keys and the Children's Museum.
i-Florida Keys Marathon International Airport – The airport services privately owned, corporate and charter aircraft. It is located gulfside in the City of Marathon at US 1 Mile Marker (MM) 52, in Florida's Middle Keys. From here one can have Helicopter tours throughout the Florida Keys.
ii- The Turtle Hospital- The Turtle Hospital is a small non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles.The hospital Rescue, rehab, and release sick and injured sea turtles.
iii- Dolphin Research Center- Dolphin Research Center promotes peaceful coexistence, cooperation and communication between marine mammals, humans and the environment. Dolphin Research Center offers many ways, including swimming with dolphins, where you can interact with dolphins and sea lions. Admission Price: Adults: $28:00
B-FLORIDA OVERSEAS RAILROAD- The Florida East Coast Railway was the product of Flagler's resources and imagination. New Yorker Henry Flagler, born in 1830 and educated only to the 8th grade, established the Standard Oil Company with John D. Rockefeller in 1870 and became a wealthy, well-respected businessman. He wanted to connect the mainland with the deep port of Key West. Despite the hardships, and the engineering challenges, the Over-Sea Railroad, the final link of the Florida East Coast Railway, was completed on January 22, 1912, just weeks after Flagler’s 82nd birthday. In 1912 Henry Flagler arrived aboard the first train into Key West, marking the completion of the Florida East Coast (FEC) Railway's Over-Sea Railroad to Key West. It was widely known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World. But much of the Overseas Railroad in the Middle Keys was heavily damaged and partially destroyed in the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, the Florida East Coast Railway was financially unable to rebuild the destroyed sections. After the railroad was damaged by the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, the line was sold to the United States government. Then State of Florida, which built the Overseas Highway to Key West, using much of the remaining railway infrastructure. And total track was converted the rails to highways.
C-THE OVERSEAS HIGHWAY IN THE FLORIDA KEYS- The highway is the United States engineering marvel. It is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in America where the Atlantic spreading out to the left, the Gulf of Mexico to the right. It's mostly over water, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the ocean and of course, the incredible sunrises and sunsets depending on when you’re driving. Driving across here during sunset is highly recommended. In 2001, the Overseas Highway was named a Florida Scenic Highway, which paved the way for its most recent recognition.
The distance between Miami, International Airport to Key West is about 160 miles, and road journey takes about four hours. In which Miami to Florida City the distance is 34miles and Florida City to Key West is 126miles. The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile highway carrying U.S. Route 1 (US 1) through the Florida Keys. This highway — the southernmost leg of U.S. 1. Stretching from Fort Kent, Maine, on the Canadian border to Key West, US 1, known locally as the Overseas Highway, is a 2,369 mile long interstate that connects most major cities in the eastern U.S., making it the longest north-south road in the United States.
The Keys highway is the only All-American Road in Florida. To become All-American, a roadway must have very unique features and possess characteristics of national significance that make it a visitor destination in and of itself. The drive passes through Key Largo-Pennekamp-Tavernier-Islamorada-Duck Key-Hawks Cay-Looe Key-Big Pine Key-Key West.
The construction of the overseas highway began in late 1930s, with 113 miles of roadway and 42 overseas bridges. It was completed in 1938 and in 1982 , 37 bridges were replaced with wider, heavier spans, including the well-known Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon.
The Knight's Key Bridge -- now called the Seven Mile Bridge for the nearly 7 miles (6.765 miles) of water it spans is breath-taking to traverse.
Locations along the Overseas Highway from Key West to Key Largo are commonly given as mile markers. Numbering starts in Key West, and increases towards the east and northeast up the path of the highway over the keys.
The distance between Miami, International Airport to Key West is about 160 miles, and road journey takes about four hours. In which Miami to Florida City the distance is 34miles and Florida City to Key West is 126miles. The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile highway carrying U.S. Route 1 (US 1) through the Florida Keys. This highway — the southernmost leg of U.S. 1. Stretching from Fort Kent, Maine, on the Canadian border to Key West, US 1, known locally as the Overseas Highway, is a 2,369 mile long interstate that connects most major cities in the eastern U.S., making it the longest north-south road in the United States.
The Keys highway is the only All-American Road in Florida. To become All-American, a roadway must have very unique features and possess characteristics of national significance that make it a visitor destination in and of itself. The drive passes through Key Largo-Pennekamp-Tavernier-Islamorada-Duck Key-Hawks Cay-Looe Key-Big Pine Key-Key West.
The construction of the overseas highway began in late 1930s, with 113 miles of roadway and 42 overseas bridges. It was completed in 1938 and in 1982 , 37 bridges were replaced with wider, heavier spans, including the well-known Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon.
The Knight's Key Bridge -- now called the Seven Mile Bridge for the nearly 7 miles (6.765 miles) of water it spans is breath-taking to traverse.
Locations along the Overseas Highway from Key West to Key Largo are commonly given as mile markers. Numbering starts in Key West, and increases towards the east and northeast up the path of the highway over the keys.
D-SEVEN MILE BRIDGE (mile 40,011 to 46.804)- Once among the longest bridges in the world. At the time of its completion in 1982, Seven Mile Bridge (35,867’ long) in the Florida Keys was the longest continuous concrete segmental bridge in the world. It connects Knight's Key (part of the city of Marathon, Florida) in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys and built over Moser Channel. The seven-mile bridge was constructed from 1979 to 1982, comprising 440 spans. Near the center, the bridge rises in an arc to provide 65-foot (20 m)-high clearance for boat passage. There are two bridges in this location, old and new. The modern bridge is open to vehicular traffic, whereas the older bridge is only open to pedestrians and cyclists.The present bridge replaces four old bridges- Knight's Key Bridge (1912) -Moser Channel Bridge (1912) -Pacet Channel Viaduct (1912) -Pigeon Key Bridge (1912). Florida Keys’ Seven Mile Bridge has been an impressive location for film shootings. The Bridge has been featured in the films License to Kill, True Lies, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Mission Impossible III, and Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.
TRAVEL KEY WEST
GENERAL INFORMATION-Situated 150 miles from Miami, 90 miles from Havana and was connected to the rest of the country by the railroad built in 1912 and by the highway in 1938.
Key West is the last Florida Key linked by the Overseas Highway. This small island paradise has been host to spongers and wreckers, drug runners, fisherman, and even the United States Navy. Over the years, Key West has evolved into a wealthy little touristy town. The island spans only two by four miles. The azure blue waters that surround Key West and the Lower Florida Keys have much to offer. There is no other place in the country where you can see so many species of marine life in one place. Wrecks and reefs, both artificial and natural coral, are home to hundreds of species of tropical and game fish. Florida Keys have much to offer for SCUBA divers, snorkelers and fishermen. Key West is also commonly known as the Conch Republic. Conch (pronounced konk) is a snail-like animal that lives in a beautiful shell. They are no longer harvested here in the Keys, but you can certainly find some of the best Conch Fritters you've ever tasted here in Key West. Each April, Key West celebrates Conch Republic Days to commemorate their succession from the Union in 1982.
Key West has a diverse population. Conchs (natives, many of whom trace their ancestry to the Bahamas), Hispanics (primarily descendants of Cuban immigrants), refugees from the urban areas of mainland Florida, military personnel. Key Westers pride themselves on their tolerance of all peoples, all sexual orientations, and even all animals. Most restaurants allow pets, and it's not surprising to see stray cats, dogs, and chickens roaming freely through the dining rooms.
Key West is the last Florida Key linked by the Overseas Highway. This small island paradise has been host to spongers and wreckers, drug runners, fisherman, and even the United States Navy. Over the years, Key West has evolved into a wealthy little touristy town. The island spans only two by four miles. The azure blue waters that surround Key West and the Lower Florida Keys have much to offer. There is no other place in the country where you can see so many species of marine life in one place. Wrecks and reefs, both artificial and natural coral, are home to hundreds of species of tropical and game fish. Florida Keys have much to offer for SCUBA divers, snorkelers and fishermen. Key West is also commonly known as the Conch Republic. Conch (pronounced konk) is a snail-like animal that lives in a beautiful shell. They are no longer harvested here in the Keys, but you can certainly find some of the best Conch Fritters you've ever tasted here in Key West. Each April, Key West celebrates Conch Republic Days to commemorate their succession from the Union in 1982.
Key West has a diverse population. Conchs (natives, many of whom trace their ancestry to the Bahamas), Hispanics (primarily descendants of Cuban immigrants), refugees from the urban areas of mainland Florida, military personnel. Key Westers pride themselves on their tolerance of all peoples, all sexual orientations, and even all animals. Most restaurants allow pets, and it's not surprising to see stray cats, dogs, and chickens roaming freely through the dining rooms.
HISTORY-The United States acquired Key West from Spain in 1821, along with the rest of Florida.
TOURIST SEASON-High season in the Keys falls between Christmas and Easter. November to mid-December crowds are less, and the weather is wonderful, and hotels and shops drastically reduce their prices. Summer, which is hot and humid, is becoming a second high season, especially among Floridians. If you plan to attend the wild Fantasy Fest in October, book your room at least six months in advance. Accommodations are also scarce during the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July (lobster sport season) and starting the first weekend in August, when the commercial lobster season begins.
SIGHT & ATTRACTIONS-
001-THE SOUTHERNMOST POINT-Key West is home to the United States' most southern piece of land. A striped marker, erected in 1983 by the City of Key West, one of the most photographed sites in the city, stands at the location on the seafront (even though the actual geographic southernmost point in the continental United States lies across the bay on a naval base, where you see a satellite dish). A plaque next to it honours Cubans who lost their lives trying to escape to America and other signs tell Key West history. On the top of the monument is painted the logo of The Conch Republic. Twenty years ago, Key West, seeking to enhance its reputation as a free-wheeling, fun-loving, party without consequence kind of town, seceded from the United States, declaring itself The Conch Republic. Every April, a ten-day party celebrates the event.
Statue of Key West's Conch-Blowing Greeter-Until his death in 2003, Albert Kee acted as Key West's unofficial goodwill ambassador, blowing on a conch shell, waving, and yelling "Welcome to the island!" to everyone .After few years, Key West remembered its cheerful greeter with a life-size bronze statue, anchored to his old spot, unveiled on March 7, 2015.
Location- at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street.
Statue of Key West's Conch-Blowing Greeter-Until his death in 2003, Albert Kee acted as Key West's unofficial goodwill ambassador, blowing on a conch shell, waving, and yelling "Welcome to the island!" to everyone .After few years, Key West remembered its cheerful greeter with a life-size bronze statue, anchored to his old spot, unveiled on March 7, 2015.
Location- at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street.
002-MALLORY SQUARE AND PIER-For cruise-ship passengers, this is the disembarkation point. It's the requisite venue for a nightly sunset celebration that includes street performers—human statues, sword swallowers, tightrope walkers, musicians, and more—plus craft vendors, conch fritter fryers. See the tropical sunset. At day's end, visitors gather at Mallory Square to "call it a day." The daily "sunset celebration" is a tradition that Key Westers share with visitors.
Address-400 Wall Street at the end of Whitehead Street on south direction. Near Key West Aquarium.
Address-400 Wall Street at the end of Whitehead Street on south direction. Near Key West Aquarium.
003- DUVAL STREET-Stroll along Duval Street in Key West is one of the highlights of the Florida Keys which is parallel to Whitehead Street. Shops and restaurants with outdoor patios, many in beautifully restored old buildings, line the street. In addition to Duval Street, there are lovely residential areas for walking and a number of interesting attractions, including the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and the Southernmost Point in the continental USA.
004-HISTORIC SEAPORT AT KEY WEST BIGHT- Just two blocks from Duval Street. It is an 8½-acre historic restoration of 100 old shops, including waterfront restaurants, open-air bars, museums, clothing stores, bait shops, dive shops, docks, a marina, and water-sports concessions. It's all linked by the 2-mile waterfront Harbour walk, which runs between Front and Grinnell streets, passing big ships, sunset cruises, and glass-bottom boats. Stop in at BO’s Fish Wagon and Conch Republic Seafood Company for food and live music, indulge in a scoop at the Key West Ice Cream Factory and bring home crafts, clothing, art or gifts from any of the unique shops along the way.
005-ERNEST HEMINGWAY HOME AND MUSEUM-In 1931, Ernest Hemingway purchased a pre-Civil War mansion in Key West, home was built by the town's most successful wrecker. While living here between 1931 and 1942, Hemingway wrote about 70% of his life's work, including classics like For Whom the Bell Tolls. Few of his belongings remain aside from some books, and there's little about his actual work, but photographs help you visualize his day-to-day life. Tours begin every 10 minutes and take 30 minutes; then you're free to explore on your own. See the free roaming cats, who are descendants of Hemingway's original pet cats. More than 50 cats with extra toes have had the run of Ernest Hemingway's Home and Museum for over 50 years.
Address-907, Whitehead St., Key West. Entry $13, Daily 9–5.
Address-907, Whitehead St., Key West. Entry $13, Daily 9–5.
006-HARRY S TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE MUSEUM- Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House holds a special place in the history of America. Constructed in 1890 to serve as the naval station’s command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II, this historic site later became the second White House. It was the winter of 1946 when President Harry Truman visited Key West and sought refuge from the harsh DC winter at this charming house. After just a few short days, Truman fell in love with the island and was soon using his retreat to run the affairs of the government. During 1946 and 1952, Truman ended up spending 175 days living and working at the Little White House and today, so many years later, his presence can still be felt. The house has played host to Thomas Edison, scientist Edward Hayden, Presidents William Taft, John F. Kennedy, Dwight Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. You’ll see where he and Bess lived and dined, original furnishings, personal effects and more. You’ll also see the rooms where Truman met with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, worked on the Marshall Plan and wrote the Truman Doctrine. During the tour, you’ll learn interesting facts about the home and Harry Truman from the knowledgeable docents. A 45-minute tours begin every 20 minutes until 4:30. They start with an excellent 10-minute video on the history of the property and Truman's visits. On the grounds of Truman Annex, a 103-acre former military parade grounds and barracks, the home served as a winter White House for presidents Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy. The house tour does require climbing steps. Visitors can do a free self-guided botanical tour of the grounds with a brochure from the museum store.
Location- 111 Front St Ticket-16.13USD
Location- 111 Front St Ticket-16.13USD
007-KEY WEST BUTTERFLY & NATURE CONSEVATORY-This air-conditioned refuge for butterflies, birds, and more than 45 species of butterflies alone—in a glass-encased bubble. Waterfalls, artistic benches, paved pathways, birds, and lush, flowering vegetation elevate this above most butterfly attractions.
- Address:-1316 Duval St., Key West. Entry- $12
- Daily 9–5; gallery and shop open until 5:30.
008-KEY WEST AQUARIUM- Located on world-famous Mallory Square, the Key West Aquarium is home to a multitude of interesting and beautiful marine life. Built in 1934 by the Works Progress Administration as the world's first open-air aquarium, most of the building has been enclosed for all-weather viewing. Pet a nurse shark and explore the fascinating underwater realm of the Keys without getting wet at this historic aquarium. Hundreds of tropical fish and enormous sea creatures live here—all locals. A touch tank enables you to handle starfish, sea cucumbers, horseshoe and hermit crabs. Tours and feedings daily @ 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 4:30pm Ticket-$15.04
Key West, 33040
- Address:- Key West Aquarium
Key West, 33040
009-AUDUBON HOUSE AND TROPICAL GARDENS-See his works in this three-story house, which was built in the 1840s for Captain John Geiger and filled with old furniture. A historic museum featuring the artwork of John James Audubon. Audubon, who visited the home in 1832, is famous for his exquisite drawings of birds. Visitors to the museum are given a guided tour of the house and gardens, interesting tales and facts about local history and the opportunity to see 28 of Audubon’s first edition works. Gorgeous antiques and time-period furnishings are also to be seen throughout the house, giving guests a taste of the sophistication and style of Key West during the 19th century. In the gardens, delicate orchids, pretty bromeliads, lush tropical foliage, an herb garden and an 1840's-style nursery provide a lush retreat
- Address:-205 Whitehead St., Key West. Entry Fees-$7.50 gardens only; $12 house and gardens
- Daily 9:30–5 (last tour at 4:15)
010-KEY WEST MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY IN THE CUSTOM HOUSE- Built in 1891, the Custom House had many uses including a post office, court house and government centre. Key West was designated a U.S. port of entry in the early 1820s, a customhouse was established. Salvaged cargoes from ships wrecked on the reefs were brought here, setting the stage for Key West to become—for a time—the richest city in Florida. The imposing redbrick-and-terra-cotta building as a museum and art gallery in 1999. Galleries have long-term and changing exhibits about the history of Key West, including a Hemingway room and a fine collection of folk artist Mario Sanchez's wood paintings.
- Address:-281 Front St., Key West. Entry-$9
011-KEY WEST LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM & KEEPER'S QUARTERS MUSEUM- The Key West Lighthouse was built (92ft. high) in 1825 to help the many ships entering the port avoid the hazardous reefs. Today, you can climb the 88 iron steps to the top of the tower for a scenic look at what the lighthouse keepers watched over for more than 120 years. Tour the grounds to see the Keeper’s Quarters which have been restored to their original charm and view the displays of nautical artefacts, antique furnishings, maps and vintage photos. The Lighthouse Museum is on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Address:-938 Whitehead St., Key West. Entry-$10
- Daily 9:30–4:30
012-CITY CEMETERY-Key West's celebrated 20-acre burial place. Among the interesting plots are a memorial to the sailors killed in the sinking of the battleship USS Maine, carved angels and lambs marking graves of children, and grand aboveground crypts that put to shame many of the town's dwellings for the living. There are separate plots for Catholics, Jews, and refugees from Cuba. You're free to walk around the cemetery on your own, but the best way to see it is on a 90-minute tour given by the staff and volunteers of the Historic Florida Keys Foundation. Tours leave from the main gate, and reservations are required.
013-KEYWEST SHIP RECK MUSEUM-The museum itself is a re-creation of a 19th-century warehouse built by wrecker tycoon Asa Tift. The Key West Museum Museum combines actors, films and the actual artefacts from the 1985 rediscovery of the wrecked vessel Isaac Allerton, which sank in 1856 on the treacherous Florida Keys reef. At the Key West Shipwreck Museum you will step back into time as you discover Key West’s unique maritime heritage and how it became the richest city in the United States.
Location-1,Whitehead Street.
Location-1,Whitehead Street.
014-KEY WEST HERITAGE HOUSE AND ROBERT FROST COTTAGE- Robert Frost stayed in the cottage in the garden for 16 winters. Sally Rand, the burlesque dancer frequented the Porter home. The Porter house which is now the museum has columned porches on two floors, a white picket fence and an array of antiques and seafaring artifacts. The home, which was built by ship makers, has survived many a hurricane in the past 176 years. It is a small tour of the 4 rooms downstairs and the garden but it is nicely furnished and very interesting for what it is. The museum is closed permanently.
Location-410,Caroline street
Location-410,Caroline street
015-THE SOUTHERNMOST HOUSE-It is now a historic beachfront Key West boutique hotel. Five U.S. Presidents have stayed there. Located at the quiet end of Duval Street at south.
016-OLDEST HOUSE- The Oldest House in South Florida, built in 1829, was the former home of Francis B Watlington. Within the house are some original furnishings, family portraits, and displays on the history of Key West.
Address- 322 Duval Street
Address- 322 Duval Street
017-MEL FISHER MARITIME MUSEUM- The museum is named for founder Mel Fisher. Today, visitors can view many of the treasures that Mel and his team found at the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society and Museum in Key West, Florida. Bars of gold, bricks of silver, Spanish coins, jewelry, and gems fill the museum, all dating back to the 1500s. The Museum is also home to the treasures of Mel Fisher's other important treasures and finds, including goods from the Henrietta Marie and St. John's wreck. Despite having found $450 million-worth of gold and jewels, hunters estimate that this is only half of the Atocha treasure.
http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/mel-fisher-maritime-heritage-society-and-museum
http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/mel-fisher-maritime-heritage-society-and-museum
018-SMATHERS BEACH - Half mile stretch of sandy man-made beach. Restrooms, ample parking, concession stands, chair rentals, bike paths, picnic tables, volleyball nets, water sports rentals - jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing.
Location-South Roosevelt Boulevard.
Location-South Roosevelt Boulevard.
019-SOUTH BEACH- A favourite of locals. Nice sandy beach with shallow waters and a concrete pier. No restrooms or facilities. Located at the end of Duval Street on the Atlantic Ocean.
020-MILE MARKER 0- One of the most popular places to have your picture taken is in front of the US1 mile marker zero sign.
Location: Corner of Fleming Street and Whitehead Street.
Location: Corner of Fleming Street and Whitehead Street.
021-SCULPTURE AROUND THE CUSTOM HOUSE-Seward Johnson's works are exhibited around the Key West Museum Of Art & History In The Custom House & Old Post Office. Now famous worldwide for his life-size bronze figurative sculptures.Few are as-
- A Little to the Right sculpture
- Hot Weather sculpture
022-KEY WEST HOP-ON HOP-OFF TROLLEY TOUR-The Old Town Trolley tour offers the flexibility to hop on and off at certain convenient stops and visit popular landmarks. The full 90-minute tour, or hop off at the Southernmost Point and browse Mallory Square’s shops and watch the sunset from the waterfront. Stop for a piece of key lime pie or a margarita at Simonton Row and admire Duval Street’s Victorian mansions, famous restaurants, and bars with live music. Trolleys run from 09:00am – 4:00pm approximately every 30 minutes.
Meeting/Redemption Point
Key West, 33040
Ticket-30.45$
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Mallory Square
Key West, 33040
Ticket-30.45$
023- KEY WEST CONCH TOUR TRAIN- Embark on an informative 90-minute tour of Key West as you learn about area's history and local flavour. Explore the entire town and enjoy your first-class orientation of the place that Ernest Hemingway once called home. Boarding at Front Street, the train passes famous attractions including Mallory Square, Key West Shipwreck Museum, Harry S. Truman Little White House, and the Southernmost Point. Dine on local food, including ice cream and homemade fudge, before hopping back on the train. Take a break at the historic Key West seaport to take in amazing views and the refreshing sea breeze.
Meeting/Redemption Point
Key West Conch Tour Train 303 Front Street
Key West, 33040
Ticket-30.45$
Meeting/Redemption Point
Key West Conch Tour Train 303 Front Street
Key West, 33040
Ticket-30.45$
024- PARASAILING ADVENTURE- A 12-passenger parasailing boat launches you gently into the sky, high above the waters of Key West. Whether you choose to ride single or in tandem with a friend, your 1-hour ride offers a stunning perspective on the already-breath-taking region.
Meeting/Redemption Point
Fury Water Adventures
Westin Hotel Marina corner of Front Street Greene Street
Key West, 33040
Ticket- $38.70
Meeting/Redemption Point
Fury Water Adventures
Westin Hotel Marina corner of Front Street Greene Street
Key West, 33040
Ticket- $38.70
025-GLASSBOTTOM BOATS BY PRIDE OF THE KEY WEST-Key West glass bottom boat trips show you the reef through glass windows. The vessel will float above the coral reef giving you a close-up look at this diverse and fascinating ecosystem. Comfortably relax and enjoy the view of tropical fish flash by, followed by turtles, stingrays and the occasional bottle-nose dolphin who call this stunning landscape their home.
- 2 hour glass bottom boat trip
- 12:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 6:00 p.m. – sunset
- Departs from the end of Duval Street (0 Duval)
- Sunset Trip: $47.95 adult
026-FURY-WATER ADVENTURES-
AA-Westin Marina - Fury Departure Point 1
& Surf Shack Located just behind the Key West Westin Resort on the corner of Front St. and Greene St. in the Westin Marina.
Trips departing from this point
� AM Snorkel
� Reef & Ritas Afternoon Snorkel
� Rum & Reggae Snorkel & Sunset Combo
� Champagne Sunset Sail
� Parasail
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 8:30AM, 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM)
BB- Westin Marina - Fury Departure Point 2 Located between Ocean Key Resort and Pier House Resort, at the end of Duval St. This is the departure point for “The Pride of Key West” - Glass Bottom Boat.
Trips departing from this point
� Glass Bottom Boat Reef Eco Tour
� Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Combo
CC- Historic Seaport - Fury Departure Point 3 Located on the corner of Greene St. and Elizabeth St.
in the Key West Historic Seaport.
Trips departing from this point
� Double Dip Snorkel Trip
� Double Dip Combo
� Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Trip
� Dolphin Combo
� Island Adventure
� Island Adventure Combo
� Ultimate Adventure
� Commotion on the Ocean Live Music Sunset Sail
� Ultimate Express
DD- Galleon Marina - Fury Departure Point 4Located at 617 Front Street on the dock by the Galleon Resort & Marina-Trips departing from this point
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 9:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM, 3:30PM)
EE- Marriott Beachside - Fury Departure Point 5Located at Marriott Beachside Hotel ,3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd.
Trips departing from this point
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 9:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM, 3:30PM & 5:30PM)
https://www.furycat.com/key-west/images/fury-brochure.pdf
AA-Westin Marina - Fury Departure Point 1
& Surf Shack Located just behind the Key West Westin Resort on the corner of Front St. and Greene St. in the Westin Marina.
Trips departing from this point
� AM Snorkel
� Reef & Ritas Afternoon Snorkel
� Rum & Reggae Snorkel & Sunset Combo
� Champagne Sunset Sail
� Parasail
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 8:30AM, 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM)
BB- Westin Marina - Fury Departure Point 2 Located between Ocean Key Resort and Pier House Resort, at the end of Duval St. This is the departure point for “The Pride of Key West” - Glass Bottom Boat.
Trips departing from this point
� Glass Bottom Boat Reef Eco Tour
� Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Combo
CC- Historic Seaport - Fury Departure Point 3 Located on the corner of Greene St. and Elizabeth St.
in the Key West Historic Seaport.
Trips departing from this point
� Double Dip Snorkel Trip
� Double Dip Combo
� Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Trip
� Dolphin Combo
� Island Adventure
� Island Adventure Combo
� Ultimate Adventure
� Commotion on the Ocean Live Music Sunset Sail
� Ultimate Express
DD- Galleon Marina - Fury Departure Point 4Located at 617 Front Street on the dock by the Galleon Resort & Marina-Trips departing from this point
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 9:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM, 3:30PM)
EE- Marriott Beachside - Fury Departure Point 5Located at Marriott Beachside Hotel ,3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd.
Trips departing from this point
� Ultimate Jet Ski Tour (Trip Times: 9:30AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM, 3:30PM & 5:30PM)
https://www.furycat.com/key-west/images/fury-brochure.pdf