The Florida Keys are a group of islands that make up the southern tip of Florida. These islands do not seem like they are part of the United States. When walking down the streets or along the shore you'll think you're somewhere in the Caribbean, not in Florida. The most popular island in the Florida Keys is, wait for it, Key West. This little island has so much to offer whether you're staying for a week or if your cruise ship is docked for a couple hours. Here are the things you must do while in Key West!
If you love nature, wildlife, and learning something new then taking a trip down to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory would be right up your alley. The conservatory is a butterfly park that houses different species of butterflies from around the world in a glass-enclosed habitat. Inside the habitat you will also find several different species of birds and even some pink flamingos on the premises. Tickets are $12 for general admission and the conservatory is open from 9am to 5pm. Located on the ever popular Duval Street, the conservatory is a nice peaceful and tranquil point of interest in Key West.
For all of you literary lovers out there, Key West is the best travel destination for you. Many writers throughout history visited and resided on this tropical island to gain inspiration. The most famous of them all was the one and only Ernest Hemingway. In fact, one of the best things to do and see in Key West is to take a trip down to the Ernest Hemingway House. The house is filled with history and the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable about Hemingway's work and his overall life. Not to mention the house itself is a gorgeous piece of architecture with stunning views and gardens all around. Plus the house is home to hundreds of cats who are descendants of Hemingway's own polydactyly cat, Snow White. So even if you're not interested in Hemingway whatsoever, you can still appreciate the environment and find some entertainment on the property.
If exploring a fortress in the middle of the ocean is on your bucket list (or something you want to add now) then taking the trip down to Dry Tortugas National Park is a definite must! This national park is located 70 miles west of Key West and has an 100-square mile park that is mainly open water with several small islands surrounding it. The national park is home to Fort Jefferson, which is the largest masonry structure in the western hemisphere. Surrounding the fort is the beautiful bright blue ocean, coral reefs filled with marine life, and a variety of topical birds that frequent the area. This island is only accessible by sea plane or boat so signing up for a tour is your best bet. However, there is a ferry from Key West that travels to Fort Jefferson daily.
Although Florida technically is not the most southern point of the United States (Hawaii obviously takes the cake here), it is still home to the Southernmost Continental Point. In fact, there is a buoy to mark it in Key West. From this buoy it is only 90 miles to the island of Cuba. The buoy is a perfect spot to take pictures, not only because the buoy is so iconic but because behind the buoy is the gorgeous blue ocean. Be aware that there will be a line that forms to take pictures in front of this very popular spot. If you don't want to stand in line (which moves surprisingly fast) be sure to get their early! However, the buoy was damaged after Hurricane Irma last year. But have no fear! The buoy has been fully refurbished and looks even better than ever!
If you're a big history buff and enjoy learning more about the United States Presidents then taking the time to visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House will be right up your alley. The Little White House indeed looks like a miniature tropical version of the White House. In fact, Truman spent some of his time as President at the Little White House, which was known as the Winter White House during that time. But prior to that it was actually a naval base. Today, it is the only Presidential museum in the state of Florida and it is stilled used today as a Presidential Retreat.
If you want to get the full Key West experience, taking a stroll down Duval Street is a must do. Duval Street is full of shops, restaurants, and home to Key West's nightlife. Here you can find your classic cheesy souvenir shops and even some really cute boutique stores. At the end of Duval Street you'll find Mallory Square, it faces the Gulf of Mexico and is next to the cruise ship port. Here you'll find more shops, restaurants, some museums, the trolley, and Conch Train. The best thing to do in Mallory Square is to check out the Sunset Celebration. The celebration begins two hours before sunset, every day of the year, and offers arts and crafts exhibitors, street performers, and food carts. Plus a killer view of the sunset.
If you plan on driving down to Key West or renting a car (which is not necessary since the island is so small) the number one thing you have to experience is the Overseas Highway. This famous route is a 113 mile highway that goes through all of the Florida Keys. Fun fact, most of the highway was built over the Overseas Railway. The Overseas Highway offers stunning views of the water, coral reefs and is home to many animals. If you love nature and stunning views, this is a must do. Plus if you want to check out some of the other islands in the Keys, this is the road that will take you there.
Until next time.
