The Hemingway Home & Museum was the residence of the renowned author Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway was known both for his grander-than-life personality and his amazing writing, including the books The Sun Also Rises and Farewell to Arms. The rooms and the collections on display give you an insight into the life of this famous writer. Keep a look out for the museum's many polydactyl (six-toed) cats that are rumored to be descendants of Hemingway's pet cat Snow White.
A historic military fortress that played a crucial role during the Civil War, this Fort Zachary Taylor is now a National Historic Landmark. the fort offers tours to visitors. Visitors can take guided tours of the fort and learn about its history, including its strategic importance, and explore the seacoast gun collection that is housed here. The west side of the park is ideal for fishing and snorkeling. In addition, the park also provides tables and grills for a picnic, making it an ideal location for outdoor gatherings and families.
Nestled in the recesses of the historic Old Town, the Little White House is a startling canopy of pristine white, which lends deep insights into the Truman Presidency. Formerly a naval base which served as the White House of America for the winter session until 1952 , this site is more like a breathing museum entrenched in a long-standing military history. To this day, functions, meetings and private events are held here, whereas elaborate tours unfold layers of the house's presidential and political history. Part of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, this white-washed house yet retains some of its ancient features like well-furnished spaces including bedrooms and dining halls, treasured documents and opulent furniture. Harry S. Truman Little White House is an integral edifice etched on the pages of America's political history.
This fascinating museum is housed in a Civil War fort and tower from 1862. The tower, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the best-preserved examples of Martello military architecture in the country. The museum is home to an eclectic collection of artifacts, including model ships, diver's equipment, Civil War memorabilia, fishing items, and other exhibits Narrating the stories of Key West's intriguing past. Also being home to Robert, an old doll that is believed to be haunted, it attracts many paranormal enthusiasts. The lookout tower provides beautiful views of the island and ocean.
Before tourism became Key West's major source of income,'wreckers' earned their living by salvaging what they could from ships wrecked on the reefs. At the Key West Shipwreck Historeum, you can learn about the 'wreckers' and see jewelry, china, house wares and other artifacts from the Isaac Allerton, which sank in 1856. An observation tower offers a great view.
Opened in 1934, this educational and entertaining aquarium features diverse exhibits on sea life in the area and live demonstrations. Wander among the many varieties of marine life or take a guided tour. One of the major attractions of the aquarium includes daily feedings of shark and fish. Children usually enjoy the touching area, where visitors can touch marine creatures in shallow pools.
Key Lime Bike Tours is a local tour operating agency that takes on a bicycle tour around Key West. Tours are usually conducted in groups, headed by a knowledgeable and friendly guide who feeds you with fun trivia and information about the city and each passing attraction. Bikes are allotted to you on rent along with a helmet and a half liter bottle to keep you hydrated during the journey.
Kayak Kings is a local tour operator that provides kayaking tours around Key West's long coastline, exploring its natural beauty and diversity in the process. Tours can only be booked by appointment, which can be done through a phone call or online. Kayaks, paddles, and other safety equipment can be rented from the company itself. All you need to bring with you are towels, swim suits and a dying hunger for exploration and adventure.
It may sound morbid to go strolling through cemeteries, but Key West City Cemetery is also a historical landmark. Established in 1847 and covering nearly 20 acres, the cemetery includes the graves of sailors killed in the sinking of the USS Maine in 1898. You will see unique headstones, like a ship's mast or the famous one reading, "I told you I was sick." Admission is free to tour the site on your own.
Watch the sun set over the waters of the southernmost point of the U.S. as you cruise along Key West's historic harbor in one of Sebago's beautiful and spacious catamarans. Enjoy the Mallory Square sunset celebration over free champagne, beer, wine, and soft drinks as you sail along.
Sebago's most popular cruise is the ‘Snorkel and Sailing Adventure' to North America's only living Coral Reef, located just six miles south of Key West in the National Marine Sanctuary. Snorklers of all ages and levels of experience can enjoy over fifty species of corals and over one hundred fifty species of fish in water that is typically fifteen to thirty feet deep. Swim in warm, clear waters surrounded by vividly colored tropical fish and coral. During your one-hour sail from Key West to the reef the friendly crew will fit you with snorkel gear and give you expert instructions.
If you're interested in local history or want to see odd island sites, include a visit to Oldest House Museum & Garden on your itinerary. Designed by a ship's carpenter and built around 1829, this one-and-a-half-story house has unusual architectural features, including portholes and a detached kitchen building. The house also features antique cooking utensils and antique appliances such as a beehive oven. You could also attend one of the many interesting festivals and activities that are held here regularly. Check website for further details.