If you’re a huge fan of sun, sand and corals and you’re looking into some of the most breathtaking islands in the world for your next vacation, then Key West is certainly a place you should consider. After all, where can you get all of the sunshine you can handle if not in the Sunshine State? However, in case you need more than sunny beaches and you want a list of excellent reasons to visit Key West this season, here are some of the most exciting things to do there.
Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum
In 1928, Ernest Hemingway and his newlywed wife received a new car as a present, but the car didn’t arrive as soon as it was supposed to, so the couple had to wait for it in Key West for three weeks. This is when they fell in love with the place, so they made themselves a home there. Their property was filled with hibiscus flowers and water lilies and it even had a swimming pool, which was a true architectural curiosity back then. Today, you can get a proper glimpse of those amazing gardens, as well as the rooms that Hemingway spent his time in, writing some of his best work. You can even meet the descendants of the six-toed cat Hemingway was given and see photos of his fishing escapades. You can pay a visit to the historic Hemingway Home and Museum every day, allowing you to witness what it was that kept the author coming back to Key West over and over again.
Island Tours
Those who want their days fulfilled and want to experience as many aspects of the island as possible can always take one of the memorable and engaging Key West tours and trips. No matter how old you are or where your interests lie, you’ll find something that’ll catch your attention and mesmerize you. For instance, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour, which enables you to see the coral reef and a plethora of marvelous sea creatures through the bottom of your boat, or you can take a dolphin day tour, and observe these remarkable animals as they swim and play around in the crystal-clear waters. If these aren’t your cup of tea, perhaps an adventure tour will suit you better. Jet skiing, paddle-boarding or parasailing are just some of the activities to get you that adrenaline rush while in Key West. There are even eco tours available, as well as trolley tours, designed for you to discover a wide range of the island’s attractions. Whether you want to relax, experience something extraordinary or you want to learn something new about Key West, there’s definitely an adequate tour for you.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Located merely 70 miles west of Key West, you can find the Dry Tortugas National Park, which is the ideal place for those who’re keen on exploring and taking long swims in the cool, clear waters of the seven islands that constitute this beautiful national park. Whether you’re interested in bird watching or you’d like to do some snorkeling and spy on the vibrant underwater wildlife, you’ll enjoy every minute spent there. Plus, you can take a stroll around the ruins of Fort Jefferson and learn all about its construction and the role it played in the history of the United States. In order to arrive to the Dry Tortugas National Park, you’ll have to take the ferry or a seaplane, but you certainly won’t regret taking this interesting trip.
The Key West Lighthouse
This stunning lighthouse was built in 1847 and the island’s been known for it ever since. One curious fact is that the first lighthouse keeper was a woman, which wasn’t at all common at the time. Also, for a long time, it was powered by nothing more than 15 oil lamps, that guided numerous sailors to safety. Since then, the lighthouse has been upgraded many times, which is why today’s version is somewhat taller than the original one, making this a wonderful spot from which to revel in the astonishing views of Key West and the ocean surrounding it. You can also take a glance at the keeper’s quarters and get a sense of what their life was like in the late nineteenth century. In any case, you’ll get to make some phenomenal photos and memories on the Key West lighthouse.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
If you’re seeking a magical, fairytale place, full of flowering plants, colorful butterflies and tropical birds, you’ll be amazed by the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. It boasts about sixty species of butterflies and twenty species of birds, but also some of the most gorgeous trees and waterfalls you’ve ever seen. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to meet the conservatory’s two flamingos, who spend most of their days in the Koi Pond, but also to gain more insight into the world of butterflies. There’s also a a cute gift shop there, but one thing you shouldn’t miss is the original work of Sam Trophia, an artist who shows his appreciation of butterflies through his unique artwork, suspending them in all of their beauty in acrylic shadow boxes. When you get tired, you can get some rest on a special butterfly-shaped bench before you continue with your walk through this one-of-a-kind conservatory.
Key West is famous for its nature and architecture, and staying there might soon become the best decision you’ve made. So, if you want to take one of the most fascinating journeys of your life, don’t hesitate and start planning a trip to Key West today.