The Conch Republic - a place unto itself
Anyone who's visited Key West will tell you it's different - really different. Putting aside the party element of Key West for a moment, it's a surprise to many that there are so many historic sites on the island.
Locals try to think of Key West as being apart from the United States and affectionately call it "the Conch Republic".
But, what's really a trip, is that while most of us "apples" may not want to admit it, there's more than enough "Key Lime" is all of us to understand the beauty of this place - Key West is as American as pie.
So, be sure to lose your inhibitions and prejudices somewhere to the north of mile marker "0"; this way you'll be sure to fit right in and have yourself one heck of a time - don't forget to take plenty of pictures 'cause Key West is known as a drinking town with a tourist problem and there's a good chance you might not remember all the fun you had when you get home.
The heart of Key West is Duval Street which runs the entire length of Key West (From the Gulf to the Atlantic) and is well worth any attempt you can make to walk the distance.
Restaurants
Blue Heaven
OK, please don't mind the chickens. This place serves up one of the best breakfasts in town - with Bloody Marys, of course. The Sunday Brunch is terrific. 729 Thomas Street.
Cafe Marquesa
One of the best restaurants in town. Fusion dishes a specialty - Asia, Caribbean and the Americas. 600 Fleming Street.
Hot Tin Roof
The other best restaurant in town. The diversity of the menu is as good as the sunsets viewed from any of the outdoor tables. Zero Duval Street - aka Mallory Square - in the Ocean Key Resort and Spa.
Mangoes Restaurant
In the center of everything on Duval at Angela Street. Their Key Lime Pie is awesome. 700 Duval Street.
Conch Republic Seafood Company
Fresh, very fresh, seafood served in a rather raucous atmosphere - perfect for watching and being watched - eating seafood in a fishbowl and looking out. 631 Greene St - in the Historic Seaport District.
Nine One Five Bistro and Wine Bar
With a terrific location and a penchant for offering some of Key West's best tapas, this Bistro is a popular spot to slip into and recharge as you explore famous Duval Street. 915 Duval Street.
Places to Stay: Key West Hotels, Resorts and Lodging
The Marquesa Hotel
One of the nicest place to stay in the heart of Key West. This strikingly beautiful boutique hotel has less than 30 units, and provides an intimate and tranquil setting to wind down. Usually a good idea to plan in advance - and don't count on a one-night stay. Pricey, but the service and grounds are top-notch. 600 Fleming Street.
The Heron House
Guests from years gone by will have trouble recognizing what was once an ugly duckling. Many, many upgrades to this elegant property - most for the better, although the sun deck is now "clothing optional" only during Fantasy Fest. A short walk to Duval, but without the lighthouse to guide you home. 512 Simonton Street.
The Westin
With over 215 units, a familiar name and located adjacent to Mallory Square, the Westin is a popular place for the tourist crowd looking for a safe bet. On the scale of a resort, the Westin has plenty of amenities to keep you on the property - just don't forget that the real Key West lies just outside the resort's perimeter. 245 Front Street.
Andrews Inn
Just off Duval in Old Town - close enough for convenience, far enough for peace and quiet - this small scale BnB (10 rooms on two stories, with a few cottages) features lush tropical landscaping, a heated outdoor pool. 223 Eanes Lane.
Chelsea House Pool & Gardens
A treat for those who love historic properties. This Bed and Breakfast features two circa 1870's Victorian homes with 33 units of varying amenities. Heated outdoor pool set among lush tropical landscaping.
Hawks Cay Resort
Located at Mile Marker 61, Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key is a mini destination within. Featuring five restaurants, five heated pools and extensive recreational facilities. A welcome island retreat far removed from the hectic world of today.
Albury Court
This historic Old Town Bed and Breakfast sits just off the Duval and Harbor area and is composed of two separate buildings. A heated outdoor pool, Wi-Fi and Continental Breakfast are among the free welcomed amenities. 1030 Eaton Street.
Knowles House BnN
This historic B&B is just a few blocks from the waterfront and major attractions and shopping areas of Key West. A restored 1876 house that features 8 units on two floors and has a sedate courtyard that brings a bit of tranquility to the residence. 1004 Eaton Street.
Attractions
Key West Lighthouse Museum
A pillar of the community and the guiding light home for Earnest Hemingway. If you can make it up the stairs, the view of Key West and the surrounding waters and keys is worth every puff.
Little White House Museum
The retreat that American Presidents Truman, Eisenhower and Kennedy used during their administrations to unwind. Restored to its 1948 condition, a guided tour allows you to relive the Truman Presidency. 111 Front Street.
Mallory Square
A sundown and sunset must see. Catch street performers and a vast variety of acts - daily as the sun fades.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Collection of underwater bounty recovered from Spanish Galleons. For those armchair treasure hunters, this place will stir all those inner inclinations.
Key West Seaplane Adventures
A stunning 40 minute ride to Fort Jefferson (The Dry Tortugas National Park). On the way there's plenty to see: sharks, turtles, dolphins and a few sunken wrecks. Half and full day trips available. Bring yourself, they supply the rest.
Key West Aquarium
This historic aquarium dates back to the 1930s and was one of the first outdoor aquariums. Narrated tours of the shoreline exhibit help visitors gain an appreciation for what lies off our shores. Touch tank and feeding is popular with children.
East Martello Museum and Gardens
This local museum houses some of the more unusual exhibits surrounding the history of Key West and her colorful residents - both past and present. 3501 South Roosevelt Blvd.
Local Resources
Key West Chamber of Commerce
Stop by their office in Mallory Square and pick up the brochure for the self-guided walking tour: Marked with pelican signs, the Pelican Path takes you through the historic section of town.
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