Key West

Key West sits on the westernmost island of the Florida Keys, connected to the mainland by the Overseas Highway that crosses turquoise water through a series of bridges. The town spreads across a flat coral island lined with narrow streets, wooden houses, palm trees, and small beaches.

Spanish explorers reached the island in 1521 and found Calusa settlements, naming it Cayo Hueso in reference to scattered human remains they encountered. The town later developed through shipwreck salvaging, salt production, and cigar making before becoming a naval base and eventually an artist colony.

Every evening locals and visitors gather at Mallory Square to celebrate sunset together while street performers, musicians, and artists entertain the crowd. This ritual reflects the relaxed island lifestyle that has shaped daily life here for decades.

Most attractions lie in the Old Town area on the northern part of the island, where everything is easy to reach on foot or by bike. For beaches and more distant spots, consider using the public bus or renting a bike, as the island is compact.

A concrete buoy marks the southernmost point of the continental United States at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street, just 90 miles (145 km) from Cuba. The famous six-toed cat colony at the Hemingway House descends from a captain's gift and still roams the furniture and gardens today.

Location: Monroe County

Inception: 1828

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

Shares border with: Stock Island

Website: http://keywestcity.com

GPS coordinates: 24.55972,-81.78361

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:43