Key West is an island at the southernmost point of the United States. To get there it's a 3 1/2 to 4-hour drive from Miami along a scenic road called the Overseas Highway and it is approximately 8 hours from Orlando.
We saw this lobster on our journey
It is part of the Florida Keys, a collection of little islands known for their laid back charm, beautiful beaches, fishing, snorkelling and amazing seafood.
The Southernmost House
Well, all my worries were laid to rest when we arrived. We all totally loved it there, and Key West Boat Rentals were easily available to take you to your destination and attractions that you should not miss!
Sunset in Key West
The main street is Duval Street which has many restaurants, shops and bars and leads down to the beach. There is also Mallory Square where everyone gathers at sunset to see the beautiful views and the street entertainers.
Key West has a laid back attitude and culture and celebrates diversity. It has a large gay community and has a number of gay and drag bars as well as one or two strip clubs but all are discrete, although you may have one of the drag queens welcoming you into the bars.
There are also a large number of bars playing live music with a great atmosphere, almost all being family-friendly. Many had happy hours for that delicious cocktail at half the price of normal too. We found a couple of nice wine bars as well and would recommend Vinos on Duval street.
We felt very safe at night and saw lots of families enjoying the town. In fact, it was much nicer than a night out in Cardiff that's for sure. There are other places to visit in The Keys that are quieter but we liked the buzz of Key West.
The beauty of the place is in the architecture. Small whitewash buildings add a European feel to the area. We saw the odd chicken roaming around the old buildings. It is really that laid back. Many compare the architecture to New Orleans.
The Shipwreck Museum
Attractions include The Shipwreck Museum, Ripleys Believe It Or Not, The Lighthouse Museum, The Ernest Hemingway Museum, The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and The Conch Train Tour.
Key West was the richest town in the United States in the 1800s per capita due to the town being built around the business of salvaging shipwrecks. The Shipwreck museum explained the history of the island and was very entertaining. Highly recommended for children.
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
Fort Zachary Beach and National Park
We loved Key West and would love to go back in the future. The weather is very hot in the summer and very pleasant and warm in the Winter. We stayed at the Orchid Key Inn, a beautiful hotel, on the quiet end of Duval street, with excellent staff, and extras including breakfast and drinks every day.
Wonderful lobster at the Southern Most Beach Cafe
Best restaurant with a view - The Southern Most Beach Cafe
Best shopping - Coach Outlet
Best local food - Key Lime Pie and lobster
Must Do - day - Visit the southernmost buoy at the southernmost part of the USA
Must Do - evening Watch the sunset go down on Mallory Square and see the street entertainers
Check out this post on a Florida road trip for more Florida travel inspiration.
Tell me have you ever been there? What do you think of my review? Would you like to go?
