5 MUST-DO’S IN KEY WEST

5 MUST-DO’S IN KEY WEST Famous for its laid-back island lifestyle, Key West also offers an amazing array of things to see and do

By Gabriele Walkow

Head to the beautiful beaches for fun in the sun; get out on the water for fishing, diving and snorkeling; explore museums and art galleries rich in history and culture; and go out on the town shopping, dining and bar hopping. The unique tropical island city of Key West offers much to do for almost every traveler.

SOUTHERNMOST POINT BUOY

Marking the southernmost point in the continental U.S., the Southernmost Point Buoy is one of Key West’s most iconic landmarks and provides the perfect picturesque photo op. This massive, brightly painted buoy also marks another source of Key West pride. From this point on the corner of South and Whitehead Streets, Cuba is a mere 90 miles away.

Check the Southernmost Webcam to gauge the best time to visit this popular attraction. southernmostpointwebcam.com

THE ERNEST HEMINGWAY HOME AND MUSEUM

This lush and famous property was the 1930s residence of American author, Ernest Hemingway. It was from here that he wrote some of his best received works. Take a guided tour or explore the stunning colonialstyle estate on your own. Keep an eye out for the unusual six-toed Hemingway cats and visit the well-stocked gift shop for a unique memento. Open daily, tickets are only

DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK

Located 70 miles west of Key West, stunning Dry Tortugas National Park offers visitors an adventure of a lifetime. Home to turquoise blue waters, abundant sea life, tropical bird breeding grounds, colorful coral reefs and magnificent Fort Jefferson, this remote national park is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Opt for an unforgettable day trip on the high-speed catamaran the Yankee Freedom, or take to the skies on Key West Seaplane Adventures, offering scenic half and full day excursions. nps.gov/drto/index.htm

THE KEY WEST BUTTERFLY & NATURE CONSERVATORY

Amid bustling Duval Street, a tropical haven welcomes visitors to walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies and exotic birds from around the world, including two bright flamingoes. Stroll the soaring glass-enclosed domed butterfly habitat surrounded by flowering plants, cascading waterfalls and lush trees. With a unique Learning Center, it’s no wonder the conservatory is one of Key West’s top attractions for families. Don’t forget, it’s good luck if a butterfly lands on you! keywestbutterfly.com

KEY WEST SUNSET CELEBRATION

Key West is famous for its spectacular sunsets, and the place to celebrate this nightly ritual is Mallory Square. Located at the center of the historic Key West waterfront, Mallory Square is filled with attractions, shopping, restaurants and the world-famous sunset celebration. Beginning two hours before sunset, this festival hosts enthusiastic visitors who come to enjoy the street performers, musicians, artists and food vendors as the glowing sun sinks into the Gulf of Mexico, marking another perfect day in paradise. mallorysquare.com/ sunset-celebration

Now a registered National Historic Landmark, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is Key West’s most popular tourist attraction

The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is one of Key West’s top attractions for families

Celebrate Key West’s spectacular sunsets at Mallory Square

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