Southernmost location in the Continental United States
The Spanish name for this island is Cayo Hueso, meaning "island of bones".
This less than pleasant name was coined by Spanish explorers that found the skeletal
remains of Indians when they discovered Key West. Only 90 miles from Cuba, Key West served
as a waypoint for travelers between the United States and Cuba prior to Fidel Castro
taking power.
Like the other islands, Key West offers great fishing and diving. Duval Street is a
favorite of visitors and is the location of such renowned establishments as "Sloppy
Joes" and "Hogs Breath Saloon". The original Sloppy Joes, now Capt. Tony's,
was a favorite watering hole of author Ernest Hemingway when he lived in Key West. As you
progress south on Duval Street, you will encounter the islands growing art district. This
area has a number of galleries featuring both local talents and nationally recognized
artists.
Key West offers a variety of rides and attractions that can satisfy the needs of most
anyone. You can tour the island in the famous Conch Train, see the unbelievable in
Ripley's Believe it or not or learn about some of the accomplishments of John James
Audubon at the Audubon House. Depending upon the time of year you visit the Keys, you may
even catch one of its interesting festivals such as Hemingway Days or Fantasy Fest.
Hemingway Days is a tribute to the life and times of one time Key West resident Ernest
Hemingway. During the festival the island is inundated with gray bearded gentlemen vying
to be the winner of the festival's Ernest Hemingway look alike contest.
After a day of sightseeing and shopping, be sure and attend "Sunset Fest" at
Mallory Square (north end of Duval). This nightly event is where both locals and visitors
gather to experience a glorious Florida Keys sunset while being entertained by musicians
and Key West style carnival acts. As you watch the sunset to the sound of a piper playing
"Amazing Grace" in the background, you will begin to understand why locals refer
to the Florida Keys and Key West as "paradise". Sunset Fest is the perfect way
to end your day and begin your evening.