Exploring Key West

Key West, Florida



Jen and her baby "brother" Jimmy

 

 

 

Where do Parrottheads like to hang out?   Well...Key West of coarse.  Our dog is named Jimmy after our favorite singer Jimmy Buffet and the theme of our blog revolves around him too.  So it only made sense to travel down to the keys in our mortorcoach once again. Where else can you see the Gulf of Mexico through the right window and the Atlantic Ocean out the left  side.  It's so cool. 

 

US 1 ends in Key West.  It is zany, crowded, eclectic, picturesque and so much more.  The streets can be congested so park your car and walk, bike, or rent a motor scooter.   Don't let the crowds stop you from visiting.  There is something here for everyone. 

 

 

 

 

We've visited Key West several times and  listed below some of our recommendations.  If you have some to add be sure to write a comment. 
 

Sightseeing:  The easiest way to get a good overview is to take a hop on and hop off trolley.  There are several companies that provide this service and we really like listening to the drivers tell some of the history and appreciate the recommendations for restaurants and not to miss attractions.

 

 

 

 

Waling Tour:  The chamber of commerce has a free one to download. It's a great way to see some of the cool architecture, interesting houses, and gardens tucked in every available space.  You don't have to hassle with the traffic and we found free parking in front of the Eco Discovery Center.  The City View Trolley has a pick up at the corner.

 

 

 

 

Roosters are everywhere

 

 

 

 

JC, Bev, & John

 

Restaurants:  Eating out can be expensive.  However, with a little research (ask a local or check Trip Advisor) you might find something off the beaten track. We especially enjoyed Hogfish on Stock Island for the freshest fish and local hangout atmosphere.   We also enjoyed El Mason De Pepe,  a famous Cuban restaurant near Mallory Square which serves delicious mohitos and interesting Cuban platters. Grunts offers outdoor dining in a very relaxing patio atmosphere.

 

 

El Mason De Pepep

 

 

Favorite sightseeing:

 

 Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

(lovely butterfly garden and interesting gift shop)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Custom House Museum

(beautiful artwork and sculptures inside and out)

 

Needlepoint

Sculpture

 

 

Florida Keys Eco Discovery Center

(free, under the sea movie is spectacular)

 

 

 

Harry Truman's Little White House

(we really enjoyed this excellent tour of Truman's hang out during his presidency)

 

 

 

Mallory Square at sunset

(street performers, sailboats, and great sunsets.  Visit after 5pm)

 

 

Cat Man

Tourists waiting for the sunset

 

 

 

 

Shopping:  Be sure to walk up and down Duval Street.  Check out all the crazy and irreverent T-Shirts and fun shops. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

John's daughter, Jen, flew in for a week.  It's been fun visiting all the sights together.  We loved our two weeks in  Key West! Check back to read about our two deep sea fishing trips.  Dramamine is recommended prior to reading.  :)  

 

John and Jen