"Key West" Key West by grkboiler

Key West is a charming island in the Florida Keys. It is full of historical sites and great 19th century architecture. It is also a tourist's paradise, with plenty of shops, nightclubs, bars, and resorts. One interesting fact is that it is actually closer to Cuba (90 miles) than it is to Miami (140 miles).

Ocean off Cates Pier

Key West, which is only 8 square miles, has a fun and almost Bohemian atmosphere that makes it one of Florida's best tourist destination. It is easy to get around and there is always something to do.

One of Hemingway's Cats

Key West has an interesting history. It was originally called Cayo Hueso (Bone Key) because of the Indian skeletons found there by Spanish explorers when they landed in the 16th century. During the Civil War, it was an important base, and still houses a Naval base.

Tourism became important in the 1930's, and it was once a Mecca for artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway, because of its inaccesibility (at one time, the only way in and out was by boat).