Key West in U.S.A’s beach state of Florida is the southern-most city in Continental America. Known for its popular sunsets, Key West is one of the most visited cities in USA. It is popular for its sunsets and just like other cities in the state, it offers visitors plenty of ways in which they can enjoy its perfect coastal setting. Here are some points of Interest for Key West Visitors:
Mallory Street
If you are wondering about how to get started exploring Key West, well, Mallory Square is the perfect place to start. On the west-side of Duval Street, is Mallory square, a waterfront plaza, known for its “Sunset Celebration” a popular, daily event in the city. Hundreds of tourist gather at Mallory Square every evening just to catch a glimpse of the sunset while enjoying the art and crafts exhibitions, taste the food from street vendors and see performers in action. This 1960 tradition is still kept alive, every single day.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway was an American treasure and one of the most important writers of his time. This house was gifted to his wife Pauline by one of her wealthy uncles. This beautiful Spanish-Colonial style mansion was built in 1851 and features many of Hemingway’s personal effects and the many European antiques that he and his wife collected over their travels across the world. Exhibits include his animal trophies and skins from the African safaris and the hunting expeditions he went on, the studio-room in which he wrote his many books and numerous descendants of Hemingway’s favourite pet; his six-toed cat.
Dry Tortugas National Park
History buffs must take a day to visit the Dry Tortugas National Park. The park is an archipelago of seven small islands, located about 65 miles from Key West. The park lies in stunning blue waters and is surrounded by innumerable, healthy coral reefs and a varied marine life. You will also see many migratory and tropical birds at the park. The only ways to get to the park are by water or a sea-plane. There are designated points in the park where you can swim, snorkel and even enjoy many thrilling activities.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Built in 1890, Harry S. Truman Little White House was an officers quarters and the official vacation retreat of the American Presidents Truman, Kennedy and Eisenhower. Now restored to its former glory; the original decor and furnishings still remain intact from the era of Truman. Truman came to the Little White House in 1946, for the first time. The house is still used by the ruling President in the country as the official vacation house. It is also a public museum, open all days.
The Martello Towers
Built in 1858, the Mortello Towers are brick fortifications built to protect Fort Zachary Taylor. There are 2 towers of which the one on the east was never completed, nor did it see any hostile action. From the Central tower, one can get a stunning panoramic view of Key West’s Atlantic coast. On the west of the tower is the ‘The Key West Garden’ that is open to the public with the responsibility of maintaining it on their own through volunteering.
Key West Aquarium
One of Florida’s oldest Aquariums, The Key West Aquarium was originally built in 1932 and opened to the public in 1934, as an open-air aquarium. It is located on Whitehead Street, close to Mallory Square. Popular Exhibits at the Aquarium are the “Atlantic Shores, American Alligator and Jellyfish Exhibit.” Also, do not miss the Shark and Stingray Feedings and the Sea-turtles Conservation tour.
Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters
Built in 1847, the Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters stand high at 86 feet. In 1880, the original Lighthouse was torn down and replaced with the present structure. The light house was decommissioned in 1969 in the light of new technologies that rendered the role of the keeper redundant. Today, the light house is converted into a museum dedicated to its keepers. To get a great view, climb to the top and head to the observation deck.
Southernmost Point
Key West’s claim to fame is that it is the southern-most point in continental America, and this has been made solid with a red, yellow and black marker at the intersection of South and Whitehead streets. You can buy souvenirs from street vendors and watch street performers like magicians, jugglers, musicians and clowns showcase their talent. The Southern-most point is a great place to snap a lot of photos and make colourful memories of your trip to the Key West.
Key West is not just about beaches, it is also an island that offers some historical treasures. This island was home to some of the greatest American literary geniuses like Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, and Tennessee Williams. The houses in the city have influences of the Caribbean culture, the food is Spanish and Afro-Caribbean. There is plenty to do here, whether you wish to take it slow on the beaches or just let yourself go at the night-clubs!
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