Corona Virus has forced us all to adjust how we work & play. Key West provides the perfect respite with sand between your toes and sunshine on your face on this idyllic island oasis. Relax, rejuvenate, mask up and social distance as you escape to the vacation spot of Pirates, Poets & Presidents.
Getting Around
Key West is basically a pedestrian island, with a number of other options available to you.
- Walking
- Biking / Moped
- Electric Car
- Key West Trolley and Duval Loop
As the island is only about 2 x 4 miles long, you can leisurely explore the island simply by walking. Biking Key West is another wonderful way to enjoy the island, its beautiful "off the beaten path" side streets, hidden gems and attractions with rentals readily available throughout the Island.
Next on our list is an electric car. Think of a "dune buggy" and you'll have an idea of what we're talking about. While this may be the quickest way to get around, one of the issues on a small island is parking. Although there are parking spaces available, it is difficult to find an open one. Many streets are designated as resident only and can land you a ticket for illegally parking.
Two other options let someone else do the driving. The Old Town Trolley is a partly narrated ride and will get you around the whole of the island. There is a fee for riding and tickets can be purchased at the many kiosks located around Key West. The Duval Loop is a FREE ride that operates along and around the area surrounding Duval Street or Old Town Key West.
Photo Credit: Conch Electric Cars
Attractions
There are countless things to see and do, while keeping a safe distance from others. In the heart of the Mallory Square area is the Key West Aquarium, and "kitty corner" across the street is the Shipwreck Museum. The Aquarium, built in 1935, was the first of its kind to use an "open air" design. Visitors of all ages will delight at the touch tank and checking out the turtle pens outside. The Shipwreck Museum is a self guided tour of the history of Key West and its rise in stature as a result of the ship salvaging industry that arose due to the shallow coral reef's just off-shore.
Photo Credit: Key West Aquarium
Another fantastic indoor tour is the Butterfly Conservatory. Here you can tour the glass enclosure that is home to hundreds of species and learn about their life cycle. A short distance away (here that bike or electric car may help) is the Fort East Martello Museum. This Civil War fort ( there are actually two on the island, plus Fort Jefferson on the Dry Tortugas) is now home to the Key West Garden Club and to the islands ephemeral spirit Robert the Doll. He has a history all his own!
Photo Credit: Key West Butterfly Conservatory
Probably the most socially distant of all things to see and do, is to experience and wander the grounds of the Key West Cemetery. Be certain to pick up a map of the grounds when you enter that details the various sections and some of the more outstanding and outlandish of Key West's dearly departed.
Sail Safe aboard the jet powered catamarans of Key West Express.
Hero Image Photo Credit: Pixabay
