No matter where you live or what you do, time seems to escape us. How many times have we referred to "time flying". Despite our best intentions, popular destinations and points of interest in our own backyard that are enjoyed by visitors are always on our "things to do and see list". One of the most common phrases we hear, at Key West Express is... " I've lived in Florida for XX number of years, but I've never been to Key West." Yes, we get it but, "Why NOT? What are you waiting for?" A staycation to Key West is just what the "ho-hum" doctor ordered.
Key West does not slow down when the sun disappears. The island simply changes moods. Sunset crowds gather along the waterfront, live music spills onto Old Town streets, historic buildings become the setting for ghost stories, and illuminated kayaks glide through dark mangrove creeks.
The best things to do in Key West at night include the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration, sunset cruises, live music on Duval Street, drag shows, ghost tours, night kayaking, waterfront dining, theater performances and relaxed walks through Old Town. Most evening attractions are concentrated around Mallory Square, Duval Street and the Historic Seaport, making it easy to combine several experiences in one night.
Only ONCE A YEAR, an unusually exciting event happens in the warm waters of the Florida Keys. Which is home to the only living coral reef that exists in the Continental United States. This teeming backbone of marine life, runs the length of the 125 mile Florida Keys island chain and lies but a short boat ride only 5 miles offshore.
Make your plans for the biggest party of the summer! The 27th annual Key West LobsterFest is being held this year from August 8th until the 11th , 2024.
Did you know that the barrier reef off the coast of the Florida Keys, is the ONLY barrier reef in North America AND is the third largest one in the World? These reefs perform many necessary and environmentally critical functions. As the name implies, it acts as a barrier to the islands behind it, helping to reduce wave and storm action, coming in from the open ocean. It is also a wildlife habitat that is one of the most diverse, in all the world. The reef is home to those animals that never leave the waters here, both fish, plant life and the actual corals themselves. It also acts as a haven to those fish that migrate through these waters as well as a rookery for juvenile fish. Making this biodiverse ecosystem one that must be protected, not only for the enjoyment of all of us, but for our continued ecological life on the this big, blue marble.
Choosing a restaurant is easy—until one person wants tacos, another wants barbecue and someone else has already decided that dinner should involve sushi.
That is where a food truck park saves the day.
Southwest Florida has turned the humble food truck stop into a full evening out. These colorful gathering places combine several kitchens with outdoor seating, cold drinks, live music, games and plenty of room to settle in. Everyone can order something different, yet the whole group still eats together. No menu negotiations required.
Ready to roll up hungry? Here are five food truck parks worth putting on your Southwest Florida dining list.
Key West Has Always Been Happily a Little Different
Key West does not do ordinary especially well. This is an island where a cemetery comes with a self-guided map, a legendary bar has a tree growing through the middle of it, and a day on the water can end with you climbing, sliding and trying not to splash off a floating playground.
That is part of the charm. The usual beaches, boats and sunset views are still here, but leave a little room in your plans for the stranger side of the island. These five experiences are a good place to start.
When many people think of Key West, they picture lively nightlife, famous bars, and colorful Duval Street. While those attractions are certainly part of the island's personality, there's another side of Key West that families quickly fall in love with.
World renowned oceanographer and son of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Fabien, recently came to the beautiful reefs, off the Florida Keys. His family's legacy of oceanic conservationism, exploration, education and technological advancement came with him.
One of the best things about visiting Key West is that you do not need a car to enjoy much of the island. Old Town is compact, many major attractions are close together, and visitors can choose from walking, bicycles, public transportation, taxis, rideshare services, trolleys, golf carts, and other options.
