The Conch Connection

Key West and Cuba are separated by roughly 90 miles of water, but their shared story has been unfolding for generations. Cuban immigrants helped build the island's economy, supported the struggle for Cuban independence and left a lasting mark on local politics, education, art, architecture, language and food.

That heritage is not confined to a museum display. You can experience it in a strong cup of café cubano, a historic building on Duval Street, a plate of roast pork and plantains, or the Spanish name many locals still use for Key West: Cayo Hueso. Arriving aboard Key West Express places you near the Old Town streets where much of this history unfolded.

Before Key West became famous for sunset celebrations, colorful characters and tropical escapes, it was known for something else: cigars. In the late 1800s, Cuban tobacco, Cuban craftsmanship and Key West's location just 90 miles from Cuba helped turn the island into one of the nation's most important cigar-manufacturing centers.

That history is still woven into the streets of Old Town. Travelers arriving aboard Key West Express step ashore near the Historic Seaport, within easy reach of neighborhoods and landmarks shaped by the island's close relationship with Cuba.