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.

Mel Fisher and the Treasure of the Atocha

There really was gold in the waters off Key West—and finding it became one of the most famous treasure-hunting stories in history.

For 16 years, Mel Fisher and his crew searched the waters of the Florida Keys for the wreck of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Fisher kept the team motivated with his now-famous declaration: “Today’s the day!” On July 20, 1985, those words finally came true when the crew discovered the ship’s long-lost main cargo hold.

What does Thomas Edison, mid-February and a 2 week party all have in common? The Edison Festival of Light, of course. Each February the City of Ft Myers recognizes its most famous winter resident, Thomas Alva Edison. He built a sprawling home and laboratory along McGregor Boulevard in 1885. Over the years he also encouraged a number of his friends to make the move south. Henry Ford was his most famous friend who shared the property on McGregor Boulevard known as the Edison Ford Estate.

Celebrate your romance with Seashells, Sunshine & Sand.   Some people dream of this day forever and should be one of the most memorable moments of your life.  Whether your dream wedding includes
glistening tropical waters with sand between your toes, sophisticated sunset elegance at a five-star resort or anything in between, America's Caribbean Island Paradise offering year round weather, breathtaking water views and an abundant array of options will make your special day exactly as you imagine. Make memories at  Smather’s beach, Higg’s beach, Fort Zachary Taylor historic state park or the gazebo overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at West Martello Tower & Gardens. 

Photo Credit: HemingwayHomeEvents via Instagram by @irismoorephoto

You can even forgo the traditional wedding and broadcast your nuptials digitally, as some have taken to social media to live-stream their wedding, for those that are far and away and could not attend personally.  Not only can you invite and and everyone, you want, but you'll also have virtual remembrance as well.