Yes, you read that correctly! We've all been to or seen the typical "water park" that's evolved into a playground of water fun including oversized swimming pools, waterslides, water tunnels, wave pool and the requisite lazy river. BUT, this one is like no other anywhere!!
Definition of a "Buoy" - "an anchored FLOAT serving as a navigational mark, to indicate reefs or other hazards or for mooring". The southernmost buoy's claim to fame is being one of the most photographed and visited attractions in the United States. The buoy is an impressive 12' tall, 7' wide and made out of approximately 4 tons of solid concrete!
The current marker actually didn't exist until 1983 when it was commissioned and installed by the City of Key West and painted by local artist Danny Acosta.
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While Key West can't take the crown for the oldest settled city in Florida, it does have one of the more interesting and wide ranging historical pasts of almost any place in the state. Whether you're looking for tales of pirates, shipwrecks, US Presidents or Civil War era historical significance, Key West has a little bit of it all.
Key West has inspired painters, sculptors, photographers, writers and performers for generations. Its tropical light, historic architecture, Caribbean influences and famously independent personality have helped shape an arts community that feels as colorful and original as the island itself.
Can you experience that creative spirit in just one day? Absolutely. Many of Key West's most interesting galleries, museums and historic sites are concentrated in walkable Old Town, making an art-focused day trip surprisingly easy to plan.
Arrive aboard Key West Express, step off near the Historic Seaport and follow this flexible itinerary through a day of local art, island history and waterfront flavor. Because gallery hours and exhibitions can change, check each venue's official website before your trip and leave a little room for spontaneous discoveries along the way.
Discover the Secrets of Historic Key West
Key West is known for its beautiful sunsets, colorful architecture and laid-back island lifestyle, but beneath its tropical charm lies a fascinating history that spans centuries. From Native American settlements and Spanish explorers to literary legends, presidents and treasure hunters, the island has countless stories waiting to be discovered.
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.
There are so many fun, exciting, and historical things to do in Key West, that even despite challenging times, tourism has stable growth!
Key West celebrates this annual St. Patrick's Day Event every March 17th.
The original “Bar None Suds Run” was established in 1979 by Rick Dostal and continues to this day! Some of the bars have changed and the “Run” was renamed a “Crawl” but, Saint Patty’s day has always been an event to celebrate and (hopefully) remember. Click on the link below for stories by a few who evidently have some recollections!
With all the different options that you have for a Key West Vacation, what should you do and see on your trip to paradise?
Annual Key West BrewFest
September 4 - 6, 2026
The past Key West BrewFest events have been so much fun and an amazing success for the local charities, the committee is teaming up to bring it to you again! Between 150 and 200 beers and micro-brews are on tap at this "tasty" annual event that benefits the charitable efforts of the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club of the Conch Republic.
