Key West Architecture and Atmosphere Showcased in House Tours
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — From its cigar-makers' cottages to its Victorian mansions, Key West's architecture is as individualistic and unique as the island itself. Visitors can explore houses exemplifying that rich architectural tradition, as well as contemporary Keys design, during weekend house tours in January, February and March 2015.
Now in their 55th year, the annual tours are presented by the nonprofit Old Island Restoration Foundation, which was established in 1960 to promote the restoration and preservation of Key West's historically significant buildings. The island city's Old Town contains what is believed to be the largest predominantly wooden historic district in the United States with almost 3,000 structures.
Tours are planned Friday and Saturday, Jan. 16-17, Feb. 13-14 and March 13-14. Each one showcases multiple homes chosen for being significant historic buildings, creative renovations or examples of the Keys lifestyle. Tour participants can discover unique interiors filled with art collections and antiques as well as lush gardens and imaginatively designed outdoor living areas.
OIRF volunteers serve as guides at each tour stop, informing visitors about each featured house's history, architecture and décor.
The January tours are set for 4-8 p.m. both evenings. Transportation is to be offered free aboard select Conch Tour Trains or participants can proceed from house to house at their own pace. Conch Tour Train seating is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.
The February and March tours are offered 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with visitors responsible for their own transportation.
Tickets for each tour cost $30 per person and include a list of houses and a map.
Tour information and ticketing: oirf.org or 305-294-9501
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
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Visitors can explore houses exemplifying rich architectural tradition and contemporary Keys design.
Key West's Old Town contains what is believed to be the largest predominantly wooden historic district in the United States with almost 3,000 structures.