Bat Masterson is Named Key West’s Newest ‘Papa’
His long-established nickname is “Bat,” and even many friends don’t know his real name is David. But now Bat Masterson has a new nickname: “Papa.” That’s because Bat recently won the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, a highlight of Key West's Hemingway Days festival that ended July 21 — the 125th anniversary of “Papa” Hemingway’s birth.
Kids and Families Invited to Make Memories at Keys Attractions
The Florida Keys are full of unforgettable activities for parents, kids, grandparents and extended families. And through Oct. 15, the Key West Attractions Association invites families to explore the island chain’s attractions, tours, watersports and other offerings with a value-added program that provides free admission and opportunities for kids age 12 or younger.
Rediscovering Key West’s LGBTQ Emporiums
Whether shopping for offbeat gifts or fine art, the emporiums of Key West provide a warm welcome for some well-deserved retail therapy. Emporiums range from the pioneering Key West Aloe, Graffitti and In Touch to the Gingerbread Square Gallery, opened in the early 1970s by Richard Heyman, the nation’s first openly gay mayor.
Jeanne Selander: Steward of the Florida Keys Sheriff’s Animal Farm
For 15 years Jeanne Selander has overseen the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm on Stock Island — believed to be the only facility of its kind on jailhouse property in the United States — and the care of 150 exotic creatures. Her “charges” include an ostrich, lemurs, kinkajous, bearded dragons and 17-year-old Mo the Sloth.
Shipwrecks to Reefs: Dive an Awesome Threesome
Vessels intentionally sunk to create artificial reefs serve as refuges for fish, delicate corals and invertebrates — and provide fascinating sites for divers to explore. Within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which protects the waters surrounding the entire Keys, lie nine notable wrecksites that are part of the popular Florida Keys Wreck Trek.
The ABCs of Traveling to the Florida Keys
Traveling through the Florida Keys to Key West is a bucket-list adventure in itself. Driving the historic, 127-mile Florida Keys Overseas Highway is considered by many travelers to be the trip of a lifetime. And flying over the island chain and surrounding waters into Key West International Airport is an equally memorable experience.
Key West Viewpoint: Four Favorite Places
Key West’s intriguing character becomes more apparent with each new exploration. Taking the time to experience the island is like savoring a plate of Cuban food, recognizing and appreciating each individual flavor. And identifying newfound favorite spots leads to even deeper enjoyment — whether staying for a few days, a season or a lifetime.