‘Blue Star’ Means Green Adventures in the Florida Keys
Visitors who “look before they book” can help sustain the continental United States’ only barrier coral reef — and all elements of the Florida Keys’ marine environment. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary urges travelers to look carefully when booking Keys fishing, diving and snorkeling trips, and choose a sanctuary-designated Blue Star operator.
Take a Ride in Truman’s Presidential Limo (Yes, Really!)
History fans who visit Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House, Florida’s only presidential museum, can do more than explore the home where Truman spent nearly six months of his 1945-1953 presidency. They can also choose to ride around the island city in a limousine he used during his term in office.
The Train That Changed the Keys Forever
On Jan. 22, 1912, when Ruby Whitlock was eight years old, she watched the arrival of the first train that ever traveled down the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad tracks from mainland Florida to Key West. The railroad stretched over 100 miles out into open water in a fantastic ribbon of bridges and track.
Key West Commemorates Legendary Playwright’s Birthday
Internationally renowned playwright Tennessee Williams lived in Key West for more than 30 years, writing classic dramas including “Night of the Iguana.” Today, fans of his groundbreaking plays can honor his legacy and love for his island lifestyle during the annual Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration conceived by longtime Key West resident Dennis Beaver.
Discover the Real Keys Experience in ‘Island Hopping: Florida Keys’
For Christina Wilson, hosting “Island Hopping: Florida Keys" enabled her to dive into unique Florida Keys adventures — and share them with viewers of the syndicated television special that recently began airing across the United States. The show explores the Keys’ natural environment and ecotourism opportunities, abundant water-based activities, easygoing lifestyle and signature cuisine.
Kelly Grinter: Steward of Keys Wild Birds
Kelly Grinter estimates she’s rescued and released more than 20,000 injured birds since she founded the Marathon Wild Bird Center in 1995. The sanctuary at Marathon’s Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Center has 11 habitats and about 40 permanent residents — and Kelly is inspired by each bird admitted into the facility’s care.
Spotlight: Kevin Theriault, Ambassador to Key West’s LGBTQ Visitors
Key West’s LGBTQ visitors have a great resource to make their trips lively and memorable: the Key West Business Guild and its LGBTQ visitor center. The guild’s executive director, Kevin Theriault, makes travelers feel welcome and shares insights into what he calls “one of the most integrated and unique communities in the world.”