Beware of Strange Bedfellows in Strange Key West Race
In most places, beds are reserved for sleeping or amorous activities. But not in the Florida Keys’ colorful Conch Republic — where, on a Saturday afternoon in late April each year, beds on wheels are propelled by teams of strange bedfellows along Key West’s Duval Street in the Conch Republic Blue Ribbon Bed Race.
Why ‘Fort Forgotten’ is So Unforgettable
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is renowned for a picnic area shaded by Norfolk pines and cooled by ever-present breezes, and a long Atlantic-front beach that Key Westers call one of the island’s best-kept secrets. But it’s the Civil War-era fort itself, once nicknamed “Fort Forgotten,” that really makes the park unique.
Brad Bertelli: Steward of Florida Keys History
As curator and historian at Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center, Brad Bertelli is a storyteller who spins colorful tales with rich factual details about life in the Florida Keys. He has also authored several books — including two about snorkeling in Florida and the Keys, and one each about Key Largo and Islamorada.
The SMART Ride Reimagined: How Will You Do Your 165?
Each year bicyclists traditionally navigate the entire Florida Keys island chain, along scenic Overseas Highway and Heritage Trail routes, during the 165-mile Miami to Key West trek called The Smart Ride. The 2020 event is scheduled Nov. 20-22 — with a reimagined format that allows participants to compete onsite or anywhere they choose.
Sloppy Joe’s, Key West’s Hemingway Hangout, is Open Again!
When Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West during the 1930s, he spent much of his leisure time with friends at Sloppy Joe’s Bar. On Sept. 17, the beloved Key West watering hole reopened after being closed for six months because of the global COVID-19 crisis — and several Hemingway look-alikes were there.
Remembering Key West’s ‘Conch Ambassador’
For decades, Bishop Al Kee welcomed visitors to Key West’s Southernmost Point marker, acting as a smiling ambassador for the island. He sold fluted, pink-lined conch shells beside the iconic waterfront landmark, sliced open coconuts for those who wanted to drink the sweet coconut water inside, and cheerfully posed for innumerable visitor photos.
What’s New in LGBTQ Key West
What’s happening in the gayborhood of Key West these days? Visitors can discover two new gay-owned and -operated restaurants for their dining pleasure — one with a particularly sassy name. Plus many island entertainment venues have a fresh new look following recent renovations, and Key West’s iconic drag shows are once again delighting audiences