Enjoy the Culture of the Keys — Four Ways!
Visitors seeking cultural experiences to supplement the Florida Keys’ subtropical “fun and sun” lure will find arts offerings in virtually all genres. Enthusiasts can discover galleries from Key Largo to Key West, festivals that spotlight the island chain’s rich creative heritage, eclectic events that showcase the talents of local residents — and even gyotaku.
Five Hidden Gardens Showcase Keys’ Rare Beauty
Experience an in-depth sojourn in the subtropical Florida Keys & Key West, and you’re likely to discover some fascinating indigenous species in hidden, tucked-away gardens nestled throughout the 125-mile-long island chain. Here’s an intriguing look at five gardens well worth exploring.
Discovering Mandy’s Key West
Key West is known for its inclusive “One Human Family” philosophy that all people are created equal, and for its residents’ kindness and respectful nature that help foster a sense of community and comfort. Here, guest blogger Mandy Murray explains why she believes the island is the perfect place for transgender people to visit.
‘Ernest’ Competition Earns Texan the 2017 Look-Alike Title
There’s a new “Papa” Hemingway in the island city where legendary author Ernest Hemingway lived during the 1930s. White-bearded Texan Richard Filip won the 2017 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, the undisputed highlight of Key West's annual Hemingway Days celebration.
Chef Andy Niedenthal: Cooking Full-Circle, Back to Islamorada
Meet the celebrated chef behind some of the Florida Keys' most innovative cuisine: Andy Niedenthal, who has appeared on America's top food television shows, been praised by culinary icon Julia Child, and even cooked for a former president. Now he's the executive chef at Islamorada's Islander Resort, A Guy Harvey Outpost.
New Festival Spotlights Key West’s Cuban Connection
Key West frequently celebrates its historic Cuban connection with events that showcase our cultural ties to the nearby island nation. One such event will be the inaugural LGBT Art & Culture REvolution, set for Sept. 7-13. Key West attendees can enjoy everything from cigar, rum distillery and art gallery tours to Cuban music events and a special Cuba Libre brunch.
In Hemingway’s Footsteps
As the first widely-renowned author to make Key West his home, Ernest Hemingway inspired generations of writers and readers to follow in his footsteps and explore the island’s innate creativity. His legacy and love for Key West are celebrated each July during Hemingway Days.