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.
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.
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.
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.”
In the mid-1990s, Key West was home to a world-class mystery bookstore. Located just off Duval Street, Miss Marbles Parlour was the only bookstore in South Florida devoted entirely to mysteries. And its colorful owner Dilys Winn, a legendary figure in the mystery world, staged interactive crime-solving events three times per week.
The Florida Keys & Key West, long recognized for supporting artistic, literary and creative endeavors, are known throughout the world as a vibrant cultural destination. Visitors can experience life like a local through Keys cultural arts, influenced by warm subtropical breezes, storied architectural history and colorful scenery on islands surrounded by azure waters.
The Aquaplex (formerly known as the Aqua Bar and Nightclub), located in the heart of Key West’s LGBTQ entertainment district, has debuted a new look and enhancements. Along with the addition of an on-site Hawaiian-themed restaurant in its open-air backside bar and patio area, it now has five unique venues to delight patrons.
The Key West Art Center, whose origins date back to the 1930s, is renowned as the oldest artists’ membership organization in the Florida Keys. Its picturesque Front Street gallery features the work of more than 50 artists from the Keys, with a visual tapestry of color and creativity awaiting everyone who ventures inside.
With Valentine's Day approaching, couples tired of winter blues might be daydreaming about escaping to the Florida Keys for a romantic getaway. The island chain has some of the warmest winter temps in the nation, and there's nothing better than snuggling up with your sweetheart and rejuvenating your soul in the welcoming sunshine.
Ever since Ernest Hemingway penned literary classics while living in 1930s Key West, the island has been a haven and an inspiration for writers. Now Key West visitors can boost their own creativity with a chance to write in the iconic author’s private studio — and explore his former Whitehead Street home and grounds.