When Randy Towe was 10 years old, he asked his mother to buy him a $200 custom fishing rod. His mother didn’t agree, so he convinced her to spend considerably less and purchase the necessary parts. The young fishing fanatic then built his own rod -- and today, he crafts prized rods for others from his store in the Florida Keys.
Key West's favorable year-round climate, and the packed annual calendar of events and celebrations, mean any time is a good time to escape to the eclectic, eccentric island city.
Whether you’re an experienced or aspiring writer, a passionate reader, or simply a fan of Ernest Hemingway’s exuberant Key West lifestyle, you’ll find a rich roster of literary events during Hemingway Days 2016.
Artists and artisans from across the globe flock to the Florida Keys and stay, making the island chain their home while helping shape its reputation as a cultural mecca. Whether textiles, jewelry, housewares, reclaimed wood furniture or other temptations, their quality handcrafted items are quintessentially “Keys.”
For more than 15 years, Randy Roberts has excited and entertained Key West audiences, impersonating a wide range of characters in a live multimedia tribute to some of the world’s most beloved female performers -- from the divine Bette Midler to the incomparable Cher.
It’s likely to get messy in Key West on this Fourth of July. At least, it will for everyone who plans to step into the “limelight” and participate in the annual Mile-High Key Lime Pie Eatin’ Contest.
Aspiring potters working from the clay of the earth learn, find inspiration, and practice their craft at Middle and Upper Keys studios. And opportunities abound around the island chain for people eager to explore their own potential and discover others' artistry.
Scientists and enthusiastic volunteers planted 200 live coral fragments June 13 in the waters off Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park — launching an effort to restore coral reef tracts and establish a public snorkel park that’s easily accessible.
If you’re a fan of fine beers, ales, rums and more, you’re sure to enjoy unique libations created in the Florida Keys.
Few people realize the impact the LGBT community had on Key West beginning in the 1970s, when many gay men and lesbians “discovered” the island city.