Get ready for a slightly random wrap-up of a previous trip to Key West. It was only 2 years ago and it turns out I’m kind of hazy on the details! I wanted to share a few things for Katherine and Nathan before they head down to the Keys!
First up: the Hemingway House. This place can get a little crowded, but I enjoyed the tour and it’s a beautiful property. The writer’s polydactyl (6-toed) cats rule the house!
Key West has a grungy, sort of funky island vibe. You’ll see lots of local characters. Stop in and at least take a peek at BO’s Fishwagon.
What’s trip to the islands without getting out on the water? Our choice? Three hours on a schooner! We had the entire boat to ourselves and it was race day so there were a few other schooners out on the water. 
Tucked away right as you get onto Key West, Hogfish Bar and Grille is one of those old-school bar/restaurants (with a bunch of salty regulars) that you have to go out of your way to find. Totally laid back and serving delicious food (loved their conch fritters), visiting this spot is worth the effort. I also had Key West pinks, probably the only time in my life I’ve eaten fresh shrimp. What a treat! The shrimp boats come right into the harbor here. 
Who is this kooky guy, who carries a machete and will lead you on a tour of the island? Why it’s Lloyd of Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tours. You need a reservation, but this is a fun, quirky way to see more of Key West. 
When you get tired of hoopla at Mallory Square, check out sunset at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Other assorted spots in Key West:
Sunset at the rooftop of Turtle Kraals
Half Shell Raw Bar: This place had $.50 oysters at happy hour
Pepe’s Cafe: love the little open air courtyard for dinner. We didn’t have a reservation, but waited at the bar with a local who told tales about rum runs to Cuba (with his dog)
Blue Heaven: We wanted to try this spot in Bahamas Village, but the wait was too long for brunch
Nine One Five: The one trendy spot we tried on Duval
Recommended Reading: The Florida Keys: A History and Guide by Joy Williams
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