Explore map of Florida Key West showing major roads, other roads, point of interests, airports, forests, national parks, hotels and resorts.
Major Highways in Key West
Below is the major highways / roads in Key West.
Duval Street
Flagler Avenue
North Roosevelt Boulevard
Simonton Street
South Roosevelt Boulevard
U.S. Route 1 (Overseas Highway)
Whitehead Street
Major Tourist Attractions
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Mallory Square
Southernmost Point Buoy
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Duval Street
Key West Lighthouse
Smathers Beach
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Key West Aquarium
Famous Beaches
Smathers Beach
Higgs Beach
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
South Beach
Rest Beach
Dog Beach
Key West
Key West, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States, is in the Florida Keys archipelago. It is about 90 miles north of Cuba and covers 7.2 square miles, making it one of the smallest, yet most significant, destinations in Florida. The climate is tropical savanna, with warm temperatures throughout the year and a rainy season from June to October. The low temperatures are about 65°F in winter and 89°F in summer, and there is about 40 inches of rainfall every year. Key West is vulnerable to hurricanes because of its location, and major storms have hit the area in the past.
Population and Demographics
Key West is one of the smaller cities in Florida and has a population of about 26,000 residents. The population consists of long-time residents, seasonal workers, and expatriates, and the city is diverse. The city has a significant LGBTQ+ community and is known for its inclusive atmosphere. Most residents are of European descent, with Hispanics, African Americans, and Caribbean populations following. The median household income is about $70,000, higher than the Florida state average but the cost of living is also elevated significantly because of tourism and real estate demand.
Economy and Tourism
Tourism is the main source of income in Key West and up to 2.5 million visitors every year. It is undoubtedly so because of the warm climate, historic buildings and notable sights. Duval Street, the centre of activities, is filled with restaurants, bars and shops aimed at tourists. Some of the most popular attractions include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and the Southernmost Point Buoy. The cruise ship industry is also an important source of revenue; Key West is visited quite often as a port. Fishing, boating and other water activities are also significant sources of income; charter boat services and diving adventures are very popular. The U.S. Navy and the Coast Guard also help to support the local economy through their military presence and the employment that comes with it.
Culture and Lifestyle
The city has a strong literary and artistic heritage; it has been home to such notables as Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams and Robert Frost. The Key West Literary Seminar is an annual event that brings authors and scholars from all over the world. Festivals and events are important part of the city’s social life; thousands of visitors are attracted by Fantasy Fest, a costume and parade festival that takes place every October. The local cuisine is also rich – it’s based on the coastal location, and seafood, conch fritters, and Key lime pie are culinary staples. The city’s also got a lively nightlife, with live music venues and bars that attract both locals and tourists.
History and Landmarks
Key West has a long history going back to the early 1800s. At one time it was inhabited by the Calusa Native Americans, it was then a Spanish territory and was purchased by the United States in 1821. It developed as a place for shipwreck salvaging, sponging and cigar manufacturing. During the Civil War, Fort Zachary Taylor helped to control the maritime access to the Gulf of Mexico. The city has been a haven for writers, artists, and free spirits in the 20th century, and today retains its reputation as a haven of creativity and individualism. The city's storied past is preserved in historical sites like the Harry S. Truman Little White House and the Key West Lighthouse.
Environmental Conservation and Challenges
Some of the most fragile ecosystems in Florida are found in Key West, including coral reefs and mangrove forests. The waters surrounding the island are protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and support marine life and coral restoration efforts. The city has concerns about rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and pollution. The city of Key West has made efforts at conservation: Restrictions on certain fishing practices, plastic bans, and efforts to promote sustainable tourism, etc. Hurricane preparedness is still a priority, as climate change has sparked more and stronger storms that affect the area.
Transportation and Accessibility
Key West can be reached by car via the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1), a beautiful journey that runs on a system of bridges to link the island with the mainland. Key West International Airport offers domestic flights and has connections to several major airports in the United States. The ferries from Fort Myers and Marco Island are also available for transportation. Bicycles and scooters are also popular means of transport being that the island is relatively small and public buses are available for local and regional transport. It can be difficult to find parking, particularly at peak tourist times, so other forms of transport are often more convenient for visitors.
