An Audio Guide of Key West’s Journey From Village to Micro State

Key West , United States

An Audio Guide of Key West’s Journey From Village to Micro State

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(1 reviews)

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Key West is famous as mainland America’s Caribbean resort town. Here, time slows down as the island vibes take over. But, as you’ll soon find out on this walking tour, there’s more to this island than umbrella drinks and warm breezes.

On this tour, travel writer and tour guide Gregg Squeglia will share stories of some of the island’s more famous residents and some lesser-known tales that have given Key West its unique place in American culture and history.

He'll tell you about Key West’s incredible history, from its origins as a maritime village that profited heavily from salvaging wrecked ships along the Great Florida Reef to the hilarious creation of the ‘Conch Republic’. You’ll also find out how, soon after its creation, this micro-state declared war on the United States for a full minute.

On this self-paced tour, you’ll also visit the island’s major landmarks and lesser-known treasures.

Available options

An Audio Guide of Key West’s Journey From Village to Micro State

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Begin your journey in Mallory Square, the vibrant cultural center of Key West, where you can immerse yourself in the nightly Sunset Celebration and enjoy the lively atmosphere with street performers and breathtaking views.

Explore the Key West Historic Memorial Sculpture Garden, a serene oasis honoring the island's rich history and notable figures, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city streets.

Step into Capt Tony’s Saloon, a legendary watering hole steeped in history and character, where you can savor the island's laid-back vibe and indulge in refreshing libations.

Experience the iconic Sloppy Joe's Bar, a beloved Key West institution famous for its lively ambiance, live music, and signature cocktails, offering a taste of the island's vibrant nightlife scene.

Wander down Caroline Street, one of Key West's oldest thoroughfares, lined with charming shops, galleries, and eateries, where you can soak in the island's unique charm and vibrant culture.

Stop 6 Pass by

Visit the Truman Little White House, a historic landmark where President Harry Truman sought refuge and relaxation, providing insight into the island's presidential connections and political history.

Pause at the Mile Zero Marker, the symbolic beginning of US Route 1, and capture a memorable photo to commemorate your journey through Key West and the start of your island adventure.

Stop 8 Pass by

Explore Duval Street, Key West's vibrant main thoroughfare, lined with eclectic shops, bustling cafes, and historic landmarks, where you can soak up the island's eclectic energy and vibrant street life.

Discover the San Carlos Institute, a historic cultural center celebrating Cuban heritage and fostering artistic expression, serving as a testament to Key West's diverse cultural influences.

Step into The Hemingway Home and Museum, the former residence of renowned author Ernest Hemingway, where you can explore the iconic property and learn about the writer's life and legacy on the island.

Ascend the Key West Lighthouse, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding seascape, providing a glimpse into Key West's maritime heritage and coastal charm.

End your journey at the Southernmost Point of the Continental USA, a symbolic marker commemorating the southernmost tip of the United States, offering stunning views and a memorable end to your Key West adventure

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Entrance fees to ticketed attractions are not included in the product's total price

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Florida Keys Historical Military Memorial in Mallory Square. Look for the US flag surrounded by a semicircle of placards memorializing the island's role in various US military campaigns.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Key West

Key West is a vibrant island city known for its tropical climate, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere. As the southernmost city in the continental U.S., it offers a unique blend of Caribbean and American cultures, stunning beaches, and a thriving arts scene.

Top Attractions

Duval Street

The heart of Key West's nightlife and shopping, Duval Street stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, offering a mix of bars, restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, costs vary for attractions and dining

Dry Tortugas National Park

A remote and pristine national park accessible only by boat or seaplane, featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Nature Full day trip Ferry: $185-$220, Seaplane: $300-$350, Park entry: $15 per person

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

A lush tropical garden filled with free-flying butterflies, birds, and other wildlife, offering a serene and educational experience.

Nature 1-2 hours $22 for adults, $12 for children (6-17)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Key Lime Pie

A tangy and sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, topped with whipped cream or meringue.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free

Conch Fritters

Deep-fried fritters made with conch meat, vegetables, and spices, served with a dipping sauce.

Appetizer Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Grouper Sandwich

A sandwich featuring fresh local grouper, often blackened or fried, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tangy sauce.

Lunch Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Kayaking Paddleboarding Fishing Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the most popular time to visit Key West, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

21-28°C 70-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Key West is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas. Exercise caution and common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments
• Be cautious when using public transportation or taxis, and always use licensed services

Getting there

By air

Key West International Airport • 4 miles from downtown

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient, with multiple routes serving popular destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town

Day trips

Dry Tortugas National Park

70 miles by ferry or 30 minutes by seaplane • Full day

A remote and pristine national park featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Big Pine Key

30 miles north of Key West • Half day to full day

A scenic island known for its pine rocklands, wildlife, and the famous Key deer.

Looe Key Reef

5 miles west of Big Pine Key • Half day to full day

A popular snorkeling and diving spot featuring a vibrant coral reef and diverse marine life.

Festivals

Fantasy Fest • Late October Key West Food and Wine Festival • Early November Key West Highlight Film Festival • Early November

Pro tips

Visit Mallory Square for the famous sunset celebrations, which feature street performers, local vendors, and stunning views of the sunset.
Explore the island by bike or scooter, as it's a great way to get around and see the sights.
Try key lime pie, a local specialty made with fresh key limes and sweetened condensed milk.
Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, a lush tropical garden filled with free-flying butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote and pristine island featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.