Key West

One of the classic experiences of an Old Florida vacation was a scenic boat tour. Here are nine iconic boat tours. How many of these have you taken?

Beaches in the Keys aren’t as common or as wonderful as many expect, but there ARE some great beaches where you can swim — and snorkel — if you know where to go. Let us take you there.

The bike trail down the Florida Keys — the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail — is not complete, but here are four sections that offer scenic and safe rides.

Legends suggest these places are haunted. I’m dubious, but I know this: These are beautiful, evocative spots worth discovering at Halloween or any time of year.

When you visit Key West, you may hear some phrases you don’t understand or can’t pronounce. Bone Island? Bight? Bug? Chug? Pinks? Snuba? Tickle stick? This amusing Keys dictionary can help.

This is one of the best sections of the Florida Keys bike trail because the path and the half-dozen scenic bridges are separate from traffic.

There’s so much to do in Key West, it’s easy to bypass the Key West Botanical Garden. But if you love unusual plants, you’ll be charmed by this serene place.

Many people miss it, sticking to Duval Street, but one of the most scenic strolls in Key West — and a top freebie — is the harbor walk along Key West Bight, also known as the Historic Key West Seaport.

The craft beer breweries in the Florida Keys are great places to experience Keys style and ambiance. The beer’s not bad, either.

These havens for injured birds and wildlife are free to visit as you explore Florida. Animal lovers and children will especially enjoy these quick stops.

It is possible to go to Key West on a budget. Here are some frugal tips on lodging, interesting budget restaurants and free places to go.

Everyone wants to discover that funky inexpensive spot where locals go. In Key West, that would be Hogfish Bar & Grill on Stock Island, which wins raves for fresh off-the-boat seafood.

Capture that Key West vibe with these items — true products of the Keys from family-run businesses or local entrepreneurs. Many can also be ordered online.

One of the prettiest places is Key West is the Audubon House, also known as the Geiger House, and its gardens. Like the best spots in Key West, the Audubon House is full of fascinating stories with larger than life characters. It also features a great collection of Audubon’s work in Florida.

The cemetery in Key West is a lot like the city itself: quirky, crowded, colorful and full of history. The site has a forlorn almost spooky air. Take a walking tour and discover fascinating stories of Key West and its people.

No doubt about it: Key West is expensive. But despite its small size, Key West is packed with things to do and see — and some are even free. Here are a half dozen places to go where you’ll soak up Key West culture without opening your wallet.

There are thousands of things to do in the Florida Keys, but these 8 activities are a must for your bucket list.