Best Meals in the Old Town District in Key West

 

The Old Town district of Key West is a great place to come in close quarters with the history and culture of the tropical island paradise. It is located on the western side of the island where attractions like water sports and snorkeling in Key West are in abundance. The Old Town district has a lot of great dining options for foodies who like variety in their cuisine. There is a lot to choose from. So for your benefit, here are the top five restaurants in the Old Town district.

Maine Lobster at Alonzo & Berlins

Alonzo & Berlin's Lobster House is one of the oldest seafood restaurants on the tropical island of Key West. It is lovingly referred to by the locals as 'A&Bs' and boasts of one of the most delicious Maine Lobsters on the island, flown all the way in from Boston. Other things to try on the menu are the locally procured seafood and prime steaks. The old world feel of the restaurant is heightened due to the fact that A&B's looks like an old riverboat. You can dine indoors or take in the balmy sea breeze on the outdoor balcony.

Veal Chop at Michael's Restaurant

Michael's Restaurant has won many awards over the years for its cuisine and its romantic ambiance. When you're here, you must try the succulent veal chop which is stuffed with prosciutto, basil, prosciutto, and topped with a Marsala glaze. Compliment your meal with a wine from their varied wine list. Other things worth checking out are the martini and fondue menus and the house favorites such as the Grouper Oscar, smoked chicken penne pasta, and the jumbo lump crab. Wind your meal up with the decadent 's'mores in a jar'. If you see someone crying while they are eating this food, do not be alarmed. They are people who normally eat at McDonald's and are now just realizing what real food should taste like.

Bahamian Conch Chowder at Louie's Backyard

If you would like to soak up the sunny, scenic ocean-views of the aquamarine waters of Key West when you have your meal, head to Louie's Backyard. While you're here, be sure to sample their creamy, wholesome Bahamian Conch Chowder with Bird Pepper hot sauce which is sure to hit the spot.

Lobster Tango Mango at Pisces

The signature dish at Pisces is the soft, succulent and juicy Lobster Mango Tango which is a burst of flavors in your mouth. Pisces is perfect for a romantic meal under the Key West night sky. This contemporary restaurant is reminiscent of the island's old world charm. The dynamic menu at Pisces also features other great stuff like Pisces Aphrodite, and Saki Glazed Ahi Tuna.

Roast Pork in Mojo Marinade at El Siboney

While you explore the tiny bylanes of the Old Town District, you will find the quaint restaurant El Siboney. This home-style has authentic Cuban fare on offer. One dish that stands out here among the rest is the Roast Pork, marinated in a mojo marinade and served with a side of fried plantains. Also sample the Cuban Mix Sandwich, the #7 Siboney Steak and the Paella Valenciana. 

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Top Attractions for Couples

Key West is a gorgeous island city located off the southern coast of Florida, around 160 miles from Miami. It is one of the most romantic destinations in the world and known for its sunny weather, pristine waters, and sandy beaches. Couples can come to Miami, spend a part of their vacation touring the glamorous city, and then board a Miami to Key West shuttle to come to the island paradise.

Miami is Stacked with Sights to See

The top Key West attractions for couples are listed below:

• Key West has numerous museums, theaters, and historical places of interest. Couples can spend great times together touring these Key West attractions. You can visit the very unique shipwreck museum and check out the varied artifacts retrieved from the sea floor, as well as enjoy underwater video recordings of treasure hunting and salvaging wrecked ships. You can spend an evening at the theaters enjoying a beautiful play or a scintillating dance performance. A Key West tour of the lighthouse and the Civil War forts is also quite fascinating.

• Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in North America. Couples can hire the services of a vendor and go snorkeling in Key West. First time snorkelers can also avail the services of a guide who will dive into the waters along with you, and help both of you explore the secrets of the colorful reefs. When you come across the diverse species of fishes, the lush and kaleidoscopic underwater foliage, and the vibrant marine life, you will feel as if it were paradise on earth.

• An excursion to the West Martello tower will also enthrall couples. This old Civil War fort has been cleverly converted into a lush garden with several kinds of trees, shrubs, flowers, and plants. The waterfront location is ideal for a romantic walk through the many lanes present within this serene tourist attraction. The place is operated and cared for by the local flower club. There are no admission fees, but visitors can make donations at the entrance.

• Couples can also go for a sunset sail through the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You can begin the tour in late afternoon and enjoy the warm rays of the sun. Later, as the sun sets in the distant horizon, you can cuddle up with your partner and catch the psychedelic hues of the famed Key West sunset. Couples can also go for a moonlight dinner cruise. It will definitely be one of the most passionate experiences of your holiday.

• A romantic tour to Key West cannot be complete without a stay at a lavish waterfront resort. In addition to the usual facilities, these resorts come with spas, swimming pools, and even a private beach. You can spend lovely sunny afternoons at the beaches along with your partner and get a beautiful tan. At the same time, you can sink your teeth into the most delicious and freshest seafood delicacies and delight your taste buds with the finest champagnes and wines.

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Questions About the Glass Bottom Boat Tours in Key West

 

While snorkeling in Key West may take precedence over all other water-related activities, you absolutely must give the glass bottom boat tours a try. Key West is home to the third largest living coral reef in the world and a marvelous way to see this magnificent reef and all its marine inhabitants are the glass bottom boat tours. Here are some questions you may have about the glass bottom tours in Key West. 

Will I have to get wet when I go on a glass bottom boat tour?

The glass bottom boat tours provide you with the unique to explore Key West's underwater marine paradise in close quarters with even becoming wet. With the glass bottom boat tours, you will be able to see Key West's sea life up close in the comfort of a state-of-the-art catamaran.

Will I get seasick on the tours?

The glass bottom boats are all state-of-the-art and specially designed to allow maximum stability. This means reduced rocking of the boat and less seasickness to those who are prone to it. But if you do get sea sick, you could try over-the-counter medication. But it is advisable to run it by your doctor first.

What will I see on the glass bottom boat tours?

Spectacular brain coral and majestic elkhorn coral are home to 300 of the most exotic species of marine life. You will see a wide variety of fish and other sea creatures like yellowtail snapper, parrotfish, lobster, mahi-mahi, grouper, and more.

What other amenities do the glass bottom boats have?

Glass bottom boats are equipped with air-conditioned viewing areas and beautiful sun decks from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the emerald waters. They also have snack bars and clean washrooms. The expert captain and crew aboard the boat tours will show you many interesting things in the ocean as well as give you an informative eco-tour. The bottom of the boat is made completely of glass so you will easily be able to see the ocean bed.

Are children allowed on the glass bottom boat tours?

Yes, children and infants are allowed on most glass bottom boat tours. It is advisable to check with your tour operator if they have a minimum age.

Where do the glass bottom boat tours take you?

The glass bottom boat tour will take you about 7 miles out into the open water to see the beauty of the coral reefs. Your entire trip will last around two hours.

What should I wear?

While you will not drenched, it is possible that you might get a slight spray from the ocean. Also in summer, the weather can get quite warm. So it is advisable to wear light clothing that dries easily.

How many people does a glass bottom boat accommodate?

A glass bottom boat can usually accommodate up to 149 passengers and 3 crew members.

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The Amazing Glass Bottom Boat Tours in Key Largo

 

Key Largo is an island town located in the southern coastal waters of Florida, about 60 miles from Miami. It is one of the major tourist destinations in America.

The Edge of America

There are many ways to travel to Key Largo. Tourists can avail the services of private or public buses and come for a Key Largo tour. You can hire a taxi or rent a car in Miami and then drive across the scenic Overseas Highway all the way to Key Largo (no, this highway was not destroyed by Mission Impossible III terrorists). Tourists may also hire the services of private boaters or take a boat cruise to the island town. Along the way you will get enamored by the pristine waters, the clear blue skies, and the pleasant sunny weather. Families and other travelers who want privacy can board a Miami to Key Largo shuttle. The shuttles run between the Miami airports and Key Largo, seven days a week.

Connected by Cement and Steel

Most tourists come for a tour to Key Largo to enjoy the delights of the wilderness that inhabits the island town and its surrounding waters. The Key Largo waters are home to many colorful coral reefs, numerous shipwreck sites, and other Key Largo attractions. Adventure seekers can explore the mysteries of these underwater treasures via snorkeling or scuba diving excursions. However, there are many tourists such as families with kids, who cannot dive into the waters but still want to see the beauty of the coral reefs. This is where a glass bottom boat tour comes into the picture.

What is a glass bottom Key Largo boat tour?

A glass bottom boat is a unique boat whose bottoms are fitted with extra-strength glass. Tourists need to look through these glass bottoms to check out the underwater life. A majority of such tours commence from the Pennekamp State Park, while a few start from the Harry Harris Park. The tours begin in the morning and continue till late evening.

The boats leave their docking sites at the scheduled time after all the travelers have boarded it. It then travels through the clear blue waters towards the coral reef sites. Tourists can travel on the deck and soak up the warm rays of the sun. You may also stay put in the cool comforts of the air-conditioned cabin located below.

The boat will slow down to a cruise after reaching the coral reefs. Tourists now need to go to the lower deck to see the underwater treasures. Sights of the stunning coral reefs; the diverse and colorful fish such as parrot fishes red fish, and more; and the vibrant marine life comprising of manta rays, turtles, shrimps, and others will definitely take your breath away! Friendly and witty guides will offer interesting and interactive narration about the varied marine life inhabiting the reefs, their historical and geographical aspects, and other trivia.

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Partying at the Island Paradise Called Key West

Key West is known for it's near perfect weather, soft sandy beaches, and pristine crystal blue waters. Such an ambiance is right for partying, relaxation, and all kinds of revelry. The island of Key West is located in the southern coastal waters of Florida, approximately 160 miles from Miami. Party lovers can directly fly to Key West, or come to Miami and then take a Miami to Key West shuttle to arrive at the island paradise.

Partying in Key West is an all-year activity. However, Lobsterfest, Fantasy Fest, and spring break are three of the most attended festivals in the island city.

This is not served at McDonald's!

Lobsterfest is an annual festival conducted in the month of August to commemorate and celebrate the onset of the lobster season. It is one of the biggest parties of the summer and comprises of 3 days and nights of uninhibited merriment. The schedule for this mega extravaganza includes the Duval Crawl on a Friday night, a free concert and street fair the following Saturday, and a self-indulgent brunch on lazy Sunday. The festival begins as thousands of people gather for the Duval Crawl, which begins as soon as the sun disappears into the horizon. The revelry continues till midnight and revelers can enjoy discounted drinks at the participating bars, get a souvenir lanyard, and official Lobsterfest t-shirts.  

Spectacular Food

The Fantasy Fest is another exhilarating carnival in Key West. It was conceptualized by the Key West Tourist Development Association in the year 1979, so as to attract the tourist population during the Halloween off season. This festival marks the end of the hurricane season in Key West. From the time of its inception, the popularity of this festival has grown by leaps and bounds, and it currently attracts more than 80,000 partygoers every year.

No Shortage of Activities

 

Spring break is one of the main Key West attractions. The island city also has a gay spring break which is open for all. Revelers can enjoy a number of fun activities during spring break. They can take part in or check out bikini contests that are held every day; you can enjoy literary games at varied bars in the city; you can go for discounted snorkeling excursions to the coral reefs; or go on a sailing expedition aboard an opulent yacht. The fun never seems to stop!

To Imbibe or to not Imbibe? That is the question.

Duval Street in old town Key West is one of the best places to party, shop, and have all-round fun. It is home to many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a fine dining experience and taste perfectly blended martinis, the finest wines and champagnes, as well as crafted tap beer. A number of shops and stores on this street are also open until as late as midnight.

Key West is also a popular destination for wedding celebrations, corporate parties, and other such fun events. Tourists can rent the beautiful Key West mansions and gardens such as the Little White house, the Audubon house and gardens, or the Ernest Hemingway mansion for maximizing their celebrations.

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The why, what, and how?

Key Largo is the largest and northernmost island of a group of island called the Florida Keys. It is located off the southern coast of Florida, about 60 miles from Miami. Thousands of tourists come for a Miami to Key Largo tour every year to enjoy the varied adventures of nature.

Why come for a tour to Key Largo?

The Key Largo waters are home to many shipwreck sites, numerous coral reefs, and other fantastic aqua escapades. No wonder, it is referred to as the diving capital of the world!

Most adventure seekers come to Key Largo to enjoy the eclectic marine life and the diverse animal and bird life inhabiting the island and the surrounding waters.

How to get there?

There are many ways to come for a Key Largo tour. Tourists can rent a car in Miami and drive across the picturesque Overseas Highway to come to Key Largo.

You may also avail of public or private bus services. They are comfortable and inexpensive. It may however be noted that unlike private bus services, public buses often do not run all the way to Key Largo. Hence, tourists may need to change a few buses before reaching the island town.

Tourists can also hire a cab, or avail the services of private boaters or ferries. The most comfortable option is however a Miami to Key Largo shuttle. The shuttles ply between the Miami airports and Key Largo on a daily basis.

What to do in Key Largo?

v       Tourists can go scuba diving and explore the mysteries of the sunken vessels. Tourists will also come across a variety of fish species and other marine life such as barracudas, sharks, manta rays, eels, groupers, and turtles during the diving excursion.

v        An overnight stay at an underwater hotel is an experience of a lifetime. The Jules Undersea lodge is a major Key Largo attraction. Sleeping amongst the colorful fishes, the vibrant sea life, and the lush underwater foliage will make you want to stay there forever.

v        There are several wildlife parks in Key Largo such as the wild bird rehabilitation center and the crocodile refuge. Do not miss an excursion to these places.

v        Tourists can also take a relaxing cruise aboard the African Queen. It is the same boat which was used during the filming of the Bogart/Hepburn movie. Enjoy a delightful ride and relive a piece of film history

      Tourists can also go snorkeling in Key Largo and check out the beauty of the colorful coral reefs. Both novice as well as experienced snorkelers can enjoy this adventure.

      Tourists who do not want to dive into the waters, but still want to thrill themselves with sights of the underwater treasures can go for a glass bottom Key Largo boat tour. The bottoms of these boats are fitted with clear glass that offer stunning views of the life occurring beneath the Key Largo waters.

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Most Interesting Attractions in Key West

While its picturesque beaches and super fun activities like snorkeling in Key West, the island has been known to draw tourists from all over the world. The Conch Republic has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the most interesting attractions to check out on the island of Key West. 

East Martello Museum

The East Martello Museum houses Robert the Doll, a life-sized doll who is named after his master Robert Gene Otto. Gene claimed that Robert was possessed and was causing the bouts of anger that he was famous for. Even today, museum caretakers will tell you that Robert the doll has special paranormal powers. He doesn't like it when his picture is taken and is known to move his toy lion from one knee to the other. If you listen closely, you might even hear him tap on his display case.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas is one of the most isolated and remote parks in the world. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, there are only three ways to get to here – by seaplane, by private boat and by ferry. It is so remote that it has no facilities or amenities like freshwater, fuel or groceries. When you travel here, you will have to carry all your supplies with you. Dry Tortugas National Park is home to many species of wildlife, bird life and coral. Here, you may across animals like the Florida panther, the Florida deer, the grey fox, the river otter, and the Florida King Snake to name a few. You can explore the park by going on a nature trail or a bike tour.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum exhibits some of the treasure that was lost on one of the world's most famous shipwrecks of all time – the Nuestra Senora de Atocha. A hurricane sank the ship in 1622 which was laden with treasure. Since then, many explorers have tried to locate but have been unsuccessful. In 1985 treasure hunter Mel Fisher discovered $450 million worth of treasure like Columbian emeralds, Spanish silver coins, gold coins, artifacts and more, buried under the ocean. The museum houses many exhibits and offers an insight into the story.   

Mallory Square

Key West is known to have one of the most scenic sunsets in the world and where better to see it than the iconic Mallory Square? While you're here you can watch the procession of artists and street performers celebrate the beginning of yet another Key West evening. The celebrations offer you a good view of the setting sun, a chance to get your fortune read, and watch the fire dancers.

Key West's Southernmost Point

Key West is home to the Southernmost point in the continental United States. There is a concrete buoy that is used to mark the spot. It was built in 1983. Don't miss the opportunity to take loads of touristy pictures here.

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