For an inspirational experience, journey back to another era with a visit to the Ernest Hemingway House Museum. It is here that Ernest Hemingway lived from 1931 to 1961 and where he wrote many of his acclaimed novels including To Have and To Have Not, which was set in Key West during the depression. The Nobel Prize winning author was known to venture out to sea, fishing with his buddies including Joe Russell, also known as Sloppy Joe. Many of Hemingway’s characters and storylines were linked to Key West and the people and places he knew and loved. Today, guests can tour the home which is alive with Hemingway’s spirit—filled with furniture and other items that were used by him and his family. The lovely Spanish styled house was built in 1851 and is also home to more than 40 cats - many of which are six-toed, and all that are descendents of Hemingway’s original pet. As you take the guided tour, you’ll learn all about Hemingway, his life and career, his adventurous past and the six-toed cat he loved.

If you’re up for a climb, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Key West and the ocean. The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1825 to help the many ships entering the port avoid the hazardous reefs. Today, you can climb the 88 iron steps to the top of the tower for a scenic look at what the lighthouse keepers watched over for more than 120 years. Tour the grounds to see the Keeper’s Quarters which have been restored to their original charm and view the displays of nautical artifacts, antique furnishings, maps and vintage photos. The Lighthouse Museum is on the National Register of Historic Places and makes for an interesting stop on your Key West tour.