 Less
than 90 miles from Cuba, less than 10 miles square
in area, Key West is one of the hottest vacation
destinations in the country. There's more packed
into this small island than one would think possible,
and visitors to the Florida Keys are never disappointed.
Key West has a busy central tourist district, but
it also has plentiful quiet, palm-lined streets
with beautiful Spanish style houses. While the numerous
beaches and resorts are primary focal points, there
are lots of other family activities on this tiny
island to keep one busy.
Key West's beaches lead visitors to clear blue waters
that are perfect for swimming, jet skiing, snorkeling,
and scuba diving. Several luxury resorts offer first-class
accommodations and activities for the whole family.
Visitors can stay close to shore, or they can take
advantage of the many glass-bottom boat tours. Many
also hire boats to take them scuba diving in the
world-famous reefs. The Key West Aquarium highlights
the local marine life in dozens of hands-on activities
for children.
The
island itself boasts some remarkable attractions
for the entire family, yet the island is small enough
that visitors can see them all. The Ernest Hemmingway
House was home to the famous author when he penned
some of his best-known novels. The Audubon House
is an authentic home from the 19th century, fully
restored and remodeled; authentic antiques and paintings
by famed naturalist John James Audubon can be found
inside. The Key West Historic Tour traverses the
island -- be on the lookout for the best places
to enjoy conch, the local specialty. The residents
of Key West have devised innumerable ways of serving
this sea creature, and all are worth at least a
try.
While
it is uncertain whether or not he ever sampled conch,
President Truman often vacationed in a small house
at the naval base located on Key West, and his reasons
for visiting are the same as for today's visitors:
sunshine, relaxation, and beach. Truman's hideaway
is open for tours, adding one more item to the list
of fun things to do in Key West. This small town
is perfect for families looking for a great beach
holiday in an interesting and manageable location
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