Explore Key West History in Old Town
Key West is a historic part of the United States, and our Old Town neighborhood was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This district is home to many Key West history sites and learning opportunities. You’ll find incredible food, exotic wildlife, beautiful ocean views, and tons of fun. 1800 Atlantic offers Key West vacation rentals on the beach as well as a few Old Town properties, so whether you want to stay immersed in the vibrant neighborhood or return to a relaxing beachside condo, we have you covered.
Guided Key West History Tour
If you’re looking for a more structured experience in Old Town Key West, check out the Old Town Trolley Tour. It has several convenient stops within minutes of our Key West vacation rentals on the beach, and it’s one of the best things to do in Key West with kids. It’ll take you to all the top Old Town tourist attractions, and you are free to get on and off all day long to explore as you please. But if you prefer to design your own daily schedule, we recommend visiting the following pieces of Key West history.
Where to Eat in Old Town
Pepe’s Cafe and Steakhouse, open since 1909, is a cherished Old Town restaurant and a big part of Key West history. It’s not the fanciest place to eat in the neighborhood, but it’s one of the best. You’ll enjoy tasty home cooking and reasonable prices while dining in this cozy space. They have it all: brunch, barbeque, seafood, and souvenirs. You’ll return to your 1800 Atlantic rental on one of the many picturesque Key West beaches full and ready to tackle the next day.
Old Town Key West History and Attractions
After a delicious meal from Pepe’s Cafe, you’ll have the energy you need to take an expedition through Key West history. First on the list is Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, where Nancy Forrester has been rescuing and rehoming orphaned parrots for 30 years. Every morning at 10:00, visitors are taught all about the birds in a special presentation called “Parrot 101.” However, self guided tours are available all day. These birds are social, so bring a picnic lunch and have a conversation or play some music for them.
Next, you’ll want to stop at the Key West Lighthouse Museum, built in 1848. An earlier lighthouse existed, but a hurricane destroyed it in 1846. The existing lighthouse was decommissioned in 1969 and now serves as one of the best museums in Key West. The tower is open to the public, so if you can climb up all the steps, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree look at the city. To learn the story behind the view, step inside the Keeper’s Quarters for an engaging educational experience.
Just a seven-minute walk from the Key West Lighthouse Museum is the Southernmost Point in the continental United States. It is the most photographed spot in Key West! It’s marked by a decorative buoy and features educational plaques explaining its place in Key West history. It’s a gorgeous spot and a can’t-miss part of any Key West vacation. The Southernmost Point is, of course, located on the southern shore of Key West, just a short drive from 1800 Atlantic.
Luxury Key West Vacation Rentals on the Beach
When you stay with 1800 Atlantic, not only do you get to enjoy our luxury Key West vacation rentals on the beach, but you get access to our knowledgeable and friendly staff. We want you to have a fabulous time while visiting our island, so please feel free to ask for more recommendations for places to eat and things to see. Call us at 1-800-433-2819 to schedule your trip through Old Town and Key West history.
