DK Travel : Miami : The Keys

The Florida Keys are a string of wild, variegated gems hung in a necklace of liquid turquoise. These islands still have abundant wildlife, including unique flora and fauna, as evidenced by all the parks and family attractions focusing on encounters with nature. Even so, at least 20 different species of Keys plant and animal life are endangered or threatened. This is a place for outdoor activities: water sports of all kinds, sportfishing, and hiking through the nature preserves and virgin tropical forests. Along the only route (US 1) that takes you from the mainland all the way out to Key West, you’ll find everything from plush resorts to roadside stands selling homegrown produce.

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Key West Aloe

A company that has made their own all-natural products right here since 1971, without any animal testing.
Key West Hand Print

In one of the few brick buildings that survived the great fire of 1886, this huge store sells hand-printed fabrics and fashions.
KWEST

Multi-bar complex featuring a nightly drag show, men dancing for men, a leather bar and shop, and occasional theme nights.
La-Te-Da

More upscale than the other venues, and with its own excellent restaurant, too, this is a popular gay and lesbian spot of long-standing. “Guys as Dolls” and other acts in the Crystal Room Cabaret every night.
Leatherotica

The smell of leather wafts your way as soon as you enter, and all of it’s black, with stainless steel studs. You can watch the craftsman at his work table, shaping the leather into various hard-wearing items.
Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site

Access is by boat only to this virgin hardwood forest home and gardens built by William Matheson. Call the Long Key Recreation Area to arrange a tour.
Long Key State Park

Features include a boardwalk through a mangrove swamp next to a lagoon where you can see water birds. Snorkeling is good in the shallow waters off the beach.
Louie’s Backyard

Haute cuisine in a breezy, easy setting right on the Atlantic. Enticing menu items include arugula and spinach with sweethot mustard vinaigrette and crispy duck wontons, and knockout desserts.
Mangia Mangia Pasta Café

Open for lunch and dinner, this centrally located Italian eatery has superb fresh pasta. As a result, it’s always busy and a firm local favorite. Tasty sauces, and great lasagne.
Mangoes

A meal here is not to be missed, not only for the exciting food – such as their signature wild mushroom and truffle “martini” – but also because the place is so central to Key West life.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
- $55–$80
- over $80