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Key West’s train tour is a must-do for first-time visitors. It gives an invaluable overview of the place and all sorts of insights into its history and culture.

Take a plane or ferry to this totally undeveloped collection of islands, where the snorkeling is unbeatable (see Dry Tortugas National Park & Dry Tortugas from Key West).

A lantern-lit evening stroll through the mysterious streets of Key’s West’s Old Town allows you to discover a haunted island.

A celebration of Island culture and life, with the emphasis on great music. Held in mid-October, it usually merges with the Fantasy Fest (below).

Held on Key West in October, for at least ten days leading up to and including Halloween, this is the festival with the most fun, positive atmosphere the US has to offer (see Key West Fantasy Fest).

In June, Key West remembers its rich Cuban heritage and celebrates with ethnic foods, terrific music, and dancing in the streets of the island.

This is a crafts show held in late January, but also an excuse for “Conchs” to celebrate being themselves – something they’re always ready to do in Key West.

Late March is when this traditional means of musical expression – or noise-making in less skilled cases – fills the air over Key West. Expect anything from poetic foghorn-like sounds to pathetic blats. It’s great fun for children.

In mid-to late April, enthusiastic runners honor the bridge that joined all the Keys together by conquering it with their own two feet.

Since it’s held in the middle of the low season, the third week of July (Hemingway’s birthday was July 21st), this party is mainly for the “Conchs.” Consequently, it seems to be the celebration most loved by the locals. Hemingway lookalikes help lead the celebrations and tributes to the island’s most famous writer.