Key West Historic Bahama Village & Hemingway Heritage
Description
Experience Historic Key West With A Small-Group Walking Tour Ever wondered how the island of Key West was discovered and became so rich? Explore Key West’s history, lore, and legends from the ground up with an intimate walking tour. Whether you want to learn more about the island’s first industries such as shipwrecking and cigarmaking, are curious about local history, or are looking for a fun-filled walk, Key West’s Historic Districts are waiting for you! This small-group walking tour offers both an educational experience and unparalleled delight for the lovers of history and culture. Our experienced local tour guides will lead you on an impressive stroll through the scenic streets of the Old Town where you can connect with the culture of a historic city. This unique experience is enjoyed by visitors from across the world and is a must-do while in Key West! What to bring and to wear: Comfortable clothing and shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Learn why Key West is also known as the Conch Republic and who is a Conch.
The guide will explain to you why there is one of the largest pools on the property and who build it.
It’s a striking symbol of the island’s maritime history, standing tall since 1825 and offering a glimpse into Key West’s rich past with its iconic architecture and historic presence.
As we pass by the iconic Green Parrot Bar, you’ll learn about its rich history dating back to 1890, when it started as a grocery store before becoming one of Key West’s most beloved dive bars. Known for its laid-back charm, live music, and quirky decor, this local hotspot embodies the island’s vibrant spirit and offers a glimpse into the true character of Key West.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Parking: There is a paid parking lot by fire station at 616 Simonton St
- Must be able to walk 1.4 to 1.8 miles at moderate speed in warm weather.
Reviews(258)
We completed the walking tour with AJ on our first full day in Key West as first time visitors. We learned about the history, culture, architecture, people, places to visit, and more. It was a perfect way to start our vacation and AJ was friendly, knowledgeable, and conversational. Great guide and host. If you are looking to get more deeply acquainted with Key West — recommend this tour.
It's quite a bit of walking, wear sneakers! Bring water! Lots of great historic info, architecture and the foliage. AJ was excellent!
AJ runs these tours and he does a GREAT job. There was a 24-hour full refund cancellation policy, which is generous. And, upon confirming the reservation, he provided clear instructions on what to bring (water), what to wear (a hat, and comfortable walking shoes like sneakers with socks), how long we would be out in the sun (about 90 minutes), and what we would see. (NOTE: Some of our compatriots did not read the instructions, so they were hot, tired of walking, in the wrong shoes, thirsty, and worst of all, whiny. They ended up leaving the tour early. We did not miss them.) AJ knows a lot of his adopted home of Key West, and he provides information like a friend who is excited to show off his town. Wherever we walked, people waved to him and yelled "Hey, Brother!" AJ knows a lot of people! He also made recommendations for food, museum visits, and places to hear music. Thanks, AJ! He walks at a very reasonable pace and is willing to stop as needed (and reasonable for the others on the tour). He is funny, and delivery Key West history with tenderness and humor. We would walk with him again, (in fact, we went back for a second tour with him to the southern most point tour the next morning). Highly recommend. And please, people, do NOT forget to tip the people who do these services.
AJ the tour guide was very informative. However this is a walking tour of houses and the architecture. I don’t know what we expected but this wasn’t worth the time or money
Unfortunately, this reviewer left after only 30 minutes, before hearing most of the stories and historical information that make the experience worthwhile. During the tour, we cover the founding fathers of the island, the cigar, wrecking, and sponge industries that helped make Key West one of the richest cities in the country during its peak, along with the unique architecture and culture that shaped the island. The tour is designed for guests who enjoy history, storytelling, and walking through Old Town at a relaxed pace. We understand walking tours are not for everyone, especially under the May sun, but it’s unfair to judge the full experience without staying for the majority of the tour.
Our walking tour was excellent - provided us with historical events and architectural examples of the early years of Key West. We are so glad we booked this tour!!
I'm thrilled to hear you enjoyed the tour! Key West's rich history and unique architecture truly make for an unforgettable experience.
AJ was personable, knowledgeable and full of interesting Key West facts and stories. We learned a lot and enjoyed ourselves. Fun tour!
Thank you guys! AJ
Alejandro was awesome! Key West is great. The tour was great. What made it extra special is that our guide, Alejandro, was amazing. He was fun, he was interesting, and he was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
I love this island and I happy to show its great history to all the people. AJ
AJ was great, shared a vast knowledge of the history of Key West and hidden gems that you wouldn’t find elsewhere. Thanks AJ for making our stop in Key West an amazing day.
I’m happy to heard that, I love sharing the beautiful history of this unique place.
AJ was knowledgeable about the early Cuban and Bahaman cultures that contributed to the historic neighborhoods. He provided historic photos on a laptop computer as we walked. His knowledge of architecture helped understand the community growth. We do recommend this as a cultural experience.
i did stay in bahama village at cottage on Julia street. The place is fantastic small but very cozy with all the amenities .I've traveled to KW every year for last 25 years i love the city atmosphere real tropical paradise.
