History thrives at the Crowne Plaza La Concha where vintage Key West meets modern day. Built in 1926, the Crowne Plaza La Concha is located on Duval Street, just a few blocks away from all the excitement and hustle of Old Town. Imagine sitting in the same lobby that President Truman sat in or staying in the same suite where Ernest Hemingway penned “To Have and Have Not”.

Duval Street

The oldest house in South Florida was built in 1829 by Captain Francis Watlington who was, among other things, a wrecker. Watlington and his wife and their nine daughters lived in the house for many decades. A beautiful example of the kind of colonial architecture found in the Caribbean, the house is now a museum that welcomes visitors from around the world. Guests see gold that was salvaged from shipwrecks, paintings, model ships and a separate kitchen. Furnishings, carpets and the house décor all reflect the era of the wreckers and their success that made Key West the richest city in America at one time. There’s also a lovely garden with benches offering a shady spot to rest and relax. Learn a little history; admire the ancient architecture and more at the Oldest House Museum.

As part of the San Carlos Institute, which was founded in 1871 to help the Cuban community in Key West, the San Carlos Theater offers a variety of entertaining productions throughout the year. It’s the first and oldest theater in Key West, and was once a home to touring ballets, opera and theater companies. Today the San Carlos Theater, after a magnificent restoration, offers concerts and other theatrical events.

• Admission Fee

For those who love film and not the mainstream box-office variety, Tropic Cinema in Key West has got a ticket just for you. The theater was founded after a group of disenchanted film buffs got together to bring unique documentary, independent and foreign films to Key West. The group, now called the Key West Film Society, rapidly gained support from the community and soon the Tropic Cinema was created. Today the cinema has a large following and is home to the area’s best alternative films. The Tropic is a full-time, triplex theater, a cultural center and gathering place. Within the large lobby, many special events are held including jazz concerts and literary lectures.

• Admission Fee

Established in 1832, St. Pauls Episcopal Church is the oldest church in South Florida. The current church is the fourth to occupy this location, the previous churches being destroyed by fire and hurricanes. Visitors today will find a magnificent collection of stained glass windows and free organ concerts Monday through Friday at 12:15 by music director Joe Lowe.

Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel
430 Duval Street
(305) 296-2991

The Banyan Resort
323 Whitehead Street
(305) 296-7786

Old Town Manor
511 Eaton Street
(305) 292-2170