Cheap Hotels in Key West
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They say the best parties happen in no-man's land, and there are few places as much on the edge as Key West. Halfway between Cuba and Florida, stuck at the end of 113 miles of soaring highway, the 'Conch Republic' has always been lively. Today it is famed for its mix of easy-going Caribbean charm, sunset partying, and exuberant bars. But it has held onto its reputation for welcoming all comers, meaning even those traveling on a shoestring can join in the fun.
Duval Street, its bars once the haunt of writers, fishermen, and thrill-seekers, is where Key West's lively reputation was born. Famously running from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic, today it is home to restaurants, galleries, bodegas, and endless souvenir shops. At night, it hosts the famous 'Duval Pub Crawl' along the street’s many bars. The north end opens into Mallory Square—a great place to start the evening, thanks to its daily open-air Sunset Celebration. At the other end is Southernmost Point, a painted buoy marking the end of USA. The top of the Key West Lighthouse, in the heart of town, offers better views, though. The Ernest Hemingway House is around the corner, where the great man wrote many of his novels. Lastly, to really feel the vibe of the Conch Republic, visit Bahama Village. This part of town still clings to Key West's original Caribbean spirit.
Despite its recent gentrification, you can still find some great Key West hotel deals. Better still, many of the best economy hotels in Key West provide real charm and character. Look out for side-street B&Bs, where a free home-cooked breakfast picks you up, ready for another day exploring. Most accommodation offers free WiFi, so you can check out hot tips on things to do on your Key West vacation. There are also some great one-time shacks and shot-gun cottages that offer simple rooms at reasonable prices. And don't forget that Conch-style hospitality and know-how is something you'll find at most of the cheaper guest houses off the beaten track.
You're still able to find relatively cheap hotels in Key West's Old Town. The trick is to look for smaller rooms with shared facilities. Some of the side streets, away from the shore and hot-spots like Duval Street, are the best places to start your search. The White Street Gallery District, close to Mid Town, is one such spot. It has an arty feel, thanks to the growing number of galleries. There are some smaller budget hotels in Key West's Midtown and Newtown residential areas. Plus the Northside area has some low-cost resort rooms, and great Key West hotel rates, during the off-season.
There are many ways to travel to Key West, the cheapest being to drive in from Miami. Parking can be an issue, though. Many bus companies offer routes into Key West too, or you can take the ferry from Fort Myers or Marco Island, which dock at the Bight Ferry Terminal. Domestic flights arrive into Key West International Airport from cities across Florida, or from Atlanta or Charlotte. A bus or cab will then get you into town. Much of Key West is walkable, although a bike makes sense if you're wanting to explore further afield. Key West also has a good local bus service.
Things to see in Key West
Duval Street, its bars once the haunt of writers, fishermen, and thrill-seekers, is where Key West's lively reputation was born. Famously running from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic, today it is home to restaurants, galleries, bodegas, and endless souvenir shops. At night, it hosts the famous 'Duval Pub Crawl' along the street’s many bars. The north end opens into Mallory Square—a great place to start the evening, thanks to its daily open-air Sunset Celebration. At the other end is Southernmost Point, a painted buoy marking the end of USA. The top of the Key West Lighthouse, in the heart of town, offers better views, though. The Ernest Hemingway House is around the corner, where the great man wrote many of his novels. Lastly, to really feel the vibe of the Conch Republic, visit Bahama Village. This part of town still clings to Key West's original Caribbean spirit.
Cheap hotels in Key West
Despite its recent gentrification, you can still find some great Key West hotel deals. Better still, many of the best economy hotels in Key West provide real charm and character. Look out for side-street B&Bs, where a free home-cooked breakfast picks you up, ready for another day exploring. Most accommodation offers free WiFi, so you can check out hot tips on things to do on your Key West vacation. There are also some great one-time shacks and shot-gun cottages that offer simple rooms at reasonable prices. And don't forget that Conch-style hospitality and know-how is something you'll find at most of the cheaper guest houses off the beaten track.
Where to stay in Key West
You're still able to find relatively cheap hotels in Key West's Old Town. The trick is to look for smaller rooms with shared facilities. Some of the side streets, away from the shore and hot-spots like Duval Street, are the best places to start your search. The White Street Gallery District, close to Mid Town, is one such spot. It has an arty feel, thanks to the growing number of galleries. There are some smaller budget hotels in Key West's Midtown and Newtown residential areas. Plus the Northside area has some low-cost resort rooms, and great Key West hotel rates, during the off-season.
How to get to Key West
There are many ways to travel to Key West, the cheapest being to drive in from Miami. Parking can be an issue, though. Many bus companies offer routes into Key West too, or you can take the ferry from Fort Myers or Marco Island, which dock at the Bight Ferry Terminal. Domestic flights arrive into Key West International Airport from cities across Florida, or from Atlanta or Charlotte. A bus or cab will then get you into town. Much of Key West is walkable, although a bike makes sense if you're wanting to explore further afield. Key West also has a good local bus service.
Key West travel guides
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