Discover the Life of Ernest Hemingway in Key West, Florida
Key West has long attracted artists and writers. Among these writers was one of the most famous American writers of the 20th century– Ernest Hemingway. Inhabiting the island for nearly a decade, Hemingway wrote some of his most prolific works on Key West, drawing inspiration from the island’s landscapes, people, and history. Today, his presence can still be felt throughout the island. Visit the Hemingway Home and explore where the famous author resided during the 1930s, grab a drink at one of his local haunts, and join the annual Hemingway Days Festival celebration. Find the perfect lodging with Rent Key West Vacations and follow in the footsteps of Hemingway during your visit:
Hemingway Home
Hemingway resided in the Whitehead Street home for most of his time in Key West. Today, the Hemingway Home is open for tours so that visitors can explore the home, gardens, and grounds:
- Inside the home, you can see the writing studio, where he wrote famous works like To Have and Have Not. Walk through the living room and see many photos of Hemingway and his fishing adventures.
- On the property grounds, you will see the in-ground swimming pool he constructed, which was the first pool on the island and cost $20,000 to build.
- While on the Key West, a local ship captain gave Hemingway a white six-toed cat. Today, the grounds are home to nearly 60 cats, some descended from his original cat, that you can pet and hang out with!
More Hemingway Haunts on Key West
Opened in 1933, Sloppy Joe’s Bar was one of Hemingway’s favorite watering holes, owned by his friend Josie Russel. The original Sloppy Joe’s, where Ernest Hemingway frequented, is now Captain Tony’s Saloon. Stop at Captain Tony’s for a drink in his honor!
Most of the other sites mentioned by Hemingway no longer exist on the island, but you can still visit the locations where they once stood. For example, the grounds now home to Blue Heaven Restaurant were once the site of the Key West Arena, where Hemingway refereed boxing matches.
Hemingway Days Festival
Plan your getaway around the annual Hemingway Days Festival and celebrate Hemingway’s life and literary accomplishments with other fans. Events throughout the festival include a look-a-like contest, a fishing tournament, literary readings, a street fair, and a short story competition.
Book Your Key West Vacation Rental and Explore the Island
Stay in Old Town Key West with Rent Key West Vacations and access the Hemingway Home just blocks from your vacation home. Our charming conch-style cottages perfectly encapsulate the historic charm of the island. These homes are also a short walk from the famous Duval Street, where you can enjoy restaurants, shops, history, and many attractions. Book your Key West getaway with us today!