Key West has changed over the years. This once low-key island has been thoroughly commercialized. These days you’ll find a modern, franchise-type restaurant smack in the middle of Duval Street and thousands of cruise ship passengers descending on Mallory Square every day. It's definitely not the seedy town Hemingway and his cronies once called their own. The Key West's locals, or 'conchs' (pronounced 'conks') are not very thrilled with what has been done to their city.
The Laid-back Key West of years past still exist, it’s just harder to find. A favorite place to kick back is at the waterfront of both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. If laid-back is not for you, head to downtown Key West. This is the place to have a great time. Look around and you’ll find restaurants, lively bars, live music, rickshaw rides, and lots of shopping.
Every first time visitor to Key West must take a tour on The Conch Train or the Old Town Trolley. This is the best way to get to know the town. There is plenty to see and do in Key West, so give yourself time to explore and discover this wonderful town.