Florida

Key West at a Slower Pace: Living on Island Time

Program No. 21797RJ
Find out what makes Key West such a unique city as you stroll its vibrant streets, discovering its heritage, culture, world-class museums and the true spirit of island life.

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At a Glance

Don’t let the quaint, small-town façade fool you — there’s a lot more to Key West than meets the eye. Discover all its hidden treasures at an easy pace befitting this laid-back island city. Navigate by trolley to experience its rich history and the unique pace of life on “island time.” Appreciate the blend of Victorian, Bahaman and New England architecture in its iconic “conch houses.” Hear tales of ships and shipwrecks and walk in the footsteps of larger-than-life figures like Hemingway and President Truman. Share the spirit of the island with artists, divers, gardeners, historians, musicians, oceanographers and other experts who reveal the city through the eyes of Key West natives.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile on even terrain.

What You'll Learn

  • Go inside the structure that gave birth to Key West’s historical restoration movement, the Audubon House, where you can see 28 first-edition works by James Audubon.
  • With a docent, navigate the Custom House Museum, a living link to Key West’s historic past and home to art and artifacts that tell the story of this island town.
  • Learn about life in Key West when Ernest Hemingway and President Harry Truman were residents during explorations of the Hemingway House and Truman's Little White House.

General Notes

You may be interested in a more active version of this program, "Signature City Key West" (#20902).
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Bob Wolz
Bob graduated from Youngstown State University, majoring in history with a minor in business. In 1999, he became the executive director of the Harry S. Truman Little White House State Historic Site. Bob created a not-for-profit corporation that aims to expand educational outreach of the Little White House and complete its restoration. He is an accomplished writer, having co-authored or edited several books including 'Presidents in Paradise.' His work has also appeared in the Florida Artland History Magazine and the American Political Science Review.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Bob Wolz
Bob graduated from Youngstown State University, majoring in history with a minor in business. In 1999, he became the executive director of the Harry S. Truman Little White House State Historic Site. Bob created a not-for-profit corporation that aims to expand educational outreach of the Little White House and complete its restoration. He is an accomplished writer, having co-authored or edited several books including 'Presidents in Paradise.' His work has also appeared in the Florida Artland History Magazine and the American Political Science Review.
Profile Image of Alex Okinczyc
Alex Okinczyc View biography
Alex Okinczyc, a longtime resident of Key West, is an experienced deep sea diver who shares his stories through humor, connecting with his audience and music! Okinczyc brings his treasures from the sea to tell us about his passion for deep sea diving and for Key West.
Profile Image of Craig Wanous
Craig Wanous View biography
Craig Wanous was born and raised in Alabama, but has lived in the Florida Keys and Key West since 1990. He and his wife came to the Keys after an 18-month cruise on their sailboat. Craig became involved with Road Scholar after hosting the groups at the visitor center where he worked. He has been leading Road Scholar tours in Key West since 2014, and always enjoys the curiosity and appetite for learning shown by participants.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
12 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
4 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Low Salt, Low Fat, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
  • Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
  • Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
5 nights
Key West
Opal Key Resort & Marina is a luxurious waterfront resort in the Heart of Key West. One of the premier Key West hotels ideally located in "Old Town", the Opal sits one block from fabled Duval Street and next to the famous Mallory Square. This luxurious resort has it all, from enticing, globally-inspired waterfront cuisine to a sparkling pool surrounded by lush plant life. All of the stylish accommodations offer serene views of the ocean or pool and are appointed with contemporary designs, state-of-the art entertainment and technology, and comfortable amenities that will inspire you to linger longer in Key West. There are countless accessible ways beyond the resort to experience Key West. From sunset celebrations and water sports, to unique shopping, Key West has something for everyone.





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