Key West Curiosities

Atocha coins: history you can hold

You’ll see people around Key West wearing Atocha coins as jewelry. I think they’re wonderful reminders of the island’s connection to the sea.

The Nuestra Señora de Atocha sank in a storm off the Florida Keys in 1622. Recovered coins can be worn as pendants and necklaces, but modern reproductions are also sold. Ask whether a piece contains an original recovered coin, a replica, or silver recast from recovered material, and request documentation before buying.

See an original recovered coin in the McClung Museum collection. For jewelry examples, explore Mel Fisher’s authenticated coin pendants.

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The Key West “One Human Family” Motto

This isn’t a slogan. It’s the heart of the island. Key West has long been a refuge for artists, writers, misfits, military families, LGBTQ+ residents, and anyone looking for a place that feels like home instantly.

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The Six-Toed Cats at the Hemingway House

Most places have pets. Key West has a dynasty. The Hemingway Home has roughly 60 cats, and about half have extra toes. Some are descendants of Hemingway’s cat Snow White. They roam the property like they own it, and honestly, they do.

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The Southernmost Point Buoy

It’s one of Key West’s most photographed spots, but here’s the fun part: locals rarely go. We just smile when someone says, “We waited in line!” It’s touristy, yes, but it’s a piece of Key West pride.

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The Banyan Trees and Dade County Pine

Key West architecture has its own soul. The giant old banyan trees, the porches, the gingerbread trim, the Caribbean colors, and the Dade County pine walls that have survived storms for over 100 years: they all tell you this place is different.

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The Great Key West Rooster Population

Our unofficial mascots. They crow whenever they feel like it, wander freely, and seem to know who the tourists are. They’re funny, stubborn, and somehow part of the island’s personality.

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Higgs Beach African Cemetery

A meaningful, sacred piece of history: the graves of African men, women, and children who died in Key West after being rescued from illegal slave ships in 1860. Beautiful, sobering, and an important place to learn about the island’s past.

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The Key West Lighthouse

Built in 1848, the current lighthouse opened with Barbara Mabrity as its keeper. You can climb to the top for one of the best views on the island.

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The Rum-Runner and Smuggling Era

Before tourism, art, and cruise ships, Key West was home to smugglers moving rum, tobacco, and other contraband through the islands. People still tell stories of hidden rooms and secret docks.

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The Little White House

Harry Truman’s winter home. Presidents, dignitaries, and military leaders all stayed here. It’s one of the most fascinating political landmarks in the state.

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The Conch Train and the Ghost Tours

The Conch Tour Train is iconic. The ghost tours are unforgettable. People love hearing the island’s ghost stories and local legends.

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​Pan Am Took Off Here

Pan Am began its Key West-to-Havana service in 1927. Its early ticket office at 301 Whitehead Street is still standing and is now home to First Flight Island Restaurant and Brewery.