Key West Bicycle Tour: Exploring the Island on Two Wheels
Key West, Florida is a popular tourist destination known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. One of the best ways to explore the island is by taking a bike tour. Key West bike tours offer a unique and eco-friendly way to see the sights, learn about the island's history, and get some exercise all at the same time.
There are several companies that offer bike tours in Key West. Many of these tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take visitors to some of the island's most iconic landmarks, such as the Southernmost Point, the Key West Cemetery, and the West Martello Tower. Some tours also include stops at local restaurants and bars, where visitors can sample some of the island's famous cuisine and drinks. With a variety of tour options available, visitors can choose a tour that fits their interests and schedule.
Exploring Key West
Key West is a beautiful island city that is best explored on a bike. There are many bike tours available that will take you around the city, but if you want to explore Key West in a unique way, then you should consider going off the beaten path.
Off the Beaten Path
Exploring Key West off the beaten path means going to places that are not typically visited by tourists. You can start by visiting the Key West Wildlife Center, which is a great place to learn about the local wildlife. The center is located in a lush botanical garden inside a historic fort, and you can see many different types of animals, including birds, turtles, and alligators.
Another great off the beaten path location is the homes of famous authors. You can take a bike tour that will take you to the location of the homes of Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, and Tennessee Williams. You can hear their untold secrets and learn about their lives in Key West.
The Key West Bike Tour
If you want to explore Key West on a bike, then you should consider taking a bike tour. There are many different bike tours available, but one of the best is Lloyd's Tropical Bike Tour. Lloyd has been living in Key West since 1972, and he knows the city like the back of his hand. He will take you on a leisurely ride along the quiet streets and hidden lanes of Key West, pointing out the classic examples of Shotgun, Bahamian, Victorian, Eyebrow, and Conch-style houses.
Another great option is the Key Lime Bike Tour. This tour takes you on a two-hour pedal through town, where you can see some of the city's most iconic places. You will be fitted with a bicycle upon arrival at the bike shop, and you can explore the city at your own pace.
Overall, exploring Key West on a bike is a great way to see the city. Whether you want to go off the beaten path or take a bike tour, there are many different options available.
Historical Sites
Key West has a rich history that is worth exploring. One of the best ways to do so is by taking a bicycle tour of the island's historical sites. Here are some of the most interesting historical sites to visit on a bike tour:
Lighthouse Tour
The Key West Lighthouse is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in maritime history. Built in 1847, the lighthouse was an important navigational aid for ships traveling through the treacherous waters around Key West. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of the island and the surrounding sea. The lighthouse also features exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and its keepers.
Historic Fort Tour
Fort Zachary Taylor is a historic fort that played a key role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, barracks, and gun batteries, and learn about the fort's history through exhibits and guided tours. The fort is also home to a beautiful beach that is popular with locals and tourists alike.
Famous Authors Tour
Key West has been home to many famous authors over the years, including Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and Robert Frost. Visitors can take a bike tour of the island's literary landmarks, including Hemingway's former home and the Tennessee Williams Exhibit. The tour also includes stops at the homes of other famous authors, as well as the sites that inspired their work.
Overall, a bike tour of Key West's historical sites is a great way to learn about the island's rich history and culture. Whether you're interested in maritime history, military history, or literary history, there's something for everyone on a Key West bike tour.
Practical Information
Hours and Questions
Most bike rental shops in Key West are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. However, guided bicycle tours may have different hours, so it's best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Visitors can also call ahead to ask any questions they may have about the tour, such as the route, duration, and level of difficulty.
Biking Information
Key West is a small island, and biking is a popular way to get around. Visitors can rent a cruiser bike for a leisurely ride around the island or join a guided bicycle tour to learn about the island's history and culture. Biking is also an eco-friendly way to explore the island, and many bike rental shops offer discounts for visitors who bring their own helmets.
Safety Standards
Most bike rental shops in Key West provide clean and well-maintained bikes to ensure the safety of their customers. Visitors are encouraged to wear helmets, and many bike rental shops offer helmets for rent or loan. It's also important to follow the rules of the road, such as staying in the bike lane and obeying traffic signals.
Overall, visitors can expect a safe and enjoyable biking experience in Key West. Visitors can check the rating and reviews of bike rental shops and guided bicycle tours on websites like TripAdvisor to ensure they choose a reputable and reliable operator.
Local Flavors
When it comes to exploring Key West, there's no better way to experience the local flavor than with a bike tour. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the island while learning about the unique plants, fruits, and attractions that make this destination so special.
Local Fruits and Plants
One of the highlights of a Key West bike tour is the chance to see and taste the local fruits and plants. Visitors can stop at roadside stands to sample fresh coconut, mango, and papaya, or take a closer look at the island's unique flora and fauna.
One of the most popular stops on the tour is the White Street Pier, which offers stunning views of the ocean and a chance to see a variety of local plants and animals. The pier is also a great spot for bird watching, with pelicans, herons, and egrets often seen in the area.
Local Attractions
In addition to the natural beauty of the island, Key West is home to a variety of unique attractions that are best experienced by bike. Visitors can stop at the Hemingway House and Museum to learn about the famous author's time on the island, or visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to see hundreds of colorful butterflies up close.
Another popular stop is the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum, which offers a glimpse into the island's maritime history. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island, or explore the museum to learn about the lives of the lighthouse keepers who once lived on the property.
To make the most of a Key West bike tour, it's best to go with a local guide who can offer insider tips and information about the best places to stop. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can experience the local flavors of the island in a fun and informative way.
Sloppy Joe's Key West
Sloppy Joe's is a historic bar located in Key West, Florida. It has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since it first opened in 1937. The bar is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and famous drink, the Sloppy Joe.
Visitors can enjoy a drink at the bar or grab a bite to eat at Joe's Tap Room, which offers a full menu of pub-style food. The bar is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 am, making it a great spot for both early morning coffee and late-night drinks.
Sloppy Joe's has a rich history, and visitors can learn more about it by taking a self-guided audio tour of the Old Town. The tour includes stops at key locations such as Mallory Square, the Aquarium, and Duval Street, as well as information on how Key West became known as "The Conch Republic" in the 1900s.
In addition to its history, Sloppy Joe's is also known for its fun atmosphere and events. The bar hosts live music every day, with a variety of local musicians and bands performing everything from classic rock to reggae. There are also occasional events such as trivia nights and karaoke.
Overall, Sloppy Joe's is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Key West. Whether you're looking for a cold drink, a bite to eat, or some live music, this historic bar has something for everyone.
Flights to Key West
Traveling to Key West for a bicycle tour can be an exciting adventure. There are several airlines that offer flights to the island city. The Key West International Airport (EYW) is the primary airport in the area and is located just two miles from the city center.
There are direct flights to Key West from several major cities in the United States, including Atlanta, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines are some of the major airlines that operate flights to Key West.
The airport is small and easy to navigate, making it a convenient option for travelers. There are several ground transportation options available at the airport, including rental cars, taxis, and shuttles. Visitors can also take advantage of the local bus service, which runs throughout the city.
It is recommended that travelers book their flights well in advance to get the best deals and avoid last-minute price hikes. Additionally, visitors should check the airline's baggage policy to ensure that their bicycles can be transported without any issues.
Overall, flying to Key West is a convenient and efficient way to start a bicycle tour of the area. With several airlines offering flights to the city, visitors can easily find a flight that fits their needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bike around Key West?
Biking around Key West can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how much of the island you want to explore. The island is only about 4 miles long and 2 miles wide, so it's possible to bike around the entire island in a few hours if you're up for it. However, most people prefer to take their time and explore the different neighborhoods and attractions along the way.
Is Key West good for biking?
Yes, Key West is a great place for biking. The island is relatively flat, and there are plenty of bike lanes and paths to keep cyclists safe. Plus, the warm weather and beautiful scenery make for a pleasant biking experience.
Is it easy to bike around Key West?
Yes, biking around Key West is relatively easy. The island is small and flat, so there aren't many hills to contend with. Plus, there are plenty of bike lanes and paths to keep cyclists safe.
Is it possible to bike from Miami to Key West?
Yes, it is possible to bike from Miami to Key West. The route is approximately 160 miles long and takes about two days to complete. However, this is a challenging ride that should only be attempted by experienced cyclists.
What are some popular Key West bike tours?
There are several popular bike tours in Key West, including the Guided Bicycle Tour of Old Town Key West, Lloyd's Tropical Bike Tour, and the Florida Keys Everglades Gulf Coast Bike Tour. Each tour offers a unique perspective on the island and its history.
Where can I rent a bike in Key West?
There are several places to rent bikes in Key West, including Eaton Bikes, Island Bikes & Outfitters, and Bike Man Bike Rentals. Prices vary depending on the type of bike and rental duration.