Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Key West (must see)

The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is one of Key West’s most popular historic attractions, located in Old Town just a short walk from Duval Street. Ernest Hemingway, the American novelist and journalist, lived here in the 1930s, and the house still feels personal and lived-in rather than staged. Visitors come for the literary connection, but the property itself—its rooms, gardens, and famous cats—makes it memorable even for people who haven’t read his books.

As you step inside, look at the layout of the home and the everyday details that have been preserved. Notice the dark wood furniture, the shelves, and the way the rooms open into each other, giving the house a solid, comfortable feel. Pay special attention to Hemingway’s writing studio, which sits slightly apart from the main house—this is where he worked, away from distractions, and it’s one of the places people linger the most.

Outside, take your time in the garden areas, because a lot of the charm is there. Watch for the famous polydactyl (or more specifically six-toed) cats, which are descendants of Hemingway’s original cats—there are nearly 60 of them living on the property. You’ll often spot them resting in shady corners, stretched out on porches, or walking along low walls. Many of the cats are quite sociable, but it’s best to let them come to you first and be patient rather than reaching for them right away. The grounds also include a pool, tropical plants, and paths that make it easy to wander without feeling rushed.

The visit combines literature, local history, and the simple feeling of being in a real Key West home from another era. It’s a place where small details matter, and a short tour can easily turn into a longer one once you start noticing everything around you.