If you are visiting tropical Key West for only a short period of time, you will never be able to visit all of the local bars and restaurants Key West has to offer. The majority of these establishments are located either on Duval Street, or within close proximity. I’ve listed below my five favorites, must see, bars to visit while in Key West. Take these as just a tease of all there is to see in the “Southernmost Point”.
- Sloppy Joe’s - Although more commercialized than years ago when Hemmingway would take a seat at the bar, Sloppy Joe’s is an institution to what Key West is all about. Everyone who visits wants to have his or her picture taken in front of the famous Duval Street Bar. Sloppy Joe’s is an open-air establishment with great nightly entertainment. The bands will get you in the mood for an evening of enjoyment.
- Louie’s Backyard - Only a few blocks off Duval at the southernmost end, Louie’s Backyard has an outside bar, known as the afterdeck with an ocean breeze and views anyone would enjoy watching while sipping on a cold, cool drink. This bar is very friendly and the 360 degree views of the old Victorian style house that the indoor/outdoor restaurant is located, to the beaches and calm blue waters makes this bar one of the friendliest and calmest bars in “Old Town”.
- Schooner Wharf - The Schooner Wharf is located on the Wharf just a few blocks off Duval Street. This Wharf is lined with Bars and Restaurants with a boardwalk style walkway that winds along the water where all the large boats dock. What I like about the Schooner Wharf is once again, like Sloppy Joes, this is an old, open-air bar, with dirt floors that everyone comes to have a good time. There is normally a band playing in the evening and you can hear the noise as you approach from either end of the walk.
- Margaritaville - Almost everyone who comes to Key West wants to have a “Cheeseburger in Paradise” at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Made famous by the song, and being the original location of this widely famous franchise, people like the tropical colors and the fun atmosphere that is created here. The food is typical bar food, but the fun filled atmosphere with bands playing in the evening is worth the trip.
- Sunset Pier Bar - Located next to the infamous Mallory Square, Sunset Pier offers the relaxed, tropical atmosphere with sunsets you will remember for a lifetime. With a band playing, and everyone’s anticipation of sunset, this bar offers the best of everything. You can sit and enjoy a drink, while listening to the music play, and anticipate if the sunset is going to be everything you had expected. Don’t miss the fun and sun at this lively bar during the evening hours before sunset. ***
*** Words of Advice. If going to Sunset Pier for the sunset, you may want to get there an hour early to allow for a good position of the sunset.
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