Key West Is a Perfect Winter Escape With Buzzy Nightlife, Beautiful Beaches, and a Historic State Park

""Key West has hundreds of years of interesting and infamous history, which includes pirates, shipwrecking, treasure, rum running, military exploits, and billionaires' ventures," Analise Andrews, founder of Key West Food Tours, tells Travel + Leisure. "Its melting pot of culture and turquoise ocean surroundings has given way to a vibrant food scene, which includes the most delicious selection of local seafood and tropical fruits.""

"Best Hotels & Resorts Marquesa Hotel With two prestigious Michelin Keys, The Marquesa Hotel is one of the best hotels in Key West and embodies the destination's spirit through and through. The light-filled property is classically styled with dark wood flooring, easy breezy island furnishings, and a bright blue exterior that matches the nearby sea. Don't miss the on-site Café Marquesa for an upscale meal."

Key West is the cultural hub of the Florida Keys, offering a quirky arts community, festivals, museums, tropical island vibe, and gin-clear waters lapping white-sand beaches without a passport. The city has hundreds of years of history, including pirates, shipwrecking, treasure, rum running, military exploits, and billionaire ventures. The melting pot of culture and turquoise ocean surroundings has produced a vibrant food scene focused on local seafood and tropical fruits. Top hotels include The Marquesa Hotel with classically styled, light-filled rooms and an on-site Café Marquesa; Ocean Key Resort & Spa at Zero Duval Street with waterfront dining and a spa; and Casa Marina Key West, a historic beachfront property with pools, restaurants, and yoga.

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