Port
Key West, Florida, US
Activity Level
Strenuous
Excursion Type
Biking,Local Sightseeing,All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$49.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 2½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
Transfer to a local bike shop to be fitted with a bicycle and helmet. The bikes are a single-speed beach cruiser type, with coaster (back pedal) brakes, not handbrakes. Everyone has a basket for belongings and a large bottle of water.
Begin your approximately two-and-a-half-hour pedal through town and around the island of Key West.
From your bike, you will see the highlights of Key West.
Pass Simonton Street Beach, the Green Parrot Bar, Key West Cemetery, Higgs Beach and the Southernmost Point of the United States -- just 90 miles north of Cuba.
Of particular note is the Customs House, which presides over historic Mallory Square. Dating to 1891, the faithfully restored four-story architectural gem was originally home to the island's Customs office, postal service and district courts. "Old 91" is today a National Landmark and headquarters of the Key West Art & Historical Society.
Another slice of local history unfolds as you approach the Harry S Truman Little White House presidential gates. Built in 1890 as the first officer's quarters on the submarine base naval station, this relatively humble abode served as Harry S Truman's base of presidential operations during his eleven visits to Key West.
Key West is also known as the home of Ernest Hemingway. During your bike ride, you will see his residence at 907 Whitehead Street, where the famed writer lived from 1931 to 1939.
One of Hemingway's legendary haunts was Sloppy Joe's Bar. Originally founded in 1933, the bar has since moved to its current location on Duval Street, taking with it its storied connections to Hemingway.
Other landmarks on today's route include Mallory Square, Flagler Train Depot, and the Key West Lighthouse.
Before returning to the bike shop and then to the pier, stop for a slice of key lime pie -- a refreshing must-taste here in Key West.
Notes:
Helmets and baskets are provided. Beach cruiser-style bikes (no handbrakes) are used. The ride is approximately 5 miles. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; avoid wide-leg pants or long skirts. Minimum age is 11 years. Minimum height is 5 feet. Participants must be able to ride a 26" bicycle. Waiver must be signed and medical conditions disclosed. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen.