Duval Street in Key West is famous as the vibrant heart of the island city, a place brimming with sights, attractions, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and unique shops. This lively 1.25-mile stretch is constantly buzzing with activity, featuring live music spilling from open doorways, cyclists weaving through crowds, pedicabs offering rides, and even local characters with parrots perched on their shoulders. It’s an unparalleled spot for people-watching, where every moment offers a new scene.
What makes Duval Street truly exceptional is its rare geographical distinction: it’s one of the few streets in the world that connects two distinct bodies of water. At its northern end, a popular area for tourists and cruise ship visitors, Duval Street meets the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Down at the southern end, close to the iconic Southernmost Point buoy – a constantly photographed landmark – Duval Street merges into the deep blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
This renowned street is a captivating blend of art and culture, rich history and heritage, and spirited celebrations, all mixed with a touch of Key West’s famous carefree attitude. Here, bars stay open until the early hours, and with over a hundred bars packed into just fifteen blocks, the legendary Duval Crawl is as much a part of the Key West experience as the destination itself.
However, by day, Duval Street reveals a different kind of charm. The beauty of Victorian-era ‘Conch’ houses and buildings comes to the fore. Duval Street proudly displays its cultural connections to the Bahamas and Cuba, influences that are clearly seen in its unique architecture. Bright red Poinciana flowers add vibrant splashes of color against the Spanish-style buildings, offering shade to those enjoying sidewalk dining and drinks, often accompanied by the sounds of live music.
Duval Street is always ready for a celebration, hosting festivals throughout the year. These events draw visitors from across the globe and include well-known names like Conch Republic Days, Hemingway Days, the Key West Songwriters Festival, the Poker Run, and, of course, Fantasy Fest, the famous week-long costume party.
Imagine if webcams had been around a century ago; one positioned above Sloppy Joe’s bar today would likely be streaming from the very same spot. Back then, it would have captured early automobiles rolling past and post-Prohibition party-goers enjoying affordable whiskey. Today, drinks might cost a bit more, but people happily pay for the unique experience of Duval Street, a place that holds a spot on many travel wish lists.
Experience Duval Street. Live.
