This tropical paradise was once the realm off pirates, smugglers and gun-runners. In 1826 Key West became a naval base to stop the piracy. During these years Key West developed into a world center of the fine cigar-making market. It also became a haven for thousands of Cubans escaping from the Spanish tyranny. 

The overseas Railroad was completed in 1912, making Key West physically approachable. Key West Has known the best of times. It was America's richest city per capita in 1889. Key West also has known the worst of times. It declared bankruptcy in the 1930s. Through it all, Key West has retained its status as one of the world's most intriguing cities.

Key West's Old Town area is rich with historic sites and architecture. The Old Town's main street - Duval Street is affectionately called the longest main street because it goes from the Atlantic coast to the coast of the Golf of Mexico. Key West - the southernmost city in the continental United States, was first names Cayo Hueso - the isle of bones, because the land bore the remains of a vast Indian graveyard or a battleground. Now, Key West has become a place where people, escaping the rat race, come to experience the fun, free, relaxing and most flamboyant vacation.

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