Key West

At the southernmost tip of the USA, Key West has retained a queer-friendly, live-and-let live attitude over the decades. This mentality is also reflected in the tongue-in-cheek self-image of the so-called Conch Republic, with which the island celebrates its independence. At the top of Duval Street, the central longitudinal axis of the old town, lies the center of the scene. Around the historic 801 Bourbon and the adjacent restaurants, the relevant bars and meeting places are crowded in a small space.

The nightlife takes place mainly on Duval Street and in the surrounding alleys, where bars, open-air terraces and show stages are close together. The 801 Bourbon with its evening drag shows is considered a permanent institution, which many travelers use as their first port of call. Because the island is small and easy to explore on foot, several restaurants can be easily combined in one evening. The audience mixes strongly. Cozy cocktail rounds and exuberant party nights are often just a few steps apart.

Key West is a coral island and does not have extensive sandy beaches like the mainland of Florida, but several manageable bays. On the south coast is Smathers Beach, the longest and most visited beach section of the island. Things are a little quieter at Higgs Beach, which is traditionally considered gay-friendly and is close to the city centre. If you are looking for clear water and snorkeling areas, you usually go out by boat to offshore reefs.

It's best to travel between December and April, when the weather is dry and mild. During this time, the Atlantic hurricane season, which officially extends from June to November, is also behind you. In October, the Fantasy Fest transforms the city into a boisterous costume and street spectacle for around ten days. In the high season and during the big events, you can expect significantly higher accommodation prices and accommodation that is booked out earlier.

Most travelers fly to Miami first and travel the rest of the way via the Overseas Highway. This approximately 160-kilometer-long highway connects the individual keys via a chain of bridges and ends in Key West. Depending on traffic, you should plan about three to four hours for the trip with the rental car. Key West also has its own small airport, which is mainly served by domestic US connections.

Key West is one of the most relaxed destinations for queer guests in the USA and is considered safe. Same-sex marriages are legally recognized throughout the United States, and the island visibly lives out its open attitude in everyday life. Nevertheless, the usual precautions of a touristy city apply, for example when handling valuables in the hustle and bustle around Duval Street. If you keep an eye on the US state of Florida as a whole, you will be better informed about current political developments and legal situations before the trip.