Do you have that one place you visit that seems like home away from home? For us it's the Florida Keys. Key West for the most part. It's a slow town with no reason to rush or schedule things.

“You’re taking your kids to Key West? That’s a drinking town!” I heard this statement more than once, both times we brought our kids to the Keys. The truth is, Key West has bars, just like any other city, but what it also has is rich history. The city is what you make it, and we choose to make it about the history and the old-world charm.

For starters, have you ever stood at the southernmost point in the continental US? It’s pretty cool to say you have! No worries, the northernmost point is on our list too.

Are you into the history of our military? Visiting the USCGC Ingham is a must! She sailed in the Bering Sea towing in broken down ships and protecting baby seals! From there she served as a coast guard ship in WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War! She retired in the 80s and we met the man who saved her to become a museum and boy is she a beauty!! Into forts? Fort Zachary Taylor and Fort Jefferson are absolute must do’s! Coolest part? You can only visit Fort Jefferson by boat or seaplane! The seaplane is an absolute blast! Both forts are full of history that could entertain you for days! 

Are you into pirates? Take time to visit the Key West Shipwreck Museum. The history of pirates is really cool and there’s an observation deck to look over the city! Need a break to cool off? Stop in at the Key Lime Pie Factory and the Flamingo Crossing Ice Cream for some of the best treats! The key lime pie and the Cuban coffee ice cream are our favorites and both are made right there in the shop! Or…  Dip your toes in the beautiful emerald green water! There are many beaches around! The fish and sandbar charters are pretty awesome too. We thoroughly enjoyed our sandbar trip with Your Island Charter KW. Captain Nate was a blast.

Need something to do on a rainy day? Check out the Butterfly museum. It’s quite a treat. Want to see Key West from a different angle? Climb my favorite, the Key West Lighthouse! The view is stunning as you can see both the Atlantic and Gulf and all of Key West.

Like to shop? Take a stroll down any of the beautiful streets and you’re sure to find a shop that catches your eye. Last but not least… you’ll find amazing seafood and conch fritters on nearly every street! I haven’t stopped at a restaurant that didn’t meet my expectations. For the adults (and kids who enjoy shows like Moonshiners), a stop in at Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. It's a must even for those who don't drink. The history of how it started and how everything is made is very interesting. On top of that, the owner is the kindest business owner you will ever meet! He takes time with everyone as if he's always known them, even the kids!

If you have a camper, I have the perfect recommendation for you! Stay at the beautiful Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA. It is stunning and the staff could not be any nicer. You are situated between Marathon and Key West, so you have access to all the hot spots.

So, drinking town? No! It’s an island with amazing history and charm and has sucked my whole family in. We’ve visited twice, haven’t even left yet, and are all talking about “next time”. Take the trip, make the memories, take the pictures to remember it! It's worth it!