Winter weather got you down? Though spring is right around the corner, if you need a dose of vitamin sea, you’re in luck. American Airlines is now offering nonstop flights to Key West, Fla., which has a “very relaxed atmosphere, tons and tons of eclectic bars and unique shops,” says Jennifer Sammartino of West Chester’s WhirlAway Travel. Starting Feb. 16, there will be direct flights on Saturdays, making it the only nonstop flight to the southernmost point in the U.S. out of Philadelphia. Ready to go? Here are five must-dos.
1. An obligatory stop, the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. is something that should be on every visitor’s list. It’s marked by a colorful larger-than-life buoy, perfect for snapping a pic.
2. Take a ride on Key West’s Conch Tour Train, says Sammartino. A tram-style train, it hits some of the island’s hot spots and is perfect for acclimating on the first day in town.
3. Literary buffs—and cat lovers—won’t want to miss the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Designated a U.S. Historic Landmark, visitors can see where the famous author lived and worked, plus get a glimpse at the famous five-toed cats.
Related: American Airlines is Now Offering Daily Flights from Philadelphia to Edinburgh, Scotland
4. Duval Street is the hub of excitement in Key West, especially in the evenings, says Sammartino. She recommends hitting spots like Sloppy Joe’s Bar. “There are tons of iconic hang outs and bars and restaurants in Key West,” she says.
5. “A must do is sunset at Mallory Square. It’s a beautiful sunset, lots of street performers, lots of unique handcrafters selling their wares, that you won’t find anywhere else,” says Sammartino.
