Lodging

Key West, Florida, attracts eccentric, colorful people. It always has. From Hemingway to the Cat Man, this island-city has a tradition of marching to a different beat, most notably in 1982 when it unsuccessfully tried to secede from the United States and form the Conch Republic. So it should figure that on your next visit — whether you’re headed to Key West for a romantic escape, a chance to celebrate Fantasy Festival this October 23-November 1, or simply a sun-soaked vacation — you should consider staying at one of these three bed and breakfasts, each of which has as much personality as the town itself.

The namesake of Key West, aka The Conch Republic.

Papa’s Hideaway is a cozy property with just six rooms, each of which has a private poolside porch. This property gets its name from one of the previous owners who was friends with Papa Hemingway and would have him, along with the chief of police, over to drink among the vineyards. This bed and breakfast also has a hot tub and bikes for rent.

The Garden House welcomes all — even kids, except during Fantasy Fest — and considers itself the “bed-and-breakfast with a sense of humor.” The emphasis is on fun, and guests can mingle at breakfast and again at the free happy hours held nightly.

The Heron House, a sanctuary with 23 rooms, ensures that your next escape will be a private, relaxed one. To keep a quiet atmosphere, no one under 21 is allowed to stay here, nor are groups. The Heron House serves an expanded continental breakfast and offers a wine-and-cheese hour coinciding with the sunset. And what makes the property unique? The owner’s collection of more than 3,000 orchid species from around the world is on display.

Regardless of which bed and breakfast you choose, you’ll get to know Key West on a more intimate level. Maybe you’ll even leave considering yourself among the Conch people.

Thanks to craigmdennis for the fun conch photo.