Key West Visitor Information
Key West lies near the end of the chain of islands known as
the Florida Keys, and is the southern-most city in the
continental United States. The island-community is located
about 90 miles north of Cuba and 150 miles southwest of
Miami at a latitude of 24 degrees, 33 minutes, 5 seconds North
and at a longitude of 81 degrees, 48 minutes, 14 seconds
West. The island has an area of 4.2 square miles, while the
City-incorporating the northern part of neighboring Stock
Island-has an area of 5.79 square miles. The City initially
developed because of its proximity to the Florida Straits, the
abutting Florida Reef, strong offshore ocean currents (the Gulf
Stream), and the area's unpredictable winds, combined with a
large natural deep-water harbor and deep channels into the
harbor. The Florida Straits are the northern-most sea passage
from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. For three
centuries this passage formed part of the great nautical trade
route that carried ships from Caribbean and South American
ports to their European homelands. The location of Key West
serves as a gateway both to the Caribbean and between the
Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico was recognized by the
military at an early date. Another important regional factor in
the development of the City has been its proximity to Cuba, 90
miles to the south.
Key West Information provided by Key West Planning Department, 2000
www.keywestcity.com/citywelcome/cityhistory/citysetting.html
VISITOR INFORMATION
Interested in Key West history or historical photos dating back to the late 1800's
CLICK HERE FOR HISTORY and HISTORICAL PHOTOS
Thinking about getting married in Key West? Click Here for information/requirements.
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