When Did Key West Became a Tourist Destination?

By Michael Ferguson

Key West is one of the oldest tourist destinations in the United States. It has been a popular destination since the mid-19th century, when wealthy Americans would come to soak up some sun and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle.

The history of Key West as a tourist destination can be traced back to 1845, when it was annexed by the United States from Spain. At that time, Key West was already known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. But it wasn’t until the early 20th century that Key West really started to become popular with tourists.

In 1912, Henry Flagler built a railroad connecting Key West with mainland Florida. This opened up the island to more people and made it much easier to get there from other parts of Florida. Around this time, many wealthy northerners began visiting Key West for vacation and relaxation.

As more people started visiting Key West, hotels began popping up around town. These hotels provided visitors with all of the amenities they needed for their stay, including meals, entertainment and activities such as fishing and sailing excursions. Soon, many of these hotels became popular tourist spots in their own right, drawing even more people to Key West.

In addition to hotel accommodations, tourists also had access to an array of attractions in Key West during this time period. These included museums, aquariums, botanical gardens and other attractions that still draw visitors today.

By the 1940s and 1950s, Key West had become firmly established as one of America’s top tourist destinations. It was during this time period that Ernest Hemingway made his home on the island; his house is now a museum visited by thousands of people each year. Today, millions of visitors flock to Key West each year for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture – a testament to its long history as a top tourist destination in America.

Conclusion: From its annexation by the United States in 1845 until today, Key West has been a favorite tourist destination for Americans looking for sun and relaxation or an exciting cultural experience. With its easy access from mainland Florida thanks to Henry Flagler’s railroad in 1912 and its wide array of attractions such as museums and aquariums in the 1940s-50s , it is no surprise that it remains one of America’s most popular vacation spots today.