Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Hemingway's Spanish colonial-style home from 1931 to 1939, where he wrote “The Snows of Kilimanjaro.” The study and the more than 60 six-toed cats in the courtyard make it Key West's top attraction.

Built in 1851, this Spanish colonial limestone house stands at 907 Whitehead Street in Key West's old town. Hemingway and his second wife, Pauline, bought it in 1931 and lived there until 1939. “Death in the Afternoon,” “The Snows of Kilimanjaro” and “To Have and Have Not” were all completed in the study, which was converted from the second-floor garage. The house was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968.

The interior keeps the original furniture, Hemingway's hunting trophies and photographs. Guides spend about 30 minutes telling stories of the writer fishing, boxing, drinking and writing here. In the courtyard, the island's first private swimming pool cost US$20,000, more than the value of the house itself. Nearby, a coin set into the ground recalls Hemingway's jibe at his wife for spending his last penny.

The main draw is the more than 60 cats, about half of which have six toes. They are said to be descendants of “Snow White,” a cat Hemingway received from a ship's captain. The cats are named after famous people and nap on furniture and beds. Visitors may pet them but must not pick them up. Adult admission is US$19 and children's is US$7. Cash only; the tour is included. No reservation is needed, but queues are long in the morning during peak season.

Across from the house is the Key West Lighthouse, which you can climb for views of the island. It is a 5-minute walk to the Southernmost Point and a 10-minute walk to Duval Street, making it a core stop on the old town walking route.

Notes: the cats are sensitive to allergens such as peanuts, so do not feed them. Tripods are not allowed indoors.

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby