Hemingway Food and Walking Tour

The Hemingway Food and Walking Tour in Key West offers an engaging glimpse into the life of Ernest Hemingway through a two-hour exploration packed with history, culture, and food. Priced at $99 per person, this tour is designed for those who enjoy learning about iconic figures while experiencing the charm of Old Town on foot. It departs from the Hemingway House at 9:30 am and finishes at Captain Tonys Saloon, providing a compact yet comprehensive look at Hemingway’s Key West roots. With small groups limited to 15 participants, the tour promises personalized attention and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for visitors who appreciate detailed storytelling and authentic local flavors. Travelers should be prepared for about two miles of walking and moderate physical activity, making this a good fit for those with average fitness levels.

While the tour includes lunch with three tasty tastings, some visitors note that the price may seem high compared to other food tours, but the wealth of historical insights and stories about Hemingway often justifies the cost. The focus on Hemingway’s personal sites, combined with a delicious food stop and drinks, makes this tour a well-rounded experience for history buffs and literary fans alike.

Key Points

• Two-hour walking tour focusing on Hemingway’s life, work, and favorite spots in Key West
• Includes lunch, featuring a grilled chicken Caesar wrap, bean salad with mango poppy seed dressing, and key lime pie
• Small group size of 15 ensures personalized attention and in-depth storytelling
• Highlights include the Hemingway House, key locations he visited, and the historic bars like Sloppy Joes
• Guides like Caleb and Liz are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging narration
• Accessible for moderate physical fitness, covering approximately 2 miles of walking through historic neighborhoods

Exploring Hemingway’s Key West: The Starting Point at the Hemingway House

The tour begins outside the Hemingway Home and Museum at 9:30 am, where the guide welcomes the group. During the walk, visitors explore the real places Hemingway called home and frequented, such as his first apartment in Key West, where he completed “A Farewell to Arms”. The guide leads you through stories about where he watched boxing matches, kept his boat the Pilar, and bought books at his favorite bookstore. This initial stop offers a vivid picture of Hemingway’s daily life in Key West, with admission tickets for the museum not included but available if you wish to explore further.

Inside Hemingway’s Historic Residence and Its Surroundings

After the initial outside visit, the tour takes you into the Hemingway House, where authentic details about his life are brought to life through engaging storytelling. The guide shares anecdotes about Hemingway’s time in the house and the famous six-toed cats that still roam the property. This stop provides a close-up look at the environment that inspired his writing and leisure activities. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see where Hemingway spent many hours, making it a highlight of the tour.

Tasting Key West Flavors: The Lunch Stop

Midway through the tour, the group pauses for lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying three substantial tastings. The menu includes a grilled chicken Caesar wrap, bean salad with mango poppy seed dressing, and a slice of key lime pie from Kermit’s, a famous local bakery. The rum punch from Cuba is also served, adding to the authentic Key West experience. Several reviews highlight the generous portions and delicious flavors, especially praising the key lime pie as a must-try local specialty.

Visiting Hemingway’s Favorite Bars: Sloppy Joes and Beyond

Following lunch, the tour visits Sloppy Joes, both the original and the second location, where Hemingway spent a lot of time drinking. These historic bars offer insight into Hemingway’s social life and the lively atmosphere of Old Town. The guide shares stories about the bar’s significance and Hemingway’s connection to these establishments, giving visitors a taste of the local nightlife he enjoyed.

Exploring Hemingway’s Activities: Fishing, Boating, and the Harbor

Next, the tour moves towards the Key West Harbor, where Hemingway fished, took trains, and charted boats. The guide explains how these activities played a role in his leisure and writing. Visitors get a sense of the outdoor environment Hemingway loved, with stories about his boat Pilar and his fishing adventures. This stop emphasizes Hemingway’s connection to the sea and outdoor pursuits that were central to his lifestyle.

The Cultural and Literary Significance of Key West

Throughout the walk, the guide discusses the cultural scene Hemingway immersed himself in, including his time refereeing boxing matches and the places that hosted his literary gatherings. These stories provide context for his influence on Key West’s identity and the city’s vibrant arts scene. Visitors learn how Hemingway’s presence helped shape the town’s character, making it a literary landmark.

The End at Captain Tonys Saloon

The tour concludes at Captain Tonys Saloon at 428 Greene Street, where guests can continue exploring or enjoy a cold drink. Many reviews recommend visiting the Hemingway Social Club afterward for a drink with a view of the town and to take photos with Hemingway’s iconic imagery. The small group size means that guides, like Caleb and Liz, can tailor the experience and answer questions comfortably before parting ways.

The Guide Experience and Tour Atmosphere

Guides like Caleb and Liz receive high praise for their knowledge, witty storytelling, and warm personalities. They keep the group engaged with personal anecdotes and clear explanations of Hemingway’s life and Key West’s history. Visitors particularly appreciate the relaxed pace and the informative yet fun narration, which enhances the overall experience. The tour’s limited size of 15 participants ensures a more intimate setting, perfect for absorbing stories and asking questions.

Practical Information and Booking Details

The tour operates near public transportation and requires moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking approximately two miles. It is designed to be accessible for most, but travelers should be prepared for some standing and walking in outdoor settings. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in case of weather issues or changes in plans.

Value and Considerations

The $99 price includes lunch, drinks, and a small-group guided experience, making it a good value for those interested in both history and local flavors. Some reviews mention that the large quantity of food is provided in just one stop, which may seem limited compared to other tours, but it allows for a more relaxed experience. The focus on Hemingway’s personal life, combined with tasty tastings and engaging guides, creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to fans of literature and local history.

Final Thoughts on the Hemingway Food and Walking Tour

The Hemingway Food and Walking Tour offers a combination of storytelling, local food, and historic sites that makes for an enjoyable, enriching experience in Key West. With highly praised guides, especially Caleb and Liz, and carefully curated stops, this tour suits those who want an authentic look at Hemingway’s life alongside a taste of Key West’s culinary delights. Despite some concerns about the price and limited food stops, the tour’s personalized approach and deep dive into Hemingway’s world make it a worthwhile addition to any trip to the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is suitable for most ages, but participants should have moderate fitness and be comfortable walking about two miles.

Does the tour include admission to the Hemingway House?
No, admission tickets to the Hemingway House are not included but can be purchased separately.

What food is included in the tour?
The tour features three tastings: a grilled chicken Caesar wrap, bean salad with mango poppy seed dressing, and a slice of key lime pie.

Are drinks included?
Yes, Key West Rum Punch from Cuba is included, along with other beverages at the lunch stop.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:30 am at the Hemingway House and concludes at Captain Tonys Saloon.

Is this tour good for history enthusiasts?
Absolutely, guides share detailed stories about Hemingway’s life, his favorite spots, and Key West’s history.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is the tour affected by weather?
The experience requires good weather; cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

How can I book this tour?
You can book through the providers’ website, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.