Exploring Hemingway’s Key West Home: Cats, History & Unexpected Surprises
Chrissy Clary
Key West—a place where the sun is always shining, the margaritas are always flowing, and you can meet six-toed cats.
Yes, you read that right! This isn’t any feline family reunion; it’s a gathering of Hemingway House cats lounging about like they own the place. And you know what? They kind of do.
Stepping into Hemingway’s World
On our recent family adventure to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, we learned that visiting the literary giant’s former abode is like stepping into a delightful time warp filled with quirky artifacts—and the occasional polydactyl cat.
If you're planning your trip to Key West, we also recommend checking out our post on the Florida Keys Scenic Drive for other must-see spots nearby.
Logistics:
Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Admission: $8 for adults, $7 for kids (worth every penny for the urinal-turned-fountain alone).
Location: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Learn more: https://www.hemingwayhome.com
If you’re heading there with family, check out our Travel Essentials like breathable sun hats, UV-protective clothing, and refillable water bottles to beat the heat.
Inside the Writer’s Sanctuary
The guided tour includes a peek inside Hemingway’s writing room—an inspiring space brimming with typewriters, original manuscripts, and nostalgia. It’s easy to imagine the master at work here critiquing your last tweet or jotting down his next short story.
Pro Tip: Beat the heat and crowds by arriving early or visiting in April–May or November–December.
The Six-Toed Monarchs
Around 50 Hemingway House cats roam the property—descendants of Snowball, Hemingway’s original polydactyl pet. These cats laze like furry royalty, reminding us that life’s finest pleasures often involve a sunbeam and a nap.
Looking to take a little Hemingway home with you? We’ve curated some literary-inspired cat lover merch just for you in our shop.
Kids especially love spotting these quirky creatures—each a living link to literary history and a lesson in the joy of unexpected discoveries.
A Blend of History & Absurdity
Visiting Hemingway’s house isn’t just a trip to the past—it’s a delightful mashup of history, literature, and humor. From urinal fountains salvaged from Hemingway’s favorite bar to regal cats ruling the courtyard, every corner offers a new story.
And if quirky roadside stops are your thing, you’ll also enjoy our blog: “Cat Tales & Urinal Fountains: Hemingway’s Key West Hideaway”
Conclusion
So grab your sense of humor and embark on this delightful journey into Hemingway’s world. Keep an eye out for the six-toed mascots—they may have a few tales of their own to tell.
Looking for more family-friendly, slightly offbeat adventures? Browse through all our wanderings on Let's Go Wander 'Bout. Explore destinations your way by choosing from Viator’s wide range of experiences.
Get a peep at what you'll find at Hemingway with our video. Go check it out now: