When we visited Key West, one of the tours at the top of our list was Ernest Hemingway’s former home, Hemingway House. Nestled in the island’s heart, this beautiful Spanish colonial house offers a glimpse into the life of one of the 20th century’s greatest writers. We had visited Hemingway’s Bar in Havana, so we wanted to add this piece to the puzzle.

From the lush tropical gardens to the famous six-toed cats roaming Hemingway House in Key West. Every corner of the house tells a story. It’s so magical; walking in the footsteps of genius is special. Perhaps most intriguing is Hemingway’s writing studio, where he penned some of his most iconic works.

The walls are also lined with family photos, allowing us to get to know the story of this great man. Come with us as we take a tour of his home and a few facts about the great man himself.

Getting To Hemingway House From Key West Cruise Port

Hemingway House is a 30-minute walk from the cruise port on Whitehead Street, one of the main streets in Key West. While the walk is pleasant, I advise getting off the ship early and walking down or getting the bus to arrive early. We decided to get the bus and get to Hemingway House for early entry. This was the right decision as there was already a queue. However, it was small compared to the line as we left, so get there early.

You can also get a bus or tour, and there are several options here. The first is to take the conch tour. This is a guided hoop-on, hop-off tour trolley. It costs £35 for a day ticket for adults and offers a commentary on the history of Key West and notable locations.

However, there is also a free bus; of course, this does not come with commentary. But the Duval Loop circles Key West and allows you to jump on and off at points of interest. The great thing about the free bus is that you can load the website on your phone and see load the real-time location, helping you plan your time there. The bus was air air-conditioned, which was wonderful as it was such a hot day when we visited.

We decided to take the free bus, as we planned to walk up to Southen Most Point afterwards, and then walk down Duval Street to see a bit more of Key West.

Getting Tickets For Hemingway House

You can’t book ahead unless you book a cruise tour or the ultimate food-and-Hemingway tour, but tickets are available at the door. Adults are $19, children $7, and children five and under are free. The great thing is the ticket includes a guided tour. But you also have the option to self-explore at your own pace if you don’t want to wait for the next tour. We chose the latter option, we wanted the time to look at all the pictures and take in the history.

His affection for these animals began when a ship’s captain gifted him a six-toed (polydactyl) cat named Snow White. Hemingway became fascinated by these unique cats and allowed them to roam freely around his home and gardens.

Today, Hemingway House is famous for its large population of polydactyl cats. Many of which are descendants of Snow White. These cats, with their distinctive extra toes, are lovingly cared for and have become an integral part of the historic site.

Hemingway often referred to his cats as his “purr-fect” companions, and their presence at the house is a testament to his deep affection for them. There was a cat at every corner, and whilst it’s not encouraged to pet the cats, they were very comfortable around people.

To make their lives even more comfortable, the cats have their own replica of the main house right next door, where they can relax in style. This miniature version of the Hemingway House provides a cosy retreat for these special feline residents. Ensuring they continue to enjoy the same level of comfort and care that Hemingway himself would have provided.

Ernest Hemingway Lived In This House From 1931 To 1939

The Hemingway House in Key West was built in 1851 in a Spanish Colonial style using native rock quarried from the property. When Ernest and his wife, Pauline Hemingway, acquired the home, it had fallen into significant disrepair. Recognising its architectural value and historical significance, they undertook an extensive restoration in the early 1930s. Their efforts preserved the home’s grandeur.

Ernest Hemingway met his second wife, Pauline, in Paris, and they later moved to Key West, Florida, in 1928. That same year, their first child, Patrick, was born in Kansas City on June 28, 1928. In 1931, they welcomed their second son, Gregory.

One Of The Property’s Most Notable Features Is The Swimming Pool

Constructed between 1937 and 1938 at a cost of $20,000, a substantial amount at the time. It was the first in-ground pool in Key West. Due to its high cost, Hemingway famously pressed a penny into the wet cement of the surrounding patio, jokingly declaring it to be his last. This penny remains embedded in the stone near the north end of the pool, serving as a small but enduring piece of the home’s history.

Hemingway House Gives You A Real Insight

Hemingway followed a strict writing routine, beginning in his office at 6 a.m. and working until noon, typically producing 500 to 700 words per day. An estimated 70% of his published works were written during his years in this home.

After his divorce from Pauline in 1940, Ernest Hemingway relocated to Cuba with his third wife, Martha Gellhorn. Despite this move, he maintained a connection to Key West, returning periodically throughout the 1940s and 1950s until his passing in 1961 aged 61.

While the island has long been a haven for writers and artists, few have left as lasting an imprint as Hemingway. His legacy continues to shape the cultural and literary identity of Key West, drawing visitors from around the world to the place he once called home. Want more tips on Key West? See our post.