Ernest Hemingway House, Key West

Nestled in the heart of Key West, Florida, the Ernest Hemingway House is a beacon for literary enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This Spanish Colonial style home, where the Nobel Prize-winning author penned some of his most celebrated works, now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Constructed in 1851, the house was home to Hemingway and his second wife, Pauline Pfeiffer, from 1931 to 1939. It was here that Hemingway wrote portions of "A Farewell to Arms," "For Whom the Bell Tolls," and the Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Old Man and the Sea." The property is also famous for its lush gardens and the more than forty polydactyl (six-toed) cats that roam the grounds, believed to be descendants of Hemingway's own feline companions.

Visitors to the Ernest Hemingway House can explore the well-preserved rooms, which still house the writer's personal belongings, furniture, and an impressive collection of European antiques. The writer's studio, where he spent his mornings crafting stories, remains a highlight of the tour.

The museum is open year-round, offering guided tours that provide insights into Hemingway's life, his family, and his impact on literature and Key West culture. The home itself is a National Historic Landmark and stands as a testament to Hemingway's influence and the time he spent in this vibrant city.