Author Ernest Hemingway's Florida dwelling has been preserved to exhibit his furnishings, original writings and art. Lush outdoor gardens and a collection of ecclectic items collected during Hemingway's travels give visitors a glimpse into a house in which one of America's best writers found inspiration.
I guess I will end up re-iterating what alot of reviewers have mentioned already. There are alot of cats here since Hemingway wanted his pet cats' descendents to be well taken care of. This is really interesting to see as they are allowed to go anywhere even on the beds, counters. lol. Anyway, the house is beautiful and typical FL two story beach home with open balcony openings at the 2nd floor. Admission is quite pricey IMHO but worth it if interested in Hemingway/classic American literature/typical FL architecture back in the day.
Other than the special 6 toed cats that roam all around the house, gardens, and surrounding areas this is not a place for the kids. It's a house. When's the last time your kids said "Mommy, mommy lets go walk around a house!" Kids don't really get the historical importance of Hemingway and his literature. So, for the price, it's not worth the cost. Just take a picture in front of the sign that says "Hemingway House" and take the kids on the Conch Train or go to the Blonde Giraffe restaurant for a slice of chocolate covered key lime pie on a stick. Yummy! And go back to the Hemingway house when they are in high school and can appreciate it's significance.
My husband and I really enjoyed this tour and all the history presented but its just that a tour; not really something for children. Very educational about Hemingway and one would find the tour interesting if into history and literature. It shows some fascinating aspects of Hemingway's life and it was very intersting to see where he did his work. And descendents of his six-toed cat still are on the grounds (LOTS of them actually) so if you have an allergy you might just want to take a picture of the outside.
This might not be for all kids. The older ones who might be familiar with Hemingway's literature would really appreciate it. The house and grounds are beautiful and the guides are friendly and humorous. A great glimpse into Hemingway's life and muse.
I wanted to stop at the Ernest Hemingway House because I'm into literature, and I'm glad we did see it. It was not the most interesting activity to do with a family. However, if you're at Key West for a visit, you should stop buy the Hemingway house. At least take a photo of yourself in front of it. If you like reading Hemingway (I love the short novel "The Old Man and the Sea"), you should tour the house where he lived part of his life. Conclusion . . .not fun for the whole family, but worth a visit.
Hemingway was one of Key West's favorite locals- he was fondly known as "Papa" and would regale neighbors with grand stories of fishing and sailing adventures. Guided tours throughout the grounds capture the spirit of a brilliant and complex man while providing interesting facts about his life and times. Animal lovers will excite in the house's beloved family of cats- descended directly from Hemingway's favorite pet, most have a unique extra toe that gives their paws a "mitten" look.