Celebrate “Papa” Hemingway at The Marker Key West Harbor Resort

Screen icon Marlene Dietrich affectionately referred to Ernest Hemingway as “Papa” and the literary pioneer certainly parented over 50 cats at his beautiful home in Key West, Florida.

Now, you can celebrate “Papa”—and perhaps explore your own Daddy issues in LGBTQ-friendly Key West—from July 23-27, when the “Conch Republic” comes alive in celebration of one of America’s most iconic and influential authors during Hemingway Days, a week-long tribute to the man who called this island home in the Florida Keys archipelago for much of the 1930s. (Hemingway preceded Tennessee Williams, who first visited Key West in 1941 and became a resident in 1949, living there for the rest of his life until his death in 1983.)

If you’re looking for a tropical, cultural getaway, The Marker Key West Harbor Resort invites you to immerse yourself in the rich literary legacy of Hemingway while enjoying the excitement of the island’s most iconic festival. The Marker Resort is ideally located in a quiet enclave near the Historic Key West Harbor, just minutes from the Hemingway Home & Museum, a preserved historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the life of the iconic author. It features his former residence, lush gardens, and numerous six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s own pets. Visitors can explore the home, including his writing studio, and learn about his life and work through guided tours.

And The Marker Resort pays tribute to the author, along with many other amenities.

Each guest room features a curated collection of books by Hemingway, as well as works by local authors and stories about Key West, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the island’s rich literary heritage. The vibrant energy of Duval Street and Mallory Square is also within easy reach, making The Marker a perfect destination for book lovers and adventurers alike.

Take a tour of The Marker Residences here:

The Hemingway Package

The Marker invites guests to step into the world of Ernest Hemingway with its curated Ernest Hemingway Package including:

• Hemingway Home Tour: Explore the iconic Hemingway Home & Museum, where the celebrated author lived and worked. 
• Papa’s Pilar Rum Experience: Savor a bottle of Hemingway-inspired Papa’s Pilar Rum and tour the distillery, named after Hemingway’s cherished boat, Pilar, which inspired many of his tales.
• Sunset Sail or Fishing Charter: Embark on an adventure reminiscent of Hemingway’s love for the sea.
• In-Room Wellness Kit: Unwind after a day of exploring with premium products, including face masks and massage oil.

*This package is available upon request, subject to availability.

Take a tour of the Guest Rooms here:

LGBTQ things to do in Key West

Key West is known for its welcoming and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, offering a variety of activities and venues catering to the community. Here’s a glimpse into the things you can do:

Nightlife and entertainment

• Drag Shows: Catch interactive drag shows at Aqua Bar and Nightclub on Duval Street. You can also find drag brunches and performances at places like Mangoes Restaurant and during events like the Headdress Ball.
• Gay Bars & Nightclubs:
  • 801 Bourbon Bar: A lively gay bar with drag shows, karaoke, and other events.
  • Bourbon Street Pub: A New Orleans-themed gay destination with theme nights, drag shows, and an outdoor pool with a bar. They also host a special New Year’s Eve laser show with DJ Gyver.
  • One Saloon: A historical gay bar known for its late hours, drink specials, and live entertainment.

Beaches and relaxation

• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: This park, also known as “Fort Liz Taylor Beach” to the LGBTQ community, features a beautiful beach, water sports rentals, nature trails, a cafe, and a pre-Civil War fortress.
• Smathers Beach: A public beach with showers and volleyball, popular during spring break.
• Higgs Beach: A small beach with a pier, monuments, and an on-site restaurant.

Check out The Marker here for bookings now and all year round.