What is the Gay Neighborhood in Key West?

Unlike most cities, Key West doesn't have one specific gay neighborhood because the entire island — particularly Old Town — has been a gay destination since the 1970s. The densest concentration of LGBTQ+ nightlife, guesthouses, and community spaces runs along Duval Street and the parallel Fleming Street.

Duval Street — The Gay Corridor

Duval Street stretches 1.2 miles from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, and the stretch between Petronia Street and Fleming Street is where most gay bars cluster. You'll find Aqua Bar and Nightclub at 711 Duval, Bourbon Street Pub at 724 Duval, 801 Bourbon Bar at 801 Duval, and La Te Da at 1125 Duval — all within walking distance of each other.

Fleming Street — Guesthouse Row

One block south of Duval, Fleming Street is the epicenter of gay guesthouses. Island House Key West (1129 Fleming), Alexander's LGBTQIA+ Guesthouse (1118 Fleming), and Equator Resort (818 Fleming) are all within two blocks of each other — all male-only, clothing-optional properties.

Community Landmarks

The Key West Business Guild on Truman Avenue is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ business guilds in the United States, publishing the "Gay Key West" guide since 1978. The AIDS Memorial at White Street Pier honors residents lost during the epidemic. Tennessee Williams lived in Key West from the late 1940s until 1983, helping establish the island's reputation as a haven for creative LGBTQ+ people.