Key West, FL featuring Orlando & Daytona Beach

Duration: 11 Days | Meals Included: 8 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Disney Parks & I-RIDE Trolley

Spend the day your way in Orlando! Enjoy free time to visit one of the world-famous Disney parks, explore the attractions along International Drive, or simply relax and enjoy the resort amenities. Guests wishing to visit a Disney park may purchase admission tickets through the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando. For those looking to explore the area, convenient I-RIDE Trolley passes are available for purchase, providing easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and attractions throughout the International Drive corridor.

 

Southernmost Point Buoy Photo Stop

Southernmost Point Buoy is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Key West. Located just 90 miles from Cuba, this colorful buoy marks the southernmost point in the continental United States and provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo. Have your camera ready as you capture a picture at this famous destination.

 

Hemingway Home and Museum

Step back in time with a visit to the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where legendary author Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote during the 1930s. Explore the beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial-style home, stroll through the lush tropical gardens, and learn about Hemingway’s life, literary accomplishments, and connection to Key West. Be sure to keep an eye out for the museum’s famous six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s beloved pets, which continue to roam the property today. This fascinating attraction offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of America’s most celebrated writers.

 

Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Museum

Discover the rich maritime history of Key West with a visit to the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Museum. Built in 1848, this historic lighthouse served as an important navigational aid for ships traveling through the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. Explore the restored Keeper’s Museum, featuring exhibits on the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families, as well as Key West’s nautical heritage. Those wishing to climb the lighthouse’s spiral staircase will be rewarded with panoramic views of Key West and the surrounding turquoise waters. This historic landmark offers a fascinating look into the island’s past and the vital role the lighthouse played in maritime safety.

 

Duval Street, Key West, FL

Duval Street is the heart and soul of Key West. Stretching from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, this famous street is lined with colorful historic buildings, unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, cafés, and lively entertainment venues. Enjoy time to stroll at your own pace, browse local shops, sample Key West specialties, or simply soak in the island’s laid-back charm. Whether you're looking for shopping, dining, people-watching, or a taste of Key West’s vibrant culture, Duval Street offers something for everyone.

 

Harry S. Truman Little White House

Originally built in 1890 as a residence for naval officers, this historic property became known as the “Little White House” after President Harry S. Truman spent 175 days here during his presidency. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms where important presidential decisions were made, see original furnishings and artifacts, and discover the property’s fascinating history through informative exhibits and guided interpretation. This unique landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into presidential history and Key West’s connection to the U.S. Navy.

 

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world. Wander through a lush, climate-controlled habitat filled with colorful butterflies, exotic flowering plants, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant tropical birds. As you stroll along winding pathways, you'll have the opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures up close in a serene and relaxing setting. This enchanting attraction offers a peaceful escape and a memorable experience for nature lovers of all ages.

 

Bahama Village

Bahama Village is one of Key West’s most culturally rich and character-filled districts. Known for its deep Bahamian roots and vibrant local heritage, the area features colorful cottages, small shops, local eateries, and a strong sense of community history. Take time to stroll through its streets and experience a more authentic side of Key West, where island traditions, music, and culture have long been part of daily life. This stop offers a meaningful glimpse into the island’s diverse cultural past and present.

 

Key West Sunset Dinner Cruise

Enjoy an unforgettable evening aboard a Key West Sunset Dinner Cruise, where you’ll take in sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico as the sun sets over the horizon. Relax on the deck with a delicious dinner as the sky transforms into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple. This classic Key West experience offers the perfect blend of sightseeing, dining, and island ambiance, making it a memorable highlight of any visit to the Florida Keys.

 

Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

Step back into Key West’s daring maritime past at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. This interactive museum brings the island’s 19th-century wrecking industry to life, when salvaging shipwrecks was a vital part of the local economy. Through engaging exhibits, artifacts recovered from historic wrecks, and costumed interpreters, discover the fascinating stories of the wreckers who risked their lives to salvage cargo from the treacherous Florida Straits. A highlight of the experience is climbing the 65-foot lookout tower, where sweeping views of Key West and the harbor offer a glimpse into how wreckers once watched for ships in distress.

 

Key West's Sails to Rails Museum

This engaging museum traces the island’s fascinating history from the age of sailing ships and shipwreck salvage to the arrival of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railway, which connected Key West to the mainland. Through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling displays, visitors gain insight into how transportation and trade shaped the development of the Florida Keys. It’s a great stop to better understand the unique journey of Key West from isolated island to vibrant coastal destination.

 

Historic Seaport

Enjoy this vibrant waterfront area where Key West’s maritime heritage comes to life. Once the center of the island’s fishing and shipping industry, the seaport is now filled with charming docks, sailing charters, waterfront restaurants, and local shops. Watch boats come and go, enjoy fresh seafood with harbor views, or simply take in the relaxed island atmosphere. This offers a perfect blend of history, dining, and coastal charm in the heart of Key West.

 

Mallory Square & Sunset Celebration

Immerse yourself in one of Key West’s most famous waterfront gathering spots. Each evening, this lively plaza comes alive with its world-renowned Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers, local artisans, musicians, and breathtaking views over the Gulf of Mexico. Watch the sun dip below the horizon in a picture-perfect setting while enjoying the festive island atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to soak in Key West’s vibrant culture, browse unique local crafts, and enjoy a truly unforgettable sunset experience.

 

Daytona Beach

Enjoy a day at your leisure exploring the vibrant coastal community of Daytona Beach. Stroll along the famous beachfront, browse local shops, visit attractions, or relax by the ocean and take in the sunshine. For convenient transportation throughout the area, guests may take advantage of Votran , the local public transit system, which provides service to many of Daytona Beach’s popular destinations. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the beautiful Florida coast, this free day offers the flexibility to experience Daytona Beach at your own pace.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day four is included at the Doubletree Resort-Grand Key

Menu TBA

 

Dinner on day six is included aboard the Key West Sunset Cruise

Menu TBA

 

Dinner on day seven is included at A&B Lobster

Menu TBA

 

Dinner on day eight is included at Aunt Catfish's on the River. Choices are (Guests order when seated):

• Fried Shrimp

• Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce

• Fried Salt N Pepper Catfish

• Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Baby Back Ribs

Dinner is served with a baked potato or sweet potato, hush puppy, all you can eat Fish Camp fixins bar, and dessert. Soda, coffee, and hot tea are included.

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• The Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is conveniently located on International Drive near Universal Studios and is within easy access to all of the Orlando area theme parks. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to Universal Orlando, Sea World, and Aquatica. Shuttle services to Walt Disney World theme parks can be arranged from the hotel for a fee. The I-RIDE Trolley stops in front of the hotel.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• This trip is not a good fit for those with mobility challenges because a lot of walking is required.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Days 1: Hampton Inn Florence (Florence, SC)

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee marker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 2 & 3: Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando (Orlando, FL)

The Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is conveniently located on International Drive near Universal Studios and is within easy access to all the Orlando area theme parks. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to Universal Orlando, Sea World, and Aquatica. Shuttle services to Walt Disney World theme parks can be arranged from the hotel for a fee. The I-RIDE Trolley stops in front of the hotel.

 

The hotel features three outdoor pools. The Plaza Garden Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner daily. Lite Bite Deli offers soups, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Zebra's Sports Bar features a late-night bar food menu for dine-in or take-out. Smoooth Java Ice Cream Bar inside Smoooth Java Coffee Bar.

 

Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 4-7: Doubletree Resort-Grand Key (Key West, FL)

The Doubletree Resort-Grand Key is two miles from Smathers Beach. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and Duval Street are four miles away. The hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness room, Gumbo Limbo Tiki Bar (poolside), and Palm Haven restaurant. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 8 and 9: Perry's Ocean Edge Resort (Daytona Beach, FL)

Perry's Ocean Edge Resort is one of Daytona Beach’s largest and most popular vacation destinations. This oceanfront hotel features two outdoor pools, an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, a fitness room, putting green, and shuffleboard courts. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Day 10: Country Inn Fayetteville I-95 NC (Fayetteville, NC)

The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, hairdryer, and iron/board.