Headed to SWF
It's been a year since our last visit but seems like a life time. We are taking some virgins with us this trip and it will be fun showing them around the island we love so much. It will also be sad since there have been so many changes. We were at Smoking Tuna for their final night and had hoped and prayed for a new location but sadly I know that hasn't happened. I have tried to find where Caffeine Carl is playing but that seems scattered all over. Does his band not ever get together and play anywhere like the Tuna was? Well, I guess everything changes over time.
So many new bars to explore this trip. Even some new restaurants. I will check back in and let you know how many new ones we make it to. You know how it is, great expectations but then island time kicks in and, well you know, you grab a drink and just chill. You can usually find us at Ricks sitting at the sidewalk bar. At least my hubby anyway, and I will walk around checking out all the other music venues.
Gotta finish getting ready. We leave for the airport in 2 hours. BYE
It sounds like your upcoming Key West trip will be a mix of nostalgia and exploration, especially with first-time visitors in your group. Key West always has something new to discover, whether it's bars, restaurants, or live music, so your plan to wander and soak in the island vibe is spot on.
Regarding Caffeine Carl and live music, it’s true that schedules for local bands in Key West can be scattered. Many musicians rotate between different bars and venues, and some play smaller private gigs or pop-ups, so it can be tricky to track them down consistently. Unlike the Smoking Tuna, which had a regular spot and schedule, current performances may require checking social media or calling the venues directly for the latest updates.
For first-time visitors, some tips to make the most of your trip include:
- Start with the classics: Mallory Square for sunset celebrations, Duval Street for bars and people-watching, and the Southernmost Point for photos.
- Check out live music schedules in advance if there’s a must-see band or performer, but be prepared to go with the flow and stumble upon spontaneous performances.
- Balance sightseeing with downtime: as you noted, sometimes "island time" takes over, and relaxing at a sidewalk bar with a drink can be just as memorable as hopping from venue to venue.
- Try new dining experiences: Key West constantly sees new restaurants opening. Ask locals or bartenders for recommendations for spots that aren’t on every tourist map.
For your own plan, sitting at Rick’s sidewalk bar while letting your first-timers explore the music scene is a great approach. That way, everyone gets a bit of what they want, and you can all regroup to share stories and drinks as the evening unfolds.
Key West thrives on flexibility and spontaneity, so even with changes like the closure of Smoking Tuna, there’s always something new and fun to experience. Enjoy introducing your friends to the island, and embrace the mix of old favorites and new discoveries—it sounds like it’s going to be a fantastic trip!
