A Cat Lover’s Guide to Key West: Cafes and More
Cat Cafe Key West is your ultimate destination for feline fun and relaxation in the Florida Keys. If you’re searching for a purrfect spot to sip coffee surrounded by cute, adoptable cats, the Upper Keys Humane Society on Overseas Highway is where you need to be.
- Location: Key Largo
- Open Hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to noon
- Features: Play with cats, enjoy a cat-themed library, and sip on coffee or tea!
Nestled in the vibrant and quirky streets of Key West, cat cafes offer cat lovers a haven to unwind and engage with furry friends. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the cozy cat cafes blend seamlessly with the artistic charm that Key West is famous for. Beyond just a café, it’s a community hub where visitors can connect with cats and potentially bring home a new family member.
I’m Chris Higgins, a graphic artist who has spent years immersed in Key West’s vibrant creative scene. My journey in design began in a quirky workshop on Stock Island, where I finded my love for unique art and, naturally, the charm of cat cafe Key West settings. Let’s explore what makes these cafes purrfect, and why they’re a must-visit for any cat enthusiast and art lover!
Cat Cafe Key West: A Unique Experience
Cat Cafe Key West is your ultimate destination for feline fun and relaxation in the Florida Keys. If you’re searching for a purrfect spot to sip coffee surrounded by cute, adoptable cats, the Upper Keys Humane Society on Overseas Highway is where you need to be.
- Location: Key Largo
- Open Hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to noon
- Features: Play with cats, enjoy a cat-themed library, and sip on coffee or tea!
Nestled in the vibrant and quirky streets of Key West, cat cafes offer cat lovers a haven to unwind and engage with furry friends. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the cozy cat cafes blend seamlessly with the artistic charm that Key West is famous for. Beyond just a café, it’s a community hub where visitors can connect with cats and potentially bring home a new family member.
The Upper Keys Humane Society plays a pivotal role in this unique experience. They provide a no-kill shelter environment and have transformed their front room into a delightful cat café. Here, every visit supports the shelter’s mission to find loving homes for cats and kittens. From playful kittens to serene adult cats, there’s a feline friend for everyone.
The cafe isn’t just about cats; it’s a complete experience. You’ll find a cat-themed library filled with books and gifts that celebrate all things feline. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea, available for a small donation, while you relax in the warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the company of these charming creatures.
For those looking to adopt, the café provides an opportunity to meet and interact with the cats in a home-like setting. This makes it easier to find the perfect match for your family. Plus, spending time with the cats helps them become more socialized and ready for their forever homes.
So, whether you’re a cat lover, an art enthusiast, or just curious, Cat Cafe Key West offers a unique blend of relaxation and community spirit. It’s a must-visit destination that captures the heart of Key West’s artistic and animal-loving culture.
The Hemingway Cats: A Historical Feline Attraction
In the heart of Key West lies a unique slice of history intertwined with feline charm: the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This cultural space is not just a tribute to the literary giant but also a sanctuary for a special breed of cats known as polydactyl cats.
Hemingway House: A Cultural Gem
The Hemingway House, once the residence of the famous author Ernest Hemingway, is now a museum attracting visitors from around the globe. This beautifully preserved home offers a glimpse into the life and times of Hemingway, showcasing his personal belongings, manuscripts, and the lush gardens he once enjoyed.
Polydactyl Cats: The Feline Residents
What makes the Hemingway House truly special are its feline residents. Known as polydactyl cats, these cats are distinguished by their extra toes, a genetic trait that gives them a unique appearance. Legend has it that Hemingway was gifted a six-toed cat by a ship’s captain, and today, approximately 60 of these cats, many of which are descendants of Hemingway’s original pet, roam the grounds freely.
These cats are more than just a quirky attraction; they are an integral part of the museum’s identity. Visitors often find them lounging in the sun or playfully interacting with guests, adding a living, breathing element to the historical ambiance.
A Living Legacy
The presence of these cats at the Hemingway House has turned the site into a cultural icon for cat lovers and history buffs alike. The museum staff ensures that the cats are well-cared for, with regular veterinary check-ups and plenty of love. Each cat is named after a famous person, a tradition that adds to the charm and character of this beloved Key West attraction.
For those visiting Key West, a trip to the Hemingway House offers a rare opportunity to experience history in a unique way. Whether you’re drawn by the literary significance or the allure of the polydactyl cats, this cultural space provides a memorable and enriching experience.
Exploring Cat Cafes in Florida
Florida is a haven for cat lovers, boasting the highest number of cat cafes in the United States. With 23 cafes, including a unique mobile cat cafe, Florida is a paradise for those who adore feline company. Let’s explore some of the highlights of Florida’s cat cafe scene.
Purradise Springs: A Glamping Experience with Cats
In Northern Florida, near Ichetucknee Springs State Park, lies a truly unique destination: Purradise Springs. This cat sanctuary offers an extraordinary experience where guests can glamp with cats. Imagine staying in a luxury tent surrounded by sanctuary cats, all while being nestled in the natural beauty of Florida. It’s the only experience of its kind in the U.S., providing visitors with a peaceful retreat and the chance to bond with these delightful creatures.
Whiskers Workplace: Co-Working with Cats
In August 2024, Whiskers Workplace opened in St. Petersburg, bringing a twist to the traditional cat cafe concept. This space combines a co-working environment with the joy of spending time with cats. Imagine typing away on your laptop while a friendly feline curls up next to you. It’s a perfect blend of productivity and relaxation, offering a unique workspace for cat-loving professionals.
Florida’s Cat Cafe Growth
Since the opening of the Orlando Cat Cafe near Disney in 2016, Florida has seen a steady increase in cat cafes. The state has defied national trends, even during challenging times like 2020, when five new cafes opened. By 2023, Florida reached a record six new cafes in a single year. This growth is not just about numbers; it’s about community. Cat cafes in Florida often partner with local rescue organizations, providing a haven for stray cats and a chance for them to find loving homes.
Florida’s vibrant cat cafe scene is more than just a trend; it’s a testament to the state’s commitment to animal welfare and community engagement. Whether you’re in the mood for glamping with cats or looking for a cozy spot to work alongside feline friends, Florida’s cat cafes offer something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Cafes in Key West
Does Florida have a Cat Cafe?
Absolutely! Florida is a leader in the cat cafe scene, with a remarkable 23 cat cafes spread across the state. One notable location is The Kitty Beautiful in Downtown Orlando. This cafe offers a charming setting where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee while interacting with adoptable cats. It’s a fantastic place for cat lovers to relax and potentially find a new furry friend to take home.
What happened to all the cats in Key West?
Key West is famously associated with Ernest Hemingway, who left a lasting legacy not just in literature but also in feline history. When Hemingway passed away, his home became a museum, known today as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. The museum is home to the descendants of Hemingway’s beloved cats, known for their unique polydactyl trait—meaning they have extra toes. These cats have become an integral part of the museum’s charm and continue to delight visitors from around the world.
How many cats live at the Hemingway House in Key West?
At the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, you’ll find approximately 60 polydactyl cats roaming the grounds. These cats are direct descendants of Hemingway’s original six-toed feline companions. The museum staff takes great care of these cats, ensuring they are well-fed, healthy, and happy. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of seeing these historical felines as they explore the beautiful home and gardens.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of Key West’s cat-centric attractions, it’s clear that this island is a haven for cat lovers and art enthusiasts alike. Handshucked Designs stands out as a unique artistic venture in Key West, offering a blend of creativity and local charm. Our studio, nestled in the vibrant Bahama Village, is a testament to the island’s eclectic spirit.
Key West is not just about sun-soaked beaches and lively nightlife; it’s also a cultural hub where art and history intertwine. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, with its famous six-toed cats, provides a glimpse into the island’s storied past. Meanwhile, the rise of cat cafes across Florida, including the Upper Keys Humane Society’s cat cafe, highlights a growing trend of combining relaxation with animal companionship.
At Handshucked Designs, we accept this spirit of creativity and community. Our gallery showcases original art and hand-printed apparel, with popular series like “Lost Cat” and “Hungry Manatee” reflecting the quirky charm of Key West. We invite you to visit our studio and find the distinctive art and design that define our brand.
For more information about our offerings, visit our Handshucked Designs page. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we look forward to sharing our passion for art and design with you.
