Exploring Key West: Lime, Crime, and Tour Adventures with Kim Stamps In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor talks with Kim Stamps, a seasoned tour guide and business owner in Key West. They dive into Kim's unique journey from a finance graduate to operating popular tours in Key West, including the new Eyewitness True Crime Tour and Tart Tails Walking Tours. Kim shares about her experiences in the industry, the intricacies of starting and selling her first business, Up the Keys Tours, and the rich history and unique character of Key West. Listeners also get insights into what makes these tours special, along with some amusing anecdotes. The episode wraps up with some tips for visitors to Key West and a reminder that there's always time for limes and crime. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Introducing Kim Stamps: A Journey of Adventure 05:18 The Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Tour Business 09:17 Eyewitness Crime Tour: Expect the Unexpected 18:38 Tart Tails Tour: A Sweet Slice of Key West History 20:54 Exploring Key Lime Pie Adventures 21:25 Combining Crime and Key Lime Pie Tours 23:04 Surprising Guests on Tours 24:41 Footwear for Walking Tours 25:54 Misconceptions About Key West Locals 27:43 Journey to Becoming a Tour Guide 29:21 Advice for Aspiring Tour Guides 32:00 Future Plans for Tours 33:48 Best Places to Eat in Key West 37:12 Final Thoughts and Custom Tours www.funinkeywest.com Book iWitness Crime Tour Here

Exploring the Historic Key West Aquarium: A Dive into Tourism History In this episode of Fun in Key West, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a historical journey through the Key West Aquarium. Michele uncovers how the aquarium, built in the 1930s with the support of the Works Progress Administration, became the first open-air aquarium in the United States and a pivotal point in the transformation of Key West into a tourism hotspot. The episode covers the challenges faced over the years, including hurricanes and economic shifts, and highlights the aquarium's role in educating and captivating visitors with its marine life exhibits. Michele also provides practical tips for exploring the aquarium today and invites listeners to connect through the Fun in Key West community. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:28 Exploring the Key West Aquarium 03:53 The Birth of Key West Tourism 07:14 Challenges and Resilience 10:04 Modern Day Aquarium Experience 13:23 Historic Marker Monday and Community Engagement 15:42 Conclusion and Next Steps www.funinkeywest.com

Tasty Tuesday: The Ultimate Key West Waterfront Dining Guide In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a culinary journey through the best waterfront dining spots in Key West. From upscale experiences like Hot Tin Roof to casual beachside eats at Loggerheads Beach Bar, Michele shares insider tips on where to savor fresh seafood, exotic cocktails, and breathtaking ocean views. She also highlights the vibrant local food scene, with recommendations for various dining options, including brunch, lunch, and dinner spots. Tune in to discover the hidden gems and must-visit eateries to make your Key West trip deliciously unforgettable. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Diving into Waterfront Dining 04:41 Hot Tin Roof: Sunset Vibes and Chic Island Experience 05:36 Sunset Pier: Iconic Views and Live Music 06:21 Seaside Cafe: Lobster Pizza and Southernmost Charm 07:26 Southernmost Beach Cafe: Fresh Fish and Margaritas 07:59 La Trattoria Oceanside: Italian Delights 08:21 Salute on the Beach: Lunch and Strolls 08:44 Loggerheads Beach Bar: Feet in the Sand 09:15 Geiger Key Marina: Old School Vibes 10:08 Boathouse Bar and Grill: Best Happy Hour 10:47 Hurricane Hole: Kayaks and Catch of the Day 11:18 Half Shell Raw Bar: Quintessential Key West 12:06 Conch Republic Seafood Company: Fresh Catch and Happy Hour 12:56 Fisherman's Cafe: Breakfast and Lunch with a View 13:50 Louis's Backyard: Brunch and Liquid Lunch 14:37 Latitudes: Ferry Ride to Sunset Key 15:19 Wrapping Up: More Key West Dining Tips 16:21 Join the Fun in Key West Community 17:17 Farewell and Final Thoughts www.funinkeywest.com

Unveiling Key West: Your Ultimate Guide for January 2026 In this inaugural episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast for 2026, host Michele O'Connor serves as your vibrant guide to all things Key West. Michele covers a broad spectrum of topics such as where to eat, drink, stay, and enjoy in Key West, especially focused on January events. Listeners are introduced to the unique offerings and lesser-known gems of the island, including festivals like the Southernmost Regatta, Mile Zero Fest, and Key West Literary Seminar. Whether you're a local, a frequent visitor, or simply daydreaming of a tropical escape, this episode provides essential insights and updates to help you maximize your Key West experience. Highlights include a rundown of the weather, top activities, key places to visit, and upcoming events, blending practical advice with local flavor. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Kicking Off Wandering Wednesday 2026 03:34 Why January is the Best Time to Visit Key West 09:10 Exciting Events in Key West This January 18:25 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts www.funinkewest.com

Discover Key West's Boathouse: Happy Hour and History Combined In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into one of Key West's most beloved happy hour spots, the Boathouse, which is located in the historic seaport. O'Connor shares insider details on their half-price small plates, waterfront views, and fascinating historical significance tied to the location. Listeners will learn about the Boathouse's move from Front Street to its current spot, popular menu items, and historical tidbits about the turtle corrals previously on-site. Michele also encourages listeners to join the fun at Fun in Key West, including signing up for the happy hour and book club lists, and participating in weekly trivia giveaways for a chance to win Key West swag. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Thirsty Thursday: Happy Hour and History 03:13 Exploring the Boathouse 05:50 Boathouse Menu Highlights 07:38 Historic Seaport and Turtle Crawls 10:24 Join the Fun: Newsletters, Book Club, and More 12:01 Conclusion and Farewell www.funinkeywest.com

December Delights in Key West: Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides an insider's guide to the vibrant December events in Key West and the Florida Keys. From holiday parades, boat parades, and festive light tours to concerts, art walks, and fishing tournaments, listeners will discover a plethora of activities to enjoy. Michele highlights key events such as the Key West Christmas Parade, the Key West Lighted Boat Parade, and various theater performances. She also shares tips on weather and packing for the trip, and encourages listeners to visit funinkeywest.com for more details and event updates. This episode is perfect for anyone planning a visit to Key West or simply daydreaming about a tropical holiday escape. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Holiday Magic in Key West 02:57 December Events in Key West 04:55 Key West Holiday Activities 08:00 Upcoming Events and Activities 16:26 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Unveiling Key West's Civil War Legacy: The Story Behind the Blockade In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor explores Key West's surprising role during the Civil War. Dive into the history of the Union blockade, the strategic importance of Key West, and the role of British blockade running ships. O'Connor also provides insights into local historic markers and encourages listeners to explore these hidden stories through the self-guided walking tour. Additionally, listeners can sign up for the newsletter for trivia, happy hour tips, and a chance to win the monthly Key West surprise box. The episode wraps up with an invitation to join the free book club, featuring books connected to Key West. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:37 Historic Marker Monday: Key West in the Civil War 04:30 The Strategic Importance of Key West 07:56 The Role of Blockade Runners 09:11 British Involvement and Economic Impact 12:09 Exploring Key West's Historic Markers 14:24 Join Our Community and Stay Connected 15:52 Conclusion and Farewell www.funinkeywest.com

Exploring Key West: From Sunrise to Sunset with Fun in Key West In this episode of Fun in Key West, host Michele O'Connor and her husband Kevin from Out A Here Travel, provide a comprehensive recap of their recent Key West adventure. They discuss updates at key locations like Pittsburgh International and Key West airports, and their stay at the Southernmost Beach Resort. The episode includes recommendations for dining, coffee spots, new breweries, and unique tours like the Eyewitness Crime Tour. They also touch on practical travel tips and changes to popular attractions and transit services. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this episode offers valuable insights for your next Key West escapade. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 02:01 Special Guest: Kevin from Out of Here Travel 03:43 Travel Insights: Pittsburgh to Key West 04:58 Exploring the New Key West Airport 10:10 Staying at the Southernmost Beach Resort 13:50 Sunrise Photography and Resort Activities 19:15 Key West Coffee and Dining Options 20:40 Discovering the Southernmost Brewery 23:18 Eyewitness Crime Tour and Key Lime Pie Tasting 26:16 Exploring Local Dining Gems 27:47 Reviving Outta Here Travel 29:40 Cruising Adventures and Destinations 33:06 Key West Trolley and Transportation Tips 35:05 Changes at Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop 36:32 Top 10 Things We Love About Key West 46:42 Final Thoughts and Travel Tips https://funinkeywest.com/ https://www.outaheretravel.com/

Exploring Key Largo: Your First Stop on the Road to Paradise Join Michele O'Connor on the Fun in Key West podcast as she kicks off 'Wandering Wednesday' with a detailed exploration of Key Largo. Discover Key Largo's unique charm, from the underwater adventures at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to bird-watching at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary. Learn about local tips for dining, happy hours, and nightlife, and get recommendations on where to stay. Whether it's your first visit or you're a seasoned traveler, Michele provides an insider's guide to maximizing your Key Largo experience. Complete with activity suggestions, nature spots, and sunset views, this episode is your ultimate guide to making the most of Key Largo before continuing your journey through the Florida Keys. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Exploring Key Largo: First Stop on the Road to Paradise 02:06 Key Largo Daytime Adventures 14:54 Nightlife and Dining in Key Largo 20:28 Where to Stay in Key Largo 22:30 Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips 27:01 Conclusion and Community Engagement https://funinkeywest.com/ https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/ https://funinkeywest.com/things-to-do-in-key-largo-at-night/

Diving into Key West's Sponging History Welcome to the Fun in Key West podcast, hosted by Michele O'Connor. In this episode with a fresh theme song and intro, Michele explores the fascinating history of the sponging industry in Key West. Discover how this unexpected industry blossomed in the 1820s, peaked in the 1890s, and eventually declined due to overharvesting and environmental damage. Learn about the economic impact on Key West, the influence of Greek divers, and the modern-day connections to this historic trade. Michele also highlights the importance of Key West's historic markers and encourages visiting funinkeywest.com for more information, including a self-guided walking tour, happy hour list, and book club. Tune in for a blend of history, local insights, and a celebration of Key West's unique culture. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Historic Marker Monday: The Sponging Industry 04:12 The Rise and Fall of Sponging in Key West 11:46 Modern Connections to Key West's Sponging Past 14:14 Exploring Key West's Historic Markers 14:59 Stay Connected with Fun in Key West 15:58 Conclusion and Farewell https://funinkeywest.com/ https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/ https://funinkeywest.com/sponging-more-than-a-shopping-trip/