Love history, cigars, and Cuban culture? When you’re making a list of Key West activities you are interested in pursuing on your next Key West vacation, be sure to add Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum to that list. Casa Cayo, who, you might ask? This emporium may not be on your radar initially, but it’s a fun and enlightening stop when you’re looking for things to do in Key West. Another plus of exploring this unique attraction: located on Mallory Square, the Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum is not far from many Key West vacation rentals.
What does Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum mean?
The name of this attraction is certainly a mouthful, but what does it mean? Well, “casa” means, of course, house. Cayo Hueso translates to “Bone Island,” which is the original name of Key West. Cayo Hueso y Habana means “Key West and Havana.” Translated, Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum is the House of Key West & Havana History.
Where does it originate from?
Close to Havana (only 90 miles away) and home to many Cuban immigrants during the mid-1800s, Key West soon became known as “Cigar City USA.” Many of these immigrants were cigar factory owners and workers who brought this trade to Key West. By 1890, the population of Key West grew more than 25 times its number from just fifty years before, and 130 cigar factories were producing 100 million cigars a year. From fishing village to significant cigar producer in just two decades!
Today, there are many Cuban restaurants, shops, and bakeries in Key West, and Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum celebrates this cigar history and Cuban/Spanish art, cuisine, and more.
What is Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum?
While the red brick building housing the Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum may not look like much, there IS much to see and experience once you pass through its doors. You’ll be taken back to a time when the Cuban presence and persuasion on the small island was at its height.
Peruse walls of photos depicting Cuban figures. Learn of the island’s fight for independence and the legacy of Cubans on Key West. Eat some of the area’s best Cuban food at El Meson de Pepe, the Historeum’s restaurant, well known for its traditional Cuban dishes such as lechón asado (slow-roasted pork) and ropa vieja (spiced, shredded beef). Shop Abuela’s Bodega and purchase Cuban and Caribbean spices and other ingredients so you can cook like you’re still on the island when you return home.
Step to the outdoor patio at El Meson de Pepe and dance to (whether you know how or not) or enjoy the sounds of a wonderful live band playing salsa. Enter Cigar City USA from the patio and shop what is likely the largest selection of cigars on Key West and where you can watch as cigars are hand-rolled.
The emporium is open every day from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
How to Book
You can book a trip to Casa Cayo Hueso y Habana Historeum as part of a guided tour of historical sites on Key West through your travel agent or Historic Tours of America. The latter offers an Old Town Trolley Tour that will take you to the emporium and other sites of interest.
Are you booking through Key West Vacation Homes? Be sure to ask about specialty discounts available!
Plan Your Key West Vacation
There is so much to see and do in Key West that the whole family will enjoy. Check out our available Key West vacation rentals with a dock and book your stay with us today!
Stay with Key West Vacation Homes
When it comes to Key West house rentals, you’re sure to find something to your liking. Key West waterfront homes, luxury townhomes, and high-end condos are available, and you’ll enjoy lots of amenities that could, depending on what you choose, include private pools & lanai; porches; private balconies; private garages; fully-equipped kitchens; boat docks; washer/dryer; and smart HDTVs.
