Key West, Florida: Hemingway Homes, Rum Bars & Tropical Vibes
Key West isn’t just palm trees and sunsets—you can wander Hemingway’s old house, hunt for shells, dive or snorkel the reef, or just get lost in quirky streets packed with shops and bars. The best things to do in Key West blend history, outdoor adventure, great eats, and iconic sights, so you can shape your own island escape, however long you’re here.
This guide lines up the must-see landmarks, top beaches, museums, day trips, outdoor adventures, and the food and nightlife that make Key West so easygoing and fun. Pick what fits your vibe—maybe you’re here for the history, or you want to be in the water all day, or maybe it’s about lazy evenings on Duval Street.
Top Places to Stay in Key West, FL
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Studio Blue 1214 White Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 330 |
| Key West Villas 512 Angela Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 321 |
| H2O Suites- Adults Only 1212 Simonton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 422 |
| Southernmost Point Guest House 1327 Duval Sreet, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,284 |
| Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages 320 Simonton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 944 |
| The Grand Guesthouse 1116 Grinnell Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 558 |
| Almond Tree Inn - Adults Only 512 Truman Ave, Downtown Key West, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 272 |
| The Capitana Key West 2401 North Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,967 |
| Orchid Key Inn - Adults Only 1004 Duval Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 254 |
| Key West Harbor Inn - Adults Only 219 Elizabeth Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 409 |
| Key West Bed and Breakfast 415 William Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 208 |
| Island City House 411 William Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 580 |
| Santa Maria Suites Resort 1401 Simonton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 488 |
| Old Town Manor 511 Eaton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 859 |
| Hyatt Vacation Club at Windward Pointe 3675 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 671 |
| Truman Hotel 611 Truman Avenue, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 2,304 |
| Douglas House 419 Amelia Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 2,268 |
| Courtney's Place Historic Cottages & Inns 720 Whitmarsh Lane, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,291 |
| Hyatt Vacation Club at Beach House 5051 Overseas Hwy, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 703 |
| The Laureate Key West 3444 North Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 2,092 |
| Ambrosia Key West 622 Fleming Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 721 |
| The Casablanca Hotel 904 Duval Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 575 |
| The Garden House 329 Elizabeth St, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 364 |
| Coco Plum Inn 615 Whitehead Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 695 |
| The Inn on Fleming 1016 Fleming Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 433 |
| Blue Marlin Motel 1320 Simonton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 4,150 |
| Harborside Motel & Marina 903 Eisenhower Dr, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,435 |
| L'Habitation Guesthouse- Adult Exclusive 408 Eaton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,324 |
| Westwinds Inn 914 Eaton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,272 |
| Oceans Edge Key West 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,122 |
| Alexander Palms Court - No Additional Resort Fees 715 South Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 851 |
| Duval House 815 Duval Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 752 |
| The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West 7001 Shrimp Rd, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 217 |
| La Pensione Inn - Adult Exclusive 809 Truman Avenue, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 524 |
| Silver Palms Inn 830 Truman Avenue, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 2,834 |
| Hampton Inn Key West FL 3755 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,658 |
| Opal Key Resort & Marina 245 Front Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, 33040, United States of America | 1,508 |
| Casa 325 Guesthouse 325 Duval Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 233 |
| Rose Lane Villas 511 Eaton Street (Check-in Location), Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 220 |
| Seascape Tropical Inn 420 Olivia Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 374 |
| Caribbean House 226 Petronia Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 596 |
| Paradise Inn - Adult Exclusive 819 Simonton Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 518 |
| Authors Key West Guesthouse 725 White Street , Key West, 33040, United States of America | 1,044 |
| Eden House 1015 Fleming Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,031 |
| Seaport Inn 329 William Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 308 |
| Coconut Mallory Resort and Marina 1445 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 283 |
| Parrot Key Hotel & Villas 2801 North Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,831 |
| Margaritaville Beach House Key West 2001 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 1,184 |
| Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa 601 Front Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 597 |
| New Orleans House - Gay Male Adult Guesthouse 724 Duval Street, Downtown Key West, Key West, FL 33040, United States of America | 265 |
Iconic Key West Attractions
Old Town’s lively streets, sunset rituals, and the famous buoy at the island’s tip are all close together—you can walk or bike with no trouble.
Duval Street Highlights
Duval Street slices through Old Town, crammed with bars, galleries, shops, and restaurants in just a handful of blocks. Start at Mallory Square and head toward the Southernmost Point—grab Cuban coffee, check out art, and try local seafood at small spots along the way.
It’s easy to lose track of time here. Stop for a frozen daiquiri or a craft cocktail at a classic bar, then duck into a boutique or a gallery with local art. Street performers show up on weekends, and there’s usually live music at night.
If you’re driving, parking’s tough—walking or biking is way less stressful. For a quieter stroll, try mid-mornings on weekdays when the shops are open but the crowds haven’t hit yet.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Every night, Mallory Square turns into a free sunset party on the waterfront. Jugglers, magicians, artists selling crafts, and food carts set up an hour before sunset, so getting there early is smart if you want a good spot on the seawall.
People clap as the sun drops into the Gulf and the sky goes crazy with color. If crowds aren’t your thing, try Front Street a few blocks east, or hop on a sunset cruise from the nearby docks.
Bring some cash for tips and quick buys—performers and vendors really appreciate it, and tipping keeps the whole scene going.
Southernmost Point Landmark
The painted buoy at Southernmost Point is one of Key West’s most photographed spots. It sits at South Street and Whitehead Street, claiming to be just 90 miles from Cuba. There’s almost always a line for photos, especially around sunrise and sunset.
If you want a shot without waiting forever, come before 9 a.m. or after dinner when things calm down. While you’re in the area, wander the nearby streets for classic conch houses and check out the Key West Lighthouse or the small museums close by.
Be respectful—stay on public sidewalks and mind any posted signs when you’re lining up for photos.
Unmissable Museums & History
Key West packs literary legends, presidential history, shipwreck treasure, and a classic lighthouse all within a short walk of Old Town. Each spot posts clear hours and ticket info, and most have hands-on exhibits that make the island’s past feel alive.
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Step into the house where Hemingway wrote and lived during the 1930s. You’ll tour his Spanish Colonial-style home, peek into his writing studio, and see original furniture and photos that hint at his Key West life.
Look for the six-toed cats—descendants of Hemingway’s own pets—lounging in the shady garden. Tours usually come with stories about his books, fishing trips, and friendships on the island.
Buy timed tickets ahead if you’re coming in high season. The Hemingway Home sits near other historic spots, so it’s easy to walk around and pop into nearby shops after your visit.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Check out the winter White House where President Truman worked and relaxed. You’ll walk through rooms kept just like they were during his stays—desk, maps, and personal touches included.
Guided tours cover Truman’s policies, why he loved Key West, and how later presidents and diplomats used the house, too. Tours run on a schedule, so check start times and show up a little early if you want to join a group.
The Little White House is close to the waterfront and seaport, so it’s easy to pair with a museum visit or a quick café stop.
Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters
Climb the 88-foot tower for a sweeping view over Old Town and the harbor. The lighthouse is from the 1800s, and the steps are narrow, so wear decent shoes and take your time.
The Keeper’s Quarters museum next door gives you a glimpse into lighthouse life, with period furniture, tools, and displays about ship navigation and safety.
You can easily combine this with a stop at the Oldest House or other nearby museums. The grounds are small, so you won’t need much time to move between sites.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Check out real treasure from Spanish shipwrecks found off the Keys. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum shows off coins, jewelry, cannons, and artifacts from wrecks like the Atocha, plus info on how they were recovered.
Exhibits mix treasure with backstory—learn about old ship routes, diving gear, and the risks treasure hunters take. Interactive displays and videos make it all a bit more real.
Some tickets include short films or guided talks. The museum is in the seaport area, so after your visit, you can wander the harbor or grab seafood nearby.
Best Beaches in Key West
Key West has beaches with soft sand, calm water, and spots for snorkeling or sunset. Whether you want to swim, bring the family, explore a bit of history, or just stroll a pier, there’s a beach for it.
Smathers Beach Fun
Smathers Beach runs along South Roosevelt Boulevard, with about half a mile of soft, imported sand. Go for a swim, rent kayaks or jet skis, play volleyball, or try parasailing if you’re feeling bold.
Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and plenty of parking along the road. Near the main entrances, you’ll usually find food vendors and gear rentals.
The gentle slope makes it safe for kids. Smathers opens early and gets busy, especially on weekends or holidays. If you want a lively day with water sports and easy amenities, this is your spot.
Higgs Beach and Pier
Higgs Memorial Beach Park, near Casa Marina, has a more chill vibe than Smathers. There’s fine white sand, shallow water, a playground, dog park, and a full-service restaurant.
The wooden pier is a big draw—walk out for views, spot stingrays by the pilings, or try fishing at the end. Higgs connects to the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, too.
You’ll find restrooms, showers, volleyball, and parking close by. Sometimes tides bring in seaweed or debris, so check water conditions before planning to snorkel.
Rest Beach Escape
Rest Beach (in C.B. Harvey Park) sits at the end of White Street. It’s a narrow, quiet stretch of sugary sand with the Edward B. Knight Pier for sunrise or sunset views.
There are picnic tables and a yoga deck, so it’s great for a relaxed morning or evening. No big concessions here—bring your own water and snacks.
It’s close to Mallory Square and downtown but still feels peaceful. Rest Beach is perfect for a short, scenic stop rather than a full beach day.
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park gives you a natural beach, a Civil War–era fort, and short nature trails. The coral sand and clear water are perfect for snorkeling by the rocks.
Inside the park, you’ll find picnic areas, grills, a small café, and two short trails (Sand Hog Trail and Fort View Trail). The fort itself has old cannons and makes for a quick history break between swims.
There’s a small entrance fee, but parking inside is free. If you’re into snorkeling, want shade from coastal trees, and like a mix of history and beach time, this is probably the best beach in Key West.
Outdoor Adventures & Day Trips
Pick a full-day boat trip to a remote park, a beach day at a state park, or just dive into water sports right in Key West. Some trips take a while, so book ahead if you’re coming in peak season.
Dry Tortugas National Park & Fort Jefferson
The Dry Tortugas trip is long but totally worth it. You get there by the Yankee Freedom ferry (about 2.5–3 hours each way) or by small plane. The main island, Garden Key, is home to Fort Jefferson—a huge brick fortress you can walk around and explore.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—services are super limited once you’re out there. Snorkeling around the fort and reefs is fantastic for spotting tropical fish and coral. The ferry includes lunch and commentary; the seaplane is faster but pricier. Park rules are strict and visitor numbers are capped, so book early if you’re visiting during busy months.
Bahia Honda State Park Excursion
Bahia Honda is up the Overseas Highway near the 7-mile bridge. It’s a great half- or full-day spot for a road trip from Key West, or you can join a guided day tour that hits other Keys stops, too.
The park has sandy beaches, shallow clear water for snorkeling, and shaded picnic spots. Swimming near the old railroad bridge gives you calm water and killer views of the 7-mile bridge. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a snorkel set if you have one—rentals are nearby. Parking and entrance fees apply, so check for closures or hours before you go.
Jet Skiing, Kayaking, and Boating
Rent jet skis, kayaks, or book a boat tour from several Key West docks. You’ll find guided mangrove kayak eco-tours, clear kayak trips, and jet ski adventures that let you check out sandbars and islands like Sunset Key from the water.
Some tours include snorkeling or dolphin watching if you want a shot at wildlife. For more freedom, rent a small boat or wave runner—just grab a map and follow marine rules. Guided trips usually provide life jackets, a safety rundown, and local tips on currents and best spots, which is handy if you’re new to the area.
Unique Experiences in Key West
Key West has hands-on tours, peaceful butterfly gardens, and quiet historic sites. Ride an open-air train to learn the island’s stories, wander through a tropical conservatory, or visit a cemetery with graves that go back more than a century.
Conch Tour Train Ride
The Conch Tour Train gives you a breezy, narrated loop of Old Town in an open-sided vintage-style train. It stops at main sights like Mallory Square and the Hemingway House.
You can hop on and off, so it’s easy to see places like the Shipwreck Museum or the Aquarium at your own pace. Tickets usually last all day, so you can ride early for an overview and then head back to your favorite spots later.
Guides share stories about wreckers, sailors, and famous locals. They’ll point out photo ops like the Mile Marker 0 sign and the Southernmost Buoy. If you want to move at your own speed, plan ahead—some stops get crowded, and you’ll want to leave yourself enough time.
Old Town Trolley Tours
Old Town Trolley Tours run a hop-on, hop-off route a lot like the Conch Train, but with covered trolleys and set departure times. You’ll get a mix of recorded and live narration about Key West’s architecture, naval history, and Cuban roots.
Trolley stops land you near the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Truman’s Little White House, and Fort Zachary Taylor, so you can pack a few sights into the same day.
Some tickets include admission savings or bundled entry for places like the Shipwreck Museum. Trolleys stick to a schedule, so double-check the last run if you’re out late. If you get motion sickness, grab a front seat or sit closer to the middle for a steadier ride.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory has hundreds of butterflies and tropical plants inside a glass house kept at a perfect temperature. Walk slowly—sometimes a butterfly lands right on your shoulder or flower nearby.
You’ll spot small birds and a flamingo pair named Rhett and Scarlett. Signs explain butterfly lifecycles and native plants, so you pick up some trivia as you wander.
Plan for 30–60 minutes here; mornings usually mean more butterfly activity. Wear something bright if you want butterflies to come close, and keep your voice down so you don’t scare anything off. It’s just off Duval Street, so you can easily combine it with other downtown stops.
Key West Cemetery Visit
The Key West Cemetery dates to the 1800s and gives you a quiet, historic walk among ornate graves, quirky epitaphs, and stories from the island’s past. You’ll see markers for mariners, wreckers, and local families, plus some gravestones with pretty blunt or funny inscriptions.
Maps and guided walks highlight places like the “Stranger’s Tomb” and the section for shipwreck victims. Take your time reading the small memorials and notice how local customs shaped the way people are buried here.
Wear good shoes—the paths can get uneven. Early mornings or late afternoons are cooler and the light’s better for photos. You’re close to other historic sites like the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and the Key West Lighthouse, so you might as well check those out too.
Food, Drink & Local Culture
Key West’s all about fresh seafood, Cuban-inspired eats, and strong island cocktails. You’ll stumble on big flavors in tiny shops, old bars with live music, and desserts you really shouldn’t skip.
Best Restaurants in Key West
Look for restaurants that focus on local seafood and Caribbean spices. Eaton Street Seafood Market sells fresh fish you can eat right there or take back to your place. El Siboney dishes out hearty Cuban food in a laid-back spot—good if you’re hungry and don’t want to wait long.
For wood-fired or creative menus, check out farm-to-table places in Old Town near Duval Street. If you just want something fast between beaches, food trucks and counters by the Historic Seaport serve tacos, ceviche, and fish sandwiches. A lot of spots will cook your own charter catch, so just ask if they’ll do it for you.
Cuban Coffee Queen & Cuban Flavors
Cuban Coffee Queen is a go-to for café con leche and strong espresso, served quick. You’ll spot their stands along busy walking routes, and their Cuban Mix sandwich—pulled mojo pork, ham, Swiss—goes perfectly with the coffee.
Cuban flavors are everywhere: roast pork, ropa vieja, yuca, and plantains show up on lots of menus. Watch for mojo-seasoned meats and the pickled tang in a Cuban sandwich. These dishes are simple but bold, and honestly, they say a lot about Key West’s ties to Cuba.
Key Lime Pie and Island Eats
Key lime pie is basically the official dessert here. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe makes classic slices and pie pops, and they’ll even ship frozen pies if you want one at home. Try a pie on a stick if you’re walking Duval Street and want something easy to carry.
Other must-tries? Conch fritters—chewy, savory, usually served with key lime aioli or a spicy pink sauce. Seafood joints serve stone crab (when it’s in season), pink shrimp, and blackened grouper sandwiches. For something casual, grab a fish taco, lobster roll, or fried conch sandwich and get a taste of local waters.
Vibrant Nightlife and Bars
Duval Street is where nightlife happens: bars, live music, late-night food. Sloppy Joe’s and Hog’s Breath Saloon pull in crowds with classic drinks. If you want more of a local feel, try the Green Parrot Bar—expect blues, jam sessions, a packed little room, and a chill crowd.
Schooner Wharf gives you harbor views and a relaxed patio for sunset drinks, usually with live bands. Try the Papa Doble at an old-school bar or a coconut mojito at a pier. For a quick, quirky stop, duck into the Smallest Bar for a shotski and a photo.
Travel Tips for Your Key West Trip
Expect warm weather, short distances, and busy sunsets. Book your stay early, try to dodge the biggest crowds, and pack reef-safe sunscreen and a light rain jacket just in case.
Where to Stay in Key West
Think about whether you want to be in the thick of Duval Street or somewhere quieter. If you’re after nightlife, stay near Duval or Mallory Square—you’ll be able to walk to bars, restaurants, and the sunset crowd. For peaceful mornings, pick somewhere by Higgs Beach or White Street; you’ll get easy beach access and local cafes.
If you’ve got an early flight, find a place close to Key West International Airport. Lots of guesthouses and small hotels are within a couple miles, so getting there’s quick and cheap. Consider a vacation rental with a kitchen if you want to cook or keep snacks for the beach.
Best Time to Visit
December through April is high season—hotel rates spike and so do crowds, especially around holidays. The weather’s dry and pleasant, perfect for snorkeling, boat cruises, and eating outside.
Low season (June–November) means lower prices and fewer people, but it’s more humid and there’s a chance of storms. May and late April usually have nice weather and smaller crowds. For the best swimming and shorter lines, aim for weekdays in those in-between months.
How to Get to Key West
Flying into Key West International Airport (EYW) is the fastest way. EYW gets regional flights from several U.S. cities; a taxi or rideshare downtown takes about 10–15 minutes. If you’d rather drive, U.S. Route 1 (Overseas Highway) runs south from Miami and the drive is scenic—figure 3–4 hours depending on stops.
There’s also a ferry from Fort Myers, Marco Island, and the Lower Keys; check times and book early in winter. Once you’re here, most things are within a couple miles—walk, bike, or rent a scooter. Rental cars are handy for day trips but parking downtown can be pricey and a pain.
Sample Key West Itinerary
Day 1: Start at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park for snorkeling and some beach time. In the afternoon, check out the Hemingway Home and Key West Lighthouse. For sunset, walk to Mallory Square and catch the street performers.
Day 2: Rent a bike, ride over to Higgs Beach, then hit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Grab lunch near the Historic Seaport. Later, try a tiki-boat or sunset cruise for those water views.
Day 3: Go on a morning food crawl—get Cuban coffee and a slice of Key lime pie. If you have time, take a snorkeling tour or a day trip to Dry Tortugas. Leave one evening for Duval Street bars or a relaxed dinner at Latitudes on Sunset Key (don’t forget to book the ferry and a table ahead).
Honestly, treat this as a loose plan. Swap stuff around depending on wind, tides, or how much you just want to chill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s where to find quick tips and exact spots for shopping, eating, sightseeing, snorkeling, and family-friendly outings. You’ll get names, hours, and straightforward advice for planning each part of your trip.
What are some can’t-miss attractions in Key West for a first-time visitor?
Go to the Southernmost Point buoy on Whitehead Street for that classic photo. The line gets long, so show up early or late if you want to skip the crowd.
Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to see the house and its famous six-toed cats. If you can, buy tickets ahead to avoid waiting.
Walk Duval Street for lively bars, shops, and street action. Mallory Square is the spot for sunset performers and ocean views.
Where can I find the best local seafood in Key West?
Local spots by the seaport serve the freshest catches in a laid-back setting. Look for grilled snapper, conch fritters, and Key West pink shrimp on the menu.
Order Key Lime pie for dessert at bakeries near Duval or in Old Town. Ask the staff which seafood is freshest that day for the best meal.
Can you recommend any great spots for sunset viewing in Key West?
Mallory Square is the classic choice—performers, food stalls, and a festive vibe. Get there 30–45 minutes before sunset if you want a good spot.
Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offer quieter, more spacious sunset views. A sunset cruise from the seaport lets you watch from the water, which is hard to beat.
Are there unique snorkeling or diving locations near Key West?
The coral reef off Key West is part of a huge reef system with lots of snorkeling and dive spots. Charters leave daily from the seaport and usually include gear and a guide.
Dry Tortugas National Park is a longer day trip, but the water’s clear and the wreck dives are worth it. Ferries and seaplanes fill up in high season, so book early.
What historical sites should I include in my Key West itinerary?
The Harry S. Truman Little White House covers presidential history and offers tours. Always check tour times and ticket availability first.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park has a Civil War fort plus a beach. The Key West Lighthouse and the Oldest House are nearby and easy to fit into a walking tour.
What are the top family-friendly activities in Key West?
Check out the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory—kids love getting up close to fluttering butterflies and spotting all sorts of wildlife. The Key West Aquarium, right by Mallory Square, has quick, hands-on exhibits that keep little ones entertained.
If you want to explore without getting tired, rent some bikes or hop on a trolley that lets you jump on and off wherever you like. Higgs Beach and Smathers Beach both offer calm water for swimming and plenty of spots to throw down a picnic blanket.