Key West’s Famous Sunset from Sunset Pier. Watching is a Nightly Event

It’s about the time of year when Boulderites vacation by staying right here in the magnificent valley. It is still possible for us to another snow down here at mile high, and nights on Key West can still be rather cool. Neither will be true for long as summer rapidly approaches. Snow skis are being  replaced by water skis here at home. On this second most famous of the Florida Keys, with Key Largo being the most famous, sunsets are taken to a unique new level.

People gather near Mallory Square to watch the sunsets. Schooners are chartered to sail back and forth parallel to the shore as the passengers watch the sunset from the deck.

Mallory Square, at the End of Famous Duval Street on Key West

Mallory Square and Duval Street are two of Key West’s most vibrant and bustling areas, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry and lively spirit of this southernmost point in the continental United States. Known for its beautiful sunsets, historical significance, and festive atmosphere, Mallory Square is the heart of Key West’s waterfront. Every evening, the square comes alive with the world-famous Sunset Celebration, an event that attracts locals and tourists alike to enjoy street performers, local artisans, and food vendors against the backdrop of a spectacular Key West sunset. This tradition encapsulates the eclectic and inclusive spirit of Key West, showcasing a variety of talents and crafts that highlight the island’s rich cultural diversity.

Just a short walk from Mallory Square, Duval Street runs through the center of Key West, offering a mile-long adventure filled with a variety of shops, bars, restaurants, and galleries. Known as the longest street in the world from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, Duval Street is a vibrant artery of the island where one can experience the full spectrum of Key West’s lively bar and restaurant scene, including famous establishments like Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway. By day, Duval Street is a bustling hub of activity where visitors can explore local boutiques, art galleries, and historical sites. By night, it transforms into a lively nightlife scene, with live music spilling out from bars and clubs, inviting everyone to join in the fun.

Together, Mallory Square and Duval Street embody the essence of Key West’s charm and appeal. These iconic destinations provide unforgettable experiences that combine natural beauty, historical richness, and vibrant community life, making them must-visit locations for anyone exploring this unique island paradise.

To provide contrast, this pic is Boulder, today, Spring, when applewoods, dogwoods, and more of the pink/purple flower-covered trees are everywhere! This year even the wet heavy snow did not slaughter the flowers on the trees or coming up from bulbs.

Which is better? That’s EASY! Both are better. While both are wonderful, neither is better. Different yes. Better or worse? I think not.

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge is Power!

Leonard Frieling
  • Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
  • Former Judge
  • Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
  • First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
  • Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
  • Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
  • NORML Distinguished Counsel Circle
  • Life Member, NORML Legal Committee
  • Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
  • Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML
  • Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
  • Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
  • Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
  • LEAP Speaker, multi-published author, University lectures Univ. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels.
  • http://www.Lfrieling.com
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