La Concha Key West hotel centrally located on Duval Street, has a storied history, and maybe even some ghosts! It has hosted several notable guests such as Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and President Harry Truman. Built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, the hotel opened in 1926. The pink lady, as she is called, has recently undergone a $35 million renovation to restore the grandeur of this historic property as well as to integrate more modern amenities. It has also been rebranded as a part of the Marriott Autograph Collection.
La Concha Key West has several amenities to enhance your stay. Besides four onsite restaurants, there is also the well stocked Epicurean Market with grab and go snacks as well as essentials and unique gifts. The outdoor pool is heated so it is perfect for swimming year round. There is also a fitness center open 24 hours a day. Parking is available for a fee with both self parking and valet. And, the hotel is now pet friendly, accepting dogs up to 20 pounds for an additional fee. In room wifi is available to guests, and free to Bonvoy members.
The La Concha Key West history is very rich. Inducted back in 1991, La Concha Key West is one of the Historic Hotels of America’s earliest members. This historic hotel is one hundred years old this year! With Henry Flagler’s foresight and vision, he helped transform the island of Key West into a resort town with the building of the Overseas Railroad. Soon, business men and real estate developers came to the island to build it up and make their fortunes. Two of those men, Carl Aubuchon and Jefferson B. Browne were responsible for the construction of the La Concha. The beautiful, six-story structure was complete with marble floors, private baths, and a fully functional electric elevator. At nearly one million dollars to build in the 1920’s, this was a lavish place to stay and it thus became a popular attraction on the island.
Sadly, the Great Depression reduced tourism across the country, and the 1935 hurricane that hit Key West nearly killed tourism on the island. But, after World War II, the country started to heal and the island’s tourism picked back up. Through the years, the La Concha has been a Holiday Inn and a Crowne Plaza property. But, the once grand building was neglected and had fallen into disrepair. The recent renovations by the Marriott have breathed new life into the property while still preserving its historical and architectural roots. They have also transformed the rooftop into seven suites with incredible views of the island and design touches unique to Key West.
La Conch Key West rooms number 160. And, there are several layouts to choose from. Weather you want a standard room or you want to splurge on one of their rooftop suites, you have options. Below is a list with the different room types and a brief description to help you decide what best fits your needs and desires.
La Concha Key West dining options are numerous. From a quick coffee at El Dom to full meal at Perla, you never have to leave the property if you don’t want to. But, you are in Key West, so you will have to leave eventually and explore this amazing little island. And when you do, you can check out my restaurant reviews to find out where else you may want to eat on island!