5 Reasons to Stay at Key West's Silver Palms Inn

Silver Palms Inn Pool

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Photo by: Jon Whittle

Capping a recent road trip in Key West, I had the pleasure to stay at the Silver Palms Inn. At not quite two years old, it's one of the newest boutique hotels in the Conch Republic, and I easily came away with five great features that make it stand out:

1. Location, Location, Location: Being in the heart of the island's Old Town district puts the hotel in a quiet part of town (away from the bustle of Duval Street), but within walking distance of everything from great restaurants, shops and bars (including those on Duval) to attractions like Mallory Square's nightly sunset celebration.

2. Comfort Zone: Double pillow-top mattresses make the Silver Palm's beds among the most comfortable in the area — I got one of the best night's sleep I've ever had in a hotel after sinking into the soft-but-sturdy sleep surface.

3. Hang Out: The pool scene might not compare to the lush grandeur of Miami's mega-resorts, but the wide mix of people and the private setting make for a fun and social hour (or several hours) in or by the water with fellow guests.

4. Almond Joy: The continental breakfast is mostly standard fare of cereals and pastries, but the flaky, buttery almond croissants might alone be worth the trip.

5. Design on a Dime: Rooms with a sense of Florida Modern design are rare to find without being accompanied by astronomical rates. Colorful walls, furnishings and artwork brightened my mood as soon as I walked in, and a spacious layout made the room feel like a sleek penthouse suite.

Tags: boutique hotels | Key West | road trip