A Tour of Key West's Famous Film Locations

Key West has been a playground for filmmakers for over half a century. From a romance film in a cozy bungalow to a thriller set against the island’s turquoise waters, you might’ve seen a bit of Key West in your favorite blockbusters. Here is a tour of Key West’s famous film locations that shine on the silver screen.

The Rose Tattoo (1955)

The Academy Award-winning film starring Anna Magnani and Burt Lancaster tells the story of Serafina, a widowed woman living in the American South who comes into her own after the death of her husband. The film production spent about a month in Key West, with many scenes filmed at the ‘Rose Tattoo House’ on the corner of Pearl and Duncan Streets in the White Street Gallery District. Adapted from the Tennessee Williams play of the same name, it is said that Williams (a resident of the island) often visited the house during filming.

License to Kill (1989)

The 16th James Bond spy film with Timothy Dalton starring in the leading role was filmed at several locations throughout Key West, including Seven Mile Bridge, The Ernest Hemingway House, Mallory Square, Barrelhead Bar (now Thai Island Restaurant), a private residence on South Street, and the U.S. Coast Guard Pier.

A Murder of Crows (1998)

Starring Cuba Gooding Jr. and Tom Berenger, the 90s thriller film has a diverting chase scene through the streets of Key West and some beautiful shots on the water. Sloppy Joe’s makes an appearance, as well as Fausto’s, and exterior shots along Elizabeth and White Streets.

Office Space (1999)

Mike Judge’s black comedy was filmed almost entirely in Texas, with the exception of Milton Waddams (played by Stephen Root) vacation to “Mexico”. The final scene of the film was shot on the island of Sunset Key. The secluded 27-acre residential neighborhood and resort island is located about 500 yards off the coast of Key West (just off Mallory Square).

The Leisure Seeker (2017)

Sentimentality and morbidity sit side-by-side in this truthful look at growing old together. Starring Helen Mirren and Donald Sutherland, The Leisure Seeker is about a couple travelling from Massachusetts to The Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West before the ailments of old age catch up to them. Visit the residence of the iconic American writer for yourself at 907 Whitehead Street.

The Beach Bum (2017)

Matthew McConaughey, Zac Efron, and Jonah Hill star in this love letter to the Florida Keys. The dark comedy revels in the lifestyle of Key West locals, from houseboat owners to bartenders, and (naturally) fun-loving, beer-drinking beach bums. Director Harmony Korine filmed at places like Hogfish Bar & Grill on Stock Island, Schooner Wharf Bar on William Street, Duval Street, and the southernmost point of the United States.

The Laundromat (2019)

Meryl Streep, Gary Oldman, and Antonio Banderas star in this star-powered drama about the events of the Panama Papers scandal. Scenes from the Steven Soderbergh film were shot at Galleon Resort on Front Street, Fitzpatrick Street, and Caroline Street.

Ready to relive your favorite cinematic moments in Key West? Enjoy your island getaway with a longer stay at 24 North. Now for a limited time, guests can receive up to 30% off our nightly rate with our No Passport Needed special offer. Read more.