Has anyone stayed at the Curry Mansion or Crowne Plaza (La Concha) hotel recently?

Brian -

We spent a few (but not enough) night at the Curry Mansion Inn a few years ago. I can highly recommend it - it was a beautiful B & B-type place, with continental breakfast and a cute little swimming pool. The rooms were big and comfortable.

Make sure to have a dinner at Louie's backyard, if they are still operating. I think they may have been hit by a hurricane in the last few years, but it's a very romantic restaurant in an old gingerbread house, right on the water.

I've never stayed at either, but think Curry Mansion would be a better choice. The La Concha is a Holiday Inn that was recently refurbished but before that wasn't such a great deal. According to locals, the rooms were very small (and I assume that hasn't changed) and the time we went in the lobby it was pretty threadbare. The great thing about La Concha is that it's got a good place to watch the sunset. Both have good locations.

Both places being of equal price, stay at Curry Mansion. I think your stay will be enhanced by staying there because the experience will be more than just a place to sleep. It is a beautiful place. Go to La Concha's rooftop for a drink at sunset. La Concha is right on Duval which is in the heart of the party and action. Curry Mansion is a couple streets off. I think that is a benefit. Quieter, yet just a few steps away from fun. Key West is not all about Duval. Head over to Mallory Square, take the conch train tour, walk the docks, head to the beach, torture the locals by renting a scooter... There are also lots of boats to take you out for a sunset cruise while you slurp down cocktails. Some are party boats with loud music, some more serene. Definitely worth the price.

Actually Curry Mansion is only half a block off Duval on Caroline St, but don't worry about the noise. Key West has so much overgrowth that noise isn't a problem. I stayed there once mistakenly over spring break and as soon as you step off Duval the noise drops. Be sure to try Kelly's and Blue Heaven for dinner.