Pan Am First Flight Building - Planches à voile, bâtiment, Touquet
1 / 10

Pan Am First Flight Building

4.4
·130 reviews·Key West, United States

Historic building in Key West, birthplace of Pan Am, now a popular restaurant and brewery with a romantic patio.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Romantic patio ambiance

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Pan Am First Flight Building - Planches à voile, bâtiment, Touquet

Pan Am First Flight Building

Best Time

Evenings

Romantic patio ambiance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic building in Key West, birthplace of Pan Am, now a popular restaurant and brewery with a romantic patio.

4.4
(130 reviews)

"The outdoor patio under the hanging lights made it so romantic. Will definitely be back."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍻 Try the Craft Beers

Sample their specialty brews, often praised by visitors for being refreshing and unique.

✨ Romantic Patio Dining

Opt for the outdoor patio, especially at night, for a magical and romantic atmosphere.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birthplace of Pan Am

Birthplace of Pan Am

Ground floor

Stand where Pan Am's journey began. The very spot where the first tickets were sold in 1927.

Island Restaurant & Brewery

Island Restaurant & Brewery

Main building and patio

Savor craft beers and delicious food on a charming patio under twinkling lights.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Exterior and interior

Admire the beautifully preserved building, a testament to Key West's rich history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Historic Hub of Aviation

Discover the birthplace of Pan American World Airways. This iconic building in Key West is where the airline's first tickets were sold in 1927. It's a must-visit for aviation history buffs and offers a unique glimpse into the dawn of commercial flight.

Dine and Drink in Style

More than just a historical site, the Pan Am First Flight Building houses a popular restaurant and brewery. Enjoy craft beers and a diverse menu on their romantic outdoor patio, perfect for a memorable evening.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Romantic patio ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Lunchtime
Why
Lighter crowds, good for a break
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This Flight Landed 37 Years Later.… #mystery #flight914
@watch_the_rabbit_hole
518.8K likes • 4.5M views

🍻 Try the Craft Beers

Sample their specialty brews, often praised by visitors for being refreshing and unique. Reddit

✨ Romantic Patio Dining

Opt for the outdoor patio, especially at night, for a magical and romantic atmosphere. Reddit

First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery is located in the heart of downtown Key West, Florida. Well known for being the birthplace of Pan American World Airways, Pan-Am’s first tickets were sold out of this very building in 1927. #brewery #food #southernmost #keywest #christmas #travelblogger #rvliving #rvlife #microbrewery #fulltimerv
travelingenablers
16 likes • 147 views
First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery, located on the corner of Whitehead and Caroline, is one of Key West’s most impressive and historic buildings. This iconic structure holds great significance as the birthplace of Pan American World Airways, Pan-Am’s first tickets were sold out of this very building in 1927. Pan Am was a pioneer in the aviation industry, serving as the principal and larges...
the_florida_keys_ventures
692 likes • 53.7K views

✈️ Aviation History

Take a moment to appreciate the building's significance as the birthplace of Pan Am. Instagram

⏰ Service Varies

While many praise the service, some reviews mention slow or sidetracked waiters. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🍻 Try the Craft Beers

Sample their specialty brews, often praised by visitors for being refreshing and unique. Reddit

✨ Romantic Patio Dining

Opt for the outdoor patio, especially at night, for a magical and romantic atmosphere. Reddit

✈️ Aviation History

Take a moment to appreciate the building's significance as the birthplace of Pan Am. Instagram

⏰ Service Varies

While many praise the service, some reviews mention slow or sidetracked waiters. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(130 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Pan Am First Flight Building is praised for its significant historical role as the birthplace of Pan Am and its charming, romantic outdoor patio. While many enjoy the craft beers and tasty food, some reviews mention that certain dishes can be overpriced and service may occasionally be inconsistent.

"Loved it! Wife and I went there on our wedding night. Amazing. Our server Angel (not Sancho) was great. Food was so tasty. Outdoor patio under the hanging lights made it so romantic. Will definitely be back."

Roger Price

"Absolutely amazing place to hangout with friends and family. Love the bartenders, drinks and also their speciality beers. 😊😊"

Shikha Bharti

"Hidden gem here! We had no idea this was tucked in the trees until a walk. Bartender waited on us immediately, beers refreshing - I had a mango wheat. Mac for lunch with salad, I was wowed! Had we known it was so close to where we were staying we'd have gone daily. We'll be back!"

Kelley Crist

What People Like

Historic aviation significance
Romantic patio ambiance
Craft beer selection

What People Dislike

Overpriced menu items
Inconsistent service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pan Am First Flight Building is located in the heart of downtown Key West at the corner of Whitehead and Caroline Streets. It's easily accessible by walking if you're staying in the historic district, or you can use local taxis or ride-sharing services. Parking in Key West can be challenging, so consider walking or using alternative transport. Instagram

Parking near the Pan Am First Flight Building can be difficult to find and is often metered. Many visitors recommend walking or using a taxi/rideshare service to avoid the hassle of finding a spot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need tickets to enter the Pan Am First Flight Building. It houses a restaurant and brewery, so entry is free. You only pay for food and drinks if you choose to dine or drink there. Instagram

The operating hours for the restaurant and brewery within the Pan Am First Flight Building can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, especially for specific days or holidays. Instagram

There is no separate admission fee for the historical aspects of the Pan Am First Flight Building. The building itself is a historical landmark, and you can explore its significance while enjoying the amenities of the restaurant and brewery. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The restaurant at the Pan Am First Flight Building offers a diverse menu, often featuring American cuisine with local influences. Reviewers mention tasty food, including seafood and pasta dishes, though some have found certain items overpriced or not up to par. Reddit

The craft beers brewed on-site are frequently highlighted as a positive aspect. Visitors often praise them as refreshing and enjoyable, with specific mentions of unique flavors like mango wheat. Reddit

Many visitors find the outdoor patio, especially when lit up at night, to be very romantic. The ambiance under the hanging lights is often cited as a highlight for couples. Reddit

While some reviewers find the food tasty, others consider certain dishes, like the fettuccine, to be overpriced for the portion size and quality. It's advisable to check the menu for current pricing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the building, with its historic architecture, offers great photo opportunities. The outdoor patio, especially in the evening with the lights, is also a popular and picturesque spot for capturing memorable moments. Instagram

Yes, you can generally take photos inside the historical parts of the building. It's a great way to document the significance of the location where Pan Am's first tickets were sold. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the history of flight, the Pan Am First Flight Building is an essential stop. Standing in the very spot where Pan Am's first tickets were sold offers a profound connection to aviation's golden age. Take time to absorb the historical significance and imagine the early days of commercial air travel. Instagram

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to better appreciate the historical context without the bustle of a busy restaurant. While the building now serves as a dining establishment, its core identity as the birthplace of a legendary airline remains. It’s a chance to touch a piece of aviation history. Instagram

💖 Couples and Romantics

The Pan Am First Flight Building offers a wonderfully romantic setting, particularly its outdoor patio. Lit by charming hanging lights, it provides an intimate and magical atmosphere perfect for a date night or special occasion. Enjoying craft beers and a meal under the stars here is a highly recommended Key West experience. Reddit

Combine the historical charm of the building with the delightful ambiance of the patio for a truly memorable evening. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories, whether celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying a romantic getaway. Reddit

🍻 Beer Aficionados

If you appreciate craft beer, the First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery is a must-visit. They are known for their specialty beers, brewed on-site, which many patrons find to be exceptionally good and refreshing. It's a great opportunity to sample unique local brews in a historic setting. Reddit

Don't hesitate to ask the bartenders for recommendations or try a flight to sample a variety of their offerings. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a quality beverage after a day of exploring Key West. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Pan Am

The Pan Am First Flight Building holds a significant place in aviation history as the very location where Pan American World Airways sold its inaugural tickets in 1927. This humble building in Key West marked the beginning of what would become one of the most iconic airlines in the world. It represents the dawn of commercial air travel and the ambitious spirit of early aviation pioneers. Instagram

Visiting this site offers a tangible connection to that era. While the building now houses a restaurant and brewery, its historical importance is preserved. It's a reminder of how far air travel has come and the foundational role Key West played in its development. For aviation enthusiasts, it's a pilgrimage site to honor the roots of modern flight. Instagram

Many visitors appreciate the blend of history and modern enjoyment. You can soak in the historical context and then relax with a craft beer or a meal, making it a unique dual experience. It’s a place where you can literally stand on ground that launched a global aviation empire. Instagram

Dining and Atmosphere

The First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery within the Pan Am First Flight Building is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It's particularly known for its craft beers, brewed on-site, which many reviewers find to be delicious and refreshing. The menu offers a range of dishes, from appetizers to entrees, catering to various tastes. Reddit

The outdoor patio is a major draw, especially in the evenings. Adorned with hanging lights, it creates a romantic and charming atmosphere, making it a favorite for couples and those seeking a memorable dining experience. This ambiance is frequently highlighted in positive reviews, contributing significantly to the overall appeal of the venue. Reddit

However, it's worth noting that while many enjoy the food and drinks, some reviews suggest that certain dishes can be overpriced or that service might occasionally be slow. Despite these mixed opinions on the dining aspect, the unique historical setting and the pleasant patio ambiance continue to attract visitors looking for a distinctive Key West experience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2