easy
1–1.5 hours
No physical fitness required; accessible to most visitors
Step inside Rodriguez Cigars in Key West for an immersive tour that teaches the art of hand-rolled cigars, connecting you to a deep-rooted local craft tradition.
Key West, Florida, stands apart as a vibrant gateway where culture and craft meet the ocean breeze. Known for its colorful streets and laid-back attitude, the island’s humid subtropical climate encourages outdoor living and leisure. Among the many unique experiences this city offers, Rodriguez Cigars presents a singular escape from typical tourist outings: a hands-on cigar rolling tour that immerses visitors in a time-honored tradition enriched by the region’s Cuban-American heritage.
Rodriguez Cigars offers more than just watching artisans at work—they invite guests to become part of the craft, learning the intricate techniques that transform tobacco leaves into fine cigars. The strong scent of fermented tobacco fills the air inside their workshop, surrounded by neatly stacked bundles of cured leaves from Central America, carefully selected for each cigar. The process, from leaf selection and humidification to the slow, precise rolling and hand-stitching, reflects generations of expertise that have made Key West a hub for cigar manufacturing.
This experience sets itself apart by blending cultural immersion with a tactile connection to a living tradition deeply ingrained in the area's identity. It’s not a nature hike or a water-based adventure, but it complements outdoor exploration by offering insight into local craftsmanship that flourishes in the island’s warm climate.
Visitors gain a new appreciation for the meticulous attention required to produce cigars, enhancing their overall travel story in the Florida Keys. Rodriguez Cigars’ tours serve as a gateway to the island’s diverse cultural roots and make a distinctive stop amid the natural beauty of the coastal environment. Whether you're a aficionado or simply curious, this tour provides a richly rewarding experience that brings to life the spirit of Key West beyond its shores and reefs.
Rodriguez Cigars tours are popular, especially during peak season—reserve your spot early.
This is a slow, deliberate craft experience—patience will let you fully appreciate the process.
The air inside is warm and humid to protect the tobacco leaves; lightweight clothing is best.
Perfumes or strong odors can interfere with the delicate aromas of the tobacco workshop.
Key West’s cigar industry grew from Cuban immigrants who brought their tobacco traditions in the early 20th century, shaping local culture.
Rodriguez Cigars supports sustainable tobacco sourcing practices to reduce environmental impact.
Helps you stay comfortable in the warm, humid atmosphere of the cigar workshop.
summer specific
Useful for walking to and from the location in sunny Key West.
Stay hydrated before or after your tour in the Florida heat.
Capture details of the rolling technique and cigar types for later reference.