Museums & Historic Sites
History here doesn’t hide—it strolls the streets, sails the waters, and lingers in lighthouses, forts, and railways. Museums and historic sites across the Florida Keys tell stories of shipwrecks, pioneers, and a railroad that once seemed impossible. Wander through homes of famous writers, climb old fort walls, or step into tiny museums bursting with artifacts. Each stop layers new depth onto the turquoise backdrop. These listings will guide you to the places where past and present meet—sometimes quirky, often surprising, always unforgettable.
Fred the Tree: The Florida Keys’ ‘Celebri-Tree’
Fred the Tree — the Florida Keys’ beloved, thriving and resolute “celebri-tree” that grows improbably on the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge — is a movie star.
Ernest Hemingway
Learn about Ernest Hemingway, his literary reputation and his larger-than-life persona. Credited with establishing Key West as a literary haven, Hemingway left a legacy that remains vibrant today.
Key West African Cemetery
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a memorial honors the African Burial Ground at Higgs Beach.
Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad
On Jan. 22, 1912, when Ruby Whitlock was eight years old, she watched the arrival of the first train that ever traveled down the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad tracks from mainland Florida to Key West.
Henry Flagler: Railroad Visionary
Henry Morrison Flagler never lived in the Florida Keys, but he left a lasting and valuable mark on the island chain.
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Key West
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters
Climb 88 steps for sweeping views, explore historic keeper’s family quarters, and learn about maritime heritage at the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum.
Key West
Yankee Freedom Dry Tortugas Ferry
Dry Tortugas National Park — remote Florida Keys paradise 70 miles west of Key West featuring historic Fort Jefferson, turquoise water, pristine beaches and world-class snorkeling.
Key West
Shrimpboat Sound Studio
Shrimpboat Sound Studio — historic recording studio in Key West, where legends like Jimmy Buffett made music in a humble, iconic space.
Key West
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
KeysArts — the Florida Keys Council of the Arts nonprofit promoting local galleries, public art, festivals, events, and cultural experiences throughout the Florida Keys.
Key West
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden
Discover the only frost-free tropical garden in the continental US—serene, native, and full of life!
Key West
Edward B. Knight Pier
Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!
Key West
Fort East Martello Museum
Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.
Key West
San Carlos Institute
San Carlos Institute — Cuban heritage museum & cultural center in Key West, where history, art, and independence converge.
Key West
Oldest House Museum & Gardens Key West
Old Island Restoration Foundation — preserving historic buildings & culture in Key West since 1960.
USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum
USCGC Ingham Memorial Museum — historic Coast Guard cutter & floating maritime museum in Key West, where legends of service meet immersive history.
Key West
Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum
Explore Key West's historic firehouse museum with unique artifacts and fun tours!
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Key West
Sails To Rails Museum at Flagler Station
Explore Key West history from tall ships to railroads at Sails to Rails Museum!
Key West
The Historic Armory
The Armory — historic 1903 arts & performance center in Key West, where preservation meets creative community.
