Museums

Home of Florida’s first millionaire, William Curry, the Curry Mansion is the grand dame of Key West historic homes. Started in 1869 and completed in 1899, the house reflects the lifestyle befitting the Curry family with priceless antiques, Tiffany glass sliding doors, and solid gold Tiffany flatware. As you wander through the home you can imagine life in 19th century Key West. In addition to a museum, today the home is also a luxury inn.

Home to Nobel Prize author Ernest Hemingway for nearly 10 years, this incredible property is full insight into the life of one of America’s most notable and revered authors. Today, guests can step back in time and visit the space where some of Hemingway’s most iconic literary works were formed and drafted. Guided tours through the lush grounds and historical halls will introduce guests to both Hemingway his life in Key West and the over 40 cats.

The Studios of Key West, located just steps off Duval Street in the landmark Art Deco building, was founded with the vision of bringing world class artists to the island and promoting Keys artists. The Studios presents live music, new theater, writing and art classes, and showcases national, international and island artists in four galleries under one roof. The Studios aims to connect visitors and locals with the creative spirit of the island.

Discover amazing artifacts from the 1622 treasure fleet recovered by Mel Fisher and his team of treasure salvors. Lean about Key West's unique role in the trans Atlantic slave trade and piracy. The museum also offers special Archaeology and Conservation Tours.

The Custom House, a beautiful red brick architectural gem and award-winning museum is official headquarters of the Key West Art and Historical Society. Originally, this unique Richardsonian Romanesque structure was designed to function as Key West’s customs office, postal service, and district courts. Today the Custom House museum features many centuries worth of art, history, iconic figures, and features a wonderful and eclectic gift shop.

If you’re wild about Harry, then you should add a visit to the Harry S Truman Little White House to your Key West vacation list. Built for the Key West Naval Station officers in 1890, this incredible building began serving as Harry Truman’s winter retreat while president. In addition to Truman, the house has hosted six presidents and a king and today, it is a museum of living history, events, a retreat, and Florida’s only presidential museum.

Set on a lovely 1 acre site in the heart of Old Town Key West, the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens features brick-pathed gardens offer a lush 1-acre view of orchids, bromeliads, and other tropical foliage, an herb garden and 1840-style nursery. The house, built by Capt. John Geiger, the home is filled with antique furnishings purchased from estate sales and auctions in Europe. The naturalist, John James Audubon, stayed in the house while working on his book, The Birds of America.

As the island’s newest attraction, the Sails to Rails Museum at Flagler Station chronicles Key West’s epic story story to the present day. Learn of opportunistic pirates, shipwrecks and how it all lead to Key West’s first industry. Check out all the hands-on, interactive exhibits and even hold a salvaged bar of silver in your hands! There are worlds to be discovered here that will surely add a whole new perspective to your travels in the Conch Republic!

The Key West Turtle Museum is a fascinating journey into the archaeological evidence of ancient turtles in the lands of the Keys. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the first explorer of the Keys, Ponce de Leon, and enjoy local lore about the necessary presence of turtles. In addition, you can learn about the conservation efforts to save the endangered sea turtles.

Located in Key West's must impressive building the the Key West Museum of Art and History is home to permanent and visiting collections featuring both local and world renowned artists. Two floors of exhibitions featuring two centuries of history, art, people, and events are yours to discover.

Opened in 1848, the Key West lighthouse is one of the few inland lighthouses in the world. Guests can walk up the 88 steps to the top of the lighthousefor a 360 degree view of Key West. In the Keepers Quarters hear about the lives of the families who lived there and maintained the lighthouse. Learn about brave men and women who kept the light burning even through the threats of war and the fatal dangers of nature’s most fearsome elements.