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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Yankee Freedom- Dry Tortugas National Park Museum
Dry Tortugas Museum — historic interpretive center & Fort Jefferson exhibits in Key West, where maritime legacy meets interactive learning.
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
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Discover treasures and history at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West!
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
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Eco Discovery Center
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center — immersive marine sanctuary exhibit in Key West, where education meets ocean conservation.
Key West
The Historic Armory
The Armory — historic 1903 arts & performance center in Key West, where preservation meets creative community.
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
Hellings Curry Museum/ Home of the Key West Woman’s Club
Explore Key West history in a stunning Queen Anne mansion with free guided tours!
Marathon
Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Trails
Crane Point Museum & Nature Center in Marathon is a 63-acre nature preserve featuring tropical hardwood hammock trails, a natural history museum, wildlife exhibits, and kayak rentals.
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Marathon
Marathon Air Museum
Join EAA Chapter 1241 in Marathon, FL—where aviation passion takes flight!
Islamorada
Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
Explore Florida Keys' rich history, marine life, and local art at this interactive discovery center.
Key West
San Carlos Institute
San Carlos Institute — Cuban heritage museum & cultural center in Key West, where history, art, and independence converge.
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!
Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.
Southernmost Point — iconic landmark & photo destination in Key West, where geography meets tropical charm.
