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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Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Discover treasures and history at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West!
Pigeon Key and Marine Science Center
Historic island tours, snorkeling & Bridge-tram ride at Pigeon Key
Sails To Rails Museum at Flagler Station
Explore Key West history from tall ships to railroads at Sails to Rails Museum!
Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach
Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.
Mike Forster Memorial Park
Mike Forster Memorial Park is a cozy, open 3-acre park in Key Largo (20 Sunset Road) with limited parking, open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset.
Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is a beautifully restored 19th-century Bahamian-Greek Revival home in Key West, showcasing original works by John James Audubon and lush tropical gardens.
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.
Key West Garden Club at West Martello Tower
Tropical garden paradise by the sea at the historic West Martello Tower—free-admission gardens, beach views, volunteer-run, perfect for nature lovers in Key West.
San Carlos Institute
San Carlos Institute — Cuban heritage museum & cultural center in Key West, where history, art, and independence converge.
Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House
Explore Key West's rich history and art in a stunning historic Custom House museum.
Key West Aquarium
Explore Key West Aquarium's vibrant marine life and interactive touch tanks!
Shrimpboat Sound Studio
Shrimpboat Sound Studio — historic recording studio in Key West, where legends like Jimmy Buffett made music in a humble, iconic space.