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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Marathon
St. Columba Episcopal Church
St. Columba Episcopal Church — a vibrant community hub serving Marathon, Florida Keys.
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
Key West Turtle Museum
Discover sea turtle conservation, interactive exhibits, and local marine education at the Key West Turtle Museum—where every visit helps protect our ocean’s gentle giants.
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
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!
Islamorada
History of Diving Museum
Explore the fascinating history and evolution of diving at the History of Diving Museum!
Key West
Sunset Pier
Ocean Key Legacy Resort & Bar — iconic Key West destination featuring the famed Sunset Pier with cocktails, live music & nightly views.
Marathon
Marathon Air Museum
Join EAA Chapter 1241 in Marathon, FL—where aviation passion takes flight!
Key West
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Explore the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in beautiful Key West!
Key West
Williams Hall
Williams Hall — restored historic community venue hosting concerts, cultural events, culinary experiences and inter-generational programs in Key West.
Key Largo
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.
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.
