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.
Filters
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.
Islamorada
History of Diving Museum
Explore the fascinating history and evolution of diving at the History of Diving Museum!
Meetings Max
50
Key Largo
REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation
Explore the REEF Ocean Exploration Center: inspiring ocean discovery and conservation!
Meetings Max
136
Total Space
4000 sq ft
Largest Room
2000 sq ft
Key West
Key West Art and Historical Society
Explore two centuries of Key West history and art in a stunning historic landmark!
The Lower Keys
Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach
Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.
Key West
Shrimpboat Sound Studio
Shrimpboat Sound is the Key West recording studio Jimmy Buffett opened in 1986, set in an old ice house by the shrimp docks at the Historic Seaport. Buffett recorded much of his catalog here, and the studio hosted artists like George Strait, Alan Jackson, and Kenny Chesney before it closed after his death in 2023.
Key West
Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
In 1832 John James Audubon sat in this garden painting a white-crowned pigeon, perched it in a flowering tree, and named that tree after the man whose yard he was standing in. A Geiger tree still grows out front, and 28 first-edition Audubon works hang inside.
Weddings Max
250
Islamorada
Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
Explore Florida Keys' rich history, marine life, and local art at this interactive discovery center.
Key West
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
Monroe County's official arts agency is the reason there are 19 monumental sculptures standing along the Overseas Highway from Key West to Key Largo. Its free gallery guide, cultural calendar and public art maps are the fastest way to find what is happening while you are here.
Islamorada
Robbie's of Islamorada
Robbie’s of Islamorada offers thrilling tarpon feeding, fishing, water sports, and vibrant local dining in the heart of the Florida Keys.
Marathon
St. Columba Episcopal Church
St. Columba Episcopal Church — a vibrant community hub serving Marathon, Florida Keys.
Weddings Max
100
Meetings Max
100
Key West
Sunset Pier
Ocean Key Legacy Resort & Bar — iconic Key West destination featuring the famed Sunset Pier with cocktails, live music & nightly views.
Key Largo
Key Largo Volunteer Fire Museum
Opened on July 4, 2025 in Key Largo’s original 1955 firehouse, this museum holds the department’s first rescue boat, original bunker gear and a Hurst Jaws of Life. It is open Wednesdays only, and admission is free.
Key West
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.
