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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Shrimpboat Sound Studio
Shrimpboat Sound Studio — historic recording studio in Key West, where legends like Jimmy Buffett made music in a humble, iconic space.
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.
Marathon Air Museum
Join EAA Chapter 1241 in Marathon, FL—where aviation passion takes flight!
Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach
Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.
Edward B. Knight Pier
Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!
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.
Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
Explore Florida Keys' rich history, marine life, and local art at this interactive discovery center.
Key West Ghost Tours: Southernmost Shadows and Ghosts
Discover Key West’s haunted history with a chilling walking ghost tour through cursed graveyards, eerie historic sites, and stories of restless spirits in the heart of Old Town.
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Explore the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in beautiful 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!
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.
Fort East Martello Museum
Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Presidential museum in Key West.
Key Largo Volunteer Fire Museum
Key Largo’s new fire rescue museum honors 70 years of local service & sacrifice.