Arts & Culture
In The Florida Keys, creativity flows as freely as the tides. From galleries filled with local paintings and sculptures to theaters, dance, live music, and street festivals, the islands wear their artistry in full color. Key West has long lured writers, dreamers, and free spirits, while each destination brings its own twist—think outdoor art walks, history museums, and quirky roadside treasures. Whether you’re browsing studios or catching a play, culture here feels refreshingly unbuttoned, sun-soaked, and impossible to forget.
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History
Creators
Keys Arts
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The Past in the Present
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.
Wrecking in the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys’ shipwreck salvage history began with the 19th-century wreckers who saved passengers and cargo from sinking ships.
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.
Key West African Cemetery
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a memorial honors the African Burial Ground at Higgs Beach.
Performing Arts
The Florida Keys inspires creativity across all genres: music and literary, stage and screen, studio and structure. Experience performances and installations here today, and learn about the creators of yesteryear who drew inspiration from our island paradise.
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.
Jimmy Buffett
For millions around the world, the words Key West and Jimmy Buffett are nearly synonymous. He lived in the island city during some of his most productive years—developing the “tropical rock” style and laid-back persona that helped make him a world-renowned musical icon.
Tennessee Williams
Did you know that internationally renowned playwright Tennessee Williams lived in Key West for more than 30 years? During his time here, he completed "Summer and Smoke" and wrote "Night of the Iguana" among other works.
Famous Musicians Inspired by The Florida Keys
Bob Dylan loves Key West. In fact, the legendary singer-songwriter immortalizes it as “the enchanted land” and “land of light”. Others from the Keys include country superstars Kenny Chesney and Toby Keith.
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts is the driving force behind much of the cultural heartbeat of the islands, working to celebrate and share the region's creativity with both residents and visitors.
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts is the driving force behind much of the cultural heartbeat of the islands, working to celebrate and share the...
15 Ways to Experience Arts in Key West
Long a haven for writers, artists, and dreamers, Key West continues to inspire with its sun-soaked streets, storied past, and vibrant creative spirit.
The Connections Project: A Mosaic of the Keys
Visual art and music by top Florida Keys talents are to take center stage during the Connections Project.
‘Islands of the Arts’ Sculpture Trail
You can find visual artistry almost everywhere in the Florida Keys: in palm-fringed shorescapes beside the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, orange...
They Built the Keys
Dreamers and doers. Leaders and legends. The Keys wouldn't be the same without them, and you'll see their impact woven throughout our islands. In museums, at festivals, on the walls of bars, and in food and drink inspired by their vision.
Mel Fisher
Legendary shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher, who found the wreck of the 1622 Spanish galleon Atocha, was one of Key West's most colorful and inspirational characters.
President Harry S. Truman Little White House
“My grandfather once said that presidents shouldn’t have descendants,” revealed Clifton Truman Daniel, “because those descendants would spend the rest of their lives having people think they should live up to their ancestors.”
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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Islamorada
Seaside Glassworks
Handcrafted glass art inspired by coastal beauty—discover unique creations!
Key West Legal Rum
Key West Legal Rum Distillery offers free daily tours and tastings of small-batch, salt-cured rums crafted by chef-distiller Paul Menta. Located at 105 Simonton St, it's a must-visit for rum enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Key West
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.
Key West
Whimsy Key West
Whimsy Key West — custom illustration & whimsical art in Key West, where imagination becomes keepsake.
Key West
Oldest House Museum & Gardens Key West
Old Island Restoration Foundation — preserving historic buildings & culture in Key West since 1960.
Key West
Derubeis Fine Art of Metal Key West
Chris DeRubeis, acclaimed as the “Father of Conceptual Movement,” pioneers the signature style of Abstract Sensualism®, transforming metal into luminous, emotionally charged fine art that blends sculpture and painting in celestial abstraction.
Key West
Stone Soup Gallery & Frame Shop
Stone Soup Gallery — Key West’s gallery of fine art, crafts & local expressions in a cozy, creative space.
Islamorada
The Art Guild of the Purple Isles
Art Guild of the Purple Isles (AGPI) — visual arts nonprofit in the Upper Keys, where artists grow, connect & inspire the community.
Islamorada
Michelle Nicole Lowe, Artist
Michelle Nicole Lowe creates vivid watercolors and gallery art in Islamorada, celebrating Keys marine life and conservation.
Key West
Fort East Martello Museum
Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.
Key West
Edward B. Knight Pier
Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!
Key West
Magie Ruley-Island Inspirations
Bright, tropical acrylic art by Key West painter Maggie Ruley — bold colors, island scenes, and happy vibes.
One fish, two fish Studio
Featuring watercolors, acrylics, mixed media, pet portraits, and murals, the studio offers a unique glimpse into the island's artistic spirit.
