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
Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.
Southernmost Point — iconic landmark & photo destination in Key West, where geography meets tropical charm.
Key West Aquarium
Explore Key West Aquarium's vibrant marine life and interactive touch tanks!
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.
St. Paul's Episcopal Church Key West
Founded in 1832 and the oldest congregation in Florida south of St. Augustine, St. Paul's Episcopal Church is one of Key West's most treasured historic landmarks, offering weekly worship, an annual concert series, and five on-grounds wedding and event venues at 401 Duval Street — all while undergoing a breathtaking historic restoration for its 200th anniversary in 2032.
Williams Hall
Williams Hall — restored historic community venue hosting concerts, cultural events, culinary experiences and inter-generational programs in 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.
REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation
Explore the REEF Ocean Exploration Center: inspiring ocean discovery and conservation!