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
The Lower Keys
Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach
Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.
Key West
San Carlos Institute
San Carlos Institute — Cuban heritage museum & cultural center in Key West, where history, art, and independence converge.
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.
Weddings Max
250
Key West
Key West Art and Historical Society
Explore two centuries of Key West history and art in a stunning historic landmark!
Key West
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.
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
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
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.
Key West
Oldest House Museum & Gardens Key West
Old Island Restoration Foundation — preserving historic buildings & culture in Key West since 1960.
Key West
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Explore the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in beautiful 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.
Islamorada
History of Diving Museum
Explore the fascinating history and evolution of diving at the History of Diving Museum!
Meetings Max
50
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.
Marathon
Pigeon Key and Marine Science Center
Historic island tours, snorkeling & Bridge-tram ride at Pigeon Key
