Historical and Cultural Institutions
Key West Museum of Art & History
Through curated exhibitions and historic sites across the island, the Key West Art & Historical Society connects visual art with local history and storytelling. Their rotating shows often provide deeper context for the cultural forces that shaped Key West.
Best for: curated exhibitions, history-informed art, museum-quality shows
Tennessee Williams Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of the playwright who called Key West home, this museum offers a more intimate look at the island’s literary legacy. Personal artifacts and rotating exhibits connect Williams’ writing to his years spent here.
Best for: literary history, theater enthusiasts, quieter museums
Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters
Climbing the lighthouse rewards visitors with panoramic views over Old Town and the surrounding rooftops. The adjacent keeper’s quarters provide context on maritime life and the island’s relationship with the sea.
Best for: views, maritime history, photography
Lighthouse Private Sunset Viewing
An intimate, after-hours way to enjoy Key West’s legendary sunset. With exclusive access for small groups, guests take in 360-degree views from the lighthouse tower and grounds while enjoying a complimentary bottle of wine or Prosecco and a curated charcuterie board. It’s a relaxed, elevated evening that feels like a local secret — perfect for couples, celebrations, or anyone looking for a truly unique sunset setting.
Key West Shipwreck Museum
An immersive museum exploring Key West’s shipwrecking era, when salvaging cargo from grounded vessels shaped the island’s economy and identity. Exhibits blend storytelling, artifacts, and views from the observation tower overlooking the harbor.
Best for: interactive exhibits, maritime lore, first-time visitors
1 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 292-8990
https://www.keywestshipwreck.com
Truman's Little White house
Once a winter retreat for President Truman, this waterfront residence tells the story of Key West’s role in postwar American history. Guided tours focus on the political decisions and personal moments that unfolded here.
Please contact me for VIP private tour reservations
Best for: U.S. history, guided tours, quieter museum experiences
111 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 294-9911
https://www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.org
East Martello Tower
One of Key West’s most distinctive museums, housed inside a 19th-century coastal fort. Operated by the Key West Art & Historical Society, it features rotating exhibitions, folk art, military artifacts, and local history displays — along with the famous Robert the Doll, whose legend has become one of the island’s most talked-about stories. The mix of history, art, and folklore makes this a surprisingly layered and memorable stop.
Best for: military history, rotating exhibitions, folk art and local artists, and exploring a
Robert the Doll After Dark
An atmospheric, after-hours visit to see Key West’s most infamous resident once the museum closes. Led in low light and rich with folklore, the experience leans into the legend and history surrounding Robert — with an optional VIP upgrade that allows for a more intimate, extended encounter and additional storytelling.
Best for: spooky folklore fans, curious adults, and a unique after-dark experience
Inside East Martello Tower (night experience)
West Martello Tower & Garden Club
Surrounded by gardens and open sky, West Martello feels almost hidden despite its waterfront setting. It’s a tranquil place to wander, linger, and enjoy the contrast between natural growth and historic structure. Free to enter, donations suggested.
Best for: peaceful garden walks, waterfront views, historic ruins, and a quiet, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere
1100 Atlantic Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Combining historic fortifications with shaded paths and coastal scenery, Fort Zachary Taylor offers one of the island’s most immersive outdoor settings. It’s ideal for exploring on foot and taking in the scale of Key West’s southern edge.
Best for: Civil War history, natural beauty, and learning about Key West’s strategic military role
601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
https://fortzacharytaylor.com/
The Butterfly Conservatory
A tranquil indoor garden filled with free-flying butterflies and tropical birds, this conservatory offers a slower, sensory-rich experience. It’s a gentle contrast to the busier outdoor sights nearby.
Best for: quiet moments, families, shaded indoor experiences
1316 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 296-2988
https://keywestbutterfly.com
Ernest Hemingway House
One of Key West’s most recognizable historic homes, the Hemingway House offers a glimpse into the author’s life during his island years. The property itself—lush grounds, Spanish Colonial architecture, and famously independent cats—is just as compelling as the history inside.
Best for: literary history, architecture, first-time visitors
907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 294-1136
Audubon House & Gardens
Once home to Captain John Geiger, the Audubon House blends fine art, architecture, and lush gardens in an Old Town setting. The museum highlights 19th-century life in Key West alongside works inspired by John James Audubon.
Best for: historic homes, art and nature, garden settings
205 Whitehead Street
(305) 294-2116
Key West Firehouse Museum
A small, locally run museum housed in the island’s original firehouse, showcasing antique fire equipment and the history of firefighting in Key West. It’s a quick, personable stop with strong local character.
Best for: niche history, short visits, local stories
102 Ann Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 293-1805
https://keywestfire.com/
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Focused on shipwrecks, treasure hunting, and maritime archaeology, this museum highlights the adventurous—and often dangerous—history of the surrounding waters. Exhibits are engaging without being overwhelming.
Best for: maritime history, shipwreck stories, curious explorers
200 Greene Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 294-2633
https://www.melfisher.org
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
Focused on the surrounding marine ecosystem, this center offers interactive exhibits about coral reefs, mangroves, and local wildlife. It provides useful context for visitors spending time on or in the water.
Best for: environmental education, families, understanding local ecosystems
35 E Quay Road, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 809-4700
https://fla-keys.noaa.gov/eco_discovery_center
Art Studios & Galleries
Studios of Key West
A central hub for the island’s creative community, The Studios of Key West hosts rotating exhibitions, performances, lectures, and resident artists. It’s a place to experience the breadth of contemporary creative life on the island rather than a traditional retail gallery.
Best for: contemporary art, cultural programming, creative insight
533 Eaton Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 296-0458
https://tskw.org
Guild Hall Gallery
A local artist-run cooperative located on Duval Street, the Guild Hall Gallery features work by its member artists, who staff the space on a rotating basis. The result is an intimate, conversational gallery experience where visitors can often meet the artists themselves.
Best for: locally made art, meeting artists, gallery spaces
614 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 296-6076
https://guildhallgallery.org
Art on Duval
A professional fine art gallery supporting Florida-based artists—many from Key West—alongside internationally born creators working across a range of media. Art on Duval presents thoughtfully curated works spanning sculpture, painting, and photography. It’s a strong stop for visitors interested in contemporary fine art across a range of media.
Best for: contemporary fine art, Florida-based artists, mixed media work
602 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 741-7001
https://artonduval.com
Gallery on Greene
Tucked away on a quieter Old Town street, Gallery on Greene emphasizes fine art painting and sculpture in a calm, thoughtfully presented setting. The focus here is on craftsmanship and measured viewing rather than spectacle.
Best for: fine art, painting, quiet gallery browsing
606 Greene Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 294-1669
https://galleryongreene.com
Key West Gallery
A contemporary gallery featuring rotating works across media, including pop art and sculptural pieces. The space includes bejeweled character sculptures by local artist Matteo, adding a playful yet polished edge to the collection.
Best for: pop art, sculpture, modern collectible pieces
601 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 292-9339
https://keywestgallery.com
Alan S. Maltz Gallery
Renowned for large-scale photography, the Alan S. Maltz Gallery highlights striking imagery of wildlife, landscapes, and global subjects. The work here is bold, dramatic, and visually immersive.
Best for: photography, large-format work, visual impact
1210 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 294-0005
https://www.alanmaltz.com
Key West Pottery
A cooperative gallery featuring handmade ceramics by local artists, this space focuses on functional and decorative pottery with a strong sense of craft. It’s a quieter stop that rewards closer looking.
Best for: ceramics, handmade work, locally crafted art
1203 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 900-8303
https://www.keywestpottery.com
Cocco & Salem Gallery
A thoughtfully curated boutique gallery blending art, objects, and design-forward pieces with a playful edge. Coco & Salem showcases work that feels both intentional and approachable, making it a refreshing stop for visitors drawn to creativity beyond traditional wall art.
Best for: design-minded visitors, unique art objects, curated gifts
1111 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
(305) 292-0072