We were in Key West during a cold snap. The high on this particular day was only in the 50's so we…read morewere looking for some indoor activites as opposed to water or beach activities. The Art and Historical Society is housed in a historic buidling that has served a variety of uses in the past - including serving as the island's customs office, a post office, courthouse and the U S Navy. This four-story architectural marvel was built to be a prominent structure near the water in order to collect customs. After the Navy moved out, it was vacant for a number of years until it was acquired by the Art and Historical Society which completed an extensive, multi-year renovation of the building. Seeing the building itself is worth a visit but the museum includes a wealth of art and history of the Key West are that shoudn't be missed. Allow at least 2 hours.

Located in Mallory Square, this museum depicts the paths of citizens of the southernmost town when…read moreit was the richest and largest city in Florida in the 19th century. Here we see local, national and even international exhibits of art and history. I enjoyed drawings of Ernest Hemingway's Old Man and the Sea. There are 59 drawings on the walls from the 1st to the 3rd floor. Open daily from 10-4:30 pm. Elsewhere I wasn't super impressed. Admission charge 13.00 and less for kids. Self guided.

If you are searching for the best theatre…read more.. Like the ones with: stadium seating, the hottest new action movies, long lines for popcorn, overpriced tickets, electric chairs with lots of space, huge parking lot with only room in the back, lots of high schoolers hanging around WELL THIS IS NOT THAT PLACE This is more like a movie theatre you expect back in the 50's It'a a non-profit with lots of volunteers and the best staff ever. They treat everyone lovingly and talk about movies with passion. The snack counter is small but so is the whole place so there is rarely a line and even when that does happen it's really short. They do get some new releases but this is not what you should come for; ask what they recommend; special movies with lower budgets and more cinematic talent is their thing here.

We visited to see "Tuner" on our 16 year anniversary. This theater was clean, the staff were…read morepersonable, and made the day special. I love that it's right off Duval street. They had a couple of other options we would've enjoyed seeing another day. I also think that the popcorn and the drinks were tasty and everything was very cost effective. I highly recommend you check them out. We also enjoyed supporting a local theater that's supported by volunteers!

You get incredible views of Key West from on top of the lighthouse. It is an exhausting 88 steps up…read morebut the view is well worth it. It started to thunder and lightning while we were aloft. That was scary/interesting. The museum and gift shop are nice.

the only lighthouse in USA entirely within city limits…read more Visitors can climb 88 iron steps, explore the restored Keeper's Quarters, and view maritime artifacts. Originally built in 1825, the current structure was completed in 1848 and raised in 1894 to reach 100 feet. The view from the top is considered one of the best in Key West. One of the highest points in Old Town, the lighthouse offers unmatched panoramic views and the chance to enjoy Key West's legendary sunset in peaceful privacy; far from the crowded Mallory Square

A must see while in Key West!…read more It's quiet, serene, beautiful place to just sit among lush garden and watch the sea. So many amazing views and benches available to sit and just relax. It's free, but they do request a donation that is voluntary! There was a kind woman sitting at the desk who gave us a map, and explained their history briefly. It's a beautiful place to stop in and visit, with their butterfly garden and orchid arbor stealing the show. Bathrooms were very clean as well.

This garden is also called "Key West Gardens at Fort West Martello", free entry, free street…read moreparking and run by volunteer, donation are welcome. It's a well maintain garden in the Martello Fort, the volunteer lady was very helpful and friendly. Pretty place with lot of orchid and a small butterfly garden, very relaxing walk and there are picnic tables and benches. Every corner of the garden is a beautiful spot for photographers

This was my favorite touristy tours we took while visiting Key West. I learned a lot about the area…read moreand President Truman. I was very impressed with the restored home and real lived in items as historic pieces on display. They still have more work to keep this museum going and protected, but it can be done. They also had a nice gift shop, with great tour guides. Bravo!

From 1946 through 1952, President Harry Truman used this house as his winter vacation home, and…read morebecause he spent 175 days of his presidency here, it became known as the Little White House. Originally built by the U.S. Navy in 1890, the Little White House served as naval command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, and also played roles in both World Wars and the Cold War. Since Truman's days, many other presidents have also vacationed here, including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. Today, the Little White House has been restored and turned into a museum. Also, don't forget to check the famous limousine while you are there. The only way to see inside the Truman Little White House in Key West is via a guided tour. But there is a small section near the gift shop that is free for visitors.

The cool thing about this museum is that Mel Fisher displays artifacts from two ship wrecks that he…read morediscovered in the keys. There is scuba video of the discoveries that gives the viewer a realistic feel. One discovery, in 1972, was the slave ship Henrietta Marie which sailed in the 1690s and later. In the ship ruins were found several items like shackles and elephant tusks. It wrecked in the western keys. The other discovery was in the 1980s of a Spanish wreck that contained half a billion in gold and silver treasure. Lots of silver coins and gold bars are on display. Both Florida and the Federal Government tried to own the riches but Mel Fisher won in court. The Supreme Court said "finders keepers".

Happy International Museum Day! Here's a brief review of one of the museums I visited on my cruise…read morein March 2026. Although a bit overpriced ($17.50 for adults) for the size and scope of this museum, Mel Fisher's Maritime Museum in Key West, Florida is an important stop for those interested in maritime archaeology and shipwrecks. This museum, which opened in 2000 in a historic building, focuses on the artifacts from a few 17th-century shipwrecks, especially on the historic find of the Spanish galleon ship, the Nuestra Senora de Atocha which sunk off the Florida Keys in 1622. The history behind the ship, the wreck, and its discovery are all incredible so do a deep dive on your own. As for the museum part of it, the exhibits are pretty permanent - this isn't the kind of place with rotating exhibits - and they could use a dusting/refresh. The gift shop up front is decent, the staff were nice, and the section that focused on the slave ship, Henrietta Marie was a sobering at the cruel treatment and conditions human beings subjected to other human beings. I had a good visit, spending about an hour here in all, and was pleased to have crossed it off my very long list of museums I want to visit!

This is my favorite activity we do when we're in Key West (OK, drinking some ultra rare Scotches…read moreand beers definitely is up there). It's certainly my chihuahua's favorite party. You might notice I said it's my CHIHUAHUA's favorite party, when the event listing says it's a Dachshund Walk. The chis have kind of co-opted this event, so the doxies line up first, then the chis take up the rear. I've noticed more and more other dog breeds showing up as well and lining up behind the chis. The more the merrier I say! Plan to arrive early as they close off the streets in the parade route a bit before the parade starts (including a couple blocks of Duval). Most of the doggos come in costumes, and your chihuahua gets to take home a commemorative Conch Republic Chihuahua bandana. My dog is absurdly social and stops at EVERY. SINGLE. PERSON. along the parade route to get pets. So much la!

WHERE: 500 Whitehead St - Parade Start WHEN: Noon - New…read moreYear's Eve (This is an Annual Event) The Annual Key West Dachshund Walk takes place every year at noon on New Year's Eve. Key West has dubbed the dachshund the official dog of Key West. During this parade dachshunds and their other close four footed friend breeds come from far and wide to parade down Fleming Street and down one block on Duval, or as far as their little legs can carry them. Some don elaborate costumes and props, are pulled in wagons and carts and carried by their parents along the parade route. This is a FREE event that is fun for all ages and worth bringing your camera to. All dogs gather on the Courthouse Steps at 500 Whitehead St for the parade start. Visit their FB Page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Key-West-Dachshund-Walk/161327957238019

We were by the front bar and close to the band. The security guy was smoking and vaping - then he…read moremoved his girlfriend to a stool right in front of us. We tried to move to the other side. He then came over and sat right by us and was smoking right in front of us. Overall gross and inconsiderate. We then started walking out and he chased us saying we had to leave, overall just a weird experience. Find better staff

The bartender was amazing. They don't serve food and the drinks are great. Mostly locals and it's a…read morebar not to miss. Real good vibes.