Although Key West is often a destination for those looking to get some Vitamin D, the rich history of the southernmost point of the United States is hard to ignore. Due to the proximity of the ocean, the shipwrecking industry, and a few celebrity residencies, there’s plenty of educational experiences to participate in during your stay at NYAH. Here are some of the best museums and most unique things to do in Key West.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Perhaps one of the most interesting and best museums in Key West is the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, meant to teach visitors about the maritime history of Florida and the Caribbean. The building itself previously served as a storehouse for the U.S. Navy. Now it shares the story of namesake Mel Fisher who discovered many treasures under the sea. Several other permanent and rotating exhibits are on display as well. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is open 365 days a year, opening at 8:30 on weekdays and 9:30 on weekends and holidays.
Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
The iconic Audubon House was built in the beautiful American Classic Revival architectural style by Captain John Huling Geiger. Geiger was a key player in the shipwrecking industry in the Keys, and which is why the preservation of the wrecker’s home is so important to Floridian history. One aspect that used to set the home apart was its clear line of sight of the ocean, which was a critical aspect of a wrecker’s home. Once you tour the house, go through the acre of tropical gardens on sight, featuring more than 200 orchids. The Audubon House is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 4:15 p.m.
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
For literature lovers, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-see. Walk through the place where the legend himself lived from 1931 to 1940, before he departed for Cuba. The home has many original furniture pieces and artworks, all matching the Spanish Colonial style that the house was built in. While you peruse, the 40-50 descendants of Hemingway’s cats roam the grounds—many having six toes. Also open 365 days a year, seeing the polydactyl cats at the Hemingway house is definitely is one of the most unique things to do in Key West.
Truman Little White House
Beginning in 1946, the Truman Little White House served as the winter White House for President Truman. The building also was a retreat for future presidents dealing with the Cold War. Previously, the building served as the naval station’s headquarters. Now, tours by knowledgeable guides depart every 20 minutes, sharing details about the life of President Truman and some political insights about the Cold War. The Truman Little White House is also open 365 days a year, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
Key West Lodging
Whether you love history or want to find something out of the box to do, museums are some of the most unique things to do in Key West. After a day on your feet, retreat to your custom room at NYAH, and kick back at one of our three pools or two jacuzzi with a drink in your hand. Book your custom room with us and secure your Key West lodging by calling us at 844-399-6924 or connecting with us online.