12 Museums to Explore in Monroe County

Crane Point Hammock, offers visitors a unique combination of tropical plants, wildlife and recreation. Home to two museums and a butterfly sanctuary, Crane Point Hammock is anything but ordinary. Wander the trails or take a guided tour of the nature center to learn about the local ecology including wetlands and mangroves. Bring your own gear or rent their kayak or canoe for an afternoon out on the water. Don't miss a visit to the seaside aquarium.

This Center located on an idyllic beachfront near Key West, the center provides visitors with opportunities to learn about the area’s unique ecosystems and their associated species through interactive exhibits. The Center also runs environmental education programming for children and adults alike, ranging from lectures to field excursions. With its sustainable practices, such as recycling and green building initiatives, this Center has become a model of Caribbean conservation efforts.

The Fort East Martello Museum is an exciting destination for history buffs and curious thinkers alike. From its unique collection of artifacts - ranging from memorabilia from the battles of the Spanish-American War to a plethora of relics from Key West's days as a cigar manufacturer - to its outdoor courtyards filled with century-old artillery and cannons, this museum is sure to provide hours upon hours of enriching entertainment.

The History of Diving Museum showcases the unique and exciting history of diving and how it has developed over the decades. The collection includes hundreds of artifacts telling stories full of danger and daring feats. From diving bells to helmets, military memorabilia and even a space-suited astronaut – no detail has been left uncovered in this amazing museum open to the public. Explore interactive exhibits complete with photographs, diagrams, media presentations and more!

Built in 1891 as a United States customs house and post office, it houses 3 floors of permanent and visiting exhibitions featuring Key West’s wealth of cultural resources including maritime artifacts, plaster casts of Key West artists’ works, original 19th century music boxes, photographs of early Florida life and more. It also features three rotating classrooms and exhibits that showcase vibrant local culture, such as the annual art exhibition by the Historical Architectural Review Board.

Key West Shipwreck Museum is a unique experience for visitors. The museum takes guests on a historical adventure by showcasing the wreckage of various ships which sunk off the coast of Key West throughout the years. Items on display include starfish and shells found near the wreckage as well as artifacts that survived being underwater for over 500 years. Hands-on activities like panning for 'gold' in a replica San Miguel shipwreck are also popular attractions.

This is an educational and entertaining attraction that showcases the history of The Florida Keys. With interactive exhibits and displays of artifacts, visitors can experience the development of the island in a fun-friendly atmosphere. The Discovery Center also offers programs to explore local culture and its unique ecology, such as a mangrove boat tour for kids that highlights the area's marine life. Visitors can also take part in workshops on creative writing, painting and more.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is famed for its spectacular display of artifacts and treasures recovered from the sunken 1622 Spanish fleet. From cannons to coins, each item tells a piece of history that paints a beautiful story of the fight between the Spanish Armada and a developing America. With multiple attractions involving pirate ships, interactive exhibits, educational tours, and even treasure hunts often offered onsite.

The Sails To Rails Museum offers an amazing journey through the history of transportation in the area. Here visitors can explore some of the changes to local industry and commerce that have occurred since the 19th century. Visitors will be able to view maps and photographs depicting the switch from railroad transport to air travel. Exhibits also showcase different types of watercraft used throughout the region's history, including sailboats and trading ships.

Residence of author Ernest Hemingway from 1931 to 1939, although he retained title to the home until he died. it is now populated by six- and seven-toed cats that are descendants of Hemingway's cats.

Winter White House for President Harry S Truman for 175 days during 11 visits. Regular guided tours take visitors through the site, and one can enter the rooms where the Trumans lived, worked and relaxed. Items such as President Truman's briefcase, books, telephone, and his famous "The Buck Stops Here" sign are still at his desk.

This is an incredible site to explore. It commemorates the Prohibition and World War II-era US Coast Guard cutter by preserving its physical remains. Dedicated to honoring those who served in the military, this museum features a variety of preserved artifacts and displays throughout, including gun casemates, radar decks, and ship's wheelhouse. Visitors can also partake in interactive media featuring photos and video installations that give insight into what life aboard was like during wartime.