Welcome to the historic homes of Key West! This vibrant yet relaxed city is full of illustrious houses and buildings that have served as homes to famous authors, musicians, adventurers and more. From architectural gems built in the late 1800s, including Ernest Hemingway’s famous Spanish colonial estate, to modern beachfront mansions, discover what makes Key West’s real estate so special. Nestled at the southernmost tip of Florida lies Key West, a vibrant and colorful city teeming with a blend of cultures and a captivating history. Characterized by its whimsical architecture, sun-drenched streets and lush tropical gardens, the island city offers a picturesque setting for anyone seeking an unforgettable and authentic experience. Often referred to as the “Conch Republic,” Historic Key West has long been a haven for those with adventurous spirits, from the likes of legendary writer Ernest Hemingway to treasure hunter Mel Fisher. As you wander through the bustling heart of Old Town, you can’t help but be enchanted by the striking murals and sculptures gracing the city’s lively streets, reflecting the artistic soul and Caribbean influence that has shaped Key West over the years. A destination like no other, a Key West historic home tour takes you on a rich journey through its cultural tapestry and exciting past.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Visiting the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West, Florida, is an amazing way to feel connected to history and learn something meaningful while having a great time with family or friends. The historic Key West home was originally built as the command center for Fort Taylor during the mid-1800s. This building has seen much of American history pass by its doors, including some of the oldest maritime areas of the state and families who settled here for centuries. Its use changed in 1910 when it became a naval station and then eventually was reborn as a vacation home for President Truman between 1946 and 1952 – becoming known all around America as the Little White House. All these years later, visitors can witness firsthand what life must have been like for President Truman during his regular visits to one of the most iconic places in all of Florida!
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of the great American writer Ernest Hemingway by touring the Hemingway Home and Museum, a slice of literary history nestled in the heart of historic Key West, Florida. As you wander through each sun-soaked room, you’ll witness the space where Hemingway’s writing process came to life, creating timeless masterpieces. Listen to fascinating stories that thread together Hemingway’s dynamic personal and professional life, including his passion for boxing, fishing and the arts. And, of course, no visit would be complete without encountering the famous six-toed cats! These feline treasures, descended from Hemingway’s original cat, Snow White, continue to roam the property, captivating visitors with their charm and unique extra digits. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers an unforgettable experience to both fans of Hemingway’s work and curious travelers alike.
Audubon House
Welcome to the Audubon House in Key West, where history, nature and family fun come together for a truly memorable experience. Located in the heart of Old Town, near Duval Street, the Audubon House is one of America’s most popular tourist attractions. The house stands as a testament to one of America’s greatest naturalists, John James Audubon, and his visit to the Conch Republic in 1832. Explore the Key West historic home and learn about the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this paradise! Explore historical artifacts from some of Key West’s earliest pioneering ancestors, or take a tour guided by historians or official docents who have dedicated themselves to preserving this highly acclaimed landmark since 1960. The historic Audubon House is a must-see when exploring historic Key West homes!
Tennessee Williams’ Home
Have you ever dreamed of visiting the home of one of our nation’s most iconic playwrights? If so, then a visit to Tennessee Williams’ home in Key West, Florida, is an absolute must-see. Located on Whitehead Street, the iconic Tennesee Williams’ home provides visitors with an unparalleled glimpse into Williams’ life and career through memorabilia and interactive experiences. From discovering his writing process to hearing stories about his time in paradise, this historic Key West home offers something for every kind of tourist or traveler!
Key West Woman’s Club
319 Duval Street still stands as an enduring example of classic Key West architecture, with gingerbread fretwork and a broad veranda. The Woman’s Club has carefully restored the home to its original grandeur, complete with beautiful hardwood floors, period furniture, and even Eleanor Hellings’ original piano. Group tours are available by request and provide visitors the opportunity to learn more about Captain Hellings’ illustrious career as a businessman and sailor, as well as the fascinating history of the home. Visitors can also explore the Key West Woman’s Club Library on-site, which serves as a valuable local resource containing archives from throughout Monroe County’s rich past. If you’re seeking an unforgettable Key West historic home tour, the Key West Woman’s Club is a must-see. With its unique architecture, historical artifacts and stories, it’s truly an unforgettable experience.
Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Inn
Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Inn is a beautiful, historic attraction, which will surely make your Key West historic home tour itinerary. Built by Milton Curry in 1869, the lavish Georgian Revival mansion stands as a testament to William Curry’s astounding success as Florida’s first self-made millionaire! The outside of the mansion is decorated with Birdseye maple bark to give it a unique and elegant look. Now, visitors can stay at the 28-room bed-and-breakfast or take a guided tour of the mansion. Whether you’re interested in seeing the historical architecture up close or staying overnight, there is something for everyone at Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Inn. Come experience this piece of Florida history for yourself and make memories that will last a lifetime!
The Artist House
The Artist House is just as beautiful and unique! Built in the 1890s, this two-story Colonial Queen Anne-style home at 534 Eaton Street was once the studio of painter and author Eugene Otto. It now serves as a seven-room bed-and-breakfast full of charming touches, such as lilac-colored shutters, gingerbread trim, claw-foot tubs, fireplaces and private balconies. The highlight of the house is certainly the octagon-shaped turret, which has been turned into a stylish guest suite. Whether you’re interested in staying at this beautiful historic home or simply taking a tour to marvel at its showy details, the Artist House is a must-see historic Key West home.
FAQs
What are the oldest homes in Key West?
Key West is home to some of the most historic homes in America. We’ve put together a list of some of the oldest houses in Key West that are still standing today:
Ernest Hemingway Home
Tennessee Williams’ Home
The Little White House
Audubon House
Who lived in the Hemingway House?
Hemingway, his wife Pauline and their two sons lived together in the house until 1940.
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Conch Tour Train Tickets
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Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places including Mallory Square, The Harry S. Truman Little White House, Overseas Railroad Museum, the Key West Aquarium and more. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- Open-air sightseeing perfect for taking pictures
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- FREE Full color map
Save up
to 5%
to 5%
TOUR KEY WEST AND TWO TOP ATTRACTIONS
Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
Discover the undersea world at the Key West Aquarium. A Window of Wonder comes alive as expert guides explain the mysteries of the water surrounding the Florida Keys.
Journey back to the mid-19th century in the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Highlights include displays and video presentations on the history of wreck salvage in the Florida Keys and the sinking of the legendary Isaac Allerton.
- Conch Tour Train:
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- Key West Aquarium:
- Daily turtle feedings
- Touch Tank offers guests hands on experience
- A wide variety of fish including grouper, moray eels, barracuda, tropical fish and more
- Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum:
- Discover the world of Shipwrecking
- Hear the story of the Isaac Allerton which wrecked off Key West
- Climb a 65' Captain's Observatory
- Attraction tickets do not have to be used on the same day
Save up
to 9%
to 9%
TOUR KEY WEST AND TWO MUSEUMS
Since 1958, the Conch Tour Train has treated guests to a close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places. While on the tour, your engineer offers an interesting and amusing narrative filled with historical facts, trivia and humor, and recounts fascinating stories of the colorful people that make Key West so unique.
Visit Florida’s only presidential museum at the Harry S. Truman Little White House built on the waterfront of the harbor of Key West.
Journey back to the mid-19th century in the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Highlights include displays and video presentations on the history of wreck salvage in the Florida Keys and the sinking of the legendary Isaac Allerton.
- Conch Tour Train:
- 60-minute tour of the Conch Republic
- One full loop through Old Town Key West
- FREE Two Guided Walking Tours included
- FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum included with ticket
- FREE coupons worth up to $50 in discounts
- Harry S. Truman Little White House:
- See the home Harry S. Truman came to relax and rest
- Visit where Eisenhower recuperated from his heart attack in 1956
- Thomas Edison resided here during World War I
- Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum:
- Discover the world of Shipwrecking
- Hear the story of the Isaac Allerton which wrecked off Key West
- Climb a 65' Captain's Observatory
- Attraction tickets do not have to be used on the same day
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