Conch Tour Train
For a historic adventure through Key West, take a ride onboard Key West’s original sightseeing tour, the Conch Tour Train.
As a legacy to Henry Flagler’s “railway over the sea”, the Conch Tour Train has treated visitors to an in-depth view of the city’s most charming, historic and interesting attractions for 50 years… and counting. The Conch Tour Train took its inaugural ride in 1958 and has been offering tours throughout Key West ever since.
The Conch Tour Train departs daily from the Front Street Depot and ends at Mallory Square—one of Key West’s most famous spots. Throughout the tour, you’ll not only see the area’s well-known sights, you’ll also learn about the many residents, both past and present, that make the Conch Republic one of the world’s most unique places. See some of the spots Hemingway frequented and find out why Harry Truman spent so much time on the island. Listen to accounts of how pirates, Indians and wreckers lived, fought and worked, giving Key West its extraordinary reputation.
The historic Conch Tour Train tour is 60 minutes long making one full loop through Old Town Key West, includes a short break stop, and highlights marvelous sights, stories and entertainment.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
The house was built on the waterfront of the harbor of Key West. In the beginning of the 20th century, the home was converted into a single family dwelling to house the base commandant.
The house has been host to many distinguished guests. Thomas Edison resided in the house during World War I, while working on depth charge research for the U.S. Navy.
In 1946, Harry Truman began visiting Key West for rest and relaxation and returned for 175 days during his presidency. Quarters A was the Winter White House.
President Dwight Eisenhower used the home while recuperating from a heart attack in 1956. In 1961, the Little White House played host to President John F. Kennedy and British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan during the Bay of Pigs incident. The house remained a living quarters for the commanding officers of the base until Truman Naval Station was closed in 1974. In 1996, President Jimmy Carter and his family, visited the home while on holiday and celebrated New Year’s Eve here with family and friends. In April of 2000 the Joint Chiefs of Staff for the U.S., Great Britain, Germany, and France along with their wives had a private dinner at the Little White House.
Our history tellers relate a fascinating & personal glimpse of the most important man of his time.
Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Discover the perils of the shipwrecking industry as you journey back in time to 1851. See how the rewards of this dangerous profession made Key West one of the richest cities in America. Artifacts, laser technology, video presentations and live actors as well as a 65-foot observation tower make the museum a unique experience. See and hear film clips, interviews and actual underwater footage in the re-created shipwrecker’s warehouse. Experience the mesmerizing tale of the Isaac Allerton, one of the richest shipwrecks in the history of Key West. Many of the artifacts on display come from her watery grave. Summon all your strength to lift a silver bar salvaged from a Spanish galleon. Learn about Asa Tift and other individuals who made their fortunes in the exciting and perilous world of wreck salvage.
Then climb to the top of the lookout and imagine yourself spotting the wrecks of Spanish galleons and turn-of-the-century cargo ships like the wrecking captains of old. A top attraction in Key West for kids of all ages.
