Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Explore artifacts from over 150 shipwrecks, including the Titanic, and delve into maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore artifacts from over 150 shipwrecks, including the Titanic, and delve into maritime history.
"A quirky, interesting museum with fascinating shipwreck artifacts and a great lookout point."
Check for Local Discounts
In Key West, locals get free admission on the first Sunday of the month! :moneywithwings:
Allow ample time
Spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the detailed exhibits and stories. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Titanic Artifacts
See genuine artifacts recovered from the legendary Titanic, offering a poignant connection to history.
Shackleton Exhibition
Explore the incredible story of Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic expeditions through detailed exhibits.
Animated Village Scenes
Step back in time with engaging animated displays depicting historical village life.
Maritime Heritage Displays
Discover a vast collection of items from over 150 shipwrecks, showcasing Florida's rich maritime past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Tickets and Admission Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Local Discounts
In Key West, locals get free admission on the first Sunday of the month! :moneywithwings:
Allow ample time
Spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the detailed exhibits and stories. :clock1:
Not ideal for very young kids
Best suited for older children and adults interested in history. :older_adults:
Lookout for great views
Don't miss the lookout point for panoramic views of the harbor and downtown. :cityscape:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Local Discounts
In Key West, locals get free admission on the first Sunday of the month! :moneywithwings:
Allow ample time
Spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the detailed exhibits and stories. :clock1:
Not ideal for very young kids
Best suited for older children and adults interested in history. :older_adults:
Lookout for great views
Don't miss the lookout point for panoramic views of the harbor and downtown. :cityscape:
Dogs are welcome
Bring your furry friends along for the visit! :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Shipwreck Treasure Museum to be an interesting and quirky stop, particularly for its collection of artifacts from over 150 shipwrecks, including the Titanic, and the engaging Shackleton exhibition. However, some reviews mention that the museum may have seen better days, with certain exhibits appearing unkempt or incomplete, and the admission price being considered high by some given the condition.
"The weather wasn't great at the start of our holiday so I was looking for something we could do that would interest my children. They are 14 &18. This quirky lovely museum was just the ticket. We spent an hour or so here before heading outside to the harbour. Lots of things to see, including the Shackleton experience.
The tickets were fairly priced and not too expensive.
Dogs welcome too.
We enjoyed our visit."
Rhiannon Williams
"this place has probably seen better days unfortunately. £8.50 was far too expensive for a ticket considering so much is missing, especially when it wasn’t made clear to us that there were some areas that are incomplete.
even the bits that were available to see were very unkept, with displays either being damaged or all over the place. overall disappointing. from the looks of it, it’s all being sold off to auction anyway."
josie
"So sad this place is closing... And all the exhibits being sold by auction 😔, been a museum for 50 years. Lost treasure to the world. Good luck to those who have to move on. Glad we got to see this amazing place."
Emma Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Key West, Florida, a popular tourist destination. It's easily accessible by car, trolley, or on foot if you're staying in the downtown area. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship and can walk or take a short taxi ride to the museum.
Parking in Key West can be challenging and expensive. It's often best to utilize public parking garages or lots, or consider walking or using local transport like the Old Town Trolley if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices have been noted as fairly priced, though some reviews suggest the cost might be high given the condition of some exhibits. Specific costs can vary, and it's advisable to check their official channels for the most current pricing. +1
Yes, in Key West, locals can enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
Recent information indicates that the museum in Charlestown, Cornwall, has closed and its exhibits are being sold off. It's crucial to verify the operational status and location you intend to visit.
For events like the Tunnel of Lights, booking tickets online in advance is recommended. Check the museum's official website or social media for ticketing information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include artifacts from over 150 shipwrecks, the Titanic, the Shackleton exhibition, and animated scenes of village life.
While it can be interesting for older children fascinated by pirates and sailors, it's generally considered less suitable for very young children due to the detailed historical content.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photo restrictions.
The museum has hosted special exhibitions like the Shackleton experience and festive events such as the Tunnel of Lights. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming events. 
Information on accessibility can vary by location. It's recommended to contact the specific museum branch you plan to visit for details on ramps, elevators, and other facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself might not have extensive dining facilities, the surrounding areas, especially in Key West and Charlestown, offer numerous restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The exhibits themselves, especially the Titanic artifacts and the Shackleton displays, make for compelling photos. The lookout point in Key West offers great harbor views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The exhibits offer a glimpse into maritime history with artifacts from numerous shipwrecks, which can spark imagination and curiosity. While it's generally recommended for older children who can appreciate the historical details, younger ones might enjoy the more visual aspects and animated scenes. In Key West, remember that locals get free admission on the first Sunday of the month, making it a budget-friendly family outing.
Don't forget to check out the lookout point for some great views, which can be an exciting addition to the museum visit for kids. 💰 Budget Travelers
While ticket prices are generally considered fair, some visitors have noted that the value might be diminished if certain exhibits are incomplete. Consider combining your visit with exploring the surrounding harbor area, which often offers free scenic views and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere.
If the museum in Charlestown is indeed closed and its collection dispersed, focus your search on other maritime museums that might offer more consistent value for your travel budget.🏛️ History Buffs
The detailed exhibits and the Shackleton exhibition provide rich narratives for those eager to learn about historical expeditions and the lives of those who navigated the seas. Pay close attention to the detailed stories and historical context provided with each artifact. While some reviews mention areas needing upkeep, the sheer volume and significance of the collection, particularly in its former Charlestown location, represent a substantial historical resource.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charlestown Shipwreck Treasure Museum: A Legacy of Artifacts
However, recent news indicates the museum has closed its doors, and its extensive collection is being sold off by auction. This marks the end of an era for a museum that had been a significant cultural institution for 50 years, representing a considerable loss of historical treasures to the public.
Despite its closure, the legacy of the Charlestown museum lives on through the artifacts that have been acquired by collectors and potentially other institutions. Visitors who experienced the museum often recall its detailed displays and the poignant stories of survival and mutiny associated with the shipwrecks.
Key West's Maritime History and the Shipwreck Treasure Museum
+1A key feature highlighted by visitors is the opportunity to climb to a lookout point, providing stunning panoramic views of the harbor and the downtown district. This vantage point offers a different perspective on the maritime landscape that was once so vital to Key West's economy and survival.
For Key West locals, the museum offers a special perk: free admission on the first Sunday of each month, making it an accessible cultural outing for the community. This initiative encourages residents to connect with their local history and enjoy the museum's offerings.
Navigating the Museum Experience: Tips from Visitors
Practical advice from visitors includes checking for any local discount days, such as the free admission for Key West residents on the first Sunday of the month.
Additionally, it's worth noting that some exhibits might be incomplete or in a state of disrepair, as indicated by some reviews, which could impact the overall visitor experience. Despite potential drawbacks, many visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the opportunity to see genuine artifacts up close. The museum's unique focus on shipwreck history, including special exhibitions like the Shackleton experience, makes it a memorable stop for history enthusiasts.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit