Key West Firehouse Museum
Step back in time at the 1907 Key West Firehouse Museum, where antique trucks and retired firefighters bring island history to life. A gem for all age...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Key West Firehouse Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the 1907 Key West Firehouse Museum, where antique trucks and retired firefighters bring island history to life. A gem for all ages!
"This is the most 'kid friendly' museum on the island. My grandsons tried on boots and authentic fire helmets!"
Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:
Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything!
Kid Heaven! :child:
Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antique Fire Trucks
Main Exhibit Hall
Climb aboard and imagine life as a firefighter! Kids and adults alike love interacting with these vintage vehicles.
Stories from Retired Firefighters
Throughout the museum
Hear captivating tales of Key West's firefighting past from the knowledgeable volunteers who lived it.
Key Lime Pie Tasting
Event Space (check schedule)
Occasionally hosts events featuring delicious Key lime pie, a true taste of the Keys!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Engage with Local Heroes
Kid-Friendly Fun & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:
Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything!
Kid Heaven! :child:
Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it!
Free Rum & History :rum_cocktail:
Look out for special events offering free rum and a taste of local culture.
Self-Guided Audio Tour :headphones:
For history buffs, an audio tour provides in-depth information.
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:
Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything!
Kid Heaven! :child:
Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it!
Free Rum & History :rum_cocktail:
Look out for special events offering free rum and a taste of local culture.
Self-Guided Audio Tour :headphones:
For history buffs, an audio tour provides in-depth information.
Support Preservation :heart:
Admission fees and donations help maintain this historic gem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Key West Firehouse Museum as a hidden gem, highlighting the passionate retired firefighter volunteers who share captivating stories and offer engaging tours. It's frequently cited as a top kid-friendly attraction, allowing children to interact with antique fire trucks and gear. While admission is free, donations are highly appreciated to support the preservation of this historic site.
"What a wonderful museum, a real gem!
We had a tour with former captain Jim Collie, he gave us plenty of informations, very informative!
Definitely worth a visit!"
Enrico Stirl (Germaneon)
"This is a hidden gem in Key West! It’s a perfect spot to learn about Key West fire fighting history AND to sit on a couple of REAL fire trucks! The museum is staffed by retired firemen volunteers that know the history of not only the fire station, but also the island and neighborhood,. This is the most “kid friendly” museum on the island. My grandsons tried on boots and authentic fire helmets AND climbed all over 2 fire trucks . The museum has a self guided audio tour for the real history buffs . Admission helps to fund the upkeep of the museum and there’s even a cute gift shop. Enjoy a vintage key west experience!"
June Fischer Rojahn
"Very interesting piece of history. Free admission.
The staff are all volunteers and super into the history and the visitors, they were so much fun! Find Bum Farto and get a free shot! Or get inducted to The Conch by drinking a shot of rum out of the conch shell with them!"
Kasey Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Key West, making it easily accessible on foot, by bike, or via local trolley tours. Parking can be challenging in Key West, so consider these alternative transport options.
Street parking is limited and can be difficult to find. It's often best to park in a public garage and walk or take a trolley to the museum.
Yes, the museum is within walking distance of Duval Street, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of Old Town Key West.
Many Key West trolley tours include stops near the Firehouse Museum, offering a convenient way to reach it and explore other attractions.
While efforts are made to preserve the historic nature of the building, accessibility information should be confirmed directly with the museum for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically free, with donations gratefully accepted to support the museum's preservation efforts.
No advance booking is usually required for general admission. However, for special events, it's advisable to check their schedule and any potential ticketing requirements.
Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While admission is generally free, special events like Fantasy Fest often feature free admission days, sometimes with perks like free rum.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged and help fund the upkeep and preservation of this historic site. There's often a gift shop as well.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore antique fire trucks, try on firefighter gear, learn about Key West's firefighting history through exhibits and stories from retired firefighters, and enjoy a self-guided audio tour.
Absolutely! It's considered one of the most kid-friendly museums in Key West, with opportunities to climb on trucks and wear authentic helmets.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits.
Most visitors spend about an hour, but you could easily spend an hour and a half if you engage with the volunteers and explore in-depth.
While not always formally scheduled, the retired firefighters often provide impromptu, highly informative tours and share personal anecdotes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself doesn't typically serve food, but they sometimes host special events that might include tastings, like Key lime pie or even free rum.
The museum is in a vibrant area of Key West with many restaurants and cafes nearby. You'll find everything from casual eats to Cuban cuisine.
Keep an eye out for events featuring Key lime pie, a local specialty, or the unique 'Conch induction' ceremony involving a shot of rum.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the museum to help preserve the historic artifacts.
Nearby you can find places like El Siboney for authentic Cuban food or various spots offering fresh seafood and, of course, Key lime pie.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vintage fire trucks, the historic building exterior, and candid shots of kids interacting with the exhibits. The volunteers can also make for great photo subjects!
Yes, you can take photos of the antique fire trucks, and even climb on some of them for a unique perspective.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb exhibits or people.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing clear shots of the exhibits and the building.
Many of the retired firefighters are friendly and may be open to a quick photo, especially if you've had a good chat with them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the fun, the retired firefighter volunteers are fantastic with children, sharing stories in an accessible way. It’s a great opportunity for kids to ask questions and learn about the importance of community service. Plan for at least an hour to let them fully explore and enjoy the hands-on elements.
❤️ History Buffs & Enthusiasts
The real treasure for history buffs, however, are the retired firefighter volunteers. Their personal anecdotes and firsthand accounts bring the exhibits to life in a way no textbook can. Engaging with them offers a unique and authentic perspective on the challenges and triumphs of Key West's firefighting community.
🥂 Culture & Event Seekers
These events are not only entertaining but also support a good cause – the preservation of a historic landmark. It's a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying a taste of Key West's unique spirit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Key West's Firefighting History
The volunteers at the museum are a significant part of the experience. Many are retired firefighters themselves, bringing a wealth of personal knowledge and passion to their roles. They are often eager to share stories, answer questions, and provide guided insights that go beyond the static displays. This personal connection makes the visit incredibly engaging and memorable, transforming a simple museum tour into an interactive historical journey.
Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum is renowned for its kid-friendly atmosphere. Children can often try on authentic firefighter gear, including helmets and boots, and even climb aboard some of the vintage fire trucks. This hands-on approach makes learning fun and accessible for younger visitors, ensuring that the museum appeals to all ages. It’s a place where history comes alive, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the firefighting profession.
Experiencing Key West Culture Through Events
Another unique aspect of some museum events, particularly around Fantasy Fest, involves free rum tastings and the induction into 'The Conch' by drinking rum from a conch shell. These lively traditions highlight Key West's festive and sometimes unconventional spirit. Such events not only provide entertainment but also contribute to the preservation of the museum and its historical significance, as proceeds often benefit the upkeep of the firehouse.
Attending these events provides a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local community and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that Key West is famous for. It’s a reminder that the Firehouse Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it’s an active part of the island’s living culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit