Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters
Climb 88 steps to the top of this historic Key West lighthouse for incredible island views and explore the Keeper's Quarters museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb 88 steps to the top of this historic Key West lighthouse for incredible island views and explore the Keeper's Quarters museum.
"Climb 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower for one of the best views of Key West and its turquoise waters."
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be climbing 88 steps, so wear shoes that are comfortable for climbing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Top of the Lighthouse
Ascend 88 steps for breathtaking 360-degree views of Key West and its turquoise waters.
Keeper's Quarters Museum
Grounds of the Lighthouse
Explore fascinating artifacts and learn about the lighthouse's rich history and the lives of its keepers.
Historic Lighthouse Tower
Main Lighthouse Structure
Climb the iconic tower, a crucial guide for ships navigating the Florida Straits for decades.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be climbing 88 steps, so wear shoes that are comfortable for climbing.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The gift shop sells water and drinks, which can be helpful after the climb.
📸 Capture the Views
The top offers incredible photo opportunities of Key West and the surrounding ocean.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be climbing 88 steps, so wear shoes that are comfortable for climbing.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The gift shop sells water and drinks, which can be helpful after the climb.
📸 Capture the Views
The top offers incredible photo opportunities of Key West and the surrounding ocean.
🚶♀️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the informative museum in the Keeper's Quarters for historical context.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Key West Lighthouse for its historical significance, informative museum, and breathtaking panoramic views from the top. The climb up the 88 stairs is a memorable part of the experience, though some find the ticket price a bit steep. The friendly staff and the well-maintained grounds also receive positive mentions.
"What a cool place to check out. We got here on a Tuesday morning at 10 am. No wait time, no line. The tickets are cheaper online. I definitely recommend buying them in advance. Might save some money especially if you’re going with friends and family. The museum at the property was informative and interesting. Picked out a few souvenirs on the way out from the gift store. Definitely recommend it!"
A Chistol
"I'm a lonely lighthouse...
The only inland lighthouse in the Keys is in Key West downtown kind of. Across from the Hemingway House is the entrance to the lighthouse grounds and keepers museum. Admission is $19 for adults.
There are 88 spiral stairs up to the top of the lighthouse so if you are not in good health or have issues with climbing heights, it is not recommended to go up. If you are good, then expect a climb. The steps are narrow but there are two landings for a quick stop and if people are passing.
The view from the top is great but "you will not be able to see Cuba". Yeah, that's on a sign at the lighthouse. Landmarks are marked on signage at the top as well.
The Keepers museum is full of great artifacts and history and offers AC after you make your climb down from the lighthouse.
There's a nice gift shop and the restrooms are located in there also.
The ladies that work during the day are helpful, friendly and informative. They enjoy talking with guests.
I highly recommend visiting."
Ben Engelhard
"A quaint little gem in Key West, that's worth the stop. Beatiful piece of property and history. Truly enjoyed being able to walk up to the top, the view worth it! A wonderful little shop as well. They do carry waters and other drinks."
charlene harrison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Key West Lighthouse is located in downtown Key West, across from the Hemingway House. You can easily reach it by walking, biking, or taking a short Uber/taxi ride from most Key West accommodations.
Parking in downtown Key West can be challenging. It's often best to park at your hotel or a public garage and walk or bike to the lighthouse.
Yes, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the lighthouse from further out locations. Consider the proximity to other attractions like the Hemingway House.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is around $19 for adults, but prices can vary. It's recommended to buy tickets online in advance for potential discounts. +1
Yes, discounts are often available for military, seniors, first responders, and active duty personnel.
The lighthouse is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the entrance, but buying them online beforehand is often cheaper and saves time.
The climb to the top involves 88 narrow spiral stairs and is not recommended for individuals with health issues or a fear of heights. The museum is more accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can climb the lighthouse tower for panoramic views, explore the Keeper's Quarters museum filled with historical artifacts, and visit the gift shop.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the lighthouse, museum, and gift shop. The climb itself takes a few minutes.
The view from the top is spectacular, offering a 360-degree perspective of Key West and the surrounding turquoise waters. Signs at the top help identify landmarks.
While not explicitly advertised as a haunted attraction, many historic sites have their share of local lore. The focus here is on history and views.
The gift shop offers souvenirs, including items related to lighthouses and Key West history. They also sell drinks. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the lighthouse offers incredible panoramic shots. The grounds and the lighthouse exterior itself are also very photogenic.
Photography policies can vary, but generally, photos are allowed in the museum, though flash photography might be restricted. It's best to check onsite signage.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide clearer skies and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb requires some stamina, the museum and gift shop offer a more relaxed pace. Consider bringing water, especially on warmer days, and be prepared for the narrow stairs. It's a great opportunity to teach children about maritime history and the importance of lighthouses.
💰 Budget Travelers
Compare the admission price to other attractions in Key West; for the historical context and the panoramic views, many find it to be a good value. Combine your visit with a walk around the surrounding historic district to maximize your exploration without additional costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Key West Lighthouse
Today, the lighthouse is a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its operational past. The adjacent Keeper's Quarters provides further insight into the lives of the individuals and families who maintained the light. The museum is filled with artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that detail the lighthouse's evolution and its role in the community.
Visitors can climb the 88 steps to the top of the tower, a journey that was once part of the keeper's daily duties. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the strategic importance of the lighthouse and imagine the ships it once guided safely to shore. The experience is both educational and visually rewarding, making it a must-visit for history buffs and sightseers alike.
+1Climbing the Lighthouse: What to Expect
Travelers often note that the stairs are quite narrow, which can make passing other visitors a bit challenging. However, there are landings along the way where you can pause to catch your breath or let others pass. The climb is well worth the effort, as the reward is an unparalleled view of Key West.
Before you begin your climb, consider your physical fitness. If you have any concerns about heights, enclosed spaces, or strenuous activity, it might be best to enjoy the museum and grounds. For those who do make the climb, the panoramic vistas from the top are a memorable highlight of any Key West visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit