Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House - Historic Pelican Inn, Pawleys Island S.C.
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Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House

4.6
·488 reviews·Key West, United States

Explore Key West's rich past and vibrant art scene in the stunning 1891 Custom House, a historic landmark.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House - Historic Pelican Inn, Pawleys Island S.C.

Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Key West's rich past and vibrant art scene in the stunning 1891 Custom House, a historic landmark.

4.6
(488 reviews)

"A little jewel of a museum with art and history treasures, definitely worth the visit!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Custom House itself is a stunning 1891 building, worth exploring for its own historical charm. :statueofliberty:

🖼️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Art exhibits rotate frequently, so check their website to see what's on before you visit! :art:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Civil War History

Civil War History

Second Floor

Discover Key West's crucial role in the Union's Anaconda Plan during the Civil War.

Rotating Art Exhibits

Rotating Art Exhibits

First Floor

Experience diverse and often locally inspired art, with frequent changes to keep things fresh.

Maritime & Literary History

Maritime & Literary History

Second Floor

Explore artifacts from Key West's seafaring past and connections to famous literary figures.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Key West can get busy, especially during peak season. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can help you avoid the midday sun and larger tour groups. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

Art & History Combo

This museum offers a dual experience: rotating art exhibits on the first floor and fascinating Key West history on the second. Plan for at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate both aspects.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Escape midday heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I spent $40 to play with cats
@rebeccarogersofficial
125.2K likes • 981.6K views

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Custom House itself is a stunning 1891 building, worth exploring for its own historical charm. :statueofliberty:

🖼️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Art exhibits rotate frequently, so check their website to see what's on before you visit! :art:

Cool things to do in Key West! #floridalife #tiktoktravel #floridakeys #bucketlist #islandlife
@theshayspence
18.7K likes • 344.8K views
More than just a landmark, the Custom House is a journey through Key West’s past. With two stories of art, maritime treasures, and literary history, plus a café to recharge, it’s the perfect mix of culture and island charm. ✨☀️🌴❤️ @visitkeywest @keywestfinest #floridakeys #keywest #florida #southflorida #history #keywestflorida
findyourbucketlisttravel
17 likes • 544 views

📚 Learn More Than Hemingway

Many visitors find they learn more about Key West's history here than at Hemingway's house. :books:

🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds

The gift shop offers interesting and unique items, perfect for souvenirs. :gift:

Here’s how we spent 6 hours in Key West… and still made it back to our ship on time. 🏝️ ⏱ Stop 1: Key West Museum of Art & History - $17, AC + railroad stories so definitely worth it. 🛺 Stop 2: Golf cart ride - Casa Marina walkway for ocean views. The $10 poolside beer and $6 street parking was worth it still. 🏖 Stop 3: Fort Zachary Beach - $4.50 to cool off in crystal water with less seaweed tha...
fallonandjose
0 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Custom House itself is a stunning 1891 building, worth exploring for its own historical charm. :statueofliberty:

🖼️ Check Exhibit Schedule

Art exhibits rotate frequently, so check their website to see what's on before you visit! :art:

📚 Learn More Than Hemingway

Many visitors find they learn more about Key West's history here than at Hemingway's house. :books:

🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds

The gift shop offers interesting and unique items, perfect for souvenirs. :gift:

😌 Relax on the Porch

After your visit, take a moment to relax on the grand porch and people-watch. :sunwithface:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(488 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House for its rich historical exhibits and engaging art displays. Many highlight the building's own architectural beauty and the unique souvenirs available in the gift shop. While the art exhibits rotate, the historical content, particularly concerning the Civil War and maritime past, is a standout feature for many.

"What an amazing place!!! There is such a rich history in Key West! They switch artist exhibits every few months. I went when the Mario Sanchez works were displayed. I thought they were perfectly Key West! The story of the old man and the fish going up the stairs was beautifully done. The bathrooms were clean and even their architecture was beautiful. I will definitely be back."

Heidi Jones

"This is a little jewel of a museum. Housed in the old custom house the museum has art installations on the first floor and historical artifacts on the second. Both are real treasures and worth the visit. We gave five google stars and four clams on the coveted Five Quahog Rating Scale."

Quahog

"This place is my favorite attraction in Key West. With the frequent addition of new temporary exhibits, one can easily visit several times a year and see/learn something new each time. The gift shop has some really interesting and unique items. After exploring the museum, it's nice to sit on the giant porch for a few minutes to relax and watch the world go by."

Vanessa Sellers

What People Like

Rich historical exhibits
Engaging art displays
Beautiful architecture

What People Dislike

Rotating art exhibits can be hit or miss for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Old Town Key West, easily accessible by walking, biking, or a short taxi/rideshare from most accommodations. If you're arriving by cruise ship, it's a pleasant walk from the pier. :cruise_ship: :walking:

Street parking can be challenging in Key West. There are some metered spots nearby, but it's often easier to park further away and walk or use a taxi/rideshare. :car:

Yes, it's a manageable walk from the southern end of Duval Street, offering a chance to see more of the island. :street_view:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around $17 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing. :ticket:

The museum is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to confirm their operating hours on their website before your visit. :clock1:

While not always required, booking tickets in advance can save you time, especially during busy periods. :calendar:

The museum strives to be accessible. The first floor is generally accessible, and they often have elevators or ramps for the second floor. Inquire directly for specific needs. :wheelchair:

While specific combo tickets might not be standard, visiting the museum can be part of a larger Key West itinerary, especially if you're exploring the historic seaport area. :map:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring both the art and history exhibits. You might stay longer if you're particularly interested in the details or enjoy leisurely browsing. :stopwatch:

The museum features rotating art exhibits, often showcasing local artists or themes relevant to Key West's culture and history. :paintbrush:

The second floor is dedicated to Key West's rich history, featuring maritime artifacts, items related to famous residents like Ernest Hemingway, and exhibits on the island's unique past. :anchor:

While there isn't a full-service cafe inside, there are often places to grab a coffee or snack, and the museum's location is close to many dining options. :coffee:

Photography policies can vary depending on the current exhibits. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff. :camerawithflash:

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture of the Custom House is very photogenic, especially the grand facade and porch. Inside, focus on capturing the essence of the exhibits, but be mindful of photography restrictions. :camera:

Yes, flash photography is typically prohibited to protect the artwork and artifacts. Some exhibits may have specific 'no photo' signs. Always check the rules. :noentrysign:

The museum's location offers views of the historic seaport, providing opportunities for scenic shots of boats and the waterfront. :sailboat:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House can be an engaging stop for families, offering a blend of history and art. The second floor's historical exhibits, with artifacts and stories from Key West's past, can spark curiosity in children about maritime life and island history. Reddit While the art exhibits on the first floor might be more abstract, they can still offer visual stimulation. It's a good idea to prepare children for the museum setting and perhaps focus on specific interactive elements or visually interesting displays to keep them engaged. The museum's location near the historic seaport also provides opportunities for further exploration afterward. TikTok

📚 History Buffs

For those passionate about history, the Custom House is a must-visit. Its detailed exhibits on Key West's Civil War role, maritime heritage, and connections to famous figures like Ernest Hemingway offer a deep dive into the island's strategic importance and cultural evolution. InstagramReddit Many visitors find the historical context here more comprehensive than expected, making it a rewarding experience for serious history enthusiasts. The building's own historical significance as a former customs house adds another layer to the immersive experience. Reddit

🎨 Art Lovers

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the rotating exhibits featured on the first floor of the museum. These displays often showcase the vibrant artistic community of Key West, featuring local artists and themes that capture the island's unique spirit. Reddit While the art is a significant draw, remember that the museum also offers a rich historical context on the second floor, providing a well-rounded cultural experience. Checking the museum's website for current exhibitions is recommended to tailor your visit to your artistic preferences. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Key West's Past

The Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House is more than just a building; it's a portal to the island's vibrant past. Housed in a monumental civic structure built in 1891, the museum meticulously preserves and presents Key West's unique heritage. Visitors consistently praise the rich history showcased here, often noting they learned more about the island's story than at other historical sites. The museum expertly blends maritime history, detailing the island's seafaring traditions and its role in trade and defense, with its literary connections, highlighting famous residents and their contributions. Reddit+1

One of the most compelling aspects is its Civil War significance. Despite being the southernmost point of the United States, Key West remained under Union control throughout the entire conflict. The museum details how the island played a crucial role in the Union's strategy, particularly the Anaconda Plan aimed at blockading Confederate ports. This historical context provides a deeper understanding of Key West's strategic importance and resilience. Instagram

The museum also serves as a vital space for contemporary art, with rotating exhibits on its first floor. These displays often reflect the spirit and creativity of Key West, offering a dynamic contrast to the historical narratives on the second floor. This dual focus ensures a well-rounded cultural experience, appealing to both history buffs and art enthusiasts. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Custom House: Tips from Visitors

When planning your visit to the Key West Museum of Art & History, several practical tips emerge from traveler experiences. Many recommend checking the museum's website for current art exhibit schedules, as these change frequently and offer a fresh perspective with each visit. TikTokReddit The gift shop is also a highlight for many, noted for its selection of interesting and unique items that make for memorable souvenirs. Reddit

Beyond the exhibits, the architecture of the Custom House itself is a significant draw. Built in 1891, the building is a beautiful example of civic architecture and offers a grand setting for the collections within. Visitors often suggest taking time to appreciate the building's design and even relax on its large porch to soak in the atmosphere and people-watch. InstagramReddit

For those looking to maximize their Key West experience, the museum is often cited as a place where you can gain significant historical insight. Some visitors even suggest it offers more historical context about the island and figures like Ernest Hemingway than dedicated house tours. Reddit This makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone wanting to understand the soul of Key West. TikTok

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