Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House

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.

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.

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.

If you’re in Key West and even remotely curious about the island’s history, art, or culture—or just want to cool off in a beautiful, air-conditioned building—the Key West Art & Historical Society at the Custom House Museum is absolutely worth a stop. I popped in and ended up staying longer than expected. The exhibits are well-curated, engaging, and full of quirky local stories and stunning artwork. The building itself is a showstopper, with dramatic staircases and gorgeous architecture—plus so many fun photo ops. One of my favorites? A sculpture made entirely from welded car bumpers and vintage auto parts—including a chestplate made from what I’m pretty sure are old headlight housings. I may or may not have taken a few silly selfies. (Highly recommend.) Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just someone who appreciates creativity and character, this place captures the heart and humor of Key West. Pro tip: Don’t rush. Take your time—it’s one of the most unique museums you’ll find in the Keys. We help guests plan their trips for free! Reach out to Discover Your Key West!

Run, do not walk, to go here! A great history of the island and famous players (think Heminway and others). I actually learned more about thenisland and Hemingway than I did at his house. Such a great place.

They have a good history tour here, and they have had amazing art displays here in the past.

It was a great joy visit this Museum. If you like to know more Florida History then stop by here . A huge variety of art pieces; I navigated through past centuries an I discovered a wide selection of things that I ignored; from wall art painting to a punch of nails that were used for boats construction. Trust me, I recommend this Museum of History.

Title: "A Journey through Time at the Key West Art and History Museum" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Key West Art and History Museum, located in the grand Richardsonian Romanesque building, is an enchanting haven for history and art enthusiasts alike. My visit to this magnificent place was before the pandemic, yet the memories of the enriching experience are still fresh. The museum in the former U.S. Custom House built in 1891 is a splendid example of preserving the past while enlightening the present. It holds an impressive collection of over 25,000 objects narrating Key West's vibrant history and culture, making the past resonate with the gift most engagingly. The narrative woven by these artifacts paints a vivid picture of Key West's journey from its humble beginnings as a trading post to its emergence as a sought-after tourist spot of the 20th century. A unique feature that piqued my interest was the rotating exhibits, each showcasing distinct pieces of art and artifacts from across the globe. My favorite was an exhibit detailing Key West's maritime history - a mesmerizing dive into the depths of time guaranteed to leave any history buff in awe. The museum isn't just a place; it's an experience. It's a walk through the tapestry of time, every corner revealing a new facet of Key West's rich heritage. The setting itself, the old Customs House, is an exquisite architectural art. One can feel the echoes of the past in its corridors, making the exploration even more immersive. Another commendable aspect of this museum is its inclusivity. It provides a rich experience for adults, children, and seniors at discounted prices to ensure history is accessible to all. In addition, the museum's wheelchair accessibility proves that they have indeed paid attention to every visitor's need. The Key West Art and History Museum is an intriguing blend of art, history, and culture. It isn't just a museum; it's a time machine into Key West's past and an experience not to be missed.