Historic Key West Walking Tour

Highlights / General details

This leisurely 1.4-mile stroll through a portion of the city's Old Town is highlighted by architectural gems, tropical plants and unique cultural sites and attractions as well as the nautical history that make the United States' southernmost city so unique.

The beauty of Key West can be found walking the streets. During your mile and a quarter stroll through old town, your guide will point out the blend of architecture, plant life and culture that make Key West unique.

Architecture The Key West historic district has one of Florida's largest collections of wood frame buildings. The city has more than 3,000 historic homes and sites that date back to the Victorian Era. Over 10 percent are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. View different architectural designs, including the "eyebrow" style that is unique to Key West as well as white picket fences surrounding spectacular tropical gardens.

Famous People Numerous well known figures have stayed in Key West. In addition to Ernest Hemingway, President Harry S. Truman visited the island 11 times during his presidency from 1945 until 1953. He spent a total of 175 days on the U.S. Naval Base, which served as a southern White House. The only presidential museum in Florida, the Harry S. Truman Little White House is a featured stop on the tour.

Naval Influences Key West has a strong maritime heritage, which began with the arrival of the "Mosquito Fleet." The large flotilla under the command of Commodore David Porter was used to pursue and capture pirates. The West Indies Anti-Piracy campaign enabled merchant vessels to sail safely through the Straits of Florida. The U.S. Navy continues to utilize this strategic island as a naval base.

Walking Tour Highlights: Get an overview of Key West's history. See diverse architectural styles.
Lean about U.S. Navy Influences.

Inclusion

Guided tour.

Exclusion

Transportation and gratuity.

Hours of operation

This tour is seasonal and operates November through May. Tour departs daily at 9:30 am. Schedule subject to change, please call Customer Service (the number will be on your eTicket) to reconfirm reservations ~ Guests need to check in fifteen minutes before departure time. Tour closes for summer from June through September.

Duration

Approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Location Booth Location: Tours depart from the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, 1 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040. Nearest Intersection: Whitehead St. and Front St.

Additional Information Parking is available at Mallory Square or The Westin Parking garage. The tour is approximately 1 1/4 miles. Guests should wear comfortable shoes. It is recommended that guests bring a bottle of water. Guests will receive a complimentary photo handout at the beginning of the tour.

Participant restrictions

Child Ticket: 4-12 years of age. Under 4 are free.

Location

Booth Location: Tours depart from the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, 1 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040. Nearest Intersection: Whitehead St. and Front St.

Additional Information Parking is available at Mallory Square or The Westin Parking garage. The tour is approximately 1 1/4 miles. Guests should wear comfortable shoes. It is recommended that guests bring a bottle of water. Guests will receive a complimentary photo handout at the beginning of the tour.

Participant restrictions Child Ticket: 4-12 years of age. Under 4 are free.

Policies Phone in reservations are required at time of purchase. Your printable eTicket will contain all details.
The tour is weather dependent and may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation