Climb to the top of Key West’s highest point for breathtaking views and explore the Keeper’s Quarters Museum to learn about the island's maritime history. This private tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and education.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable climbing a full flight of stairs and standing for extended periods while exploring the museum.
Wildlife
History
The Key West Lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1847, surviving storms and hurricanes and serving as a vital beacon for maritime navigation.
Conservation
Efforts by the Key West Art & Historical Society focus on preserving the historic structures and educating visitors on protecting coastal ecosystems.
Key West Art & Historical Society, Inc.
Climb to the top of Key West’s highest point for breathtaking views and explore the Keeper’s Quarters Museum to learn about the island's maritime history. This private tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and education.
Key West Art & Historical Society, Inc. preserves and presents the cultural and maritime history of Key West through a collection of museums and curated experiences in Key West, Florida. The society operates the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House, a landmark structure dating to 1891, offering two floors of exhibitions that connect two centuries of local art, history, and culture.
The organization also manages the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters, where visitors ascend 88 steps to panoramic island views and explore the Keeper's Quarters Museum. Fort East Martello Museum interprets Civil War–era history and displays wrecking and cigar manufacturing exhibits, along with metal sculptures by Stanley Papio and the noted Robert the Doll. The Tennessee Williams Museum offers daily access to the playwright’s former home and context about his influential works such as The Glass Menagerie and A Streetcar Named Desire.
Beyond standard museum admission, the society provides curated experiences including a Key West Lighthouse Sunset Experience with 90 minutes of private access, a complimentary bottle of wine, and a charcuterie board, plus specialty offerings such as Lighthouse Wedding Photos—a one-hour session on the estate’s lush grounds. Each site emphasizes authentic artifacts, documented histories, and distinctive settings in Key West’s Mallory seaport area. Visitors can expect historically grounded exhibits, scenic vantage points, and opportunities for private and event bookings. The society’s programming supports cultural discovery and memorable visits to Key West’s historic landmarks. Plan visits, tours, and special events through official channels.
Location
Key West, FL
Mallory’s seaport neighborhood
Historic Landmark
Custom House since 1891
Museum of art & history
Lighthouse Climb
88 Steps
Island's highest viewpoint
Tours Offered
6 Experiences
Museums, lighthouse, fort, tours
Reserve museum admission, lighthouse sunset access, or a one-hour wedding photo session to secure a memorable Key West experience.
Wear comfortable shoes
Sturdy footwear is important to safely climb the 88 steps of the lighthouse.
Bring water and sun protection
The top of the lighthouse is exposed, so carrying water and sunscreen is crucial especially during summer.
Visit early to avoid crowds
Scheduling your visit during morning hours will help you enjoy a quieter experience.
Mind the narrow stairs
Be cautious when ascending and descending the spiral staircase as it can be tight in spots.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for climbing the lighthouse stairs and walking around the museum.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong Florida sun, especially at the exposed lighthouse top.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the climb and walking tour.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Useful for cooler breezes at the top and during early mornings or evenings.
winter