Explore over two centuries of Key West’s rich history and art at the Custom House Museum. Discover captivating exhibits and unique stories in this historic 1891 landmark by Mallory Square.
Explore over two centuries of Key West’s rich history and art at the Custom House Museum. Discover captivating exhibits and unique stories in this historic 1891 landmark by Mallory Square.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Key West Art & Historical Society, Inc. · Key West, Florida
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking required but some stair climbing involved.
Yes, the museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff—check their schedule online or book in advance.
Yes, the Key West Museum of Art & History is accessible for visitors with mobility devices.
Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits and the building.
Photography is generally allowed without flash; however, some special exhibits may restrict photography.
Public parking options are available a short walk from Mallory Square and the museum.
Yes, Mallory Square and surrounding streets offer many dining options to enjoy after your visit.
The Custom House was originally built as a federal courthouse and post office in 1891, playing a central role in Key West’s development as a maritime hub.
The museum actively supports local preservation efforts aimed at protecting Key West’s historic buildings and the surrounding marine environment.
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.
Book with Key West Art & Historical Society, Inc.