Located by the historic Key West waterfront, this open-air marketplace and entertainment complex is a great place to start or end your visit to Key West. Known for its magnificent sunsets, the area is also home to many shops, including Shell Warehouse, Key West Sponge Market and Caribbean Cargo. The Square also features daily entertainment, which includes guitar music, juggling, and animal performances. Local sightseeing tours also depart from the Square.
Long ago, hazardous reefs off Key West wrecked many ships. To keep ships off the reefs, a lighthouse was built in 1825. Although it was destroyed in 1846, it was later rebuilt inland on Whitehead Street and was manned for more than 120 years. It's now open for those who can climb the 88 steps to the top of the tower, and tour the grounds. A small museum of nautical artifacts and vintage photos has been set up in the Keeper's Quarters.
A historic military fortress that played a crucial role during the Civil War, this Fort Zachary Taylor is now a National Historic Landmark. the fort offers tours to visitors. Visitors can take guided tours of the fort and learn about its history, including its strategic importance, and explore the seacoast gun collection that is housed here. The west side of the park is ideal for fishing and snorkeling. In addition, the park also provides tables and grills for a picnic, making it an ideal location for outdoor gatherings and families.
A non-profit organization founded in 1949, it comprises of the Fort East Martello Museum and Gardens, the Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum, and the Museum of Art and History at the Custom House. The exhibitions running at the moment are Vera Vaseks' glass sculptors and Dale Dapkins' abstract art. The museum also rents out its property for weddings and other events. This is a beautiful area just to stroll through, even if you don't catch an exhibition.
This gallery is located inside a building, which was formerly a grocery store. It was later transformed into an art center and today, it displays fine art work by local artists and the paintings and sculptures demonstrated here are affordable and of high quality. The gallery showcases works by various known and unknown artists, giving you a platter full of mesmerizing art works. To see the local art culture, with a different perspective, visit Key West Art Center.
Key West Museum of Art & History was earlier a post office and government center. This red brick building has existed since 1890 and is a perfect example of Romanesque-style architecture. The museum recently completed its $9 million restoration project and is as good as new now. If you want to learn anything about the history of Key West, then this museum is a must-visit. Admission prices for adults is $10 and for children is $5.