Custom House Museum

Discover Key West Art & History at Custom House Museum

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By Gus Moore

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If you think museums are all dusty displays and “do not touch” signs, the Custom House Museum is here to pleasantly prove you wrong. This historic building isn’t just pretty to look at — it’s a treasure trove of Key West history, art, and stories that somehow make the past feel like it’s happening right now.

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Built in 1891, the Custom House once served as the federal government’s island headquarters — handling customs, court cases, and a whole lot of paperwork. Today, it’s home to the Key West Art & Historical Society, showcasing local art, maritime exhibits, and artifacts from the city’s colorful past. Wander through restored courtrooms, check out maritime relics, and even catch rotating exhibits that add a fresh twist to every visit.

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For visitors, the best part is how accessible it all feels. You can spend as little or as much time as you want exploring. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or just someone who enjoys imagining what life was like in old Key West, there’s something here to grab your attention — and maybe even make you chuckle at the odd historical quirk or two.

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Why it’s worth visiting

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• Dive into Key West history – From customs to courts, the museum captures the island’s past in vivid detail.
• Art & culture combined – Rotating exhibitions complement permanent collections, so there’s always something new.
• Accessible & flexible – Spend a quick 30 minutes or linger for a couple of hours — the choice is yours.
• Family-friendly – Engaging exhibits and artifacts keep kids (and adults) entertained.
• Beautiful building – The historic architecture is a highlight all on its own.

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Gus’s take

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The Custom House Museum is one of those hidden gems that makes Key West feel bigger, richer, and more interesting than you imagined. It’s the perfect stop if you want to learn about the island’s past, enjoy some local art, and take a break from the sun without losing a minute of your vacation vibe. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates history told with a little charm, a little humor, and a lot of style.

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Contact information

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Name: Custom House Museum
Address: 281 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 295-6616
Website: kwahs.org
Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Directions: Located at the corner of Front and Greene Streets, just a short walk from Mallory Square and the Tour Bus Stop. The Snorkeling and Glass-Bottom Boat dock is also nearby.

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