Key West Lighthouse — Attraction in Key West

Visiting the Key West Lighthouse was a highlight of my trip to Florida. This historic landmark offers a unique glimpse into the maritime history of Key West, and climbing to the top provides some of the most stunning panoramic views of the island. The lighthouse itself is beautifully preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate the architecture and the important role it played in guiding ships safely to shore.

What I found most enjoyable was the climb up the lighthouse. Each step took me higher above Key West, leading to breathtaking views that stretched across the ocean and the charming city below. The surrounding keeper's house, which is now a museum, was equally fascinating, filled with artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of the life of a lighthouse keeper.

The grounds around the lighthouse are well-maintained and offer a peaceful spot to relax and take in the beauty of the area. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, happy to share insights and answer questions about the lighthouse's history and its restoration.

I would recommend the Key West Lighthouse to anyone visiting Key West. It's not just a tourist attraction; it's a piece of history that offers one of the best views in all of Key West. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, the Key West Lighthouse is definitely...

If you're into Lighthouses this is with your time to explore when you're in Key West! First built in 1848 and commissioned in 1849 after the first one was destroyed in a hurricane. It was built about 50 feet in height and was raised a couple of times over the years and updated with a 3rd order Fresnel lens to it's current height of 65 feet because of growth of trees and buildings around the island obscuring the light. The Coast Guard deactivated the light in 1969 and it was turned over to the Monroe County historical Society which continues to operate it and the keepers quarters to this day. They have a lot of lighthouse related historical items located on sight including a rare 1st order Fresnel lens that used to be located at the Sombrero Key Lighthouse off shore of Marathon Key, Florida. It's worth the $17 or so to take the tour and see all of the things related to the history of the lighthouse. You can also arrange to watch the sun set from the upper deck of the lighthouse during the evening hours. And also, just right across the street from the lighthouse is the Earnest Hemingway home where the author stayed during his time writing and fishing...

I'm a lonely lighthouse... The only inland lighthouse in the Keys is in Key West downtown kind of. Across from the Hemingway House is the entrance to the lighthouse grounds and keepers museum. Admission is $19 for adults. There are 88 spiral stairs up to the top of the lighthouse so if you are not in good health or have issues with climbing heights, it is not recommended to go up. If you are good, then expect a climb. The steps are narrow but there are two landings for a quick stop and if people are passing. The view from the top is great but "you will not be able to see Cuba". Yeah, that's on a sign at the lighthouse. Landmarks are marked on signage at the top as well. The Keepers museum is full of great artifacts and history and offers AC after you make your climb down from the lighthouse. There's a nice gift shop and the restrooms are located in there also. The ladies that work during the day are helpful, friendly and informative. They enjoy talking with guests. I highly...