Old town and historic sights in Key West
Key West's old town is the reason many visitors come ashore here. Narrow streets, historic homes with courtyards and gardens, and a cemetery of above-ground tombs make the center an easy place to explore on foot. The town is compact, so the main sights can be covered without much rushing.
Places to go
Old Town and Duval area
The Old Town and Duval area is the walkable heart of Key West, where historic homes, courtyards and gardens sit beside a busy strip of shops, bars and cafes.
Key West City Cemetery
Key West City Cemetery is an old burial ground in the middle of town, known for its above-ground tombs and playful gravestones. Visitors come to wander the paths and read the inscriptions.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
A small historic retreat on Front Street where President Harry S. Truman spent working vacations. Guided tours walk you through the house and grounds.
Tours to book
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
What to expect
Most visitors walk the old town. The Truman Little White House sits on Front Street, and the cemetery is in the center of town, so both can be linked in a walking loop.
Walking tours are the best way to see the island's homes, courtyards and gardens. Guided options include a bike tour and a hop-on, hop-off trolley or conch train that stops at the Little White House. A few hours covers the main sights, and the trolley and train suit anyone who wants to rest between stops.
Where to go
- Harry S. Truman Little White House. A historic retreat on Front Street used by President Harry S. Truman. Guided tours and a gift shop are available. By walk. A trip that goes here: Key West Old Town Trolley & Truman Little White House, 2+ Hours, $102 a person
- Key West City Cemetery. Mostly above-ground tombs, with offbeat gravestone inscriptions. Cemetery maps are at the front gate. In the center of town, by walk. A trip that goes here: Key West Old Town Trolley, 1+ Hour, $71 a person
Getting there
Most of the historic center can be reached without a taxi or car.
When to go
Key West is mild through the year, so the old town is comfortable to walk in every season. Summer humidity can be heavy, so morning walks are a good choice in the warmer months.
Good to know
- Wear comfortable shoes. Walking the old town means a lot of time on uneven sidewalks and brick.
- Bring water and a hat, especially in summer when the humidity is high.
- Check the Little White House guided tour times before you set out, since visits are by guided tour.
- Parking is expensive and streets are narrow, so walking or taking a trolley is the easier option.
Questions
What is there to see in old town Key West?
Historic homes, courtyards and gardens, the Truman Little White House on Front Street, and Key West City Cemetery with its above-ground tombs and offbeat gravestones. Duval Street is the main tourist area.
Is Key West old town easy to walk?
Yes. The town is compact and mostly flat. Many streets are narrow and one-way, so walking is easier than driving, and a trolley or train can cover more stops.
