Key West Firehouse Museum - white and red concrete building under blue sky during daytime
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Key West Firehouse Museum

4.9
·126 reviews·Key West, United States

Step back in time at the 1907 Key West Firehouse Museum, where antique trucks and retired firefighters bring island history to life. A gem for all age...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Key West Firehouse Museum - white and red concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Key West Firehouse Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the 1907 Key West Firehouse Museum, where antique trucks and retired firefighters bring island history to life. A gem for all ages!

4.9
(126 reviews)

"This is the most 'kid friendly' museum on the island. My grandsons tried on boots and authentic fire helmets!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:

Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything!

Kid Heaven! :child:

Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antique Fire Trucks

Antique Fire Trucks

Main Exhibit Hall

Climb aboard and imagine life as a firefighter! Kids and adults alike love interacting with these vintage vehicles.

Instagram
Stories from Retired Firefighters

Stories from Retired Firefighters

Throughout the museum

Hear captivating tales of Key West's firefighting past from the knowledgeable volunteers who lived it.

Reddit+1
Key Lime Pie Tasting

Key Lime Pie Tasting

Event Space (check schedule)

Occasionally hosts events featuring delicious Key lime pie, a true taste of the Keys!

Instagram
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Engage with Local Heroes

The Key West Firehouse Museum is staffed by passionate retired firefighters who offer engaging tours and share fascinating local history. Don't miss the chance to chat with them – their stories bring the exhibits to life! Reddit+1

Kid-Friendly Fun & History

This museum is a hit with families! Kids can try on authentic gear, climb on real fire trucks, and make 'wee woo' noises. It's a hands-on way to learn about firefighting history. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Special Event Days
Why
Unique experiences like free rum!
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

this was genuinely the most fun thing we’ve done in a while and the firefighters were so nice 🥹 @Delaney
@annngo
339.4K likes • 1.2M views

Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:

Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything! Reddit+1

Kid Heaven! :child:

Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it! InstagramReddit

#jailhousesubs #tipstokeepyoazzoutofjail #firehousesubs #firefighters #food #fyp
@instructorhatfield
45.6K likes • 388.4K views
Enjoyed some spicy key lime pie at the Key West Firehouse Museum yesterday. First time attending the key lime festival. Definitely check this gem out next time you are in the keys!! #keywestfirehousemuseum #keylimepie
meymey1084
14 likes • 246 views

Free Rum & History :rum_cocktail:

Look out for special events offering free rum and a taste of local culture. InstagramReddit

Self-Guided Audio Tour :headphones:

For history buffs, an audio tour provides in-depth information. Reddit

Free rum at the Firehouse Museum Saturday, October 19th, 10am - 2pm. Free museum admission. Donations benefit historic firehouse preservation ❤️🔥 #fantasyfest #bumfarto #freerum #keywest #firehouse #museum
davidlsloan
71 likes • 9.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Chat with the Volunteers! :speech_balloon:

Retired firefighters offer incredible insights. Ask them anything! Reddit+1

Kid Heaven! :child:

Let kids explore, dress up, and climb on the trucks. They'll love it! InstagramReddit

Free Rum & History :rum_cocktail:

Look out for special events offering free rum and a taste of local culture. InstagramReddit

Self-Guided Audio Tour :headphones:

For history buffs, an audio tour provides in-depth information. Reddit

Support Preservation :heart:

Admission fees and donations help maintain this historic gem. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Key West Firehouse Museum as a hidden gem, highlighting the passionate retired firefighter volunteers who share captivating stories and offer engaging tours. It's frequently cited as a top kid-friendly attraction, allowing children to interact with antique fire trucks and gear. While admission is free, donations are highly appreciated to support the preservation of this historic site.

"What a wonderful museum, a real gem!
We had a tour with former captain Jim Collie, he gave us plenty of informations, very informative!
Definitely worth a visit!"

Enrico Stirl (Germaneon)

"This is a hidden gem in Key West! It’s a perfect spot to learn about Key West fire fighting history AND to sit on a couple of REAL fire trucks! The museum is staffed by retired firemen volunteers that know the history of not only the fire station, but also the island and neighborhood,. This is the most “kid friendly” museum on the island. My grandsons tried on boots and authentic fire helmets AND climbed all over 2 fire trucks . The museum has a self guided audio tour for the real history buffs . Admission helps to fund the upkeep of the museum and there’s even a cute gift shop. Enjoy a vintage key west experience!"

June Fischer Rojahn

"Very interesting piece of history. Free admission.
The staff are all volunteers and super into the history and the visitors, they were so much fun! Find Bum Farto and get a free shot! Or get inducted to The Conch by drinking a shot of rum out of the conch shell with them!"

Kasey Miller

What People Like

Engaging volunteer firefighters
Kid-friendly interactive exhibits
Historic antique fire trucks

What People Dislike

Limited parking nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is centrally located in Key West, making it easily accessible on foot, by bike, or via local trolley tours. Parking can be challenging in Key West, so consider these alternative transport options. TikTok

Street parking is limited and can be difficult to find. It's often best to park in a public garage and walk or take a trolley to the museum. TikTok

Yes, the museum is within walking distance of Duval Street, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of Old Town Key West. TikTok

Many Key West trolley tours include stops near the Firehouse Museum, offering a convenient way to reach it and explore other attractions. TikTok

While efforts are made to preserve the historic nature of the building, accessibility information should be confirmed directly with the museum for specific needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically free, with donations gratefully accepted to support the museum's preservation efforts. Reddit

No advance booking is usually required for general admission. However, for special events, it's advisable to check their schedule and any potential ticketing requirements. Instagram

Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

While admission is generally free, special events like Fantasy Fest often feature free admission days, sometimes with perks like free rum. InstagramReddit

Yes, donations are highly encouraged and help fund the upkeep and preservation of this historic site. There's often a gift shop as well. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore antique fire trucks, try on firefighter gear, learn about Key West's firefighting history through exhibits and stories from retired firefighters, and enjoy a self-guided audio tour. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! It's considered one of the most kid-friendly museums in Key West, with opportunities to climb on trucks and wear authentic helmets. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits. TikTok

Most visitors spend about an hour, but you could easily spend an hour and a half if you engage with the volunteers and explore in-depth. Reddit

While not always formally scheduled, the retired firefighters often provide impromptu, highly informative tours and share personal anecdotes. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself doesn't typically serve food, but they sometimes host special events that might include tastings, like Key lime pie or even free rum. Instagram+1

The museum is in a vibrant area of Key West with many restaurants and cafes nearby. You'll find everything from casual eats to Cuban cuisine. Instagram

Keep an eye out for events featuring Key lime pie, a local specialty, or the unique 'Conch induction' ceremony involving a shot of rum. InstagramReddit+1

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the museum to help preserve the historic artifacts. TikTok

Nearby you can find places like El Siboney for authentic Cuban food or various spots offering fresh seafood and, of course, Key lime pie. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vintage fire trucks, the historic building exterior, and candid shots of kids interacting with the exhibits. The volunteers can also make for great photo subjects! TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos of the antique fire trucks, and even climb on some of them for a unique perspective. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb exhibits or people. TikTok

Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing clear shots of the exhibits and the building. TikTok

Many of the retired firefighters are friendly and may be open to a quick photo, especially if you've had a good chat with them. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Key West Firehouse Museum is a must-visit for families. It’s consistently praised as one of the most kid-friendly museums on the island. Children can live out their firefighter dreams by trying on authentic gear and climbing on real vintage fire trucks. The interactive nature of the exhibits ensures that kids stay engaged and entertained while learning about history. InstagramReddit

Beyond the fun, the retired firefighter volunteers are fantastic with children, sharing stories in an accessible way. It’s a great opportunity for kids to ask questions and learn about the importance of community service. Plan for at least an hour to let them fully explore and enjoy the hands-on elements. TikTokReddit

❤️ History Buffs & Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate local history, the Key West Firehouse Museum offers a deep dive into the island's past. The 1907 firehouse building itself is a piece of history, and the collection of antique fire trucks and equipment is meticulously preserved. The self-guided audio tour provides detailed historical context for those who want to delve deeper into the evolution of firefighting in Key West. Reddit

The real treasure for history buffs, however, are the retired firefighter volunteers. Their personal anecdotes and firsthand accounts bring the exhibits to life in a way no textbook can. Engaging with them offers a unique and authentic perspective on the challenges and triumphs of Key West's firefighting community. Reddit+1

🥂 Culture & Event Seekers

If you're looking for unique Key West experiences, keep an eye on the Firehouse Museum's event schedule. They occasionally host festive gatherings that blend history with local flavor. Events featuring Key lime pie tastings or the lively 'Conch induction' with rum offer a fun and memorable way to experience the island's vibrant culture. InstagramReddit+1

These events are not only entertaining but also support a good cause – the preservation of a historic landmark. It's a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying a taste of Key West's unique spirit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Key West's Firefighting History

The Key West Firehouse Museum, housed in a building constructed in 1907, stands as a testament to the island's dedication to public safety. This historic structure, once an active fire station, now preserves the legacy of the brave men and women who protected Key West from fires. Inside, visitors can explore a collection of antique fire trucks, firefighting equipment, and historical artifacts that paint a vivid picture of early 20th-century firefighting techniques and challenges. The museum offers a unique glimpse into a crucial aspect of Key West's past, showcasing the evolution of emergency services on the island. TikTokReddit

The volunteers at the museum are a significant part of the experience. Many are retired firefighters themselves, bringing a wealth of personal knowledge and passion to their roles. They are often eager to share stories, answer questions, and provide guided insights that go beyond the static displays. This personal connection makes the visit incredibly engaging and memorable, transforming a simple museum tour into an interactive historical journey. Reddit+1

Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum is renowned for its kid-friendly atmosphere. Children can often try on authentic firefighter gear, including helmets and boots, and even climb aboard some of the vintage fire trucks. This hands-on approach makes learning fun and accessible for younger visitors, ensuring that the museum appeals to all ages. It’s a place where history comes alive, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the firefighting profession. InstagramReddit

Experiencing Key West Culture Through Events

The Key West Firehouse Museum occasionally hosts special events that offer a taste of local culture and community spirit. These events are a fantastic way to experience the island's unique traditions and hospitality. One notable example is the Key Lime Festival, where the museum has been known to feature delicious key lime pie tastings. This offers visitors a chance to savor one of Florida's most famous desserts in a historic setting. Instagram

Another unique aspect of some museum events, particularly around Fantasy Fest, involves free rum tastings and the induction into 'The Conch' by drinking rum from a conch shell. These lively traditions highlight Key West's festive and sometimes unconventional spirit. Such events not only provide entertainment but also contribute to the preservation of the museum and its historical significance, as proceeds often benefit the upkeep of the firehouse. InstagramReddit

Attending these events provides a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local community and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that Key West is famous for. It’s a reminder that the Firehouse Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it’s an active part of the island’s living culture. TikTok

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