Up and down the Keys, there is something for everyone: museums, art galleries, aquariums, state parks, and more. Here are some local favorites you want to add to your list.

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Marathon

Free guided tours, a touch tank, wonderful educational value, and you can swim with the stingrays! Feed and interact with a variety of ocean life. A must-have experience!

Dolphin Research Center

Marathon

Not only will you be entertained, but you will also learn so much here! Find out why some dolphins cannot be released into the wild and witness the bond these animals have with their trainers. Watch training sessions with the dolphins, such as physical therapy and rehab, that are not only educational but fun as well. An excellent rainy day (or any day!) adventure for the whole family!

Turtle Hospital

Marathon

This is exactly what it says: a hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. During your visit, find out all about the different types of turtles and how they end up at the hospital. You won't be doing any touching or petting here, but feeding the patients is allowed. Very Informative experience and much more involved than you might expect.

Marathon Air Museum

Marathon

If you like planes and aircrafts, this is a must-see. Chat with the volunteer pilots and be entertained by their stories and facts about aviation. If you dare, hop in the flight simulator and give it a whirl!

Keys History and Discovery Center

Islamorada

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Keys! So many cool artifacts, pictures, articles, books, maps, the list is endless! The information dates back to the very early days of the Keys. You are sure to leave with more information than you thought possible!

History of Diving Museum

Islamorada

Small on the outside — huge on the inside! Something for everyone in your group — scavenger hunt for the kids, a Jules Verne room for the older folks, and memorabilia dating back to the 1400s for the history buffs! 

The Hemingway Home and Museum

Key West

Not just for the avid reader in your family. The grounds, the gardens, the home — all spectacular. It seems odd to meander through spaces where Hemingway wrote some of his wonderful novels. Great way to get a feel for life in Key West during Hemingway's life.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

Key West

If you aren't familiar with this name, you will be after visiting here. Mel Fisher, his family, and his crew's relentless, tireless, and persistent search for the Atocha treasures finally were realized only to be snatched away by the Florida and U.S. government. Visit the museum to find out the whole story. Artifacts from the early 1600s were somehow preserved and are on display here.

Sails To Rails Museum at Flagler Station

Key West

Travel through time to learn about the overseas railroad and its creator, Henry Flagler. So much history packed into one place, it's a must-visit experience in Key West.

Key West Shipwreck Museum

Key West

Climb the wooden tower for a bird's eye view of Key West. Step back into time while learning about ship salvage and how difficult it could be. Locals recommend purchasing your tickets for the museum and the aquarium next door together.