Find Hotels Near The Hemingway Home and Museum Key West

The Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West is a historic attraction that allows visitors to get an inside look into the life of one of America’s most celebrated authors, Ernest Hemingway. Located in the heart of Old Town Key West , this unique museum offers a glimpse into the literary genius of Hemingway and his time spent living and writing on the island.

The home itself was built between 1851-1881 by Asa Tift, an ambitious marine architect and wrecker who made his fortune salvaging ships during The Spanish-American War. After its completion, it was purchased by Captain Charles Thompson in 1895 who then sold it to Ernest Hemingway in 1931. The property features classical features such as barrel-tiled roof; hand-painted murals; elaborate Gingerbread trim; decorative screens and balconies; stained glass windows; lush tropical gardens with native plants; and a six-toed cat (descended from Hemingway's original cats), which roams freely around the grounds.

Visitors to the museum can walk through maintained rooms that feature some of Ernest’s furniture pieces, personal items, artwork and manuscripts from his days living there with his second wife Pauline. There are also artifacts from other members of his household, including typewriters he used while working on some of his most famous works such as “For Whom The Bell Tolls” and “The Old Man And The Sea”. There are also photographs taken during his time on the island as well as copies of books such as Death In The Afternoon” and “Green Hills Of Africa” which were written at this location.

The museum also includes two interactive galleries – a Digital Map Room detailing Key West through photos, videos, audio clips and interactive activities so visitors can learn more about what it was like to live in this town during Hemingway’s time there – plus the Conservation Laboratory where staff show people how they care for the artifacts under their care. Visitors can even take part in conservation workshops!

An interesting fact about this historic site is that it is part National Historic Landmark District. This means that any changes or renovations need special permission from both state and federal regulatory bodies before they are approved. This helps preserve both the beauty and historical significance of this important site for future generations to enjoy!

If you find yourself looking for something truly unique during your next stay in Key West make sure you check out The Hemingway Home & Museum – you won't be disappointed!