The Key West Turtle Museum immerses visitors in the unique maritime heritage of Key West, where centuries of turtle fishing and canning shaped the local economy and culture. Guests can explore meticulously curated exhibits tracing the area’s reliance on sea turtles as an essential food source for indigenous inhabitants and the early Spanish explorers, including Ponce de Leon, who famously named the islands “Tortugas.”
Highlights include historical photographs, original canning equipment, and rare artifacts that reveal the once-thriving turtle industry, as well as the legendary Turtle Kraals—enclosures used to store live turtles before processing. Visitors can gain insight into the delicate art of canning turtle meat, the popularity of turtle soup, and the bustling activity on the old working waterfront.
Beyond its historical focus, the museum places a strong emphasis on the conservation movements that began in the mid-20th century. It celebrates the pioneering research of biologist Archie Carr, whose work inspired global awareness of endangered turtles and helped spark large-scale tagging and tracking programs. Exhibits detail how coordinated efforts eventually led to better protection and the creation of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge.
From archaeological discoveries that unearthed thousands of turtle bones and artifacts to interactive displays that explain ongoing environmental initiatives, the Key West Turtle Museum provides an engaging, educational, and inspiring experience. It not only honors the region’s fascinating past but also encourages visitors to appreciate and protect the remarkable sea turtles that still grace these tropical waters.
