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Oldest House Museum & Garden

Dating from 1829, this old New England Bahama House has survived pirates, hurricanes, fires, warfare, and economic ups and downs. The one-and-a-half-story home was designed by a ship’s carpenter and incorporates many features from maritime architecture, including portholes and a ship’s hatch designed for ventilation before the advent of air-conditioning. Especially interesting is the detached kitchen building outfitted with a brick “beehive” oven and vintage cooking utensils. Though not a must-see on the Key West tour, history and architecture buffs will appreciate the finely preserved details and the glimpse of a slower, easier time in the island’s life. They also have an excellent speaker series. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour.