Audubon House & Tropical Gardens Guide
Step Back in Time: Beauty and History at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens Guide
Immerse yourself in the elegance of 19th-century Key West at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens. This beautifully restored home and lush gardens offer a glimpse into the life of a wealthy wrecker's family and the artistic legacy of John James Audubon. Explore the meticulously preserved interiors, admire Audubon's stunning bird illustrations, and wander through the tranquil gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers. The Audubon House is named in honor of John James Audubon, the renowned ornithologist and artist, who visited Key West in 1832. While Audubon didn't actually live in the house, it's believed that he observed and painted several of the birds featured in his famous "Birds of America" series during his time on the island. The house itself was built in the mid-19th century by Captain John Huling Geiger, a successful wrecker who made his fortune salvaging cargo from ships that ran aground on the reefs surrounding Key West. The house remained in the Geiger family for over a century before being restored and opened to the public. A visit to the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens offers a variety of activities. You can take a self-guided tour of the house, admiring the antique furniture, period décor, and original Audubon prints. Stroll through the tropical gardens, identifying the various plants and flowers, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The museum shop offers a selection of books, prints, and souvenirs. While the Audubon House doesn't have a specific culinary offering, its central location in Old Town Key West puts you within easy reach of numerous restaurants and cafes serving delicious local cuisine.
Transportation
The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is located at 205 Whitehead Street, Key West. It's easily accessible by walking, biking, or taking a taxi or ride-sharing service. The Key West public bus system, Duval Loop, has a stop nearby. Check the Duval Loop route map for the closest stop to Whitehead Street.
Opening Hours
9:30 AM - 4:15 PM daily
Ticket Price
Adults: $18.00, Children (6-12): $9.00