Key West, President Trumans Key West
2 Hours
Moderate-Strenuous
Essentials Collection | Sightseeing
Join us on a trolley ride through time. You will be escorted from the gangway of the ship to the tour vehicle, an Old Town Trolley. Explore what is now a lush, tropical island, and discover the charm and grace of one of America's unique architectural pleasures. Get to know characters like John James Audubon, Ernest Hemingway, and Harry S. Truman and, like them, become captivated by the magic that is Key West. The tour will meander its way through Old Town with its blend of tropical plants and flowers. You will pass by Historic Seaport, Southernmost Point, cigar makers “shot-gun” houses, Wreckers mansions, unique churches and learn about the multi-cultural heritage. Find out about Key West’s unique role in the Civil War, about Henry Flagler’s dream – and how it came true. From bold Spanish explorers and brave Wreckers to the great cigar barons and sponge magnates, you will hear about the golden age of settlement through the exciting days of the railroad, the depression, World War Two, on past the Kennedy days into the present. This is a well-researched fact-filled tour that shows, and tells, all there is to know about this sub-tropical island paradise. Following your tour, you will be escorted to President Harry S. Truman’s Little White House, the only Presidential Museum in Florida.
The house was built on the waterfront of the harbor of Key West and has been host to many distinguished guests. Thomas Edison resided in the house during World War I, while working on depth charge research for the U.S. Navy. In 1946, Harry Truman began visiting the island for rest and relaxation and returned for 175 days during his presidency. President Dwight Eisenhower, President John F. Kennedy and British Prime Minister Harold MacMillian, President Jimmy Carter and his family, and President and Secretary of State Clinton have all enjoyed a tropical respite at the Truman Little White House. Order of sites visited may be done in reverse order.
Please note: All trolleys are equipped with wheelchair lifts with a maximum weight capacity of 600 pounds (guest + chair). Truman Little White House is a historic sight built without an elevator. There are ramps on the main level. Guests who cannot or do not wish to navigate the stairs may remain on the first level and view a video of the tour of the second floor. There are no places to sit inside the Truman home. All furniture is original to President Truman. Some rooms are viewed from the doorway only. Bring ID, cash, credit cards, a hat and wear weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen.