Yes, you can visit Key West Cemetery. This historic cemetery in Old Town is open to the public and offers an interesting look at the people, cultures, and events that shaped the island. Visitors can explore independently with a free walking-tour map or arrange a guided tour.
For guests staying in our Key West vacation rentals, the cemetery is an easy addition to a day spent exploring Old Town. Remember that it remains an active cemetery, so visitors should be respectful of gravesites, services, and families visiting loved ones.
Cemetery History
Key West Cemetery was established in 1847 after the hurricane of October 11, 1846, devastated earlier burial grounds. The city purchased land on higher ground for a new cemetery, creating the site visitors see today.
The cemetery covers about 19 acres and reflects Key West’s diverse history. Bahamian mariners, Cuban cigar makers, military veterans, prominent local families, and residents from several religious communities are buried here. The cemetery remains active today.
Its location and history make the cemetery different from many other Key West attractions. Walking through the grounds provides a glimpse into generations of island life that can be difficult to find anywhere else.
Historic Monuments & Burial Vaults
The cemetery contains a mix of monuments, family plots, above-ground vaults, and locally made grave markers. Visitors can also find historic Catholic and Jewish sections, the USS Maine Plot, and Los Mártires de Cuba, a memorial connected to Cuba’s fight for independence.
Many grave markers feature traditional symbols. Anchors can represent hope or eternal life, clasped hands can symbolize farewell and unity, and broken columns can represent a life cut short. These details make it worth slowing down and studying the monuments as you walk.
Above-ground burial is another noticeable feature offering a look at the craftsmanship of stonemasons and the dedication of the deceased’s loved ones.
Book a Guided Tour
A guided tour provides more context about the people and stories behind the graves, plus the fees go toward the Historic Florida Keys Foundation, which provides preservation and educational services at the cemetery and offers walking tours twice a week. Reservations and current tour information are available directly through the foundation.
Prefer to explore independently? A free self-guided walking-tour map is available at the cemetery entrance.
Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for some of Key West’s familiar animal residents while walking through the grounds. Chickens, roosters, iguanas, and lizards are commonly reported around the cemetery, including the reptiles warming themselves on sunny stone surfaces.
Enjoy them from a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife. Sightings can vary, so consider them an added bonus rather than a guaranteed part of your visit.
Plan Your Visit
Plan ahead by packing sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the grounds. Complete your trip by booking a nearby Key West vacation rental just minutes from Old Town.
Final Thoughts
Key West Cemetery is worth visiting if you want to understand more about the island beyond its beaches and lively streets. Give yourself time to study the monuments, read the inscriptions, and explore the different sections. When you’re staying in our vacation rentals in Key West, a cemetery visit can also fit naturally into a larger walking tour of Old Town. Comfortable shoes and water are smart additions, especially during warmer parts of the day.
Book Your Key West Vacation Rental with Historic Hideaways
After exploring Key West’s history, come back to a vacation home that gives you space to relax and enjoy the island at your own pace.
Historic Hideaways has been locally owned and operated in Key West since 1996. For 30 years, we’ve been matching guests with the best vacation homes on the island, including private homes, cottages, townhomes, and condos. We specialize in weekly, monthly, and seasonal Key West Vacation Rentals. Because we’re a local company, our team knows Key West personally and can help you choose a property that works for your stay.
