The Harry S. Truman Little White House is the only historic presidential site in Florida. This waterfront property was the house in which many important decisions that shaped the 1940s post-war world were made. For 175 days, this winter holiday house was home to President Harry S. Truman. The historic site opened to the public in 1991 as a museum. Browse the relics and records housed within to learn about one of the nation’s gutsiest presidents.
Take a guided tour free with admission to get a vivid picture of Truman’s life. Imagine the American leader pacing these halls while you admire original furnishings, including Truman’s own poker table. Hear about other distinguished presidents who have visited the house over the years including Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.
Two short films on display summarise the role played by this former naval quarters. Watch how crucial meetings and summits were held within these walls. Decisions made here had rippling effects on key political issues to do with South and Central America. President Kennedy used the Little White House as a strategic planning base during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Walk around the site’s botanical gardens. See tropical flowers and trees over its 0.4-hectare (1-acre) grounds. Visitors can gaze upon the same scenes as the presidents who stayed here due to an ongoing restoration project to return the garden to its original 1949 plan.
The Harry S. Truman Little White House is situated in Key West’s old town centre. Access the waterfront house on foot or by bicycle. Drivers will find pay-and-display parking at Mallory Square, a short walk away.
One-hour tours are included in the Harry S. Truman Little White House admission price and are run every 20 minutes. The museum is open daily.