Visiting the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada – Fascinating FL Keys Stop

I love to geek out over niche interests and the History of Diving Museum does just that for me. My love of the sea has long been a driver in my family’s travel decisions, which is why we spend so much time exploring the Florida Keys. The History of Diving Museum takes the sea and it’s stories of diving from all around the world and puts it into a fascinating timeline that both history buffs and fish nerds will love. I say this as a fish nerd myself.

If you are a diver, snorkeler or literature buff you’ll enjoy visiting the History of Diving Museum. We’ve got the scoop on what you’ll find at the museum and how to make it an interesting visit with kids. I think you’ll enjoy it. If you have any questions about visiting the museum or planning your time on Islamorada, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help you plan a great trip to the Florida Keys.

Highlights of the History of Diving Museum

There are some interests that are so niche you might not consider thinking twice about them, and I think archival scuba gear and processes probably falls into that. Think of it as archival fashion, and you think that it’s just not something you’re into until you start to learn about the progression and development of it and then you’re like, “I get it. Cool.” That’s how I feel about the History of Diving Museum.

I love snorkeling and supporting my friends from the boat when they’re diving, but the actual activity of scuba is out of my comfort zone. And then I visited the History of Diving Museum. I had no idea of the long history of diving from ancient times to today, The exhibits really bring the past of underwater exploration into context of how we dive, research and make advancements in this area. To think that the ancient practice of diving with an air bladder has turned into tanks with gauges, safety precautions and more is really cool, but I must say seeing how deep ancient or pre-mechanical divers would go is incredible.

My favorite parts of the History of Diving Museum are the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and the Parade of Nations exhibits. I think these both demonstrate both the wonder of diving and the ingenuity behind it. There are quite a few museums throughout the Florida Keys, but I think the History of Diving Museum is the most interesting.

Tips for the History of Diving Museum

The History of Diving Museum is very compact but with a ton of exhibits and information. You might think it’s a short stop to make as your drive through Islamorada, but you can easily spend an hour or more here. When you’re planning your visit, be sure to take your time actually reading through the different displays. Everything has been thoughtfully curated to accessibly tell the story of diving and you’ll develop a fascination you didn’t know you had.

You should plan to spend at least an hour here. There are several videos and presentations (the Parade of Nations presentation is really cool) so enjoy the air conditioning and take your time. If you’re visiting the Florida Keys in the summer, you’ll be so glad for the AC. Strangely, I highly recommend visiting the History of Diving Museum on your own while other people are having pool time or taking an afternoon nap. I came here alone and wasn’t rushed through the exhibits and get to fully enjoy and appreciate everything with no pressure, so if you can squeeze away to visit on your own, do it!

Who Will Enjoy the History of Diving Museum

I wish I could say that everyone will be really into the History of Diving Museum, but I know that’s not the case. Me. I’m into it very much and I really loved the history and technological elements of it. I think other history buffs and those who actually scuba dive will thoroughly enjoy visiting the History of Diving Museum, and I think there’s a specific kid-group of sciency / history kids that would enjoy it, but I don’t think this is a one-size-fits-all experience. The Key West Butterfly Conservatory or Crane Point Hammock are good for everyone, but don’t count on your whole party being thrilled for this stop.

Where is the History of Diving Museum

Located on Islamorada, rather towards the northern end of Upper Matecumbe Key, the History of Diving museum is on the right if you’re heading south towards Key West, or on the left if you’re driving towards Key Largo. There is plenty of parking in the front of the museum and you’ll enter through the gift shop. Before you go in, take time to appreciate the AMAZING MURALS all around the History of Diving Museum. These are some of my favorite public art in the Florida Keys. They’re beautiful and so well done.