The Harry S. Truman Little White House at 111 Front Street on the western shore of Key West is one of the island’s most popular historical sites. History buffs and anyone who enjoys classic wooden home architecture will enjoy a visit to the site that was President Truman’s home and headquarters during his eleven visits to Key West between November 1946 and March of 1952.
The Truman Little White House was originally a waterfront building when it was constructed in 1890 as the first officer's quarters on the Key West Naval Station. It was a wooden duplex that contained Quarters A for the base commandant and Quarters B for the paymaster. In 1911, the home was converted into a single-family dwelling to house the base commandant. Additional land was filled in front of the house, and eventually a new building blocked the waterfront view.
Shortly after the end of WWII, in November 1946, President Truman had completed 19 months in office and was physically exhausted by the stress of the major world events taking place at the time. When his doctor ordered a warm vacation, Truman headed for Key West. Enjoying his stay on the island, Truman promised to return and did so in March 1947. This set a pattern for additional November–December and February–March visits for the following years while he was in office.
The house has been host to many other distinguished guests as well. Thomas Edison resided there during World War I while working on weapons technology research for the U.S. Navy. James Forrestal met there with General Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1948 to plan the creation of the Department of Defense. Many other presidents and foreign dignitaries have also spent time in the Little White House.
Tour the Little White House and enjoy restored interior décor and period furnishings as well as displays of historical artifacts and records. The Key West Truman Little White House is the perfect way to get a deeper feel for Key West’s important role in U.S. history and the many significant events that have taken place on the island.
Likely To Sell Out
Spaces are extremely limited this time of year so book early to ensure the date you want.
Voucher Confirmation Info
This tour accepts both printed and electronic vouchers (e-vouchers). You can either print the voucher and present a paper copy on the day of travel. Or, if you travel with a mobile device, simply show your Photo ID and present your voucher on your Smartphone or tablet on the day of travel.
Local Operator Information
Complete operator information, including local telephone number, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.
Are gratuities (tip) included in the price?
No. On most Cool Key West tours and activities with guides, mates, captains, and assistance, tips are not included. Our general recommendation is 18-20% when you enjoy a quality service experience.
Are my credit card details safe?
Your information is safe with Cool Key West. We take data protection very seriously and have a 100% secure checkout for all transactions.
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Can I book an activity and leave it open dated?
The majority of travel services provided by Cool Key West must have a pre-booked date designated in order for the activity to cater for passengers. Exceptions to this are attraction passes, hop on/hop off buses and trolley tours.
Can I book this activity when I get there?
Cool Key West activities can only be booked online. It is recommended you pre-book your travel service to avoid disappointment as many of our tours and products are popular and can be sold out early. Therefore, visitors are encouraged to pre-book to ensure a satisfying, worry-free vacation.
Do you provide a shuttle to the Key West Truman Little White House?
Currently, Cool Key West does not provide transportation to the Key West Truman Little White House.
I am unable to locate the check-in. What should I do?
If you arrive for your activity start point and you are unable to locate the check-in location, we first recommend calling the local contact phone number found on your confirmation email. If you are unable to reach the local contact, we will be more than happy to help you out.
What do I need to show at check-in?
Most Cool Key West activities accept both printed and electronic vouchers (e-vouchers). You can either print the voucher and present a paper copy on the day of travel. Or, if you travel with a mobile device, simply show your Photo ID and present your voucher on your Smartphone or tablet on the day of travel. However some outliers do exist, so be sure to read your confirmation voucher fully.
What is the weather cancellation policy?
If the Key West Truman Little White House must be canceled due to bad weather, and you cannot go on another day, you will be issued a full refund by Cool Key West.
When do I need to arrive for check-in?
Unless otherwise noted, please arrive for check-in 30 minutes before your Key West Truman Little White House begins. The exact start time may be based on your chosen options and will be noted on the confirmation you receive after booking.
Where can I park my car?
If required, parking instructions for the Key West Truman Little White House will be included in your confirmation email.
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Key West Truman Little White House will be included in your final confirmation email from Cool Key West. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes it way to you!
