Truman's Little White House
Harry Truman spent 175 days of his presidency in Key West, using a converted naval quarters as his working White House. The poker table is still set up.
Harry Truman first came to Key West in 1946 on doctor's orders — he was exhausted after the end of World War II and needed rest. He returned ten more times during his presidency, spending a total of 175 days at the naval station's commandant quarters, which became known as the Little White House. He worked here, held cabinet meetings here, and made several significant decisions here, including the recognition of Israel in 1948.
Truman played poker every evening at the Little White House. The table is still set up with the original chips and cards. He reportedly lost more than he won. The sign above the poker room reads: 'The Buck Stops Here.'
The house has been meticulously restored to its 1948 appearance — the period of Truman's most frequent visits. The furnishings are original or period-accurate. The communications equipment, the presidential bedroom, and the working office are all intact. It is one of the best-preserved presidential sites in the United States, and one of the least visited relative to its historical significance.
Located at 111 Front St, Key West, within the Truman Annex neighborhood. Open daily; guided tours run throughout the day. Admission charged. The tour takes about 45 minutes and covers the full house. The guide's knowledge of Truman's Key West years is exceptional. The surrounding Truman Annex neighborhood — former naval housing — is worth a walk after the tour.