The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Robert the Doll in Key West
Robert the Doll is one of the most famous haunted objects in the world, and a visit to Key West isn’t complete without encountering his mysterious presence. Whether you’re a paranormal investigator, a history buff, or simply curious, here’s the best way to immerse yourself in Robert’s story.
1. Read the Definitive Book on Robert the Doll
Before you visit, grab a copy of Robert the Doll by David L. Sloan on Amazon. The internet is full of myths and legends about Robert, but this book delivers the true history, covering the origins of the doll, the Otto family, and theories about what possesses him. Sloan, who has tended to the spirits within the museum artifact for nearly 30 years, presents a well-researched, compelling look at Robert’s past and paranormal activity that sets the foundation for your visit.
2. Stay at The Artist House
The Artist House, the former Otto family home, is where Robert the Doll resided from about 1904 until 1980. This beautifully restored bed-and-breakfast is haunted by several feminine spirits and offers an immersive look into Robert’s past. Many guests report unexplained activity, making it the perfect stay for those hoping for a ghostly encounter.
[Book your stay at The Artist House here.]
3. Visit Robert’s Second Home at 1722-A Von Phister Street
From 1980 until 1994, Robert the Doll lived in this private residence with his caretaker, Myrtle Reuter. According to Myrtle, Robert’s supernatural energy was undeniable—she even claimed he pushed her into her bedroom and locked the door! While the house is privately owned today, you can still drive by and glimpse the location where Robert sat on the front porch during his “lost years.”
4. Explore the Otto Family Plot at Key West Cemetery
Robert’s original owner, Gene Otto, is buried in an unusual plot alongside three Yorkshire terriers and a Key deer. But perhaps the most intriguing presence in this burial site is Emeline Abbott—Gene Otto’s nanny, who is buried in an unmarked grave nearby. Pick up a free cemetery map at the Sexton’s Office to locate this historically significant spot, and pay your respects to those connected to Robert’s story.
5. Join a VIP Ghost Tour at Fort East Martello Museum
For the ultimate Robert the Doll experience, book a VIP ghost tour at Fort East Martello Museum. This exclusive tour allows you to meet Robert in person while exploring one of Key West’s most haunted locations. The standard tour includes a 30-minute guided ghost tour of the fort and a 30-minute seated lockdown in Robert the Doll’s room.
VIP guests get an extra hour to hunt ghosts on their own, complete with ghost-hunting equipment and paranormal challenges. Many visitors report paranormal activity, from unexplained sounds to their cameras malfunctioning in Robert’s presence.
[Book your ghost tour at the Robert the Doll Experience Official Site, GhostKeyWest.com.]
6. Take Home a Haunted Souvenir
No trip to see Robert is complete without picking up a keepsake from the museum’s gift shop. Mini Robert dolls are a fan favorite, and the shop is open after the ghost tour.
Are you brave enough to meet Robert? Start planning your Key West ghost getaway today!
