The Museum of Florida History explores Florida's people and events through artifacts, exhibits, and interpretation. Museum sites include the Main Gallery and the Knott House.

To collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret the material record of human culture in Florida and to promote and encourage throughout the state, knowledge and appreciation of Florida history(s.265.704, Florida Statutes, 2009). This is accomplished through permanent, traveling, and temporary exhibitions; through educational programming and community outreach; and through consultation and technical assistance made available to all of Florida's historical museums and agencies.

The Museum of Florida History was chartered by the Florida Legislature in 1967. The Museum opened its doors to the public for the first time in 1977. In 1986 the Museum received professional accreditation status from the American Association of Museums. In 1997 the Knott House Museum was added as an historic site managed by the Museum of Florida History.