Only one road connects the hundred-mile long island chain that is the Florida Keys. It began as Henry Flagler’s Railroad, it became the legendary Overseas Highway and now it has been designated an All-American Road under the National Scenic Byways Program. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, hundreds of little islands lead you to the southernmost point in the United States.
The drive has magnificent scenery, historic significance, and provides endless opportunities for outdoor, family, and solo recreation. The journey becomes a vacation in and of itself.
The Overseas Highway begins in Key Largo, home of the Everglades National Park and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park where you can find the first undersea park in the United States.
Popular with eco-adventurists, this stop offers activities both on and below the water. Cruise on a glass-bottom boat, jump on a kayak, climb into a canoe, pack your paddle board or strap on your snorkel.
Islamorada is a favorite wedding destination but is also known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. The island offers fresh seafood and fine dining at waterfront restaurants. The Morada Arts & Cultural District hosts an artwalk on the third Thursday of every month. The popular event invites locals and travelers alike to enjoy art, food, beer, live music, kids activities, and more.
Just beyond Islamorada, you will reach Marathon, a haven for marine-themed family activities and boating aficionados. Once arrived, you have a selection of venues for aquatic experiences from the Aquarium to the Dolphin Research Center to The Turtle Hospital.
As well as welcoming loggerhead turtles during nesting season, the sandy shores of Sombrero Beach is a popular destination for couples and families.
The pace of life begins to slow in Big Pine Key & The Lower Keys. The Key Deer Wildlife refuge in Big Pine is home to 23 endangered and threatened plant and animal species as well as many others.
Paradise seekers will discover Bahia Honda State Park, consistently rated one of the nation’s top beaches. Campers, boaters, picnickers find their perfect adventures in the gorgeous natural setting
Just before Key West, stop on Stock Island. The little key is gaining attention quickly after the construction of its first two hotels. Stock Island is home to local restaurants, artist studios, and an operating waterfront.
After leaving The Lower Keys, you will reach the end of the road: Key West. Yet, it will seem your adventure is just beginning. This is where John Audubon and Ernest Hemingway once made their homes. One had a passion for preservation. The other possessed a great zest for living. That combination is the root of Key West’s unique cultural personality.
There, you no longer need your car. Tour the city by foot, bicycle, trolley or electric car. See the sites like the Hemingway House or the Key West Butterfly Conservatory on the Conch Tour Train. Enjoy the Bahamian village, the history, theaters, museums, galleries, sidewalk cafés and legendary pubs.
Start discovering the Florida Keys by visiting fla-keys.com or call 1-800-fla-keys.