This summer we visited the Florida Keys, an archipelago at the southernmost tip of the continental USA. The Florida Keys are a unique destination with 800+ islands (or keys) stretching over 180 miles connected by bridges and highway. The journey to The Keys is one of the best parts of the trip, as you travel across the ocean landscape on the Overseas Highway. Once you reach the southernmost key of Key West, you will want to stay the entire weekend to soak up the sights.
Here are the top places to visit on a Florida Keys road trip:
1. Islamorada - Halfway to Key West, you will find many isles including including Islamorada. Be sure to plan for a few hours at this mid-point to enjoy the sights. Here, you can see the Theater of the Sea which offers a dolphin adventure, a historic steam boat called the African Queen, fishing and water-sports activities, and a local craft brewery!
Stay in Islamorada: https://www.alltherooms.com/vacation-rentals-islamorada â
2. Seven Mile Bridge - Continue the journey to The Florida Keys along a car-commercial-worthy highway that includes the Seven Mile Bridge. The open expansiveness of the highway makes you feel like you are driving on the ocean surface. Every few miles, you will pass through another key surrounded by mangrove trees. It makes the three hour drive from Miami feel much shorter since the entire ride is scenic.
3. Duval Street - The heart of Key West is Duval Street, which is filled with island vibes, bars, art stores, bed and breakfasts, and key lime everything.
4. Southernmost Point - This buoy is the demarkation of the Southernmost Point in the Continental USA with only 90 miles to Cuba! The line for a photo here stretches down the street for the most iconic photo on the Florida Keys.
5. Hemingway House - Author Ernest Hemingway is one of Key West's most famous past residents. He lived on 907 Whitehead Street in the heart of Old Town Key West, where he spent about 10 years on the island enjoying the local bars and writings his most prolific works. His home is an unmistakable two story structure built in 1851 with key lime yellow shutters, surrounded by palm gardens and roaming six-toed cats.
Don't miss a tour of this historic gem!
6. Little White House - Located in a gated neighborhood filled with quaint wooden homes with shutters and double portico balconies, we came across US President Harry Truman's Key West home "The Little White House", built in 1890. Truman used it as his winter home during his presidency and spent 175 days here. It previously served as the naval station headquarters and a government leader retreat. Tour this historic landmark for a slice of history.
7. Lighthouse - The Key West Lighthouse offers a Keepers Quarters museum and one of the best views of Key West.
8. Key Lime Pie - Key limes are native to The Florida Keys and are punchier and more acidic than regular limes. In this region, you will find numerous treats made from the limes, from ice cream, smoothies, margaritas, and of course... key lime pies!
You can even participate in a Key Lime Pie making class! Check out the Key Lime Pie Co: âhttps://www.keylimepieco.com
9. Sloppy Joes Bar - Grab a drink at the historic bar and famous haunt of Ernest Hemingway.
10. Key West Sunset - What better way to end a trip in the Florida Keys than with the sunset views. The most iconic natural sight in Key West is undoubtably the 360 view of the sunset. One of the best ways to enjoy it is via a sunset cruise.
Book one of the sunset tours and don't forget to use our Viator discount!
What are your favorite sights to see in the Florida Keys? Comment below!
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Published Travel ArticlesWelcome to Run The Atlas!
We are two adventurous young professionals who turned our passion for travel into a blog to help others travel more.
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