Imagine this: Your car is loaded up, and you're all set to embark on a journey from Miami to Key West In just a matter of hours, you'll reach this charming coastal town where it feels like it's perpetually five o'clock. The atmosphere here is relaxed, with an easygoing vibe everywhere, and melodies filling the air from all directions.
The sole method for driving through is this. the Keys , and that’s straight down US-1 aka Overseas Highway. This two-lane road’s speed limit tops out at 45 mph most of the way and is a nice reminder that you’re now on island time. Over the next three and a half hours, you’ll drive over 44 bridges and see roughly 42 different islands. Here are the best places to stop and explore on your road trip from Miami to Key West.
Tip
As you travel, keep an eye out for petite green and white indicators alongside the route that feature numerical markings. Known as mile markers, these signs decrease numerically until reaching MM 0 in Key West. They serve as a simple method to gauge your proximity to your final stop; additionally, many locations along this lengthy stretch indicate their corresponding mile marker, which greatly simplifies locating them accurately.
Related: 20 Hidden Spots in Florida Known Only to Locals
Start with Something Sweet
As you head south and out of Miami, you must stop at Robert Is Here It’s a roadside fruit stall that has gained popularity for its vast array of milkshakes and smoothies crafted from freshly picked fruits, offering countless flavor options. Expect a queue, yet after placing your order, you can wander around the store to discover locally-made jams, preserves, seasonal produce, and various treats ideal for souvenirs to present to loved ones back home or as tasty provisions for your accommodation.
Explore the First Undersea Park in the U.S.
If you want to dive directly into activities, think about making a stop here. Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park In Key Largo (the initial key you'll traverse during your journey), situated at mile marker 102.5, lies the nation's first underwater park. Spanning roughly 70 nautical square miles, it serves as an enchanting destination for both diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Related: Pennekamp Park is the premier destination for snorkeling in Florida.
Enjoy a Meal in Islamorada
Of course, hunger will likely strike during your journey, making Islamorada an ideal spot for a midday break since it sits roughly halfway through your trip. Being the second-largest island in the Florida Keys, Islamorada offers numerous dining options where you can indulge in tasty meals with beautiful water vistas and freshly caught seafood. Be sure to explore Hungry Tarpon at Robbie’s (make certain to feed the tarpon), Morada Bay for an incredible blackened fish sandwich, Wahoo’s Seafood Bar & Grill where the mahi tacos always impress, or Marker 88 for delicious ahi tuna nachos.
Pull Over for Animal Adventures and Markets
Now that you’ve got fuel in you to continue your trip, you can easily drive straight to Key West. If you’re looking for other places to stop along the way, Rain Barrel Village (at mile marker 86.7) features an artistic outdoor marketplace perfect for shopping. It’s worth stopping here. Dolphin Research Center At Grassy Key (located at mile marker 59), you can socialize with dolphins, sea lions, and manatees. Further along in Marathon, there’s the Turtle Hospital (at mile marker 48.5) where various sick and injured sea turtles receive care and shelter until they recuperate enough to be returned to their natural habitat.
Extend Your Limbs at Bahia Honda State Park
Once you've passed over Seven Mile Bridge, which spans the longest distance among the Keys bridges, Bahia Honda State Park At mile marker 37 is perfect for catching some fresh air. This location offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or simply strolling along the beach. Additionally, you'll have a chance to see a historical remnant: an iron-frame bridge that used to be part of the Overseas Railroad and now spans the Bahia Honda Channel.
Celebrate Your Arrival
Check in and Relax
Once you've reached Key West, the next step will be to check into your hotel upon arriving—you might want to consider Kimpton Key West , Ocean Key Resort and Spa , Southernmost Beach Resort , or Marquesa Hotel Once you’ve completed check-in, leave your car keys aside. A highlight of Key West is that all attractions within reach are easily accessible on foot. If you prefer quicker transit options, observe that scooters or golf carts dominate as the favored means of transport in the Conch Republic, and these vehicles are readily available for use. rent them all over the island.
Head to Happy Hour
Once happy hour rolls around (and it’s always welcomed here), head over to Duval Street to get yourself a beverage and some appetizers. Crowded favorites comprise of Sloppy Joe’s , Rick’s , Smokin’ Tuna Saloon , Captain Tony’s Saloon , but you genuinely can’t make a mistake wherever you choose. Afterwards, make your way to Mallory Square for the renowned Sunset Celebration This daily event lasts for two hours just prior to sunset. It's a grand festival held on Wall Street, a street exclusively for pedestrians, featuring stalls, entertainers, and live tunes. People gather here to socialize and enjoy the sunset in what many consider one of the nation's most picturesque spots.
Related: The 15 Best Things To Do On Duval Street In Key West
Fill up the Tank
When it comes to dinner, you’re going to find a ton of fresh seafood nearly everywhere you go. Conch fritters and Key West pink shrimp are among some of the most popular dishes, and you’ll find them on every menu made in a variety of different ways. Hot spots for dinner include Little Pearl , Eaton Street Seafood Market , El Siboney , Blue Heaven , and The Lobster Shack . If you’re looking for a little late-night dessert action, check out Better Than Sex Reservations are strongly advised because this dessert haven is quite popular—the menu boasts an array of extremely indulgent treats and chocolaty drinks designed to satiate even the most avid sweet lovers.
Don't Miss the Pie
Before beginning your trip back, it is crucial that you head over to Kermit’s Key West for some of his famous Key lime pie. This beloved shop offers Key lime pie in several forms, including frozen slices of pie covered in chocolate—on a stick, candies, jellies, cookies, and of course, traditional. Frozen pies are available making them perfect for taking home and enjoying as a souvenir after your trip.
Finish the Trip with Brunch
As you wrap up your Key West adventures, check out Bagatelle or Blue Heaven for one final brunch before hitting the road. If you’re looking for one last chance to soak in the Florida Keys on your way home, stop into Sundowners in Key Largo for a delicious meal on the water. If you time it just right, you might catch the sunset.
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