News Summary
The Overseas Highway, a remarkable 113-mile route in Florida, connects 44 islands and offers stunning views along its course, featuring iconic landmarks like the Seven Mile Bridge. Travelers are encouraged to explore attractions such as Key Largo, Tavernier, and Islamorada, making the journey to Key West a memorable experience. This engineering marvel invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the Florida Keys.
Key West, Florida – The Overseas Highway, a stunning 113-mile engineering marvel, connects 44 islands off the coast of Florida and is celebrated as one of “the Most Scenic Road Trips in the U.S.” by Hellotickets. This iconic roadway, often referred to as “the highway that goes to sea” and “the road that floats,” features an intricate network of 42 bridges that cross over the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico, making it a true highlight of any trip to the Florida Keys.
One of the most significant landmarks along the route is the Seven Mile Bridge, known for being one of the longest bridges in the world when it was built from 1909 to 1912. This bridge connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key, providing numerous pull-off points that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The entire journey from Miami to Key West not only facilitates travel but invites exploration of the diverse attractions that are scattered along the way.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time, exploring the lively destinations and unique attractions of the islands rather than rushing directly to Key West, at the southern terminus of the highway.
Points of Interest
The Overseas Highway is filled with noteworthy landmarks and experiences. Among the first stops is Key Largo, celebrated for its underwater attractions, including the USS Spiegel Grove wreck, an artificial reef popular with snorkelers and divers. Approximately 11 miles down the road, Tavernier offers The Blond Giraffe, famed for its key lime pies crafted from locally grown limes.
Another significant location is Islamorada, noteworthy for a monument honoring the victims of the catastrophic 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, an event that spurred the construction of the road as the Over-Sea Railroad was transformed into the highway in 1938. Historical remnants of the Florida East Coast Railway, which operated from 1912 to 1935 under Henry Flagler, can still be observed during the drive.
For those seeking family-friendly activities, Robbie’s Tarpon Feeding on Lower Matecumbe Key presents an interactive experience, while The Turtle Hospital at Mile Marker 48.5 focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles. Further down the highway, Marathon features casual waterfront dining and the recently reopened Old Seven Mile Bridge, inviting pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy its scenic path.
Another gem along the route is Pigeon Key, accessible from the Old Seven Mile Bridge. This site has historical significance as it once housed workers who constructed the railroad from 1908 to 1912. A visit to Bahia Honda State Park offers insight into the historic Bahia Honda Bridge and snorkeling trips to the nearby Looe Key, showcasing the marine life of the area.
The Finale: Key West
The journey culminates in Key West, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic bars, and a wealth of historical sites linked to figures like Harry S. Truman and Ernest Hemingway. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, savoring the unique blend of culture and natural beauty the island offers.
The Overseas Highway stands not only as a feat of engineering but also as a gateway to the rich history and diverse ecosystems of the Florida Keys. Many travelers and locals share anecdotes that reflect the charm and allure of life in the area, inviting all who visit to create their own memorable experiences along this unforgettable journey.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Florida Keys News
- Wikipedia: Overseas Highway
- Miami Herald
- Google Search: Florida Keys Overseas Highway
- Travel + Leisure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida Keys
- CNN
- Google News: Florida Keys travel
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
