Florida: Key West Overseas Highway Tour

Embarking on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway Tour is a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of this renowned island chain. Travelers can explore renowned landmarks, interact with marine life, and enjoy the region’s rich history and culture. From the iconic bridges connecting the Keys to the treasured attractions in Key West, this self-guided driving adventure offers a comprehensive exploration of the Florida Keys’ natural wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable coastal experience, the Florida Keys Overseas Highway Tour promises to leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Set out on a self-guided driving tour along the Overseas Highway, traversing the diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks of the Florida Keys.
• Explore renowned attractions like the Theater of the Sea, Dolphin Research Center, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West.
• Discover the natural beauty and historic sites of destinations like Plantation Key, Marathon, and Islamorada along the scenic route.
• Interact with marine life, immerse in the region’s rich culture, and witness the stunning coastal scenery throughout the journey.
• Customize your itinerary to suit your interests and travel pace, with comprehensive route guidance and support for a seamless self-guided experience.

Traverse the Florida Keys

The self-guided driving tour along the Overseas Highway takes travelers on a captivating journey through the stunning Florida Keys, offering ample opportunities to explore the islands’ diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions.

As you drive from Key Largo to Key West, you’ll encounter a series of scenic bridges that connect the various Keys, providing breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and lush, tropical vegetation.

Along the way, you can stop at renowned landmarks like the Theater of the Sea, the Dolphin Research Center, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, learning about the region’s fascinating history and marine life.

Whether you spend a day or several, this self-guided tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the Florida Keys.

Highlights of Key Largo

As travelers embark on the self-guided driving tour through the Florida Keys, they’ll first encounter the vibrant and diverse community of Key Largo, known for its array of captivating attractions. From the iconic Theater of the Sea to the renowned Dolphin Research Center, Key Largo offers a multitude of experiences that showcase the region’s natural wonders and marine life.

Attraction	Description	Hours/Admission
Theater of the Sea	Oceanarium featuring dolphin, sea lion, and exotic bird shows	Open daily, admission fees vary
Dolphin Research Center	Non-profit marine mammal facility offering tours and educational programs	Open daily, admission fees apply
Key Largo Lighthouse	Historic lighthouse providing panoramic views of the Keys	Open for tours, admission fees may apply

Exploring Plantation Key

After traversing the scenic expanse of Key Largo, travelers will arrive at Plantation Key, a captivating destination along the Overseas Highway.

This idyllic island community offers a wealth of natural beauty and historic sites waiting to be explored. Take a stroll through the lush mangrove forests, where diverse wildlife thrives, or visit the iconic Green Turtle Inn, a beloved local landmark since the 1950s.

Nearby, the Theater of the Sea showcases the wonders of marine life, allowing visitors to interact with dolphins and other aquatic creatures.

Whether hiking, dining, or simply soaking in the laid-back island vibe, Plantation Key promises an unforgettable experience along the Florida Keys‘ breathtaking scenic route.

Marvels of Marathon

Continuing along the Overseas Highway, travelers will encounter the captivating town of Marathon, a true gem of the Florida Keys. Marathon boasts a wealth of natural wonders and cultural attractions that beckon visitors to explore its unique charms. The Dolphin Research Center, a renowned marine life facility, offers the chance to interact with and learn about these fascinating creatures. The Sombrero Beach, with its pristine white sands and calm waters, provides the perfect setting for a relaxing day in the sun. For those seeking a taste of history, the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center showcases the Keys’ rich cultural heritage.

Attractions	Description	Hours
Dolphin Research Center	Interact with dolphins, learn about marine life	9 AM – 5 PM
Sombrero Beach	Picturesque white sand beach	Open daily
Crane Point Museum	Explore the Keys’ cultural history	10 AM – 4 PM

Hemingway’s Legacy in Key West

Nestled in the heart of Key West’s historic Old Town, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum stands as a testament to the literary giant’s enduring legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into the celebrated author’s creative life and vibrant surroundings that inspired some of his most iconic works.

Hemingway’s two-story Spanish Colonial-style residence, complete with lush tropical gardens and a sparkling pool, serves as a living museum that transports guests back in time.

Here, they can explore the author’s writing studio, browse his personal library, and encounter the famous six-toed cats that roam the property, all while learning about Hemingway’s passions, writing process, and the remarkable history of this beloved landmark.

Scenic Sights in Islamorada

As one travels along the Overseas Highway from Key Largo, the picturesque scenery of Islamorada comes into view, offering a tranquil respite from the bustling pace of the journey. This quaint Florida Keys town boasts a diverse array of natural wonders and cultural landmarks that captivate visitors, from the serene beaches and mangrove-lined waterways to the historic sites that showcase the region’s rich heritage.

Landmark	Description	Notable Feature
Anne’s Beach	Tranquil, crescent-shaped beach	Boardwalk trail through mangroves
Morada Way Arts & Cultural District	Vibrant arts and culinary hub	Monthly art walks and live music
History of Diving Museum	Explores the sport’s rich past	Extensive collection of diving equipment
Hurricane Monument	Tribute to victims of 1935 storm	Designed by internationally acclaimed artist
Theater of the Sea	Iconic marine life park	Allows visitors to interact with dolphins

Discover the African Queen

Along the scenic Overseas Highway, travelers can discover the iconic African Queen, a historic vessel with a remarkable past that has captivated generations of visitors to the Florida Keys.

This renowned steamboat, made famous by the 1951 film of the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, has found a permanent home in Key Largo.

Visitors can step aboard and imagine the adventure of the original boat’s voyage down the rivers of Africa, as well as its role in the movie.

Today, the African Queen offers daily cruises, allowing guests to experience a piece of cinematic history and enjoy the natural beauty of the Keys’ waterways.

It’s a must-see attraction for any traveler exploring the Overseas Highway.

Planning Your Tour

Travelers planning the Key West Overseas Highway Tour have a wealth of resources to ensure a seamless and memorable journey. With a flexible itinerary and various points of interest along the way, visitors can tailor their experience to suit their interests and travel pace.

The comprehensive route and stops provided offer guidance on navigating the iconic Florida Keys, from Key Largo to Key West. Along the way, travelers can enjoy the region’s rich history and culture, visiting landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and the Key West Lighthouse.

With all-day support available via phone, chat, or email, travelers can feel confident and informed throughout their self-guided driving adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?

Yes, customers can customize the tour itinerary to meet their preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing guests to add or remove stops along the route based on their interests and schedule.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Tour?

There are generally no age restrictions or limitations for this self-guided driving tour. Participants of all ages can enjoy the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Some attractions may have their own age policies, but the tour itself is open to travelers of all ages.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

There are no specific discounts or packages available for this self-guided driving tour. However, travelers can save on admission fees by bundling attraction tickets or taking advantage of any promotions offered by the individual stops along the route.

Can I Use Public Transportation Instead of Driving Myself?

Yes, visitors can use public transportation instead of driving themselves on this self-guided tour. Many of the key attractions and landmarks are accessible via the Florida Keys Shuttle or local bus services along the Overseas Highway.

How Accessible Are the Tour Stops for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour stops have varying levels of accessibility for travelers with disabilities. Some sites, like the Ernest Hemingway Home, offer accommodations, while others may have limited accessibility. It’s best to inquire about specific needs when planning the trip.

Recap

The Florida Keys Overseas Highway Tour offers a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of this renowned island chain.

Travelers can explore renowned landmarks, interact with marine life, and enjoy the region’s rich history and culture.

From the Theater of the Sea to the Ernest Hemingway Home, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the Florida Keys’ natural wonders and iconic attractions, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.