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Dreaming of an unforgettable Miami to Key West street journey? This information will lead you thru the very best spots in Southern Florida, so you’ll be able to discover the highlights of this spectacular area!
From the bustling streets of Miami to the tranquil great thing about the Florida Keys, this journey guarantees a mixture of journey and leisure. The tropical local weather, with its heat temperatures year-round, makes this route excellent for spontaneous weekend getaways or meticulously deliberate holidays.
To allow you to benefit from your journey, I’ve crafted this complete itinerary that spans the long-lasting Overseas Highway, masking all of the must-see stops.
Planning the Perfect Miami to Key West Road Trip
Ideally, dedicating 2 weeks to this street journey would enable for an immersive expertise, however even just a few days can present an important style of the Keys. This itinerary breaks the journey into manageable items, guaranteeing you’ll be able to discover at a cushty tempo.
Below, you’ll discover all of the important particulars for a Miami to Key West street journey in 2024. This features a detailed itinerary, journey map, seasonal highlights, and essential suggestions for an gratifying street journey.
Road Trip Itinerary Map for Miami to Key West
This map outlines the important thing locations alongside the street from Miami to Key West. Each cease might be explored intimately under, providing tricks to optimize your journey route for a clean and gratifying journey.
Days 1-2: Miami, Florida
Start your street journey within the vibrant metropolis of Miami. Known for its sunny climate, lovely seashores, and full of life cultural scene, Miami gives a mixture of actions that cater to all pursuits. It’s the right place to start your journey with loads of sights to discover earlier than heading down the Overseas Highway.
Must-See Spots in Miami
- Miami Beach and South Beach: Begin your journey with a stroll alongside Miami Beach. Soak up the solar on the sandy shores of South Beach, well-known for its pastel-colored Art Deco buildings, vibrant nightlife, and stylish eating places.
- Art Deco Historic District: Wander by means of the historic district, the place you’ll be able to admire the distinctive structure and be taught in regards to the historical past of this iconic space. Don’t neglect to take a guided tour to realize deeper insights into the buildings and their significance.
- Little Havana: Dive into Cuban tradition in Little Havana. Enjoy scrumptious Cuban delicacies, watch locals play dominoes at Maximo Gomez Park, and expertise the full of life ambiance of Calle Ocho.
- Wynwood Walls: Visit this open-air museum that includes large-scale works by a few of the world’s best-known road artists. It’s a colourful and dynamic space excellent for a leisurely stroll and picture alternatives.
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Explore the gorgeous villa and gardens of Vizcaya, a historic property that provides a glimpse into Miami’s previous. The fantastically maintained gardens and the opulent home are a deal with for historical past and structure lovers.
Additional Miami Attractions
- Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): Discover up to date artwork on this hanging museum situated in Museum Park. The assortment consists of works by artists from the twentieth and twenty first centuries, with a robust concentrate on worldwide and native artwork.
- Miami Design District: Stroll by means of this stylish neighborhood recognized for its high-end vogue, artwork galleries, and upscale eating.
- Bayfront Park: Relax on this waterfront park providing lovely views of Biscayne Bay. Take a leisurely stroll, take pleasure in a picnic, or attend one of many many occasions held right here all year long.
- Miami Seaquarium: A enjoyable vacation spot for households, the Seaquarium gives marine exhibits and reveals that includes dolphins, sea lions, and different sea creatures.
- Jungle Island: Engage with unique animals and revel in interactive reveals at Jungle Island. This eco-adventure park gives shut encounters with birds, reptiles, and different fascinating wildlife.
Day 3: Key Biscayne, Florida
Just a brief drive from the hustle and bustle of Miami, Key Biscayne gives a serene escape with its lovely parks, historic landmarks, and coastal allure. Spend a day right here to unwind and benefit from the pure great thing about this island paradise.
Top Attractions in Key Biscayne
- Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: Relax on the sandy seashores, take a swim within the clear waters, or lease a motorbike to discover the scenic trails. Don’t miss the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, which gives gorgeous views of the island and the encircling waters.
- Crandon Park: Another must-visit spot, Crandon Park options two miles of pristine seaside, a nature heart, and a family-friendly amusement space. The park is ideal for picnicking, beachcombing, and having fun with water sports activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Miami Seaquarium: Located on close by Virginia Key, the Miami Seaquarium is a unbelievable vacation spot for households. Enjoy marine animal exhibits and reveals that includes dolphins, sea lions, manatees, and extra.
- Cape Florida Lighthouse: Situated inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, this historic lighthouse is likely one of the oldest constructions in Miami-Dade County. Climb to the highest for breathtaking panoramic views and find out about its historical past by means of the informative reveals on the base.
Key Biscayne is ideal to go to year-round, however the very best time to go is in the course of the winter and spring months (December to April) when the climate is delicate and there’s much less humidity.
Days 4-6: Homestead, Everglades, & Biscayne National Park
As you proceed your journey south, Homestead serves because the gateway to a few of Florida’s most unusual pure wonders. This space gives a mix of agricultural sights, historic websites, and quick access to 2 nationwide parks, making it an important house base for just a few days throughout your street journey.
Homestead gives quite a lot of eating choices, together with native favorites like genuine Mexican eating places, Cuban cafes, and seafood spots. Be certain to attempt the contemporary tropical fruits and domestically grown produce, which this space is thought for.
While staying in Homestead, I like to recommend visiting Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. Here’s why you must go to every:
Everglades National Park
On your Miami to Florida Keys street journey, I like to recommend spending 1-2 days in Everglades National Park for an unforgettable journey. This distinctive park is the one place on the planet the place American crocodiles and alligators coexist. It’s additionally house to black bears and the elusive Florida panther. Start on the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center for maps and suggestions.
Don’t miss the Anhinga Trail, a brief stroll that provides up-close views of wildlife. For gorgeous vistas, hike the Gumbo Limbo Trail or climb the Shark Valley Observation Tower. Explore by kayak or take an airboat tour for an exciting trip by means of the sawgrass marshes.
The Everglades is a bucket-list vacation spot as a consequence of its various ecosystems and unbelievable biodiversity. It’s one of many largest tropical wildernesses of its variety, teeming with uncommon and endangered species. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and water, and put together for an journey like no different!
Biscayne National Park
Add Biscayne National Park to your Southern Florida street journey for an unforgettable 1-2 day escape right into a marine wonderland. Just a brief drive from Miami, this park is 95% water, encompassing vibrant coral reefs, mangrove forests, and the northernmost Florida Keys.
Start on the Dante Fascell Visitor Center for a fast orientation. Snorkeling and diving are must-dos right here; discover the underwater world on the Maritime Heritage Trail, the place you’ll be able to see shipwrecks and colourful marine life. For a novel journey, lease a kayak and paddle by means of the mangrove tunnels.
Popular spots embrace Elliott Key, the park’s largest island, excellent for picnicking and climbing, and Boca Chita Key with its iconic lighthouse and breathtaking views. Keep an eye fixed out for manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Biscayne is a well-liked place to go to for its unparalleled aquatic experiences and wealthy biodiversity. It’s an oasis of pure magnificence and journey, making it an ideal cease in your Florida street journey.
Other Unique Attractions in Homestead:
- Fruit and Spice Park: Explore this distinctive 37-acre botanical backyard that options over 500 styles of fruits, greens, spices, and herbs from all over the world. Enjoy a guided tour to be taught in regards to the totally different vegetation and even pattern a few of the unique fruits.
- Coral Castle: Visit this mysterious and interesting attraction constructed fully out of coral rock by a single man, Edward Leedskalnin, over the course of 28 years. The Coral Castle options intricate carvings and constructions which have puzzled engineers and scientists for many years.
- Robert Is Here Fruit Stand and Farm: Enjoy contemporary tropical fruits, smoothies, and selfmade key lime pies at this iconic native spot.
- Homestead Miami Speedway: Catch an exciting NASCAR race or take a tour of this well-known racetrack.
- Everglades Alligator Farm: Get up shut with alligators and different wildlife. Don’t miss the airboat excursions for an thrilling trip by means of the Everglades.
The finest time to go to Homestead is in the course of the winter and spring months (December to April) when the climate is cooler and dryer. This can also be the perfect time for exploring the nationwide parks and having fun with outside actions.
Days 7-8: Key Largo, Florida
Continue your journey down the Overseas Highway and also you’ll encounter Key Largo, often called the “Diving Capital of the World”. It’s the right spot for underwater adventures and stress-free by the ocean. With its gorgeous coral reefs, marine sanctuaries, and quite a lot of water actions, Key Largo gives one thing for each traveler.
Top Attractions in Key Largo
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: This park is known for its vibrant coral reefs and various marine life. Go snorkeling or diving to discover the underwater world, or take a glass-bottom boat tour for a dry however equally gorgeous view of the reefs.
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Protecting the waters surrounding the Keys, this sanctuary is a haven for marine life. Diving and snorkeling right here supply an unparalleled alternative to see colourful coral, tropical fish, and even shipwrecks.
- Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park: Explore one of many largest tracts of West Indian tropical hardwood hammock within the U.S. The park options over six miles of nature trails which are excellent for climbing and bird-watching.
- African Queen Canal Cruise: Take a trip on the historic African Queen, the precise steamboat used within the 1951 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.
- Key Largo Undersea Park: Visit Jules’ Undersea Lodge, the world’s first underwater lodge, the place you’ll be able to even organize for an underwater in a single day keep.
- Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Café: Enjoy contemporary seafood at this native favourite. The informal, outside setting is ideal for a relaxed meal that includes the catch of the day.
Key Largo gives a variety of lodging, together with resorts, motels, and trip leases. Many choices present quick access to the water and supply facilities like boat leases and guided excursions.
Days 9-10: Islamorada, Florida
Islamorada, often called the “Village of Islands,” is an exquisite cluster of islands that supply an ideal mix of leisure and journey. Renowned for its fishing, water sports activities, and vibrant arts scene, Islamorada offers a novel and memorable cease in your street journey.
Here are my favourite spots in Islamorada that you must positively go to:
- Theater of the Sea: One of the oldest marine mammal parks on the planet, Theater of the Sea gives interactive exhibits and encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and different marine animals. You may even swim with dolphins or sea lions, making it a spotlight for households and animal lovers.
- History of Diving Museum: Explore the fascinating historical past of underwater diving. The museum options reveals on the evolution of diving gear and underwater exploration,
- Anne’s Beach: Named after native environmentalist Anne Eaton, this seaside is ideal for a calming day by the water. With shallow waters, picnic tables, and a boardwalk, it’s an important spot for swimming, sunbathing, and having fun with the scenic views.
- Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park: Discover the geological historical past of the Keys at this distinctive park. Take a self-guided tour by means of the outdated coral reef quarry and be taught in regards to the historical coral formations that make up the islands.
Islamorada is finest explored by automotive, however many sights are shut sufficient to bike or stroll between. Renting bikes could be a enjoyable and eco-friendly method to get across the island.
Day 11: Marathon, Florida
Located within the coronary heart of the Florida Keys about midway between Key Largo and Key West, Marathon gives quite a lot of outside actions and sights. This small metropolis is ready on 13 islands, providing lovely seashores, marine life, and historic websites. Here’s why it’s value trying out:
- Dolphin Research Center: This non-profit group gives academic packages and interactive experiences with dolphins and sea lions. Participate in quite a lot of packages, from swimming with dolphins to studying about their habits and conservation efforts.
- Sombrero Beach: One of the very best seashores within the Keys, Sombrero Beach is right for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The seaside has clear waters, comfortable sand, and loads of facilities, together with picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.
- Seven Mile Bridge: Drive throughout one of many longest bridges on the planet, providing gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Stop on the Pigeon Key Visitor Center earlier than crossing to be taught in regards to the historical past and development of the bridge.
- Crane Point Hammock: Explore this 63-acre nature protect and historic website. Walk by means of lush tropical hardwood hammocks and go to the Crane Point Museum. You can even go to the Adderley House, one of many oldest houses within the Keys.
- Turtle Hospital: Take a guided tour of this devoted facility that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles. Learn in regards to the totally different species of sea turtles, the threats they face, and the hospital’s efforts to guard them.
Day 12: Big Pine Key, Florida
Big Pine Key gives a tranquil escape with its pure magnificence and wildlife. Known for its sprawling nationwide parks and the well-known Key deer, this space is ideal for nature lovers and people seeking to unwind in a serene setting.
Top Attractions in Big Pine Key
- Bahia Honda State Park: Known for its gorgeous seashores and crystal-clear waters, Bahia Honda State Park is a must-visit. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking within the heat waters.
- National Key Deer Refuge: Home to the endangered Key deer, this refuge offers a novel alternative to see these small deer of their pure habitat.
- Looe Key Reef Resort and Dive Center: Explore one of the vital pristine coral reefs within the Keys. The underwater views are spectacular, that includes colourful coral formations and quite a lot of marine life.
- No Name Key: A quiet island accessible by bridge from Big Pine Key, No Name Key is nice for kayaking and recognizing wildlife. It’s additionally a unbelievable place for stargazing as a consequence of minimal gentle air pollution.
- Big Pine Flea Market: Open on weekends, this market is ideal for choosing up native crafts, contemporary produce, and distinctive souvenirs. It’s a enjoyable place to mingle with locals and expertise the island’s neighborhood vibe.
Always be cautious and respectful of wildlife, particularly the Key deer. Drive slowly by means of the refuge and by no means feed the animals, as it may possibly hurt them and alter their pure behaviors. Also, know that summer season months can carry afternoon thunderstorms. Pack a light-weight rain jacket and be ready for sudden climate modifications, particularly in the event you’re out on the water!
Days 13-16: Key West, Florida
Key West, the southernmost level within the continental United States, is a vibrant vacation spot recognized for its fascinating historical past, breathtaking shoreline, full of life nightlife, and gorgeous sunsets. I like to recommend spending no less than 2-3 days right here exploring the wealthy tradition, distinctive sights, and delightful surroundings of this iconic island.
Here’s a high-level itinerary of methods to spend your time right here:
Day 13: Key West Introduction and Exploration
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Begin your Key West journey with a go to to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Discover the historical past and allure of Hemingway’s residence and its well-known six-toed cats.
- Mallory Square: Head to Mallory Square for the nightly Sunset Celebration. Enjoy road performances, native artwork, and breathtaking views because the solar units over the Gulf of Mexico.
- Duval Street: Explore Duval Street’s vibrant nightlife, that includes quite a lot of bars, eating places, and outlets. Don’t miss Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a favourite hang-out of Hemingway. And make sure you attempt the important thing lime pie all through Key West, because it’s the birthplace of this signature tart dessert!
Day 14: Historical and Cultural Sites
- Southernmost Point Buoy: Start your day with a photograph on the Southernmost Point Buoy, marking the southernmost level within the continental United States.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Spend the afternoon at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Explore the historic fort and benefit from the park’s lovely seaside, excellent for swimming and snorkeling.
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to stroll amongst lots of of free-flying butterflies in a tropical paradise.
Day 15: Dry Tortugas National Park
- Ferry or Seaplane to Dry Tortugas: Take a day journey to Dry Tortugas National Park. Choose between a ferry or seaplane for the journey to Fort Jefferson.
- Fort Jefferson: Explore the historic Fort Jefferson, one of many largest brick masonry constructions within the Americas.
- Snorkeling and Birdwatching: Enjoy snorkeling within the crystal-clear waters across the fort, and hold an eye fixed out for the ample birdlife.
Day 16: Final Day in Key West
- Truman Little White House: Visit the Truman Little White House, the winter White House of President Harry S. Truman, for a guided tour.
- Key West Lighthouse: Climb the Key West Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and the encircling waters.
- Relax and Reflect: Spend your closing night stress-free at considered one of Key West’s waterfront eating places. Consider eating at Latitudes on Sunset Key for a memorable meal with gorgeous sundown views.
The ideally suited time to go to Key West is in the course of the winter and spring seasons, from November to April. During these months, the climate is nice, with delicate temperatures and decrease humidity. This interval additionally avoids the height of the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Tip: Key West is thought for its seafood. Try native specialties like conch fritters, Key lime pie, and contemporary fish. For a novel expertise, go to the Hogfish Bar & Grill on Stock Island for genuine native taste.
Other Destinations to Consider When Road Tripping from Miami to Key West
If you’ve extra time and wish to discover past the primary stops on the Miami to Key West street journey, think about visiting these further locations in Southern Florida:
- Everglades City, Florida: Offers one other entrance to Everglades National Park, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in airboat excursions and wildlife recognizing. Nearby, Big Cypress National Preserve offers alternatives for climbing and birdwatching in a various ecosystem.
- Naples, Florida: Features the historic Naples Pier with lovely sundown views and fishing alternatives. Stroll alongside Fifth Avenue South for upscale outlets and eating, or go to the Naples Botanical Garden to see tropical vegetation.
- Marco Island, Florida: Home to Tigertail Beach, recognized for its pristine sand and glorious shelling. For a quieter seaside day, head to Keewaydin Island, a secluded barrier island accessible solely by boat.
- Fort Myers, Florida: Close to Sanibel Island, well-known for its shell-covered seashores and the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to tour the historic winter houses of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
For a Key West day journey, return to Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys for extra exploration, together with visiting the Blue Hole and kayaking within the backcountry waters. Bahia Honda State Park, recognized for its lovely seashores and glorious snorkeling, can also be value a go to.
Things to Consider When Planning Your Southern Florida Road Trip
Before packing your baggage and hitting the street in Southern Florida, there are a few vital gadgets to assume by means of. Here’s some logistical information to think about:
Where to Start Your Overseas Highway Road Trip
Starting your journey in Miami is right. As a vibrant, bustling metropolis, Miami gives an ideal combine of gorgeous seashores, various tradition, and a full of life nightlife. Miami International Airport is just not solely the most important airport within the area but additionally gives the most cost effective rental automobiles. Before you hit the street, make sure that to discover Miami’s Art Deco District, Little Havana, and the gorgeous Miami Beach.
Conversely, you could possibly fly into Key West and work backwards. But for me, it makes extra sense to begin in Miami.
PS: If you wish to lease a automotive, I extremely advocate Discover Cars to search out the very best charges!
Best Time of Year for a Miami to Key West Road Trip
When planning your street journey from Miami to Key West by way of the Overseas Highway, timing is every thing. Each season gives its personal distinctive allure, so let’s discover the very best time of 12 months to embark in your journey.
Winter (December to February): This is the height season with excellent temperatures and low humidity. It’s the very best time to flee colder climates and revel in seaside climate, however anticipate larger costs and extra vacationers.
Spring (March to May): Ideal for nice climate and fewer crowds in comparison with winter. It’s a good time for outside actions like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Keys with out the sweltering warmth.
Summer (June to August): Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. This off-peak season gives higher offers and fewer vacationers, however be ready for the warmth and plan for indoor actions or water adventures to chill off.
Fall (September to November): This is hurricane season, however in the event you’re prepared to take an opportunity, yow will discover fewer crowds and decrease costs. The climate begins to chill down in direction of November, making it a cushty time to discover.
Number of Days for a Miami to Key West Road Trip
The variety of days you’ll want for a Miami to Key West street journey relies on your pursuits and tempo of journey. To benefit from the highlights of the Overseas Highway, a street journey spanning no less than 4-5 days is beneficial.
In this timeframe, you’ll be able to discover vibrant Miami, go to the distinctive ecosystems of Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, and benefit from the serene great thing about the Florida Keys.
If you’ve extra time, extending your street journey to 1-2 weeks means that you can delve deeper into the area. You can add further stops just like the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, the Dolphin Research Center, and lesser-known gems like Bahia Honda State Park. This longer period offers you the flexibleness to discover at a leisurely tempo, have interaction in water actions, and uncover hidden treasures alongside the best way.
FAQs About Miami to Key West Itinerary
Planning a street journey from Miami to Key West will be thrilling but additionally raises many questions. In this FAQ part, we’ve compiled solutions to a few of the commonest queries vacationers have.
What does a 5-day Miami to Key West street journey itinerary seem like?
If you’re seeking to take a street journey from Miami to Key West however don’t have a lot time, try this 5-day street journey itinerary.
- Day 1: Miami: Start your journey in Miami, the place you’ll be able to discover Miami Beach, South Beach, and the Art Deco Historic District. Don’t miss a go to to Little Havana for a style of Cuban tradition and Wynwood Walls to see vibrant road artwork.
- Day 2: Key Largo: Drive to Key Largo and spend the day at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or kayaking within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, experiencing the attractive underwater world.
- Day 3: Islamorada: Head to Islamorada and go to the Theater of the Sea and the History of Diving Museum. Relax at Anne’s Beach and discover the distinctive geological options of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park.
- Day 4: Marathon: Continue your journey to Marathon and go to the Dolphin Research Center to find out about marine life. Spend a while at Sombrero Beach, then cross the long-lasting Seven Mile Bridge and discover Crane Point Hammock.
- Day 5: Key West: Arrive in Key West and immerse your self in its wealthy historical past and vibrant tradition. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, stroll by means of Mallory Square, and discover the full of life Duval Street. End your journey with a sundown celebration at Mallory Square.
What is the very best path to take from Miami to Key West?
The finest route is the Overseas Highway (US-1), a scenic 113-mile drive by means of the Florida Keys, that includes 42 bridges and breathtaking ocean views.
How lengthy does it take to drive from Miami to Key West?
Without stops, the drive takes about 4 hours. However, I don’t advocate doing it multi functional go. Plan to spend ample time making stops to benefit from the sights and sights alongside the best way.
Can you are taking a street journey from Miami to Key West in 7 days?
Yes, you’ll be able to! Here’s a pattern itinerary:
Begin your journey in Miami, exploring Miami Beach, South Beach, and the Art Deco Historic District. Visit Little Havana for a cultural expertise and Wynwood Walls for a formidable show of road artwork.
Drive to Key Biscayne and spend the day at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Crandon Park. Explore the Miami Seaquarium and climb the Cape Florida Lighthouse for gorgeous views.
Head to Homestead and uncover the pure great thing about Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. Visit the distinctive Fruit and Spice Park and the mysterious Coral Castle.
Travel to Key Largo and revel in a day at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Snorkel, dive, or kayak within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, exploring the colourful marine life.
Move on to Islamorada and go to the Theater of the Sea and the History of Diving Museum. Spend some stress-free time at Anne’s Beach and discover Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park.
Continue your journey to Marathon and go to the Dolphin Research Center. Relax at Sombrero Beach, then cross the well-known Seven Mile Bridge and discover Crane Point Hammock.
Arrive in Key West and dive into its wealthy historical past and full of life tradition. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, benefit from the actions at Mallory Square, and stroll alongside Duval Street. Celebrate the tip of your street journey with a sundown at Mallory Square and revel in Key West’s vibrant nightlife.
What type of automotive is finest for this journey?
A cushty automotive with good gas effectivity is right. Consider renting a convertible to totally benefit from the scenic drive and heat climate.
