A road trip to the Florida Keys offers breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. Stretching over 100 miles from Miami to Key West, this stunning island chain is perfect for relaxation, adventure, and savoring delicious food. 

In this guide, we’ll highlight the must-see destinations on your Florida road trip to make your Florida Keys adventure truly memorable!

Everglades National Park

Kick off your Miami to Key West road trip at Everglades National Park. This park is the third largest in the contiguous United States, following Death Valley and Yellowstone, and it is home to several endangered species, like the American crocodile and manatee. While you could easily spend a couple of days exploring its vast landscapes, we recommend opting for a classic airboat tour if you only have a few hours. This will give you a great sense of the Everglades’ wetland ecosystem and wildlife.

Everglades Safari Park is just 35 minutes from Miami Airport. You can arrive in Miami the night before and stay in a nearby hotel, which allows you to start your day early and avoid crowds by visiting the park right when it opens. While tickets for the safari can be purchased at the counter, it’s advisable to book in advance to skip long lines. The boat ride lasts about 40 minutes and is followed by an engaging wildlife nature show.

Robert Is Here

After finishing your safari at Everglades National Park, drive 45 minutes to a family-owned fruit stand called Robert Is Here in Homestead. Here, you’ll find a variety of local and exotic fruits, milkshakes, and food options. Explore the selection of fruits, choose a few that you like, grab a milkshake, and enjoy your food at one of the picnic tables in the stall’s backyard.

Be sure to ask for recommendations—they’re happy to help! Most of the fruits are grown on their farms, and we found everything we tried to be delicious. This was one of our favorite stops on the road trip. They also have an animal farm where you can observe and even feed animals if you wish.

Mrs Mac’s Kitchen

After sampling some exotic fruits, continue your journey for about 35 minutes to your next stop: Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo. This charming local spot, with its rustic ambiance, is renowned for serving some of the best seafood in the area. Be sure to stop by to enjoy a delicious seafood meal and a slice of key lime pie before you continue on your adventure.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Next, head to John Pennekamp State Park to explore coral reefs, sea life, and mangroves. There are plenty of activities available, but the most popular options are the glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling tours, and water sports like kayaking, and paddleboarding. If you’re interested in the tours, be sure to check the schedule in advance and adjust your itinerary accordingly.

Diving Museum

If you’re a diving enthusiast, a visit to the Diving History Museum is a must. This museum is dedicated to showcasing diving-related artifacts, antiques, books, photographs, and more. Even if you’re not a seasoned diver, it’s a great stop to explore the evolution of underwater exploration and appreciate the incredible journey of diving over the years.

Rain Barrel Village

On your way, be sure to stop at Rain Barrel Village to see the famous Betsy Lobster sculpture, which stands 30 feet tall and 40 feet long. A photo with this giant Florida spiny lobster is a must! Take some time to stroll through the galleries and boutiques, where you can admire local handcrafted art and find unique souvenirs.

Robbie’s

Stop by Robbie’s for a fun experience feeding tarpon! Here, you can purchase a bucket of fish and head to the dock area. You’ll encounter numerous pelicans eager to snag a piece of fish. Be careful and navigate through them while protecting your catch. At the end of the dock, kneel down and hold a fish just above the water’s surface. The tarpon will leap out of the water to grab the fish from your hand—it’s an exhilarating experience! Just be sure to keep an eye on your fish and don’t let those hungry pelicans distract you!

Turtle Hospital

If you’re an animal lover, you definitely can’t miss a visit to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon. This facility rehabilitates injured sea turtles and then releases them back into their natural habitat. While there, you can learn all about turtle care and conservation. They also offer educational programs for visitors every day, so if you’re interested in participating, be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Dolphin Research Center

If you’ve ever wanted to connect with dolphins, the Dolphin Research Center is the place to be. Here, you can interact with these amazing creatures in a way that’s both ethical and educational. It’s a wonderful chance to learn about dolphin behavior, conservation efforts, and even share some unforgettable moments with these intelligent, playful animals.

7 Mile Bridge – Vista Point

Don’t miss a stop at the 7-Mile Bridge Vista Point for some jaw-dropping views of the bridge and the crystal-clear waters surrounding it. It’s the perfect spot to snap a few photos, and if you’re up for a little adventure, you can even walk along the old 7-Mile Bridge and explore nearby Pigeon Island, just 2 miles away. It’s an unforgettable way to take in the beauty of the Keys!

With these essential stops, you’re all set to explore the best the Florida Keys have to offer. From sun-soaked beaches to charming towns and good food, this road trip will be one you’ll cherish forever. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the ultimate Florida Keys adventure.

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