When it comes to vacation hotspots, one can’t pass up a visit to Key West. Most who visit or live in Miami dream of a trip to Key West, but the amazing thing about this destination is that the journey to it is full of must-see stops. If you start your tour without the proper research, you may miss out on unique experiences like the dolphin centers and turtle hospitals.
This article will explore all the must-see stops when traveling from Miami to Key West so you can get the most out of your vacation. We will discuss routes along US-1 S, which takes about four hours and is 159 miles long.
Miami to Key West Stops
Key Largo: Best Places to Stop From Miami to Key West
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
One of the first stops that are a must on your tour includes the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This park is 70 nautical miles and offers a view of the Florida Coral Reef. Glass boat tours are available for both sightseeing and snorkeling.
Dolphins Plus Bayside
Another great stop on your route is the Dolphins Plus Bayside. You can take the opportunity to swim with dolphins, paint with dolphins, and touch sea life in the center’s touch tank. Some of the experiences you’ll get to encounter are holding onto a dolphin’s fin and riding it or having a dolphin push you through the water by your feet.
Island Dolphin Care
While also being a dolphin center, the Island Dolphin Care center is a little different from the Dolphins Plus Bayside center. The Island Dolphin Care center specializes in therapy sessions with their dolphins. These therapy sessions include programs for autism, developmental disabilities, and veterans, as well as customized group, family, and individual sessions.
Islamorada: Best Stops From Miami to Key West
Robbie’s of Islamorada
Robbie’s of Islamorada is best known for its Tarpon feeding. At about $5 for seven fish, you’ll have a perfect snack to give to these massive Tarpons. Remember that Robbie’s isn’t just for feeding Tarpon; they also have an amazing restaurant featuring Tuna Sliders, Mahi Reuben, and Pan-Seared Salmon!
Lazy Days
Whether you’re driving down to Key West in your car, or rent car Mercedes S Class with RealCar.Miami, Lazy Days is a must-stop on your journey. Lazy Days has been awarded “Best Waterfront Dining” in the People’s Choice Award. They are renowned for their fresh seafood and seafood pastas, steaks, and sandwiches. They’ll even cook your catch!
Other great places to visit in this area include the Theater of the Sea, History of Diving Museum, Keys History & Discovery Center, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, and the Islamorada Brewery & Distillery.
Marathon: Drive Miami to Key West Stops
Island Fish Company
When you’re driving in your owned or rented Mercedes Benz car rental and craving a bite to eat in Marathon, the Island Fish Company is the way to go. Their raw menu is loaded with oysters and clams, and their seafood menu has items such as lobster, conch fritters, shrimp, crab, and tuna.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Five years in a row, the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters has been awarded as the best place to take your kids. It is a fantastic experience for all ages. You can feed and play with a nurse shark, feed a stingray, or scuba dive or snorkel in a large coral reef tank featuring stingrays, fish, and sharks.
Turtle Hospital
The Turtle Hospital is a real treat to visit on your way to Key West. It features rescued or rehabilitated sea turtles. You can join their 90-minute Guided Education program, where, at the end, you will have the opportunity to feed the turtles that call the hospital their home.
Key West: Stops From Miami to Key West
Key West Lighthouse
At the end of your journey, there is still lots to see and do. For example, the Key West Lighthouse. First erected to keep naval and civilian ships safe, it has become a must-see landmark to complete your tour. It also boasts a museum with the history of the area.
Other places to visit in Key West include The Hemingway Home and Museum, The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
