Miami to KW favorite stops!

Question

Driving down to KW from Miami and was wondering what are everyones favorite pit stops on the journey?

Answer

The drive from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic road trips in the U.S., packed with quirky attractions, great food, wildlife, and beautiful water views. It’s about 3.5–4 hours without stopping, but most travelers turn it into a relaxed half-day adventure with a few memorable pauses along the way.

Below are some of the most popular and worthwhile stops, arranged in the order you’ll encounter them. These are a mix of classic Florida Keys experiences—good food, nature, wildlife, and great photo spots.

Here are favorite stops from Key Largo to Key West:

Key Largo – John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: A must-stop if you want to stretch your legs in nature. Walk the mangrove trails, visit the small beach areas, or take a quick glass-bottom boat tour if time allows.
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen: A traveler favorite for a casual breakfast or early lunch. Famous for key lime pie, conch fritters, and hearty diner-style meals.
Alabama Jack’s: A classic roadside bar on the Card Sound route (if you take the alternate toll road). Live music, water views, and a funky old-Florida vibe.

As you continue south, Islamorada offers some of the best places to stop, eat, and enjoy the coastal scenery:

Robbie’s of Islamorada: One of the most iconic stops in the Keys. You can feed the giant tarpon, shop local stalls, grab a drink, or take photos on the dock. Fun and always lively.
Midway Café & Coffee Bar: Great stop for pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. Colorful and extremely popular with locals and travelers.
LUNCH: Morada Bay Beach Café: Beautiful outdoor dining on the sand with island vibes. Perfect for a long, scenic meal if you’re not in a rush.

Next up are Marathon and the Middle Keys, which offer more nature and some of the best ocean viewpoints on the whole drive.

Seven Mile Bridge (old + new): The highlight of the drive. You can park near the Old Seven Mile Bridge entrance in Marathon and walk a portion of it for amazing views.
Turtle Hospital – Marathon: A great short tour and a meaningful stop. You can see rescued sea turtles up close, learn about conservation, and support their recovery.
Sunset Grille & Raw Bar: A popular open-air restaurant right at the foot of the Seven Mile Bridge with great drinks and a casual, lively vibe.

After crossing Seven Mile Bridge, the Lower Keys become quieter and more nature-focused, with fewer crowds and some hidden gems worth a stop.

Bahia Honda State Park: Often listed as one of the best beaches in the Keys. Perfect for a swim break, photos, or a short walk along the historic-old bridge viewpoint.
Big Pine Key – Key Deer Refuge: If you want a wildlife moment, you can often spot tiny Key deer roaming in the late afternoon. Drive slowly—they’re everywhere.
No Name Pub: A funky, dollar-bill-covered bar and restaurant with a quirky Keys feel. Famous pizza and a great conversation stop.

Once you reach Key West, you’ll be ready to settle in, but the journey itself is a big part of the fun. You can do as many or as few stops as you like—Islamorada and Marathon are usually the top favorites if you’re choosing just a few.

Miami to KW favorite stops!

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