Miami to Key West: The Ultimate Road Trip

Spend your first day in Miami Beach, where palm-lined streets, pastel Art Deco buildings, and ocean views set the tone for the week ahead. Spend the afternoon relaxing on South Beach, then wander through the Art Deco Historic District before dinner along Lincoln Road or Española Way. Grab dinner at an iconic Miami spot like Joe.

Spend your final Miami day exploring the city’s creative side. Visit the Frost Museum of Science or stroll through the colorful murals of Wynwood. Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach or a waterfront dinner overlooking Biscayne Bay before preparing for the road trip south.

Just outside Miami lies one of Florida’s most unique landscapes. Take a morning airboat tour through Everglades National Park, where you’ll glide through sawgrass marshes and likely spot alligators, birds, and turtles along the way. Be sure to check out Shark Alley and Anhinga Trail for nearly guaranteed animal sightings. In the afternoon, explore Little Havana for Cuban coffee, pastries, and vibrant street life.

Today you’ll begin the legendary drive from Miami into the Florida Keys along the Overseas Highway. This scenic route stretches across 42 bridges with endless views of bright blue water. Stop in Key Largo for snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, then continue to Islamorada to feed giant tarpon at Robbie’s. If time allows, take a break at Bahia Honda State Park—home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Keys.

After arriving in Key West, slow down and soak up the island atmosphere. Wander through Old Town, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home, and stroll along Duval Street. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, one of the best swimming spots in Key West. In the evening, head to Mallory Square to watch the famous sunset celebration.

Spend the day exploring Key West from the water. Paddle through mangrove tunnels on a kayak tour, snorkel along coral reefs, or take a boat excursion to a shallow sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear water. For an unforgettable experience, consider a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote island famous for its turquoise waters and historic Fort Jefferson.

After a relaxing breakfast in Key West, begin the scenic drive back toward Miami. Take your time stopping at roadside viewpoints, small beaches, and waterfront cafés along the way. By the time you arrive back in the city, you’ll have completed one of the most scenic and memorable road trips in Florida.