Your Ultimate Guide to the Journey
Ever found yourself wondering how many bridges it takes to get to paradise—also known as Key West? Well, I’ve got the answer for you right here. It’s 42 bridges, stretching over miles of open water along the undisputed jewel of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. But don’t worry, the adventure isn’t just about counting bridges; it’s about the magic you’ll encounter along the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper, a first-timer contemplating the drive, or someone who still grips the steering wheel for dear life at the sight of a bridge over water, we have you covered. Let’s talk about the history, charm, and awe-inspiring natural beauty of these iconic structures that make the drive down to Key West unforgettable.
The Journey, Not Just the Destination
Sure, Key West is the ultimate goal, but the road trip is the real star of the show. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway spans 113 miles, connecting the mainland of Florida to Key West. Along the way, you’ll cross 42 bridges (yes, 42!) that link tiny islands or “keys,” all while being surrounded by the shimmering waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
It’s not just a drive; it’s an experience. You’re not staring at endless asphalt here. Nope. On this road, you’re gliding over turquoise waters, with natural beauty on every side—from towering palm trees to glimpses of sea turtles and even great blue herons. Some call it a drive; I call it a mini-vacation.
Also, pro tip? Don’t rush. Between wildlife refuges, scenic views, and historic sites, there’s plenty to stop for. Your Instagram followers will thank you for the photos.
A Brief History of the Bridges
Before we gush over today’s engineering brilliance, we’ve got to take a trip back to the early 1900s. Enter Henry Flagler, an ambitious industrialist with a dream to connect mainland Florida to Key West via the Florida East Coast Railway. This masterpiece featured long bridges, including the famous Seven-Mile Bridge, spanning miles of open water. And if you think building these was easy back then, think again. This was no “new technology” era—it was the turn of the 20th century!
Unfortunately, fate wasn’t kind to Flagler’s vision. The 1935 Labor Day hurricane caused extensive damage to large sections of the railway, ending its glory days. But not all was lost. Some of the original structures, including the bridges, were repurposed into what we now call the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. Talk about a glow-up.
Fast forward to today, and this marvel has become one of the most scenic drives in the United States, connecting Key Largo, Marathon Key, Big Pine Key, and eventually ending at the southernmost point in Key West.
The Iconic Seven-Mile Bridge
Alright, bridge nerds, time to geek out. The Seven-Mile Bridge isn’t just any bridge—it’s the beyoncé of bridges. It’s sleek, iconic, and adored by everyone. Here’s what you need to know:
- The Old Seven-Mile Bridge: Built in 1912 for the railroad, this historic bridge from Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key is now a linear park that pedestrians, bikers, and photographers adore. Bonus points for its gorgeous views of both the Atlantic and the Gulf.
- The New Seven-Mile Bridge: Opened in 1982, this modern bridge spans 6.7 miles (so close to seven!) and is considered one of the longest over-water roads in the world. Nicknamed the “eighth wonder of the world” for its engineering brilliance, driving across this stretch makes you feel like you’re floating.
Think of these two bridges as siblings—one’s a cool historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, while the other is the one everyone wants in their Instagram feed.
Pro tip again? Park at Bahia Honda State Park or grab a bite at Sunset Grille in Marathon Key for unbeatable Seven-Mile Bridge views. You won’t regret it.
What Makes These Bridges Special?
Every single one of the 42 bridges has its own story and beauty. They’re not just functional structures—they’re works of art connecting unique ecosystems, communities, and histories. Here’s a little flavor of what you’ll experience:
- Mile Markers: Each bridge has mile markers, giving you a fun little countdown to Key West.
- Older Bridges: Along the way, you’ll spot remnants of the old railroad bridges and feel a pang of awe imagining vintage railroad cars stretching over the water.
- Natural Beauty: From hammerhead sharks to Australian pine trees, the wildlife and scenery are unmatched.
- Clear Waters and Palm Trees: The waters below change from deep blues to crystal-clear turquoise as you drive on, and the occasional patch of swaying palms makes it look straight out of a postcard.
Quirks and Fun Facts
- Swing Bridges: Some of the original bridges had innovative swing mechanisms to allow boat traffic to pass through. Can you even imagine how cool that must’ve been back in the day?
- Linear Parks: Several of the former railroad bridges have now been converted into linear parks, offering great spots to fish, bike, or simply soak in the magic of the ocean.
- Wildlife Galore: Keep an eye out for sea turtles, herons, or even a pod of dolphins if you’re lucky!
- Flat Tire? Just don’t. Okay, it’s bound to happen to someone, but trust me, breaking down on a bridge does not make for an exciting story!
- Fred the Tree: Yes, there’s literally a tree named Fred growing on a bridge near Marathon. Go ahead, take the selfie.
Planning Your Drive
Driving down the Florida Keys Overseas Highway is bucket-list worthy, but you’ve got to plan ahead:
- Keep an eye on the speed limit. You’ll want to drive slow enough to enjoy the views but fast enough to keep the locals behind you happy.
- Start early if you want to miss the traffic. (Hurricane Irma was rough on traffic flow.)
- Stop at Key Largo for its world-famous marinas or at Marathon for fishing trips.
- Don’t miss the beautiful Bahia Honda State Park for a scenic picnic or swim.
- Break up the drive by staying at Isla Bella Beach Resort or explore roadside gems like Flagler Street for history lessons.
Remember, the drive may technically only take three hours without stops, but with detours, photo ops, and maybe a tiki drink or two? Add double that. You won’t regret it.
Check out our Ultimate Road Trip to Key West – all the stops and stuff you should see!
Destination Key West
Finally, you’ll arrive at Key West, the crown jewel of Monroe County. This spot doesn’t just live up to the hype—it surpasses it. From its quirky characters to historic charm, Key West is where adventures culminate, margaritas flow, and sunsets are one-of-a-kind.
But don’t rush off to Key West without soaking in the nuances of the Keys along the way. After all, it’s not just about getting from Point A to Point B—it’s about experiencing the magic in between.
The Bridges Are Calling…
…and you must go! Whether it’s the historic Seven-Mile Bridge, the breathtaking views over the water, or the sheer joy of the drive, the bridges to Key West are truly an adventure on their own.
Now, before you pack for your Florida Keys tour, grab our Happy Hour Guide (link) for the best stops along the way and sign up for our newsletter for exclusive tips.