Cruising the U.S. Overseas Highway: A Road Trip Like No Other
Stretching more than 180 kilometers across the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, the U.S. Overseas Highway offers one of America’s most breathtaking drives. This ribbon of concrete and steel connects the mainland to Key West, skipping from island to island via a series of bridges ? the remnants of a dream born over a century ago.
The highway traces the path of the Over-Sea Railroad, the brainchild of industrialist Henry Flagler. Completed in 1912, the rail line was celebrated as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” before a devastating hurricane damaged much of the infrastructure in 1935. Rather than rebuild the railroad, the route was transformed into a highway during the automobile boom of the 1930s.
Today, the Overseas Highway is a road-tripper’s paradise, dotted with unforgettable stops. Islamorada, the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” offers fresh seafood and world-class angling. In Marathon, travelers can tour the Turtle Hospital or swim with dolphins. Just beyond lies the Seven Mile Bridge ? the most iconic stretch of the highway. The modern structure soars over the open ocean, while the original bridge beside it offers a scenic route for walking, biking, and fishing.
As you enter Big Pine and the Lower Keys, the landscape becomes wilder and more remote. This quieter section is defined by small communities, ecotourism, and wildlife refuges that protect species like the endangered Key deer. Outdoor lovers can snorkel at Bahia Honda State Park or kayak through mangroves, where nature steals the spotlight.
The drive ends in Key West, a quirky, colorful town famed for pastel conch houses, the lively Duval Street, and Ernest Hemingway’s former home. Travelers may cap off the trip at Mallory Square, where the sun sets to a soundtrack of music and applause.
On the Overseas Highway, the journey truly is the destination.
Yesel Kang Copy Editor teen/1750138435/1613367750
1. How long is the U.S. Overseas Highway?
2. What does the highway connect?
3. What happened to the railroad in 1935?
4. What iconic stretch is on the highway?
1. What makes a road trip fun for you?
2. Why is it important to protect nature?
3. What outdoor activities do you enjoy?
4. How can a journey be the destination?
Stretching more than 180 kilometers across the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, the U.S. Overseas Highway offers one of America’s most breathtaking drives. This ribbon of concrete and steel connects the mainland to Key West, skipping from island to island via a series of bridges ? the remnants of a dream born over a century ago.
As you enter Big Pine and the Lower Keys, the landscape becomes wilder and more remote. This quieter section is defined by small communities, ecotourism, and wildlife refuges that protect species like the endangered Key deer. Outdoor lovers can snorkel at Bahia Honda State Park or kayak through mangroves, where nature steals the spotlight.
