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Exploring Florida’s Overseas Highway: A Scenic Journey Through the Keys

While island hopping is often associated with boats, Florida offers a unique experience with its Overseas Highway, a remarkable roadway that seamlessly connects 44 islands, or keys, spanning a distance of 113 miles. This engineering feat, stretching out over the open ocean, is referred to as the Overseas Highway.

Often described as “the highway that goes to sea,” this scenic route has also earned the nickname “the road that floats,” a title highlighted by Hellotickets, a travel booking platform that ranked it among the “Most Scenic Road Trips in the U.S.”

A Scenic Journey

The Overseas Highway not only boasts breathtaking views but also ranks alongside iconic drives such as the Pacific Coast Highway, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the historic Route 66. Hellotickets praises the highway for its stunning visual experience, relaying that the route “glides over turquoise waters, connecting 44 islands via endless bridges.” The Seven Mile Bridge, in particular, is highlighted as a key photo opportunity, and the sunset view at Mallory Square in Key West is described as “pure magic.”

A Gateway to the Keys

This highway has become a must-see for tourists visiting Miami, offering a chance to escape the urban environment and immerse oneself in the vibrant, Caribbean-blue waters that surround the mainland.

The Seven Mile Bridge: A Key Attraction

Among the many highlights of the Overseas Highway is the Seven Mile Bridge, recognized as the crown jewel of this scenic route. Built between 1909 and 1912, the bridge was once one of the longest in the world and currently holds the title of the longest bridge in Florida, and is among the longest in the U.S.

The bridge serves as a vital link between Knight’s Key in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. It features ample space for drivers to pull over and enjoy the breathtaking views. For a more immersive experience, visitors can walk or bike along the original bridge, which is now designated for pedestrians and cyclists. Concluding the journey with a sunset at Mallory Square in Key West is highly recommended for a truly unforgettable experience.

While the Seven Mile Bridge garners attention, it is just one of the 42 bridges constructed to connect the various keys off Florida’s mainland. This extensive roadway system provides drivers with an extraordinary opportunity to traverse the scenic waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Top Scenic Road Trips in the U.S.

The complete list of “Most Scenic Road Trips in the US,” as compiled by Hellotickets, includes:

• Pacific Coast Highway
• Route 66
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Going-to-the-Sun Road
• The Overseas Highway
• The Loneliest Road in America
• The Million Dollar Highway
• Great River Road
• Hana Highway
• Beartooth Highway

The Overseas Highway not only ranks among the top scenic roadways, but it also embodies the essence of exploration and the natural beauty of Florida’s coastal landscapes.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com