Key West sits at the end of the Overseas Highway, the road that hops across the Florida Keys on a chain of bridges. The drive from Miami is about 160 miles and takes roughly three and a half to four hours without long stops, which makes Key West a long but popular day trip, and an even better overnight.
The drive
Highlights on the way include Key Largo, known for snorkeling and diving at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park; Islamorada, the "sport fishing capital of the world"; and the Seven Mile Bridge near Marathon, with water views on both sides. Guided day trips from Miami handle the driving and usually include hotel pick-up.
What to see in Key West
Walk Duval Street and the Old Town lanes of colorful conch houses, photograph the Southernmost Point buoy, and visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, famous for its six-toed cats. End the day at Mallory Square, where the nightly sunset celebration brings street performers and food stalls. With more time, catch the ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson.
Day trip or overnight?
A day trip means about seven to eight hours on the road, leaving a few hours in Key West. Staying one or two nights lets you see the sunset at Mallory Square, snorkel the reef and drive back at a relaxed pace. Hotels in Key West are pricier in winter and during events such as Fantasy Fest in October.