Drive Across the Keys' Famous 7 Mile Bridge

If your stay includes breakfast, there’s no need to rush this morning after an early day yesterday. Instead, take your time and linger awhile, but not too long!

This morning visit Pigeon Key, "the tiny island under the Old 7 Mile Bridge." Rent bicycles and go for a ride over the old bridge that will lead you to the island.

This picturesque island served as a base for workers during the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway in the early 20th century. Today, Pigeon Key is a preserved landmark that offers visitors a glimpse into its fascinating history through guided tours and exhibits. With its charming coastal setting and captivating stories, Pigeon Key provides a unique and educational experience for those interested in the region's heritage.

Go back, turn in your bikes, and continue exploring the region.

The next highlight on your route south through the Florida Keys is the famous 7 Mile Bridge. The longest bridge in Florida, the 7 Mile Bridge is perhaps as photographed as it is driven. With tunning views to the east and west with water all around, it’s really a sight to behold.

It’s time for lunch, so steer your car towards the No Name Pub on Big Pine Key for a laid back lunch that suits the laid back Keys lifestyle. Known for its pizza and fish dip, other items on No Name Pub’s menu include soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and Pub Baskets like fish and chips, grilled chicken, and coconut shrimp served with fries and cole slaw.

On your way through the Lower Keys, take some time this afternoon to visit Stock Island, a fishing community that’s also home to a thriving arts community. Browse boutiques and galleries filled with the works of local artisans, and quickly feel like a part of the community yourself.

At last you've made it to the end of the Florida Keys island chain - Key West! It's time to celebrate! But first, check into the Gardens Hotel where you'll feel like you're stepping into a tropical oasis, and you aren't wrong. All 23 of the boutique hotel’s guest rooms, suites, and cottages are dotted throughout an acre of tropical landscaping just steps away from Duval Street.

Now it's time to celebrate!
The nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square at the foot of Duval Street on the waterfront is a tried and true tradition, and something you have to do at least once in your life. Every evening people gather to celebrate the end of another day. Keep an eye out for the green flash!

Dinner tonight is at First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery, in the heart of “downtown” Key West. The restaurant is so-named because it’s housed in the birthplace of Pan American World Airways, where airline tickets were first sold in 1927.
Today, the restaurant serves tempting dishes on its expansive deck, and pours pints from its own onsite brewery.

As much as you want to stay out tonight (and definitely do if you're so inclined), you will also appreciate getting back to your comfortable room at The Gardens Hotel and sinking into bed for the night.