Overseas Railroad

The Overseas Railroad is a historic railway line that stretches across multiple islands in the Florida Keys, connecting the mainland to Key West through a series of bridges and viaducts. The structure crosses long water passages and follows the natural shape of the island chain.

The Florida East Coast Railway opened the line in 1912, creating the first continuous land route between mainland Florida and Key West. This ambitious project overcame significant technical challenges in building over open water.

The railroad connected the Florida Keys to the mainland and made the islands accessible for people and goods. It shaped how communities developed and functioned in the region.

Walkers and cyclists can explore sections of the original railroad infrastructure today on the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, a recreational path spanning numerous kilometers. The route provides direct access to former rail lines and bridge structures.

The construction required around 4,000 workers and roughly 42 bridges spanning about 37 miles of ocean, an engineering marvel for its era. This feat remains remarkable today for its scope and complexity.

Location: Monroe County

Official opening: January 22, 1912

GPS coordinates: 24.71167,-81.12306

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:26