Overseas Highway offers unbeatable views

July 28, 2011 12:00 AM

Located off the southern coast of Florida, the Florida Keys have been attracting vacationers for decades. What many may not realize, however, is that a famous road actually connects all of these islands to the mainland.

Known as the Overseas Highway, this 127-mile road is a key byway for those driving into the islands. This road simply offers some of the best views in the country, which is why Readers Digest picked it as one of the Most Scenic Drives in America. A good time to visit is in the spring, as hurricanes tend to begin around June, although the weather is nice year-round.

There's much to do for fans of the island lifestyle. Key Largo has become famous for its high-end resorts and commercially developed tourist attractions. Key West, on the other hand, is more of a traditional island experience, with plenty of beaches and fun tiki bars. There's even stops for nature lovers, like the National Key Deer Refuge.

An interesting bit of trivia for movie buffs - this road was immortalized in the James Cameron film "True Lies." The sprawling highway is the scene of a thrilling chase sequence during the climax of the film, where more than a few bad guys end up spiraling off the bridges into the water.

Before hitting the road, drivers should be sure to get an oil change so there are no maintenance issues on vacation.

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