Welcome to the Florida Keys Visitor Center in Key Largo, a gateway to the enchanting chain of islands known as the Florida Keys. This center serves as a vital hub for travelers embarking on their journey through this tropical paradise. While the exact founding date of the Visitor Center isn’t widely recorded, it has become an essential stop for travelers seeking guidance and information about the area.
The Florida Keys have a rich history that spans centuries, from their early days as a haven for pirates to their development into a tourist destination. Key Largo, the first of the major Florida Keys, has long been a point of interest. Historically, the area was inhabited by the indigenous Calusa people, who were later displaced by European explorers.
The Florida Keys also played a strategic role during the Civil War. The Union Navy established a blockade here, using the nearby Fort Zachary Taylor in Key West as a base. This effectively cut off supplies to the Confederacy, making the Keys an important military asset.
In the 20th century, the Keys began to evolve into a tourist destination, with the construction of the Overseas Highway in the 1930s, making these islands accessible by car for the first time. This was a monumental event that transformed the Florida Keys into a popular getaway.
Prominent figures like Ernest Hemingway and President Harry S. Truman have visited the Keys, drawn by their unique charm and beauty. Today, the Florida Keys Visitor Center continues to play a crucial role in welcoming visitors and providing them with the information they need to explore this unique part of the world.
As you explore the Florida Keys Visitor Center, imagine the countless travelers who have stood where you are now, eager to uncover the wonders of this remarkable archipelago. The center is more than just an information point; it is a testament to the Florida Keys’ enduring allure and historical significance.
