Creative recycling, offbeat artistry and lively “people power” combine into a spectacle that entertains spectators in Key West each May, during the lighthearted Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade. Designed to fascinate fans of earth-friendly repurposing and “outsider” art, the annual human-powered parade of colorful mobile sculptures will meander through Key West’s downtown area on Saturday, May 4.
Planning a visit to the Florida Keys this spring or summer? As well as enjoying the island chain’s many land-and-water attractions and near-addictive easygoing vibe, you can also explore two of the United States’ most intriguing places: Dry Tortugas and Everglades national parks. Both parks are nothing less than priceless national treasures.
Throughout April, throughout the year and throughout the Florida Keys, sustainable family-friendly events are offered for travelers seeking to connect with the unique Keys environment and help to protect it. Among them are Mote Marine Laboratory’s Ocean Fest and the Florida Keys Wildlife Society’s full-moon kayak excursions into the National Key Deer Refuge.
Interested in learning about coral restoration techniques, capturing invasive lionfish or how Florida Keys wild birds are rehabilitated? Four environmental organizations — unique attractions that appeal to nature lovers and eco-conscious vacationers — provide meaningful ways to connect with and protect the natural world during visits to the island chain.
Hidden gardens, nurtured and enjoyed by Keys locals, protect and preserve rare and exotic trees, plants and flowers. And they’re open to the public, providing behind-the-walls access, during winter garden tours. Exploring these spots is a unique treat that lets visitors make a meaningful connection to the island chain’s natural world.
The new year is a great time to embrace activities that have a positive impact on the planet. For example, add meaning to a Florida Keys visit by giving back to the island chain. Connect with the earth, ocean and the living things that call the Keys home by dedicating a part of your vacation to a voluntourism activity.
Whether you’re intrigued by marine mammals, sea turtles, wild birds or the plants that add lushness to the Florida Keys landscape, you can indulge your interest at the island chain’s many environmental attractions. Among them are the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, the Turtle Hospital, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters and the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden — four "must-visit" spots in the colorful Keys.
Rachel Bowman, a dedicated pole spear huntress, is the Florida Keys’ only female commercial lionfish fisherman. She spears several thousand lionfish each year, removing as many of the invasive species from Keys waters as she can. Visitors can help the cause by ordering lionfish in local restaurants, where their delicate and delicious light white meat makes them a popular culinary choice.
For more than 100 years, the Florida Keys’ fascinating environment has been recognized and protected by forward-thinking conservation efforts. Connect with this natural world by learning about five vital preserves that protect endangered plants, animals and marine life — as well as the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef.
Through the Keys' new “Connect & Protect” program, visitors can help preserve the destination's priceless natural world while having meaningful and memorable vacations. The program spotlights eco-travel offerings, natural experiences, environmental attractions and adventures, simple pleasures and ways visitors can make a difference while exploring the islands from Key Largo to Key West.