Explore Crane Point Hammock in the Keys
Nestled in the heart of the Marathon shopping district near MM 50, lies Crane Point Hammock, a 64-acre tropical paradise rich in history, museums, nature trails and Florida wildlife. Considered one of the most important historical sites in all the Florida Keys, Crane Point Hammock also contains the last virgin palm hammock in the United States. The Florida Keys Land and Sea Trust, a private organization working to protect the Keys, owns and manages the hammock.
Meandering through the extensive trails of this beautiful site you will find it is abundant with much to see and discover. Walking these trails, you will see over 160 species of plants native to the Keys and witness wildlife including white crowned pigeons, raccoons, ibis, herons, dragonflies and butterflies. As you explore, take a moment to enjoy Casa Iguana, the resident iguana habitat, and the saltwater lagoon where you can observe a variety of Keys fish.
Museum of Natural History
at Crane Point Hammock in the Keys
On the trail near the entrance to Crane Point, you will encounter the Museum of Natural History. Rich with exhibits and dioramas, adults and children can learn about the history of the Keys, life cycle of sea turtles, shipwreck treasures and see Native American artifacts. Next of course is the Children's Museum where kids of all ages can play on a realistic wooden pirate ship – AARGH! It's Blackbeard! – enjoy a shell exhibit and interact with the sea creatures of the Keys in the touch tank.
As you stroll along the trail, you will come upon the Adderley Town Historic Site where George Adderley, an immigrant from the Bahamas, and his family set up a home in the early 1900's. The Adderley's made their living by making charcoal, gathering, and selling sponges they collected from the surrounding waters of the Keys. Their home that was built out of burnt seashells, has survived for over 100 years and is still standing. It is the oldest Keys house outside of Key West.
Stroll the beautiful Nature Trails
at Crane Point Hammock in the Keys
Next on the list to explore is the Marathon Wild Bird Center where you will view rescued pelicans, ospreys, falcons, herons and other birds. The Center's goal is to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned birds for eventual release into the wild.
Continue along the trail and experience Crane Point itself along with a spectacular view of Florida Bay.
A hidden treasure that is a must see when you Escape to the Keys, is Crane Point Hammock.