Located in Marathon, Florida, the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is a 63-acre tropical oasis preserving the Florida Keys’ natural and cultural history since its creation to protect the area’s unique ecosystems. Featuring a museum with exhibits on Calusa Indians, Bahamian settlers, and early industries like sponge diving, it showcases artifacts like shipwreck relics and a 1902 pioneer home. The 1.5-mile nature trail winds through hardwood hammocks, mangroves, and a butterfly meadow, offering sightings of manatees, ospreys, and key deer. Unique attractions include the Marathon Wild Bird Center, rehabilitating injured birds, and interactive children’s exhibits on marine life. Open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m., admission is $14.95 for adults, with discounts for kids. At 5550 Overseas Highway, it’s near Sombrero Beach’s coral sands, perfect for blending eco-exploration with beach lounging. For vacations, Crane Point provides an educational escape—tour trails after snorkeling or relax by the lagoon post-swim, deepening appreciation for Keys’ biodiversity. Visitors love the lush trails, informative displays, and family-friendly vibe, noting its role in conservation education. Events like eco-talks add engagement. As a nonprofit, it supports wildlife rescue, appealing to eco-tourists. Whether kayaking nearby or learning about coral reefs, Crane Point enriches Keys getaways with history and nature, turning beach trips into immersive journeys. (237 words)
