Dirt Cheap Tours for Families-Pigeon Key
If you're traveling with kids in the Florida Keys, there are many things to do that will make memories for years to come. The middle Keys is always better if you're traveling with kids, as Key West tends to be more for adults. The best part about this visit is it’s affordable and you can make an entire day out of it.
Our most memorable outing with kids in Marathon was touring Pigeon Key. Not only is it fun but also educational, and we loved the boat ride to and from the island. They now have a train service that will take you there if boating isn't your thing.
Our most memorable outing with kids in Marathon was touring Pigeon Key. Not only is it fun but also educational, and we loved the boat ride to and from the island. They now have a train service that will take you there if boating isn't your thing. (update 2024, they now take you there by train) Or can also walk or ride your bike in)
We were greeted by a group of scientists who lived on the island when we arrived. They introduced themselves and talked to us for about 30 minutes about how to identify fish and what kinds of things we'd be doing while on the island. We learned so much while visiting with their hands-on activities.
We spent about half the day here, fishing and learning the island's history, and the kids loved the interactive touch tank presentation.
They provide fishing poles and bait and will even bait and cast for you if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself.
Pack lunch and enjoy a fun-filled day on this fantastic historic island.
update:2024
During our tour, we could only access the Island by boat. However, they have now opened the old 7-mile bridge, and you can reach it by train as well. The information mentioned below is directly from the Pigeon Key website. The fees are quite affordable for families compared to the cost of other activities in the area. The admission fee for adults is $25, and children can get in for $20.
The following info is from pigeonkey.net
Train Ride on Old 7 Mile Bridge to Pigeon Key, Admission, and Tour!
Seats are limited on the train. We do not run extra trains at the end of the day for guests who want to stay longer.
About
Our guided island tours start with a Train Ride across the Old 7 Mile Bridge to Pigeon Key and consists of a short narration about the history of the Island, a walk-about the grounds to learn about the buildings and the chance for self-exploration around the Island or in our museum. It is a family-friendly tour and great for folks of all ages!
To Do Before Arrival
Each person entering the Island must sign two waivers. Please help save time at check in and have each person sign the waiver attached to the confirmation email before you arrive.
Guided Tour
Travel back in time to the Henry Flagler era and learn how Pigeon Key has evolved over the last 100+ years. The tour typically takes an hour and leaves you with an hour to explore on your own.
Explore Our Museum
One of the favorite stops on the tour, our museum has artifacts, portraits and stories diving deeper into the Island’s history.
Things To Do
Most visitors come to Pigeon Key for the guided historical tour. You can also bring a picnic lunch or cooler, snorkel around the dock, or fish (catch & release only) off the dock. Visitors also enjoy birding, relaxing on our beachfront area, and swimming. Feel free to explore the Island on your own!
Fishing from the Dock