Florida Keys/Marathon International Airport

"Marathon is one of those special places that blends American history with the great outdoors. This former fishing village was founded by New Englanders in the early 1800s, making it one of the most historic stops along U.S. 1, aside from Key West. Overall, Marathon is the perfect home base for folks looking to explore the region to the fullest. The island is located smack in the middle of the Florida Keys, cutting down on drive times for anyone planning to visit a combination of spots in the Upper, Lower, and Middle Keys. Traveling by boat? Take advantage of Marathon's many wet and dry slips. Boaters can dock directly into over 2,400 slips situated at Marathon's marinas, restaurants, and hotels. However, if you are driving, be sure to take the scenic, historic route across Marathon's famous Seven Mile Bridge, or just do as the locals do and cast a line off the side and fish for wild, wide-mouthed tarpon. Marathon is also a popular spot for families who prefer easy, low-key, and educational vacations that blend history, nature, activities, and good food. Top family-friendly activities include visiting The Turtle Hospital, the world's only veterinary-certified turtle hospital that cares for injured sea turtles and offers educational tours. It's one of the most popular attractions in the Keys. Other marine lovers visit the Dolphin Research Center to swim with and learn about dolphins. Not enough outdoor activities on the agenda yet? Set out on an SUP or kayak tour around the mangroves. It's not all fishing and boating in Marathon, though. You can hit up theater shows, check out museum exhibitions, and eat at any of the tasty food festivals hosted on the island. Speaking of food, be sure to get your fill of locally-harvested fish, stone crabs, lobster, and of course, key lime pie. And, of course, the famous Seven Mile Bridge is not to be missed, as it connects the city of Marathon, which is part of the Middle Keys, to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. Pro tip: Marathon is also your spot if you're looking for beautiful white-sand beaches, often a rarity in the Florida Keys. Sombrero Beach and Coco Plum Beach are both free and open to the public."