Rain Barrel Village & Artsy Pit Stops

 Rain Barrel Village & Artsy Pit Stops: A Creative Journey Through the Florida Keys

Nestled along the scenic Overseas Highway in the heart of the Florida Keys lies a hidden gem that invites travelers to slow down, take in the sights, and immerse themselves in the vibrant artistic spirit of island life—Rain Barrel Village. This quirky, colorful oasis is more than just a tourist stop. It’s a creative haven, a collection of galleries, workshops, boutiques, and outdoor art exhibits where the tropical breeze carries the scent of fresh paint, saltwater, and handmade coconut candles.

Whether you’re road-tripping from Miami to Key West or simply seeking a place to explore the local culture of Islamorada, Rain Barrel Village is a must-visit destination. It also represents something larger—a glimpse into the many artsy pit stops that dot the Florida Keys, where creativity thrives under the sunshine and palm trees.

What is Rain Barrel Village?

Rain Barrel Village, located at Mile Marker 86.7 on the Overseas Highway in Islamorada, is one of the most iconic artisan centers in the Florida Keys. Open since the 1970s, this lively enclave showcases the work of local artists, craftsmen, and island-style entrepreneurs. It’s easily recognizable from the road thanks to Betsy the Lobster, a 30-foot-tall, photo-famous sculpture that stands at the entrance and welcomes visitors with whimsical charm.

Betsy isn’t just a local mascot—she’s a fiberglass representation of a spiny lobster, one of the Florida Keys' most beloved sea creatures. She draws people in for selfies, but what awaits inside Rain Barrel Village is even more captivating.

The Artistic Heart of the Florida Keys

Rain Barrel Village is not a conventional shopping plaza. Instead, it feels like a walk through an open-air art gallery, where each cottage, hut, or garden space reveals a different artistic soul.

Art studios brim with tropical-themed paintings, glass art, ceramics, metal sculptures, and intricate woodwork. Artists often work on-site, giving visitors a chance to watch the creative process unfold—whether it’s someone shaping clay into a seahorse or painting a reef scene with broad, bold strokes.

Visitors can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs like:

• Handcrafted jewelry made from coral and shells

• Tie-dye and batik clothing inspired by island flora

• Paintings and prints of dolphins, sunsets, mangroves, and tiki huts

• Locally made soaps, lotions, and natural skincare products

• Carved driftwood signs with sayings like “Salt in the Air, Sand in My Hair”

The village isn’t just about buying—it’s about connecting. Many of the artists are locals who’ve lived in the Keys for decades, and they’re eager to share stories about their work, the weather, fishing life, or how a hurricane once inspired a mosaic mural.

Why It’s a Must-Stop on a Florida Keys Road Trip

When you’re traveling along the 113-mile stretch from Key Largo to Key West, it’s tempting to power through to your destination. But Rain Barrel Village reminds you that the Keys are about the journey, not the finish line.

Here’s why it makes for an ideal stop:

• Stretch your legs: The garden pathways, shaded benches, and koi ponds offer a relaxing break from the car.

• Photo ops: Betsy the Lobster is a social media star, and the colorful murals, painted coconuts, and tropical backdrops provide plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

• Support local artists: Buying direct from artisans means your dollars stay in the community.

• Experience island life: The laid-back, barefoot-vibe of the village embodies what the Keys are all about—creativity, nature, and slowing down.

Other Artsy Pit Stops in the Florida Keys

Rain Barrel Village may be the most iconic, but it’s just one of many artsy pit stops worth exploring as you drive down the Keys. Here are a few more:

1. Morada Way Arts & Cultural District (Islamorada)

A few miles south of Rain Barrel is this walkable district featuring galleries, studios, and a monthly Third Thursday Art Walk. Meet painters, potters, and metalworkers who turn the island lifestyle into bold creative expressions.

2. Key Largo Art Gallery

Located at Mile Marker 103, this gallery showcases over 30 local and regional artists, with works ranging from oil paintings and photography to jewelry and sculpture.

3. Old Road Gallery (Islamorada)

Nestled in a shady hammock near Mile Marker 88, Old Road Gallery combines pottery, metalwork, and wood sculptures in a lush garden setting. You can even join a pottery class or take a meditative stroll through their nature trail.

4. Key West Art & Historical Society

Down at the southernmost point, Key West is a mecca for the arts. The Society manages museums like the Custom House and Lighthouse, where history meets fine art.

5. Art @830 (Key West)

A contemporary gallery known for featuring original works by Florida Keys artists, including mixed media, hand-blown glass, and coastal-inspired furniture.

Tips for Visiting Rain Barrel Village

• Timing: Visit in the late morning to early afternoon when the weather is pleasant, and most artists are active in their studios.

• Budget: While there are items at various price points, many pieces are high-quality, handmade works. Don’t be surprised if a painting or sculpture carries a premium price tag.

• Bring cash: Though many vendors accept cards, having cash on hand can be useful.

• Engage with the artists: Ask questions! Most are happy to explain their process, tell you about the materials they use, or even share travel tips for the Keys.

• Plan to spend an hour or two: Though small, the village is rich with detail. You’ll want time to wander, browse, and take photos.

A Celebration of Creativity and Community

Rain Barrel Village stands as a testament to the creative heartbeat of the Florida Keys. It’s a place where driftwood is transformed into dolphins, where discarded glass becomes sun-catchers, and where artists shape the natural beauty around them into something lasting. The energy here is infectious—colorful, carefree, and bursting with island spirit.

For travelers on the road from Miami to Key West, this is more than just a pit stop—it’s a memory in the making. It’s where the salty air meets paintbrush strokes, and where creativity and community blend seamlessly.

So next time you find yourself cruising through Islamorada, pull over at Rain Barrel Village, take a selfie with Betsy the Lobster, and let the art of the Keys inspire your journey.

In Summary

• Rain Barrel Village is an artistic hub in Islamorada, FL.

• Home to local galleries, shops, and artisans.

• Features the iconic Betsy the Lobster statue.

• A top stop on any Florida Keys road trip.

• Surrounded by other artsy pit stops throughout the Keys.

Let the road take you not just to Key West, but to the soul of the islands—one brushstroke, sculpture, and seashell at a time.