The Florida Keys Refuge Nature Center is the practical starting point for understanding the National Wildlife Refuges around Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys. Exhibits and staff help explain the Key deer, mangroves, pine rocklands and protected islands that make this part of the Keys different from the resort towns farther west.
Stop here before heading to Blue Hole, No Name Key or the wider refuge lands. It is especially useful for families and for visitors who want wildlife context before exploring on their own.