Visiting Betsy the Lobster and the Unique Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada

There are lots of fun roadside attractions all through the Florida Keys, but one of the most iconic is the Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada. This is where you see the giant spiny lobster, you have souvenir shops, art galleries and more. It’s actually a wonderful stop to make on the Florida Keys road trip, either for photos or for supporting some fun local businesses. The Rain Barrel Village is a cool collective of fun and a nice break on the road trip to Key West.

If it’s your first time driving the Overseas Highway you’re going to be tempted to stop everywhere along the way, and if you have time, you should, but if you’re limited and just need breaks to stretch your legs for a sec, make the Rain Barrel Village one of those stops. We’ve got all the info you need to enjoy this wonderful Florida Keys roadside attraction and it to your travels. If you have any questions about it or visiting Islamorada, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help you plan a great trip through the Keys.

Highlights of Rain Barrel Village

Of course the thing that draws so many visitors to stop at the Rain Barrel Village is Betsy, the giant spiny lobster. Standing 30 feet tall and 40 feet long, Betsy the Lobster has been watching cars on the Overseas Highway since 1985. She’s just one of the many great roadside attractions in the Florida Keys, and you MUST stop to get a photo with her. And since you’re stopping for the photo op, you might as well go into the village as well.

Within the Rain Barrel Village it’s more than just one shop, but there are quite a few independent stores and galleries. You have your classic Florida Keys souvenirs, like all the different shells in bags, and conch shells you can blow through like a horn, t-shirts with Jimmy Buffet on them and more. I’m not big into buying souvenirs, especially when it’s a place we’ve spent so much time and are always traveling through, but if there were a spot to find something great to remember your visit by, the Rain Barrel Village is it.

And as a bonus, when you stop, there’s even a cafe, the Lobster Shack. Open for a late breakfast and through the late lunch hours, you can get conch fritters (a Florida Keys staple), sandwiches and salads. And then you also have the Rain Garden Bar if you have more time and you’re looking for cocktails or local beer. So, if you like pina coladas and getting caught at the Rain Barrel Village, you’ll have a great visit to break up your drive through the Florida Keys.

Tips for Visiting Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada

I like when we’re driving through the Florida Keys and taking our time, enjoying all the stops and not being in a rush. When we stop at Rain Barrel Village, it’s an intentional stop. We are sure to get pictures with Betsy the Lobster, do a little browsing and then spend a half hour or so just relaxing in the gardens. There is lots of seating and plenty of shade, so it’s a great break from being in the car. Also, we take our time when we’re here because it’s Islamorada, which I always feel has the best temperature and the best breezes in the Keys. If there’s one place to just chill before any big plans, this is it.

Allow yourself at minimum a half hour to browse and relax, but ideally an hour is best. This will give you time to visit the galleries, do whatever shopping you want, and to have a little snack or drink (remember to always drive sober!). We’ve also found that stopping at Rain Barrel Village is a good way to meet up with other friends traveling through the Florida Keys. With its giant lobster that can’t be missed, it’s a simple landmark with plenty of parking for meeting up with friends.

Also, with dining options and chill spots, it’s a great place for kids to let out a little energy (quietly). If you’re stopping here solely to get a picture with Betsy the Lobster, she’s located in the parking area, so there are cars about. There’s not an easy way to set up a photo for a selfie that really captures the size of the lobster, so don’t be afraid to ask a stranger to get your picture, and you can offer to do the same for them.

Businesses within Rain Barrel Village

As I mentioned, there are quite a few shops and galleries within the Rain Barrel Village area. When it comes to shopping, both within the souvenir shops and galleries, you’ve got:

• the Tipsy Octopus
• Bella Sol
• Art on a Whim
• Amy’s Creations
• Sculptured Glass
• One Drunk Monkey
• Islamorada Resort wear and a few others.

For food options, there aren’t a lot, but you have some. Dining at the Rain Barrel Village includes:

• the Lobster Shack Cafe (lunch and drinks)
• the Smoothie counter
• Boba Manatea Cafe (Asian fusion snacks)
• the Rain Garden Bar

And then you can usually find a bottled water or soda in the different shops if you need something quick to take.

Parking for the Rain Barrel Village

There’s usually plenty of parking when you arrive at the Rain Barrel Village, but if you stop in midday on a Sunday when everyone it departing and arriving for their Florida Keys road trip, it’ll be busy, both with people doing photo ops with Betsy the Lobster and people stopping in for shopping and snacks. Be sure that you park legally and plenty off the highway. There is ample parking, so don’t stress it, but be careful.

As you’re driving the Overseas Highway, you’ll get to the Rain Barrel Village soon after you’re in Islamorada, just after Founders Park if you’re coming from Key Largo. It’ll be on the right. If you’re coming from Marathon it’ll be on the left nearly to the end of the Village of Islamorada. It’s easy to find and if you’re worried you’ll miss this wonderful Florida Keys roadside attraction, just keep your eyes peeled for the giant lobster.