Tours
Centrally located within the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys is the heart of the Florida Keys;
“MARATHON”
Centrally located within the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys is the heart of the Florida Keys;
“MARATHON”
Exploring the Rich History of Marathon's 13 Islands
The 13 islands that comprises Marathon has long illustrious history from wreckers, farmers, fisherman, Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railway, WW II, and more
Discover Hidden Stories
Marathon is more than just a pit stop on the way to Key West. Join our 1920's style trolley tour to uncover the fascinating history and present-day charm of this unique destination.
Comfortable Exploration
Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride as you delve into Marathon's past and present. Our trolley provides a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all ages
Immersive Experience
Our guided tour offers a deep dive into Marathon's history, ensuring you leave with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable part of the Florida Keys.
Marathon’s Early History
Marathon as it is known today was originally inhabited by Native American peoples like the Calusa and the Tequesta. In 1513 the Florida keys came under the control of Spain and became a Spanish territory. In 1763 Spain gave up the territory to the British government and it was returned to Spain in 1783 in exchange for the Bahaman Islands. In 1813 Spain sold Florida to the United States. The Indigenous population, Americans, Bahamans, British, Cubans, Spanish and other Caribbean island inhabitants were all part of Marathon’s early history
Marathon as it is known today was originally inhabited by Native American peoples like the Calusa and the Tequesta. In 1513 the Florida keys came under the control of Spain and became a Spanish territory. In 1763 Spain gave up the territory to the British government and it was returned to Spain in 1783 in exchange for the Bahaman Islands. In 1813 Spain sold Florida to the United States. The Indigenous population, Americans, Bahamans, British, Cubans, Spanish and other Caribbean island inhabitants were all part of Marathon’s early history
Unlocking Marathon's Past
Marathon was sparsely populated up until the early 1900’s when Henry Flagler’s railway changed everything not just for Marathon but for all the Florida Keys. Island Trolley Tours lively and entertaining conductors will share with you Marathon’s history and introduce you to everything it has to offer in a fun way. From local lore to fun facts.
How did Marathon get it’s name
As the story goes; Marathon the name it is said is based on the difficulty of building the railway between Lower Matecumbe and the Lower Keys. The work was characterized as a “Marathon”. The nickname of Marathon for the area was born. The establishment of the three (3) railroad stations; Vaca, Knights Key Station; Knights Key Station/Dock; Knights Key Station anchored the settlement. In 1908 Knights Key Station/Dock was renamed Marathon cementing the moniker. The establishment of the Marathon post office took it from a nick name to the community name
