Rain Barrel Village

Rain Barrel Village is located at Mile Marker 86.7 along the Overseas Highway in Islamorada. Look for Betsy the Lobster waving you down—she’s impossible to miss and serves as the unofficial welcome committee for anyone cruising through the Florida Keys. Whether you’re heading south or north, this quirky landmark is the perfect pit stop to stretch your legs and soak in some local flavor. Just pop the address into your GPS or watch for the giant lobster and lush gardens signaling you’ve arrived at a must-see Keys destination.

Rain Barrel Artisan Village has been recognized in many national and local publications as one of the top places to visit in the Florida Keys. ,

Take a selfie with Betsy the Lobster! Then, stroll through shaded paths in our beautiful gardens and step into our intimate studios to browse the best in handmade crafts, contemporary artwork, beachwear, home goods, and Florida Keys-inspired souvenirs. Inquire about the Rain Barrel Arts Festival.

Discover one-of-a-kind creations from artisans and renowned artists, including sculptures, paintings, collages, jewelry, home decor, take a photo of the famous Betsy, and more!

The Creative Spirit of the Keys

The Florida Keys have always had a certain magic—a laid-back, open-minded energy that keeps the place humming with creativity. That easygoing, flip-flops-optional atmosphere draws artists from every background, giving Rain Barrel Village its eclectic vibe. Here, painters, sculptors, and artisans feel free to experiment, inspired by the local quirkiness and a steady stream of curious visitors.

No one’s in a rush, and there’s little pressure to conform. The sense of freedom not only attracts creative souls but helps them thrive. It’s a place where the rules are simple: don’t take life (or yourself) too seriously, don’t sweat the small stuff, and above all, let your imagination roam.

The Artists’ Perspective

Curious about life behind the scenes at Rain Barrel Village? Chat with any of the talented artists, and you’ll quickly sense the shared passion that brings their creative community to life. Many, such as glass artist William Purser, have spent decades shaping delicate works inspired by the Keys—everything from shimmering fish and seabirds to whimsical ocean creatures that come to life in their hands. Watch as they transform glowing glass or vibrant paints, right before your eyes.

What makes Rain Barrel Village unique isn’t just the art, but the ever-changing energy and camaraderie among its residents. The artists will tell you: creativity thrives here, fueled by the Keys’ open-minded spirit. There’s a genuine ethos of encouragement—each artisan is inspired by their neighbors and motivated to keep experimenting, learning, and advancing their craft.

Strolling from studio to studio, you’ll notice the inventory is always rich with surprises. Today’s masterpiece might be a playful metal sculpture, tomorrow’s a new series of paintings. Even if you’ve visited before, you’ll want to stop by again and again to see what’s new.

And while you browse, don’t be surprised if someone jokes about island life—you might hear a quip that shoes are optional, and rules are few (just don’t run afoul of the law). The relaxed, freewheeling atmosphere isn’t just folklore; it’s part of what makes Rain Barrel Village a magnet for creative souls and a welcoming haven for visitors seeking a slice of authentic Keys culture.

Supporting Local Artists and Artisans

Rain Barrel Village is more than just an attraction—it’s a vibrant hub dedicated to fostering the creative spirit of the Florida Keys. From the very beginning, the Village has been a natural gathering place for artists, artisans, and makers who bring their passion and talent to life in every studio and shop.

What makes Rain Barrel Village unique? For starters, it’s a haven where local artists can showcase their work, whether it’s glass sculptures, beach-inspired jewelry, or bold, contemporary paintings. Many artists create their pieces on site, transforming the Village into a living, breathing gallery. You can often watch a glassblower shape a whimsical fish or chat with an artist about their latest inspiration.

It’s not just about selling art—it’s about building a supportive community. Artists here are encouraged to experiment and grow, surrounded by like-minded creatives who value originality. The Village thrives on this ever-changing energy, so every visit brings discoveries, fresh artwork, and creative surprises around each corner.

Rain Barrel Village also gives independent artisans and small business owners a space to connect with locals and visitors alike. The shops feature handcrafted goods, quirky finds, and pieces you won’t see anywhere else. By shopping here, you’re supporting real people and helping keep the Keys’ rich artistic tradition alive for years to come.

Meet Betsy: The Florida Keys’ Most Famous Lobster

What makes Betsy the Lobster such a magnet for photo ops? For starters, you can’t miss her—she’s a colossal masterpiece measuring 30 feet tall and 40 feet long, an instant attention-grabber right off the Overseas Highway at Mile Marker 86.7

Created in the 1980s by artist Richard Blaze, Betsy has become an endearing landmark and a symbol of the Keys’ playful, quirky character.

Her larger-than-life presence draws in selfie-seekers from all over, eager to capture their own moment with this beloved crustacean. Families and travelers alike love snapping group shots, goofy poses, and Instagram-worthy vacation memories beneath Betsy’s impressive claws and colorful features. It’s no wonder she’s rivaled only by a particular southernmost marker sign when it comes to shutter clicks in the Keys—posing with Betsy is a tradition enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Pet-Friendly Fun

Four-legged friends are welcome at Rain Barrel Village! Feel free to bring your pets along as you explore the gardens, snap photos with Betsy the Lobster, and browse the artisan shops—keep your companions leashed and ready for a Keys adventure.

The Story Behind Rain Barrel Village

Rain Barrel Village isn’t just a collection of quirky shops and vibrant art—there’s a rich backstory woven into every winding path and gallery wall. The heart and soul behind the Village? Sande Keil and her family fell in love with Islamorada’s quirky charm back in the late 1970s. Drawn to its laid-back vibe, they first made this slice of the Keys their getaway, and years later, when the Village went up for sale, it was more than just a business opportunity. It was a way to plant deeper roots in the community they adored.

The name itself—Rain Barrel Village—harkens back to the days when large cisterns were the lifeblood of the Keys, providing locals with precious fresh water. Today, the Village focuses on nurturing creativity and connection. As both an artist and champion of local makers, Sande has transformed Rain Barrel into a hub where artists, artisans, and small businesses can thrive. Their mission goes beyond selling souvenirs; it’s about offering a shared space to celebrate—and sustain—the creative spirit of the Florida Keys.

Everything you see, from the lush gardens to the whimsical studios, reflects years of passion, hard work, and a genuine desire to preserve what makes this destination special. So when you visit, you’re not just browsing for art—you’re stepping into a family legacy that’s deeply rooted in the Keys.