The Rain Barrel Village
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Quirky little place with a bunch of individual merchandise booths, with mostly overpriced items in my opinion. Some items appear to be locally made (like some artwork), but many items seem like imported stuff from China or elsewhere. It's a bit confusing to walk through as it just winds around outside. Most of the booths/shops are not air conditioned. There's also a couple of food/beverage booths. Interesting place to visit at least once but mostly it's a tourist trap.
Great spot for a photo op with the giant lobster. The last time I was here was 15 years ago so I'm glad that this massive beast is still here. The Rain Barrel Village is a great spot to do some last minute shopping before heading home from the Keys. You'll find the typical items you see at many of the other gift store sellers throughout the Keys and some unique ones as well. What's unique about Rain Barrel Village is it has the feel of walking through a little village while shopping at the different stores located throughout. Some stores have air conditioning and some do not. It is a little pricey here- for example, we found the same dress here that my wife purchased on Duval Street. It's nothing fancy, just a wear around the house while doing chores dress for $5. The same dress was $20 here but selling 50% off, which is still more expensive than what we paid in the Keys. We noticed that some of the other discounted items were damaged. We stopped by for a picture with the lobster and did a quick walk-through however we didn't buy anything on this visit. When we were here 15 years ago, my wife and I purchased a beautiful wooden manatee with her baby from one of the sellers and still have it today. The lot fills up here pretty quick but know that there is parking around the back so be sure to stop and get a photo of the lobster at the very least.
Rain Barrel Village is the artsy quirky little stop in Islamorada as you make your way to Key West. Though there are plenty artworks and treasures to be found here, the greatest discovery is a colossal lobster taking up at least 3 spots in the front parking lot. Speaking of which: if you find parking difficult remember there's plenty more around back. There's always a friendly face around to offer assistance. There's plenty to choose from finding your needs of arts, crafts and souvenirs. The prices seem fairly high but reasonable compared to other stops along the way to Key West.
Betsy the lobster is the main attraction here- the biggest spiny Florida lobster around. The village is cute with food and art but hard to walk around with an injury. Would love to come back. The main store was fill of touristy things that were fun but overall not much to see. Fun to see Betsey though!!
Super cute place in the Florida Keys. Make sure you take a pic with Big Betsy, the 30ft iconic lobster statue in the front. Inside you have cute little Keys style shops. There are two little cafes - one has boba tea and Asian food and another one has American and Cuban casual food. You can sit outside and relax. Definitely a must-see when you're in the Keys
We stopped here yesterday on our way back from the beach at Founder's Park and it was an enjoyable short visit. My son had a good time checking out the lobster and car, and I liked wandering the shops. We also visited the lobster shack and got some Empanadas. They were really good, reasonably priced, and the owner was really friendly.
This a cool spot on your drive to the keys. You can take a break from your drive and enjoy your visit here by walking around the area, exploring the shops for souvenirs, local goodies, art items, jewelry and clothing... all while supporting local businesses/artists. They also have little huts where you can buy drinks and food. This one small one had quite the variety including cuban food like pizza and sandwiches, American food like tater tots and Asian food like noodles and dumplings. The main attraction though, it's "Betsy the Lobster". 30 feet high, 40 feet long, 12 legs, made from fiberglass, second most photographed attraction in the FL keys (the Southernmost Point in Key West is the number 1). Free parking but no bathrooms except porta pottis.
We're driving from Weston to Key West Florida. The first stop for us in Islamorada's The Rain Barrel Artisan Village. You can't miss it because Betsy the Lobster is sitting right in front waiting for you to take a photo. Beside meeting Betsy, you can also use this as a rest stop. Well, let me tell you, I'm so glad we went during the day time because that bathroom is super duper cramped and I can imagine at night, any and everything may come crawling into the bathroom. Me being a plus size woman, the maneuvering in the bathroom was "fun". I'm so glad I had a maxi dress on with no shapewear, so I could lift up easily and do what I needed to do. LOL!!! My husband used the porta-potty, I believe there were 3. There's also a lot of art and jewelry to purchase, but we weren't interested in checking that out as we just wanted a quick bite and wanted to keep driving to Key West. Well we tried the lobster roll... We spent about $50 on 2 mini-lobster roll sandwiches. I know the price was higher because it's a tourist trip, but what the hell, this was ridiculous. And they had the nerve to add lettuce...like what?! Another traveler was next to us and was also complaining and she had teenagers with her. I can't imagine what she spent. I've added photos of the sandwich, nice presentation, but I've definitely had much better! Like Da Lobsta and Happy Lobster in Chicago.
Driving up/down the overseas highway on a somewhat regular basis for well over a decade, one can't help taking notice of the huge, life-like model of a Florida Lobster. She is huge... I say "she" because her name is "Betsy" and she is draws many tourists to feel compelled to pull over and get that family selfie in front of her (I have, you probably have and everyone should). But what is beyond Betsy that sadly so many don't bother to check out... This is Rain Barrel Village and she is deserving of tourists to at least step in and support "local" business. Step into the main building and it feels so much of what you expect (and to be honest, a little disappointing), lots of touristy stuff (like the tourist aisle at CVS stores in the keys like hats, beach bags and mugs)... BUT step past the main building and you will be pleasantly surprised and amazed. Its like walking into a colorful, landscaped walkways and open space with little shops set up... each of the shops (some fairly sized and some petite almost like a kiosk type) are selling everything from touristy goods to their own art. The look and feel is spot on when you think of the epitome of keys style (lots of tropical trees, shade, sitting areas with no chairs that match others, signage painted on distressed wood, limestone rocks used as garden borders... there is even an abandoned building (just the concrete shell) in the middle of it all. All in add the place is a classic that has been around for a long time... come by and support local shops/artists.
4 days ago
3 months ago
This is a very neat stop when in Islamorada. From the huge lobster out front to the many shops, there's lots to see. Some shops offer great local artists' creations. Others have anything from upscale home items to very touristy trinkets. Definitely worth a stop. There are also comfortable chairs for those waiting on others to finish up their shopping. read more
Also stopped here after years of driving by. Very cool shops inside. Kind of like an outdoor mall, not just one store. Found some cool jewelry in the back. We were kind of in a rush because it was close to closing time, but definitely worth a stop. Ice cream shop also back there. Helpful vendors. Jewelry was priced good. read more
Quirky little place with a bunch of individual merchandise booths, with mostly overpriced items in my opinion. Some items appear to be locally made (like some artwork), but many items seem like imported stuff from China or elsewhere. It's a bit confusing to walk through as it just winds around outside. Most of the booths/shops are not air conditioned. There's also a couple of food/beverage booths. Interesting place to visit at least once but mostly it's a tourist trap. read more
Great spot for a photo op with the giant lobster. The last time I was here was 15 years ago so I'm glad that this massive beast is still here. The Rain Barrel Village is a great spot to do some last minute shopping before heading home from the Keys. You'll find the typical items you see at many of the other gift store sellers throughout the Keys and some unique ones as well. What's unique about Rain Barrel Village is it has the feel of walking through a little village while shopping at the different stores located throughout. Some stores have air conditioning and some do not. It is a little pricey here- for example, we found the same dress here that my wife purchased on Duval Street. It's nothing fancy, just a wear around the house while doing chores dress for $5. The same dress was $20 here but selling 50% off, which is still more expensive than what we paid in the Keys. We noticed that some of the other discounted items were damaged. We stopped by for a picture with the lobster and did a quick walk-through however we didn't buy anything on this visit. When we were here 15 years ago, my wife and I purchased a beautiful wooden manatee with her baby from one of the sellers and still have it today. The lot fills up here pretty quick but know that there is parking around the back so be sure to stop and get a photo of the lobster at the very least. read more
Rain Barrel Village is the artsy quirky little stop in Islamorada as you make your way to Key West. Though there are plenty artworks and treasures to be found here, the greatest discovery is a colossal lobster taking up at least 3 spots in the front parking lot. Speaking of which: if you find parking difficult remember there's plenty more around back. There's always a friendly face around to offer assistance. There's plenty to choose from finding your needs of arts, crafts and souvenirs. The prices seem fairly high but reasonable compared to other stops along the way to Key West. read more
Betsy the lobster is the main attraction here- the biggest spiny Florida lobster around. The village is cute with food and art but hard to walk around with an injury. Would love to come back. The main store was fill of touristy things that were fun but overall not much to see. Fun to see Betsey though!! read more
1 year ago
Super cute place in the Florida Keys. Make sure you take a pic with Big Betsy, the 30ft iconic lobster statue in the front. Inside you have cute little Keys style shops. There are two little cafes - one has boba tea and Asian food and another one has American and Cuban casual food. You can sit outside and relax. Definitely a must-see when you're in the Keys read more
2 months ago
Great selection of gifts. So many unique items and apparel. The big lobster out front is super cool read more
This is a MUST-STOP location while on a road trip to Key West. You will be able to spot it by the huge status of the prawn at the entrance. Upon entering, you will see a variety of shops all together in this little village, along with a few food vendors, artsy decor, and cool vibes. read more
We stopped here yesterday on our way back from the beach at Founder's Park and it was an enjoyable short visit. My son had a good time checking out the lobster and car, and I liked wandering the shops. We also visited the lobster shack and got some Empanadas. They were really good, reasonably priced, and the owner was really friendly. read more
This a cool spot on your drive to the keys. You can take a break from your drive and enjoy your visit here by walking around the area, exploring the shops for souvenirs, local goodies, art items, jewelry and clothing... all while supporting local businesses/artists. They also have little huts where you can buy drinks and food. This one small one had quite the variety including cuban food like pizza and sandwiches, American food like tater tots and Asian food like noodles and dumplings. The main attraction though, it's "Betsy the Lobster". 30 feet high, 40 feet long, 12 legs, made from fiberglass, second most photographed attraction in the FL keys (the Southernmost Point in Key West is the number 1). Free parking but no bathrooms except porta pottis. read more
We're driving from Weston to Key West Florida. The first stop for us in Islamorada's The Rain Barrel Artisan Village. You can't miss it because Betsy the Lobster is sitting right in front waiting for you to take a photo. Beside meeting Betsy, you can also use this as a rest stop. Well, let me tell you, I'm so glad we went during the day time because that bathroom is super duper cramped and I can imagine at night, any and everything may come crawling into the bathroom. Me being a plus size woman, the maneuvering in the bathroom was "fun". I'm so glad I had a maxi dress on with no shapewear, so I could lift up easily and do what I needed to do. LOL!!! My husband used the porta-potty, I believe there were 3. There's also a lot of art and jewelry to purchase, but we weren't interested in checking that out as we just wanted a quick bite and wanted to keep driving to Key West. Well we tried the lobster roll... We spent about $50 on 2 mini-lobster roll sandwiches. I know the price was higher because it's a tourist trip, but what the hell, this was ridiculous. And they had the nerve to add lettuce...like what?! Another traveler was next to us and was also complaining and she had teenagers with her. I can't imagine what she spent. I've added photos of the sandwich, nice presentation, but I've definitely had much better! Like Da Lobsta and Happy Lobster in Chicago. read more
Driving up/down the overseas highway on a somewhat regular basis for well over a decade, one can't help taking notice of the huge, life-like model of a Florida Lobster. She is huge... I say "she" because her name is "Betsy" and she is draws many tourists to feel compelled to pull over and get that family selfie in front of her (I have, you probably have and everyone should). But what is beyond Betsy that sadly so many don't bother to check out... This is Rain Barrel Village and she is deserving of tourists to at least step in and support "local" business. Step into the main building and it feels so much of what you expect (and to be honest, a little disappointing), lots of touristy stuff (like the tourist aisle at CVS stores in the keys like hats, beach bags and mugs)... BUT step past the main building and you will be pleasantly surprised and amazed. Its like walking into a colorful, landscaped walkways and open space with little shops set up... each of the shops (some fairly sized and some petite almost like a kiosk type) are selling everything from touristy goods to their own art. The look and feel is spot on when you think of the epitome of keys style (lots of tropical trees, shade, sitting areas with no chairs that match others, signage painted on distressed wood, limestone rocks used as garden borders... there is even an abandoned building (just the concrete shell) in the middle of it all. All in add the place is a classic that has been around for a long time... come by and support local shops/artists. read more
3 years ago
5 stars for Betsy Can't resist taking a pic in front a giantic spiny lobster stopped here for a pic and a matching lobster magnet Apparently the 2nd most photographed landmark after the southern most point in key west! read more
Roadside Attraction Alert - I love these roadside oddities, the shops that are filled with lots of overpriced trinkets and "art" lol not so much, the shop keepers that were present seemed somewhat pretentious. I'll give Betsy the giant fiberglass spiny lobster five stars but overall somewhat disappointed with her host location but generously give them three stars. Fortunately it's takes less time to visit this giant crustacean than it does to read this review being the creature stands less than fifty feet off the shoulder of the overseas highway and there's plenty of parking lot available so you can safety snap your photo and be on your way. read more
2 years ago
This was a really cute little stop near our AirBnb. The Cuban coffee was so good. The croquettes were really good too. They had so many cute stores that we browsed as well. read more
Even if I just go two counties over I always like to stop and pick up souvenirs. Thus, when my "mermaid" and I headed to the Keys last weekend she recommended we stop here for pictures and trinkets. With the giant Betsy the Lobster statue out front, the Rain Barrel Village is certainly an unforgettable destination. Yes, that's a giant lobster statue to "gram" by! While we stopped by, there were a few other folks taking photos as well. In addition to various artist studios, including one where there is live glass blowing, there are a couple of restaurants to check out. We got there a little bit late and couldn't sample hence I'm knocking a star. The buildings are a mix of what look to be the shell of a modern mansion, as well as smaller, more traditional keys type dwellings. As I mentioned, there are various pieces, anything from very beautiful handcrafted works to the more traditional T-shirt's and souvenirs. Most of the artists are glad to talk about and show their work as well. It's definitely a great spot to grab your souvenirs. read more
The best part of The Rain Barrel village might just be the giant crustacean out front along with the other roadside attractions. We did chat with one very kind and friendly shop worker. She was nice and chatty and welcoming to the store. Most of the shops have signs on them that ban you from taking photos inside which I found kind of odd. But I certainly respected that. We cruised through each shop and found your typical island trinkets available. My husband and I both thought is would be a fun place if we had little kids with us who were looking for a souvenir. read more
7 months ago
2 years ago
6 years ago
here now! Take your picture with the giant lobster! This is an iconic place to stop while driving through the Keys! You definitely need to look into the shops and support the local artist! Tons of great little shops for all you Keys needs. You will always find something new! read more
2 years ago
Great stop with cute souvenirs. The shops are adorable so much to see. They also sell food if you're hungry. read more
I love everything about the Rain Barrel Village. It is quirky and artsy and local. What more can you ask for? There are different shops inside and when you look at it from the outside, it does not look very big at all. The fun part is stopping to take the picture with the big ol' lobster. Inside there are different pic opps too since it is very artsy. I would definitely come back here. It's a place you can never imagine but when you are there, you see how pretty cool and different it actually is. I love it! Stop by on the way to Key West or the way back from Key West! read more
3 years ago
Nice place to walk around and see what there is there. But whatever you do do not get any Drinks horrible water down. The worst we have ever had... read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
As soon as I walked in I knew this was a unique spot. Had an amazing Mojito at the Betsy Bar made with fresh lime mint and sugar cane!! A-Mazing!! Thank you Adriane The gift shop was adorable. Something unique for everyone. Then through the back opens to a shady oasis of boutiques, artists, food.. again something for everyone. read more
6 years ago
Such a cute little shop/wares spot! Some booths have drinks and a patio area, the girls loved the glass shop, and the wild village kitties were just too adorable. What a fun little stopping point read more
If you love Kitsch, Knick Knacks, and just perusing the aisles for stuff - then this is the place for you. There are a few stores inside where you can get all the souvenirs that you want from the Keys and prices are ok - nothing spectacular. The best place which is 5 stars is towards the back where William and his wife make Sculptured glass. His art was amazing and you can commission him to do work as well. We bought an "ornament" to hang and I'll definitely be buying some birthday gifts from this place. Stop in and it won't disappoint. Cute place to stop and take a pic with a Giant Lobster - Have Fun!! read more
5 years ago
When traveling through the Keys you can't miss The Rain Barrel Village. They insured that by placing a 30 foot tall and 40 foot wide Florida spiny lobster named Betsy out front. Created in 1980 Betsy's first home was further south in the Keys where she was a popular tourist attraction. Betsy was moved to her current home in front of The Rain Barrel in 2009. It may actually be a law that you have to stop and take a mandatory tourist picture in front of it. Once you have posted the picture to social media so everyone knows you are hanging out in paradise, it's time to do some shopping. Inside you will find a village of artists. The Rain Barrel was the vision of Carol Cutshall who came from Pennsylvania for a vacation and never left. The name of the village is derived from the fact that the property used to be the Cypress Barn Building, It contains a 5,000 gallon cypress cistern which is the rain barrel in the name. Thirty five years later The Rain Barrel has become a must stop on your trip through the Keys. For twenty years the Rain Barrel held a jury art show once a month. Today when you visit you will find ten resident artists and works by a hundred more. You can wander along a walkway through the open air market and peruse sculpture, pottery, glass, paintings, home goods, jewelry, garden decorations, and many more items all with a tropical vibe. There is something for everyone and some items are on clearance or cost just a few dollars. With such a wide array of artistic items to choose from the only difficulty is in deciding what to buy. read more
Bubble Heaven, the ice cream and bubble tea place in the Rain Barrel (the big lobster). i got mango ice cream with mango on a waffle. Worth a stop especially if your wife is buying the last second sun dress before heading home. read more
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86700 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
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(305) 521-2043
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https://rainbarrelvillage.com
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5 years ago
The Rain Barrel Village - artsandcrafts - Updated July 2026
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