Getting around Downtown Miami and the greater metropolitan area is convenient and accessible thanks to a comprehensive Miami Public Transportation network. Whether you’re a local resident, a tourist exploring the vibrant city, or a business traveler, Miami offers a variety of options to suit your needs and budget. From free trolleys to rapid transit systems and ride-sharing services, navigating Miami is easier than ever.
Comprehensive Public Transportation in Miami
Miami-Dade County provides an extensive public transportation system that includes various modes of transport to connect you to different parts of the city and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of your public transportation options:
Miami Trolley: Free and Convenient
The Miami Trolley offers a fantastic free service to explore various neighborhoods within the City of Miami. With ten different routes operating seven days a week, it’s an ideal option for getting around Downtown. Specifically, the Biscayne and Brickell routes are perfect for navigating the Downtown area. For detailed information on routes, schedules, and real-time tracking, you can visit the official Miami Trolley website or download the user-friendly Miami Trolley App for up-to-the-minute arrival and departure information directly on your smartphone.
Metrorail: Rapid Transit Across Miami-Dade
Metrorail is Miami’s elevated rapid transit system, spanning 25 miles with 23 accessible stations. This efficient system provides easy access throughout Miami-Dade County, including direct connections to Downtown Miami and Miami International Airport. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the airport, or exploring different parts of the county, Metrorail is a reliable choice. You can find comprehensive details about routes, operating hours, and fare information on the Miami-Dade Transit Metrorail website. Enhance your travel experience with the MDT Tracker app, offering real-time updates and trip planning tools for all Miami-Dade Transit services.
Metromover: Free Downtown Transit
The Metromover is a unique, fully-automated, and electrically powered system that operates exclusively in the Downtown Miami, Brickell, and Omni areas. Best of all, it’s completely free for everyone! Running from 5 am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and extending its service until 2 am on Friday and Saturday, Metromover provides a convenient way to navigate the urban core. It seamlessly connects with Metrorail at Government Center and Brickell stations and offers interchanges with Metrobus at various points throughout Downtown. Explore route maps and schedules on the official Metromover page to plan your free rides around Downtown Miami.
Metrobus: Connecting Greater Miami
Metrobus is an extensive bus network designed to complement Metrorail and Metromover, ensuring comprehensive coverage across Miami-Dade County. This bus system reaches all major destinations, including shopping centers, entertainment venues, cultural hubs, hospitals, and educational institutions. Metrobus is an essential component of Miami public transportation for reaching areas beyond the rail lines. Detailed bus schedules and route information are available on the Miami-Dade Transit Metrobus website, helping you navigate the city efficiently.
Tri-Rail: Commuter Rail to Downtown Miami and Beyond
Tri-Rail is a commuter rail line connecting Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Serving over 100 million passengers in its history, Tri-Rail now offers direct service into Downtown Miami at MiamiCentral Station, making regional travel seamless. If you’re commuting from further north or planning to explore South Florida beyond Miami, Tri-Rail is a valuable public transportation option. Visit the Tri-Rail website for schedules, route maps, and fare details to plan your regional journeys.
Brightline: High-Speed Rail to Orlando and South Florida Destinations
For faster, more comfortable travel between South Florida and Orlando, Brightline offers a modern, high-speed rail service. Connecting Miami with Orlando, and with stops in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach, Brightline is revolutionizing travel in Florida. While it’s a premium service compared to other public transportation options, it provides a significantly quicker and more enjoyable journey for longer distances within Florida. Find schedules, fares, and book your tickets on the Brightline website.
Alternative Transportation Choices in Miami
Beyond traditional public transportation, Miami offers a range of alternative and convenient options:
Freebee: Eco-Friendly Rides
Looking for a free and eco-conscious way to get around Downtown? Freebee provides on-demand, electric vehicle rides within designated zones. Simply flag down a Freebee or use the Ride Freebee App to request a pickup. It’s a fun and sustainable way to explore the city, and while the ride is free, tipping is appreciated to support the service. Check out the Freebee Downtown Circulator route map for service areas.
Citi Bike Miami: Pedal Through the City
Citi Bike Miami offers a bike-sharing and rental system, perfect for those who enjoy cycling and want an active way to explore. With stations throughout the city, it’s a convenient and healthy transportation option for both locals and visitors. Enjoy the Miami weather while saving money on transportation and avoiding traffic. Find station locations, pricing, and more information on the Citi Bike Miami website or through the Citi Bike Miami App.
Ride-Sharing Services: Lyft and Uber
Lyft and Uber are readily available ride-sharing services in Miami, offering quick and convenient transportation at the tap of your smartphone. These services connect you with local drivers and provide door-to-door transportation. Both Lyft and Uber operate extensively in Miami and offer user-friendly apps for requesting and paying for rides.
Water Taxi Miami: Scenic Waterway Commute
For a unique and relaxing commute, consider the Water Taxi Miami. Offering routes between Bayside Marketplace, Miami River, Key Biscayne, and Miami Beach, the water taxi provides a scenic alternative to road travel, especially for reaching waterfront destinations. Enjoy the beautiful views of Miami while commuting. Fares and schedules are available on the Water Taxi Miami website.
Zipcar: Car Sharing Convenience
Zipcar offers a car-sharing service, providing access to vehicles by the hour or day, including gas and insurance. This is a flexible alternative to traditional car rental or car ownership, ideal for errands or trips when you need a car but don’t want the commitment of owning one. Zipcar’s Miami services can be explored further on their website.
Parking in Downtown Miami
While Miami boasts excellent public transportation, parking is also available for those who choose to drive. The Miami Parking Authority manages over 34,000 parking spaces in Downtown Miami, offering various options from garages to street parking and valet services. The Miami Parking Authority website allows you to find parking, pay online, manage permits, and get information on event parking.
Downtown Miami Parking Garages Map
Downtown Miami Parking Map
Garages List:
- G1 Courthouse Center 40 NW 3 St
- G2 Cultural Center Garage 90 SW 1 St
- G3 College Station Garage 190 NE 3 St
- G4 Convention Center Garage 100 SE 2 St
- G5 Miami-Dade Cultural Center 50 NW 2 Ave
- G6 Flagler Building 140 W Flagler St (Enter via SW 1 St) Closed Saturday and Sunday
- G7 Hickman Garage (Garage 5) 270 NW 2 St Closed Saturday and Sunday
- G8 Overtown Transit Village 701 NW 1 Ct Closed Saturday and Sunday
Please note: This map does not include all private parking options.
Downtown Transit Map
Downtown Miami Transit Map
Downtown Transportation Options Visual
Miami’s commitment to diverse transportation options makes it easy for everyone to navigate the city efficiently and enjoy all that Downtown Miami and the surrounding areas have to offer. Whether you prefer public transportation, cycling, ride-sharing, or even a water taxi, Miami has a mode of transport to fit your needs.
