Getting Around Miami

General Overview

Getting around Miami has its own unique rhythm. One thing about the public transport here is that while it may seem a bit chaotic at first, it has its own charm once you get the hang of it. The Metrorail and Metromover are your two best bets if you want to navigate the city like a local. The Metrorail runs from south to north, while the Metromover is perfect for zipping around downtown and Brickell (and did I mention it’s free?).

Operating hours can be a bit tricky; generally, the Metrorail runs from 5 AM to midnight on weekdays, and a bit shorter on weekends. The ticket prices are pretty reasonable too. A one-way fare on the Metrorail is $2.25, whereas tourist passes can run up to $5 for a one-day unlimited pass, which might sound good until you realize you could easily grab a taxi from the airport to South Beach for about $35 on a slow day. Pro tip: avoid the temptation of the Uber surge pricing during rush hours (as I learned the hard way!).

Oh, before I forget, many visitors think that the Metrorail will take them to all the main attractions. Wrong! It doesn’t reach Miami Beach, so you’ll have to rely on local buses or rideshares for that—just a little local quirk that caught me off guard when I first moved here.

One pleasant surprise for me was the Metromover's efficiency. I had no idea how quickly I could get to the Perez Art Museum or the Frost Museum of Science without sweating in the Florida heat. Those museums are both located near the Omni station, and the view of the water along the way isn’t too shabby either.

Definitely keep an eye out during rush hour—public transport can get pretty crowded around 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM. It’s totally normal to be snug against strangers, so be prepared! And weather-wise, you’ll want to avoid standing outside during the summer storms. If you catch a downpour, just hail a rideshare—trust me, it’s worth the small investment to stay dry.

If you’re looking to save some cash, grab a 7-day pass for $29. It’s a steal compared to those singular fares if you plan to explore a lot. Plus, if you’re traveling in a group, remember that kids ride free on the buses!

In a nutshell, I’d say use the Metrorail whenever possible, especially when heading to areas like Dadeland or Coral Gables. Just remember, it takes some practice to figure it all out, but once you do, you’ll navigate Miami like a pro. Safe travels!