Getting Around in Miami

Despite a somewhat limited public transport network, getting around in Miami is fairly easy. While Miami’s public transport network is considered one of the most extensive in Florida, the system is not quite up to the standards of other major cities like Boston or New York.

Given how spread out the wider metropolitan area is, transport authorities have struggled to integrate public transport in Miami as effectively as has been done in other cities. As a result, bus and train journeys can be slow, and most residents prefer to drive.

Public transport in Miami

Public transport in Miami is overseen by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) and consists of a fairly comprehensive bus network, a rail network and the Metromover, an automated ‘people mover’ that operates in Downtown Miami.

The public transport network uses an integrated ticketing system, and fares can be paid using a rechargeable smart card called the EASY Card.

Buses

The bus system in Miami services the entire city, with more than 90 routes covering the hard-to-reach areas and suburbs in the city. The only drawback to using the city’s Metrobus system is that buses often run late due to traffic congestion. Most bus services arrive frequently, and there are a few 24-hour options.

The city even offers an express service during rush hour, and passengers can pay using their EASY cards or tickets. During the baseball season, the Metrobus offers a shuttle to the Miami Marlins baseball games.

Metrorail

Metrorail and Metromover are Miami’s answer to a subway. The Miami Metrorail system is a two-line train system that serves the city and its surrounding areas. The system consists of more than 20 stations and connects areas in the city centre to outlying suburbs.

The Metrorail operates between 5am and midnight. Metrorail trains are fairly frequent, arriving every 12 minutes during peak hours. The Metrorail offers bicycle racks on every car and at every station. There are also free bicycle lids available on a first-come, first-served basis to encourage park and riding.

Metromover

The Metromover is a free and automated shuttle that runs a limited route. The Metromover is the quickest and most efficient way to get around central Miami. This option will help newcomers avoid expensive parking, and the gridlocked traffic Miami is famous for. The Metromover runs every day of the week between 5am and midnight and arrives every minute and a half during rush hours and every three minutes otherwise.

Trolley

Travelling by trolley is a fun and unique way to explore Miami and Miami Beach. To make it even better, the trolley is also free in most neighbourhoods. The trolley operates seven days a week between 8am and 11pm on four different routes. Most trolleys run every 30 minutes, depending on the route. Notable stops include the Miami Beach Botanical Garden and the Convention Center.

Useful links

• The Miami-Dade County Public Transit Authority has more information on the city’s integrated public transport system.

Taxis in Miami

Taxis in Miami are known for being relatively expensive but are widely available. It’s usually best to book a taxi by phoning ahead of time. Unlicensed taxis are illegal in Miami, so passengers are advised to only take cabs with ‘taxi’ or ‘cab’ written on the side. Another option is to get a taxi at designated ranks found outside most Metrorail stations. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft are operational in Miami.

Most taxis in Miami will have card payment options available, but it’s recommended to check with the driver beforehand. Passengers should note that they will be responsible for paying for any tolls they come across on their journeys.

Useful links

• For traditional taxis, new arrivals can check out Miami Beach Taxi and Yellow Cab Company
• Uber and Lyft are among the most popular ride-hailing apps in Miami

Driving in Miami

Most of Miami’s residents prefer to own a car rather than relying on public transport. While driving in Miami is no easy task, having a vehicle of their own affords newcomers an increased level of independence.

Navigating the streets of Miami is fairly straightforward because of the city’s grid system. Road conditions and signage are also generally good, and the streets are clearly numbered.

Drivers who are new to the city should take extra care and be aware that locals have a reputation for driving particularly aggressively and often breaking the posted speed limits. The experience of driving in Miami is made more frustrating because of traffic congestion during rush hour.

Expats can drive on their foreign driving licence for one year. Thereafter, expats will need to secure a local driving licence. Most foreigners moving to Miami can avoid taking the State of Florida-mandated Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, which is typically the first step in obtaining a driving licence in Miami. Expats will need to take a written and a practical driving test to successfully obtain a Miami driving licence.

Read Transport and Driving in the USA to learn more about national driving licences and standards.

Cycling in Miami

Cycling in Miami’s popular beach areas is a commonality, but the city is still developing an urban cycling culture. Miami has several biking trails located across the city’s parks and has also launched a bike-sharing programme for Miami Beach. The bike-sharing and rental programme is known as Citibike and allows residents to rent out solar-powered bicycles from any of their 160 stations scattered across the city.

Useful links

• Visit Citibike to find out more about acquiring a membership or renting out a bicycle in Miami.