How to Get Around Miami Without a Car
Photo by Eric Ellis on UnsplashMiami’s public transportation system is versatile, affordable, and well-equipped for families and accessibility needs. Whether you're exploring solo, with kids, or using mobility aids—this guide shows how to navigate the Magic City fully, car-free.
1. Downtown Access — Metromover (Free & Frequent)
Metromover is the car-free lifeline in Downtown, Brickell, and the Arts District. It’s free, frequent, and ideal for families with strollers. A key perk: all stations are fully ADA-accessible, offering elevators, tactile tiles, and backup access when needed. Let the kids step on and off within blocks, stress-free.
2. Citywide Rapid Transit — Metrorail
Need to travel further? The Metrorail reaches across the city—including the airport, Coral Gables, and South Miami. Trains run 5 AM to midnight, with fares around $2.25 plus Easy Card daily caps. All stations are ADA-compliant and stroller-friendly. Parents and travelers with disabilities can rely on wide platforms, safe elevators, and public announcements.
3. Regional Rail Options — Tri-Rail & Brightline
- Tri-Rail: Perfect for trips to Fort Lauderdale or Palm Beach. Affordable daily zone-based fares and weekend discounts make it family-friendly.
- Brightline: Fast, sleek service to West Palm and soon Orlando. Tickets range from $15–$30—a quick, comfortable option with accessibility support and downtown shuttle services.
4. Metrobus & Neighborhood Trolleys
- Metrobus: Extensive reach—over 90 routes, all ADA-equipped with lifts and designated space. Ideal for family trips to beaches or neighborhoods.
- Free Trolleys: Great for short, local hops in places like South Beach and Coral Gables. Easy, free, and stroller-accessible.
5. Kid-Friendly Tour Options
- Family Bus Tours launch families with air-conditioned comfort, guided routes, and stops at Miami’s most kid-appreciated spots: South Beach, Wynwood Walls, and Little Havana. Stroller-friendly and educational—a stress-free sightseeing choice.
6. Last-Mile Options
- Citi Bike: Quick trips across Downtown and Brickell with affordable short-term passes.
- Freebee: Eco-friendly app-based golf-cart rides for last-mile flexibility.
- Taxis/Rideshares: Accessible after hours—but remember, Florida law requires car seats for children under five, not enforced on public transit.
7. Payment Made Simple — The Easy Card
Buy an Easy Card at stations or via the GO Mobile app. Use it across Metrorail, Metrobus, and even Freebee. With daily fare caps (~$5.65), families—especially with little ones—get big value after a few trips.
8. Safety, Comfort & Accessibility
- Transit Safety: Stay in designated boarding zones, hold small kids by hand, and avoid rushing doors.
- Accessibility Backups: Use call buttons or Custom Protection Officers if elevators are down—backup service arrives promptly.
- Heat Tips: Most stations and vehicles are air-conditioned. Carry water and let kids off in shade.
9. Quick Reference Table
| Mode | Coverage | Hours | Cost | Family & Accessibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metromover | Downtown/Brickell | 5 AM–midnight | Free | ADA-compliant, stroller-friendly |
| Metrorail | Citywide + Airport | 5 AM–midnight | ~$2.25 | Full ADA support, stroller-friendly |
| Tri-Rail | South Florida regions | Daytime | ~$5/day | Accessible, budget regional travel |
| Brightline | Miami ↔ WPB/Orlando | Varied | $15–$30+ | Wheelchair accessible, fast and smooth |
| Metrobus | County-wide | 4 AM–1 AM | ~$2.25 | ADA-equipped, stroller space |
| Trolleys | Local | Daytime | Free | Easy access – perfect for families |
| Family Bus Tour | City highlights | Tour hours | Varies | Kids stay safe, cool, and engaged |
| Citi Bike/Freebee | Last-mile | Flexible | Affordable | Great for stroller transitions or short hops |
| Taxi/Rideshare | Any area | 24/7 | Surge fares | Car seats required; ADA vehicles available |
10. Planning & Pro Tips
- Know when transit stops: After midnight, Metrobus and Metromover halt—but taxis and Freebee step in.
- Download transit apps: GO Transit or Transit show real-time arrival and ADA alerts.
- Efficient routes: Use Metrorail to approach key zones, then switch to Metromover/trolley for smooth last-mile access.
Final Word
Miami is more than driveable—it’s navigable by foot, rail, bus, or bike. For families and travelers with mobility needs, the transport network is inclusive, accessible, and packed with options. Choose your pace—hover in Metromover skies, hurry on Metrorail, relax on family tours, or breeze with bike-share and shuttles. Enjoy more exploring, less logistics.