How to Use Public Transit With Kids in Miami
Photo by Sandy Millar on UnsplashGetting around Miami without a car can save money, stress, and time hunting for parking — but when you’re traveling with kids, things feel more complicated. This is your guide to family‑friendly transit in Miami — covering buses, trains, and trolleys that actually work for parents. The good news is Miami’s transit system works for families if you know the rules, discounts, and best times to ride. This guide walks you through Metrobus, Metrorail, Metromover, and MetroConnect, with tips for strollers, fares, and family comfort.
🚍 Transit Options Overview
- Metrobus: Wide network reaching beaches, suburbs, and attractions.
- Metrorail: Elevated rail line connecting major hubs, including the airport, downtown, and University of Miami.
- Metromover: A free people mover in Downtown, Omni, and Brickell. Runs every 1.5–3 minutes.
- Trolleys & Local Shuttles: Free city‑operated routes; useful for short hops. Popular options include the Coral Gables Trolley and Miami Beach Trolley — both free and air‑conditioned.
- MetroConnect: On-demand ride service that fills in gaps; many zones operate fare-free and allow strollers.
📏 Rules & Safety for Strollers and Kids
- Metrobus: Strollers must be folded and kept clear of aisles and doors. Children must sit on seats, not remain in strollers.
- Metrorail & Metromover: Strollers are allowed as long as they don’t block doors or aisles. Use designated large-item spaces when available.
- Free rides: Kids under 42 inches tall ride free with a fare-paying adult. A Preschooler ID card is available if your child is taller but still under preschool age.
Parents can request a Preschooler Identification Card from Miami-Dade Transit if their child is taller than 42 inches but still under preschool age, so they continue to ride free. - Safety tips: Hold hands near platform edges, try to avoid rush-hour crowds, and check elevator status if traveling with a stroller.
Always check the Miami-Dade Transit site for real-time elevator/escalator status if you’re traveling with a stroller.
💲 Discount & Free Ride Programs
| Program | Who Qualifies | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| K‑12 EASY Card | Kindergarten through 12th grade students | Half-price fare on Metrobus & Metrorail. Preschoolers ride free. |
| College Discount Pass | Full-time students at participating institutions | Monthly pass ~$56.25, unlimited rides. |
| Golden Passport | Seniors 65+, Social Security beneficiaries | Free rides with special EASY Card. |
| Patriot Passport | Military veterans meeting criteria | Free rides with EASY Card. |
| Mobility EASY Card | Riders with disabilities | Reduced or free fares. |
| Low-Income Commuter Reduced Fare | Residents under income thresholds | Half-fare program for qualifying families. |
➡️ How to Apply: Most discount and free ride programs require proof of eligibility (school ID, proof of age, proof of income, or veteran status). Applications can be submitted at Miami-Dade Transit Service Centers or online.
🕒 Schedules, Frequency & Best Times
- Metromover: Free, arrives every 90 seconds at peak, 3 minutes off-peak. Operates daily 5:30 AM–midnight.
- Metrorail: Trains every 5–15 minutes depending on time of day. Runs until midnight.
- Metrobus: Frequency varies; popular routes every 15–20 minutes, others hourly. Some run 24/7.
- MetroConnect: Zones vary, typically weekdays 6:30 AM–7 PM; South Miami zone runs later.
- Best times: Mid-morning and early afternoon are less crowded and easier with strollers. Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 4–6 PM).
⚠️ Note: Miami-Dade County has proposed raising fares from $2.25 to $2.75. Families planning trips later in 2025 should check for updated rates.
🔍 Practical Hacks for Families
- Take advantage of fare capping: with contactless payment (EASY Card, EASY Ticket, or digital wallet), once you reach the cost of a 1‑Day Pass, the rest of your rides that day are free — no need to buy passes in advance.
- Use an EASY Card or contactless payment: Faster boarding, free transfers, and daily fare capping so you never pay more than a 1‑Day Pass.
- Check accessibility: Not all stations have working elevators. Check the Miami-Dade Transit site for updates before you go.
- Pack smart: Bring snacks, water, and a small bag. Keep your hands free so folding the stroller is easy when boarding.
- MetroConnect is stroller‑ and wheelchair‑friendly, with vans designed for families. Many zones are fare‑free, making it a smart backup when buses are delayed or if you’re too far from a rail line.
- In neighborhoods outside Downtown, many bus stops lack shade or shelter — pack water, hats, and plan around midday heat.
- Sit near exits: Makes it easier to get off quickly with kids and strollers.
🗺 Sample Transit Itineraries
- Museum Day Downtown: Take Metrorail to Government Center, transfer to the free Metromover for Museum Park, visit Frost Science or PAMM, and grab lunch nearby.
- Zoo Miami Adventure: Bus 252 from Dadeland South station takes you directly to Zoo Miami; combine with MetroConnect for the last mile.
- Beach Trip Without Driving: Catch Metrobus S or 120 Beach MAX from Downtown to South Beach; use the free Miami Beach Trolley once there.
🙋 Who It’s Best For
- Budget-conscious families: Save on parking and rideshare costs.
- Parents with toddlers or preschoolers: Know the stroller rules, and take advantage of free rides under 42 inches.
- Multi-generational groups: Seniors can ride free with Golden Passport.
- Tourists: Free Metromover loops give a fun city view without spending a dime.
🚦 Verdict
Public transit in Miami isn’t perfect — buses sometimes run late and stations can feel crowded — but for families who plan ahead, it’s affordable, accessible, and surprisingly kid-friendly. From free Metromover loops to discounted passes for students and seniors, Miami-Dade Transit has tools that make exploring with kids easier. Pack some snacks, fold the stroller when needed, grab an EASY Card, and you’ll skip the parking stress and enjoy family‑friendly public transportation in Miami like a local.