When I make this drive, sometimes I want to get there fast, sometimes I want to take the scenic route. Sometimes, I just want to skip paying for Florida’s toll roads. I’ve got all the insights for getting from Miami to Fort Lauderdale!
Miami to Fort Lauderdale
A basic driving trip from Miami to Fort Lauderdale takes about 40 minutes to an hour. Rush hour usually isn’t too bad- a little more than an hour at most. The scenic way to get there is taking the A1A to Dania Beach, but there are times this can be a frustrating route.
Exploring these to gem cities of Florida is high on the bucket-list of many people.
There isn’t what I’d consider a good bus option.
- Driving: 40 minutes to an Hour
- Rush Hour: 1 to 1.5 hours
- No Tolls: 40 minutes to an hour
- Train: 30 to 90 minutes depending on point of origination
- Other Public Transportation: no legitimate options – Grey Hound does have a route, but requires transportation to the bus station.
- Biking: 3.5 to 4 hours. Recommend biking on the A1A
- Walking: 12+ hours. This is going to be 30+ miles and longer than a marathon. Would be interested to hear from anyone who has actually walked this.
Getting to Fort Lauderdale by Car
Miami to Fort Lauderdale: Driving the fastest route
The direct route to Fort Lauderdale is pretty easy: take Interstate 95. If it is currently rush hour, you’re going to want to take the express tollway. But if you’re traveling during less busy times you should be fine and get there just as fast.
The Scenic Drive to Fort Lauderdale
There are a lot of cars but a couple of routes worth seeing.
Recommend Alton Road or A1A but aggressive drivers can get frustrating.
It’s great at the beginning to see Big Pink to your right. The entire drive is peppered with residential units & hotels.
I love seeing the Fontainebleau. I think of the iconic card game between James Bond and Goldfinger every time.
You may want to avoid this drive during certain times of the year (cough… spring break).
No Tolls: Miami to Fort Lauderdale
This is not much different than the fastest direct route above. Just make sure you don’t get on the express lanes. If it makes it easier, select the no tolls feature on your GPS. However, keeping an eye out for the signs is simple.
Train from Miami to Fort Lauderdale
It’s possible to take a combination of Miami Metrorail and the Brightline Express Train to make this trip. It would cost from about $23 to $45 each way — possibly higher depending on where you start and end in each city.
The Brightline train will eventually connect Miami to Orlando.
Biking to Fort Lauderdale
This route is similar to the scenic driving route. Take the options that keep you closest to the ocean.
Walking to Fort Lauderdale
I’m not sure this is even advisable. If this is something you want to do because you enjoy the scenery and distance, you would be better off signing up for the Miami Marathon. It has similar access to Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean and would be a gorgeous run.
If this is something that you have done, we would love to hear about it please reach out on Twitter or Facebook and let us know how it was.
FAQ
What is the BEST Travel Option from Miami to Fort Lauderdale?
I recommend driving.
Miami is big. Fort Lauderdale is big. Florida is big! Take a car.
The train may work if you’re just going to visit one area and it will be easy to get around after you arrive.
If you’re looking for beautiful scenery or a drive in nature, you would be better off getting out of these areas anyway. The car will be more practical.
Is there good public transportation?
Brightline is decent, but still not convenient compared to public transportation in other parts of the country. That is not unique to this part of the world.
Travel in this area largely occurs by car.
Cautions
No cautions unique to this article. As in any major metropolitan area, be safe. Lock your car doors, hide your valuables, and stay in well-lit areas.
Much of the driving will be congested. There is some gorgeous scenery and beautiful architecture, but keep your eyes on the road.
Summary
There are many more destinations in this part of Florida to explore. Miami & Fort Lauderdale are hot destinations and both offer amazing experiences.
If you’re in Miami, for art check out the Pérez Art Museum or the Wynwood Walls. You’ve also got HistoryMiami Museum and Little Havana.
On the Fort Lauderdale side of this trip, check out the Museum of Discovery and Science, or the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.
And of course, both places are covered in beaches and ocean parks!