Miami Metrorail Starts Early for Marathon Access

Miami-Dade Transit begins Metrorail service at 4 a.m. Sunday for marathon runners

Miami Metrorail Starts at 4 a.m. for Marathon

Miami-Dade Transit will start Metrorail and Metromover service at 4 a.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026, for the Life Time Miami Marathon and Half Marathon. The early service helps runners and spectators reach downtown before the race begins. Parking garages and surface lots at Metrorail stations will open at 4 a.m. with free parking available all day for transit riders.

Early Service Supports Major Annual Event

The Life Time Miami Marathon and Half Marathon draws thousands of participants and spectators to downtown Miami each January. Transit agencies typically extend service hours for major sporting events to reduce traffic congestion and provide convenient access to race venues. Miami-Dade Transit has provided early service for the marathon in previous years, making rail service a popular option for attendees who want to avoid downtown parking challenges and road closures along the race route.

Three Terminal Stations Offer Early Departures

Trains will depart from Palmetto, Dadeland South, and Miami International Airport stations starting at 4 a.m. with varying frequencies throughout the morning. Attendees can take Metrorail to Government Center Station and transfer to the free Metromover Inner Loop, disembarking at College/Bayside Metromover station near the race venue. Regular Sunday service schedules will resume after 5 p.m. Officials didn't specify exact train frequencies for the early morning period.

Service Returns to Normal Sunday Evening

The extended early service operates only during marathon morning hours, with regular Sunday schedules resuming after 5 p.m. The timing allows runners to complete the race and spectators to return home before service transitions back to normal weekend operations. Transit officials said the schedule accommodates both the early race start time and post-event travel needs.

Free Metromover Connects to Race Venue

Metromover service remains free throughout the day, while Metrorail riders can pay $2.25 for a one-way mobile pass or $5.65 for an all-day pass. Riders can use EASY Cards or contactless payments at fare gates. The free Metromover connection from Government Center to College/Bayside station provides direct access to the marathon start and finish areas. Moovit offers real-time arrival information and trip planning for Miami-Dade Transit's Metrorail and Metromover services.