Miami Metrorail Starts Early for Marathon Access

Miami Metrorail begins service at 4 a.m. Sunday for marathon with free parking

Miami Metrorail Starts Early for Marathon

Miami-Dade Transit will start Metrorail and Metromover service at 4 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, for the Life Time Miami Marathon and Half Marathon. The early service helps runners and spectators reach downtown for the race, which typically draws thousands of participants. Transit officials said parking at all Metrorail garages and surface lots will be free all day for transit riders.

Free Parking and Early Access

The early service launch represents a significant schedule adjustment from regular Sunday operations, which typically begin later in the morning. Miami-Dade Transit said the modifications aim to provide convenient access for marathon participants who need to arrive at the starting area well before the race begins. Metrorail parking facilities will open at 4 a.m., with complimentary parking available for the entire day. The free parking applies only to Miami-Dade Transit riders using the system.

Service Details and Routes

Metrorail trains will depart from three terminal stations starting at 4 a.m.: Dadeland South, Palmetto, and Miami International Airport stations. Officials said trains will run with varying frequencies from these locations. 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 area. Metromover service, which is always free to ride, will also begin at 4 a.m. Sunday.

Return to Regular Schedule

Regular Sunday service will resume after 5 p.m. on Metrorail, transit officials said. The agency didn't specify exact train frequencies during the early morning period or how many additional trains will operate for the event. Riders can pay Metrorail fares using EASY Cards, contactless payments at fare gates, or mobile payment options.

Planning Your Race Day Trip

Marathon participants and spectators should plan to arrive early to account for potential crowding on trains and at stations. Officials said the early service start provides ample time for runners to reach the downtown area before race activities begin. Moovit provides real-time updates for Miami-Dade Transit routes, helping riders track train arrivals and plan connections between Metrorail and Metromover during the marathon.