Want to get away? It can seem complicated sometimes, but there is a solution. Whether you’re looking to take a Miami staycation from Orlando or another nearby city in central or South Florida (including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura), Brightline can get you there. This high-speed train offers passengers “Smart Saver,” “Smart,” and “Premium” tickets with different price points and amenities.
Discover everything you need to know about taking Brightline from Orlando to Miami, including ticket options, station details, what to expect on board, and top places to visit near the Miami Brightline station.
By the way, certain Disney Cruises leave from Fort Lauderdale with easy access to the Brightline Station there. Here's what we love about Disney Cruise Line for Adults. Okay, and now let's head to Miami!
Brightline Basics
Orlando International Airport's Terminal C has a Brightline terminal. There is a dedicated parking lot just for Brightline customers, and the terminal has plenty of seating, including a small kids' area, a lounge, and restrooms.
Waiting on the train platform is not allowed until about 10 minutes to departure time.
Ticket types:
Smart Saver: The most affordable option, includes complimentary Wi-Fi but has some limitations:
- No seat selection
- No ticket cancellations
Smart: A more comfortable option with added flexibility:
- Seat selection available
- Tickets can be canceled within 30 minutes
Premium: Offers the most amenities, including everything from “Smart,” plus:
- Slightly larger seat
- Complimentary food and drinks (including alcoholic beverages) throughout the ride
- Access to Premium Lounges
A ride on the Brightline also includes charging ports and the ability to carry small to medium-sized luggage less than 70 pounds. Once you board the train, all you have to do is store any baggage and relax.
Miami Brightline Station
Once you arrive at the Miami Brightline station located in the heart of Downtown Miami, one can walk to their destination, connect to public transport, or get picked up right outside to visit one, but hopefully more of Miami’s hotels, restaurants, and spas (especially when visiting during Miami Spice and Spa Months).
Places Near Brightline in Miami
The Miami Brightline station is near many destinations visited by both locals and tourists. Please note the writer was offered accommodations and meals at no charge in order to share this experience.
The Palms Hotel & Spa
3025 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Fees: There is a hotel fee of $38 per day to be added to your room rate and taxes. For the restaurant (Essensia), a service charge of 20% is added to the bill in addition to taxes.
The Palms Hotel & Spa is an oceanfront resort with an emphasis on sustainability and wellness. This Green Globe-certified hotel features 251 modern yet spacious guest rooms and direct access to the public beach via a hotel-guest-only gate. In addition to its advanced rooms, this hotel features Essensia restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and brunch (on select days).
This hotel features a spacious swimming pool set amidst 1.5 acres of lush greenery and a tranquil Zen garden. For those looking to stay active, guests can join yoga classes on select days at The Grand Tiki.
COTE Miami
3900 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137
Hours of operation: Sunday – Wednesday: 5 PM–11 PM, Thursday – Saturday: 5 PM–1 AM
Fees: $35 per person late cancellation/no-show fee within 24 hours of the reservation date
If you’re looking to grab a bite at one of Miami’s Michelin-star restaurants, you can head over to COTE Miami. This Korean Steakhouse is known for its chic aesthetic and on-table grilling experience of its signature barbecued meats. When it comes to its menu offerings, I recommend the Dol-sot Bibimbap and the Waldorf Salad which is made with radicchio, celery, Asian pear, kabocha squash, candied hazelnuts, parmesan cheese, and honey doenjang dressing (both of these items can be found on the restaurant’s Miami Spice menu).
If you plan on dining at this restaurant for dinner, reservations are required and can be made on Resy or SevenRooms.
Tree of Life
3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Hours of operation: Sunday–Wednesday: 12–10 PM, Thursday–Saturday: 12 PM–12 AM
Fees: No cover fee (Applicable taxes and a 20% service charge are added to all checks)
Located at Faena Miami Beach, Tree of Life is an intimate outdoor dining and bar venue located at the heart of the hotel’s outdoor portion. For those looking for a refreshing cocktail, the Faena Spritz ($28) and Royal Rose ($38) are some great options.
However, if you don’t drink alcohol, we recommend trying one of the non-alcoholic refreshers including the Beachcomber ($14) and Pineapple Fizz ($14).
In addition to the delicious drinks and small bites, this eatery offers an aesthetically pleasing environment with benches topped with nature-focused mosaics and eye-catching red and white umbrellas that invite guests to be one with nature while they enjoy their refreshments.
Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau Miami Beach
4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Hours of operation: Monday – Sunday 9:30 AM–6 PM
Fees: Applicable taxes and a 20% service charge
Whether you’re preparing for a night out or are simply looking for a place to relax and treat yourself to some self-care treatments, Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is the place to do so. From hyaluronic restorative facials to manicures, this luxury salon offers elevated salon treatments for individuals, friend groups, and couples.
When you book a treatment at this hotel spa, you’ll receive access to the resort’s pool and beach for the rest of the day–that said, we recommend booking your appointment earlier rather than later to maximize your time at this five-star hotel.
IL Mulino New York at Acqualina Resort
17875 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
Hours of operation: Lunch: Daily from 11:30 AM–4 PM, Dinner: Daily from 4 PM–11 PM, Happy Hour: Daily from 4 PM–6 PM, Oceanfront Brunch: Saturdays & Sundays from 11:30 AM–3:30 PM
Fees: Taxes and service fee
When it comes to tableside dining service, IL Mulino–New York at Acqualina Resort does not disappoint. As for the food, you cannot dine here without trying some of their included bread and cheese services. This restaurant’s menu offerings are accompanied by higher price tags, so make sure to make note of that before making your reservation.
That said, the restaurant’s Miami Spice menu is a great deal at $35 for lunch and $60 for dinner per person. Pack more formal attire if you plan on visiting this restaurant as there is a business elegant dress code required to be adhered to by diners.
Related post: Epic Bar Crawl at Swan and Dolphin Resort (with its own Il Mulino location).
The Strand at Carillon Miami
6801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141
Hours of operation: Sunday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM, Monday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, Tuesday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, Wednesday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM, Thursday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM, Friday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM, Saturday: 7–11 AM, 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM
Fees: Taxes and service fee
For a place that serves up Mediterranean cuisine in a contemporary setting (with gorgeous beachfront views), The Strand at the Carillon Miami is a hidden gem. If you’re a fan of food that comes from local farms and other Florida destinations, you’ll find that here whether you dine for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Although the food is what this restaurant is known for, they have some tasty cocktails and mocktails including the Batida ($15) made with coconut milk, pineapple juice, passionfruit syrup, and nutmeg. Once you’re done eating, you can head outside the restaurant and take some photos with the ocean.
Our team here at Orlando Date Night Guide loves a romantic getaway from Orlando, and there are many options out there! From luxury hotels and relaxing spas to top restaurants and cultural attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do near the Miami Brightline station.
Ready to ride? Book your ticket, sit back, and enjoy the journey!
