Fort Lauderdale Station is a key transport hub serving residents and visitors of the "American Venice" in southeast Florida. The station serves as a major stop for long-distance Amtrak trains (Silver Meteor and Silver Star routes), as well as for the Tri-Rail commuter train system connecting the city with Miami and West Palm Beach. The station building, designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, offers travellers a comfortable space for waiting and convenient navigation.
It is important for passengers to note that the station is located west of the I-95 highway, making it easily accessible for motorists, though it requires planning for transfers if you are heading to the beaches or the city centre. The complex is equipped with high platforms for easy boarding and a clear signage system separating Amtrak and Tri-Rail passenger flows.
Address: 200 SW 21st Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USA.
Opening Hours: The waiting hall is open daily, usually from 07:00 to 18:00 (ticket office hours may differ from platform access times).
Luggage Storage: Temporary luggage storage is available for passengers with Amtrak tickets (please check availability with staff).
Accessibility: The station is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility (ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms).
How to Get There
You can reach Fort Lauderdale Station in several ways, depending on your starting point and budget. The station is located approximately 3–5 kilometres west of the city centre and popular tourist zones.
Public Transport: The station is served by Broward County Transit (BCT) buses. Route #22 connects the station with the central terminal, from where you can transfer to buses heading to the beach. Tri-Rail trains also arrive here, which is convenient for transfers from Miami or Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood airports.
Taxi and Transfers: This is the most comfortable option for tourists with luggage. A ride via Uber or Lyft from the city centre will take about 10–15 minutes, and from the beach area — 20–25 minutes depending on traffic. There is a designated "Kiss & Ride" passenger drop-off zone on the premises.
Services and Amenities
Although the station is not a massive terminal, it offers the necessary range of services for a comfortable wait for your train. Inside the building, there is a spacious waiting hall with air conditioning, which is particularly important in Florida's warm climate.
Available to passengers:
Amtrak ticket counters and Tri-Rail ticket vending machines.
Free Wi-Fi (provided by Amtrak Connect).
Clean washrooms.
ATM.
Checked Baggage services for specific routes.
Boarding assistance for passengers with limited mobility (wheelchairs, lifts).
Where to Eat
Dining options at the station itself are limited. In the waiting hall, there are vending machines with beverages, snacks, and confectionery suitable for a quick bite. There is no full-service café or restaurant inside the building.
If you have ample time (more than an hour), you can visit establishments nearby. Within walking distance (5–10 minutes) along West Broward Boulevard, there are popular fast-food chains such as McDonald's or Dunkin'. However, experienced travellers recommend bringing food with you in advance, especially if a long train journey lies ahead.
Station History
The current Fort Lauderdale Station building was opened to passengers in 2002. It replaced the old Seaboard Air Line station, which ceased to meet the demands of the growing passenger flow. The construction of the new terminal was an important stage in the modernisation of South Florida's transport infrastructure.
The architectural project was developed with local aesthetics in mind: light tones, sloping roofs, and arched elements reflect the Spanish Mission style popular in the region. Since its opening, the station has become a key link uniting Amtrak intercity services and the regional Tri-Rail network, ensuring seamless transfers for thousands of passengers daily.
Travel Tips
To ensure your journey goes smoothly, plan to arrive at the station at least 30–45 minutes before your train's departure, especially if you need to check in luggage. The boarding procedure for Amtrak closes a few minutes before departure.
Useful advice:
Climate Control: Powerful air conditioning often operates in the waiting hall and on trains. It is recommended to carry a light jacket or cardigan, even if it is hot outside.
Tickets: For Tri-Rail trains, tickets must be purchased at machines on the platform before boarding. Amtrak tickets are most conveniently purchased via the mobile app.
Safety: The area around the station is a busy transport zone. During evening hours, it is recommended to wait for your train inside the building or on a lit platform and use official taxis.
Parking: There is a car park at the station, but the availability of spaces during peak hours may be limited.
