Fort Lauderdale Railway Station is a vital transport hub in Florida, serving both long-distance Amtrak trains and the Tri-Rail commuter line. The station is located west of the city centre and Interstate 95, providing convenient access to the region's main districts. The station building is designed in a modern style with elements of Mediterranean architecture, characteristic of South Florida, and offers passengers a comfortable space for waiting.
For tourists, this is an excellent starting point for journeys along the East Coast or short trips to Miami and West Palm Beach. It is important to know that the station serves different types of trains: the silver Amtrak consists (Silver Meteor and Silver Star routes) and the double-decker Tri-Rail carriages. Passengers should carefully monitor announcements and information boards to ensure they proceed to the correct platform, as the tracks for different carriers may vary.
Address: 200 SW 21st Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USA.
Opening Hours: The waiting hall and ticket counters are open daily, usually from early morning until late evening (approximately from 07:00 to 22:00), adjusting to the train schedule.
Luggage Storage: Baggage assistance (check-in service) is available for Amtrak passengers.
Accessibility: The station is fully equipped for people with reduced mobility, including ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.
How to Get There
You can reach Fort Lauderdale Station in several ways, depending on your budget and amount of luggage. The most popular option for moving between cities in the region is the Tri-Rail trains, which connect the station to the Miami and Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood airports. The platform has convenient crossings, and trains run regularly.
If you are travelling from the city centre, you can use the Broward County Transit (BCT) buses. Route No. 22 stops in the immediate vicinity of the station, and Route No. 81 also passes nearby. A trip by taxi or via Uber/Lyft services from the beach area or downtown will take about 15–20 minutes, which is the most comfortable option if you have heavy suitcases.
Walking to the station is not recommended, as it is located at a distance from the main tourist zones and is separated by busy highways. Parking is provided for motorists; however, it is advisable to check the availability of spaces and rates for long-term parking in advance.
Services and Amenities
At Fort Lauderdale Station, passengers are provided with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their trip. Inside the building, there is a spacious air-conditioned waiting hall with seating, which is especially important in the hot Florida climate. For ticket purchases, there are Amtrak counters (with live agents) and self-service kiosks for Tri-Rail trains.
Amenities also include clean restrooms and drinking water fountains. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi (AmtrakConnect service) to stay connected. For those travelling with a large amount of luggage, baggage check-in services are provided (only for specific Amtrak trains). The building and platforms are adapted for people with disabilities: there are elevators for crossing between tracks and ramps.
Where to Eat
Dining options directly at the station itself are limited. There are no full-service restaurants or cafes with hot cuisine here. In the waiting hall, there are vending machines where you can buy water, soft drinks, chips, or chocolate bars for a quick snack. The average cost here is minimal—just a few dollars.
If you have time before your train departs, it is better to eat beforehand in the city. The nearest establishments are located at some distance, and it is more convenient to reach them by car than on foot. Experienced travellers recommend bringing sandwiches or coffee with you, especially if a long journey lies ahead, although Amtrak long-distance trains usually feature a dining car or café service.
Station History
The current Fort Lauderdale station building was opened to passengers in January 2002. It replaced the old station, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger flow and modern comfort requirements. The construction of the new terminal became an important stage in the development of South Florida's transport infrastructure, uniting the national carrier and regional lines under one roof.
The architecture of the station is executed in the Mediterranean Revival style, with a characteristic tiled roof and light-coloured walls, which harmoniously fits it into the city's landscape. Since its opening, the station has played a key role in ensuring the mobility of Broward County residents, providing an alternative to car transport on the busy I-95 highway.
Tips for Passengers
When planning a trip via Fort Lauderdale Station, it is recommended to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the train departs, especially if you need to check in luggage or buy a ticket at the counter. The boarding procedure here is simpler than at an airport but requires attention: ensure you are standing on the correct platform (Northbound or Southbound).
For passenger safety, video surveillance is in operation at the station, and security guards are on duty in the evening. If you have a night wait, it is better to stay inside the lit waiting hall. Be sure to keep your identification documents with you, as conductors check them along with the ticket upon boarding. If you plan to transfer to Tri-Rail, keep your ticket until the end of the trip, as fare zones may be checked by inspectors.