There are so many amazing places to explore in South Florida – Miami is one of our favorites. Driving to and from can get exhausting. Traffic, not being a huge fan of driving (me!), and unforeseen accidents are just some of the culprits.
When I was invited to experience the Select car on the Brightline, I jumped at the opportunity. R and I love to spend time in Miami. Whether it is checking out a great place to eat or perusing the street art or museum, we look forward to our dates.
BRIGHTLINE STATION IN WEST PALM BEACH
We arrived about 20 minutes before our scheduled departure to Miami. There was ample parking in the covered parking garage.
NOTE: If you travel the Brightline Select service, parking is complimentary. Otherwise, it is only $6 for the day.
We worked our way up to the Select Lounge, passing through security and then super fast ticket redemption area. I don’t believe I passed one Brightline employee that didn’t smile and say “Good Morning”.
Once inside the lounge, we were able to unwind a bit with some complimentary coffee. They also offer tea, bottled water, wine, beer, and snacks.
ALL ABOARD – THE TRAVELING EXPERIENCE
The fact that we were going to go to Miami and didn’t have to drive was exciting, but to be traveling in luxury was even more exciting!
Once the train departed West Palm Beach, we were given wet towels to wipe our hands (nice touch!) and then offered complimentary beverages – coffee (hot or Starbucks Frappuccino), tea, water (still or sparkling), amongst a handful other options. It was a bit early for wine or beer so I opted for a sparkling water and OJ. Snacks were next – a croissant for me, KIND bar for the Mr.
NOTE: If you travel in the SMART class/car, food and beverages are available for purchase. SmartPLUS offers everything that SMART does, with one complimentary beverage and snack.
With a push of a button, you can stretch out a bit more to enjoy complimentary magazines and newspapers available. I had to get some work done, so I took advantage of the free WiFi and desk/table right in front of me.
Pop up electrical outlets are at each seat which is super important when you’re on the go and need to charge up your phone or laptop!
First stop was Fort Lauderdale – just minutes walking from the Museum of Discovery and Science and IMAX theater!
DESTINATION MIAMI
We dedicated the day to enjoying the Perez Art Museum and lunch at Pubbelly – both within walking distance from the Miami station. There is actually so much to do within walking distance.
The American Airlines Arena is literally 5 minutes away – we are definitely taking the Brightline to the next AAA event we go to! The fact that we would avoid the traffic and costly parking makes it a no-brainer!
THE RIDE HOME
After a fulfilling day of art and sushi, it was time to head home.
The hour ride was the perfect amount of time for me to get back to my clients’ emails and check some items off my to-do list!
NOTE: The bathrooms are SO cool and SO clean. Everything is hands-free which I love!
I also then allowed myself a glass of wine and a cheese platter to relax and unwind.
BRIGHTLINE IS THE WAY TO TRAVEL
The ease of jumping on a train that delivers me, without stress, to Fort Lauderdale or Miami is phenomenal. As we were traveling along, I thought of all the things we could do together, as a family or date night.
My boys love going to sporting events. One of the downfalls of living far from the sports arenas is how far we have to drive to get there – the traffic, looking for parking, etc.
Date nights are not only planned in our local area. We can hop on the Brightline and check out the amazing restaurants that Ft. Lauderdale and Miami have to offer without stressing about driving home late.
Local hot spots offer great discounts if you show your Brightline ticket.
The more tickets you purchase, the more you save! Brightline also has a partnership with Lyft, so if your final destination is a bit further than walking distance you will soon have the option of purchasing Lyft credits in addition to your train pass!
Wait until the Orlando station is open…amusement parks here we come! Have you ever traveled on the Brightline?
Neda Petrovic says
Great in-depth review, thank you for sharing!
Dana says
Thanks, Neda!
GiGi Eats says
Trains are such an awesome means of transportation! Los Angeles does have trains, never take them because it’s far easier to drive in this city, but in other cities – they’re ideal!
angel says
thanks for sharing this. wish we had one in our country.
Dana says
Maybe one day it will go worldwide!
MAYSZ says
Love this train. Looks amazing perfect for travel!
kylie cre8tone says
indeed super comfy… I’ll put brightline in mind when i travel there… looks great…
Geraline Batarra says
Wow, sounds like you have a wonderful trip with Brightline. The train looks really neat and looks very comfortable.
Dana says
It was very comfy – making the one hour ride super enjoyable!
The Tale of Mummyhood says
It does look very luxurious, not like our standard service here in the UK!
Dana says
It is like no other train I have ever seen!
Maartje van Sandwijk says
Great review! Looks like an amazing train to take! Wish we had them in England…
Dana says
Thank you Maartje! Maybe they will come to England in the future!
Megan says
I’ve never heard of Brightline but this is interesting! I’ll keep it in mind 🙂
Kathy says
This does look like a great way to travel. Looks so amazing on the inside! I’d certainly travel this way too.
Dana says
Kathy, it was awesome. I am so excited to plan our next Miami trip!
Joanna says
I do like to take the train as well, there is no way I would drive in a busy city. It is worth paying extra to enjoy the perks of the Select car.
Candy says
Trains have come a long way and are fun to travel on. This one is luxury all the way.
Heather McMechan says
We love taking the Brightline. It’s so fun and fast. I’ve been to Fort Lauderdale and Miami. It’s a bucket list must.
Preet says
What a fun and a great experience you had. I would love t try traveling riding on a train. Looks so exciting.
Lynsey says
Looks like a luxurious way to travel, I’ll keep this in mind!
Tasheena says
This is my first time learning about Brightline. Thanks for sharing! I have to look into using this service for my travels.
Sue-Tanya Mchorgh says
I have never heard of Brightline before but I am definitely interested.
rika says
I have never traveled to Brightline. I love travelling with train. The train looks so comfy and clean
Michelle says
We were just in Miami a week ago. I wish I knew about Brightline then!
Dana says
Bummer! Definitely try to incorporate Brightline into your Miami trip next time, Michelle!
Maggie says
This is a great idea. Thanks for the in-depth review.
Tosha says
I’ve never traveled on a train yet but on my bucket list. Looks comfy and nice to travel.
Dana says
It is the best way to travel, Tosha. So comfortable, and super clean too!
Diana Tidswell says
Sounds like you have a great experience riding in a Brightline train. The train looks so neat and very comfortable.
Dana says
It is super neat, Diana! The best train experience I’ve ever had.