Is there a train from Palm Beach Gardens to Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, Brightline operates a high-speed train from the nearby West Palm Beach station.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 50 miles and takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, the Florida Turnpike and certain I-95 express lanes require tolls.

What is the best way to travel?

Brightline is the most comfortable, while driving offers the most flexibility.

Yes, Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout both cities.

Palm Beach Gardens

Fort Lauderdale

Train Driving

Palm Beach Gardens to Fort Lauderdale

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey covers approximately 50 miles along the Atlantic coast of Florida. You can drive via I-95 South, which typically takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic congestion near West Palm Beach. Alternatively, the Brightline high-speed train offers a seamless connection from the West Palm Beach station to downtown Fort Lauderdale. This route is a primary artery for South Florida commuters and tourists alike. Expect heavy traffic during morning and evening rush hours on the interstate.

Total Distance: 80 km driving distance; 75 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Brightline train is the fastest, taking only 40 minutes station-to-station.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest if you have your own vehicle, costing roughly $12 in fuel and tolls.

Compare Palm Beach Gardens to Fort Lauderdale Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	40 mins	1 hour 10 mins
Avg Price	$15-$30	$10-$15 in fuel
Operator	Brightline	Personal Vehicle
Route	West Palm Beach Station to Fort Lauderdale Station.	I-95 South to exit 27 for Broward Blvd.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via the Brightline app for the lowest fares.	Use the SunPass transponder to pay tolls electronically and save time.

Travel Tips

Traffic Awareness
Avoid I-95 between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM to bypass heavy commuter congestion.
Parking
Use the ParkMobile app to find and pay for parking in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Train Booking
Always book Brightline tickets at least two weeks early to secure the best pricing.
Weather
Keep an umbrella handy as sudden afternoon thunderstorms are common in South Florida.
Connectivity
Brightline trains offer free high-speed Wi-Fi, making it ideal for working while traveling.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Stay alert for aggressive drivers on I-95, especially during peak hours.
Pedestrian Safety
Use designated crosswalks on Las Olas Boulevard as traffic can be fast-moving.
Emergency
Dial 511 for real-time Florida traffic and road condition updates.
Sun Protection
Wear high-SPF sunscreen even on cloudy days to prevent skin damage.