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Miami Airport (MIA) Traveler’s Guide

Front entrance of Miami Airport

Revitalize your Miami Airport (MIA) travel experience with our comprehensive guide. Whether you are a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, this guide will ensure you’re well-equipped to make the most of your time at MIA. Explore everything from terminal insights and gate details to parking options, dining, and even catching some rest during layovers. Join us in unraveling the secrets to a smooth journey through this bustling gateway.

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Updated 2023 Miami Airport Information

FeatureNew 2023
Location2100 NW 42nd Ave., Miami, FL 33142
Distance from downtown MiamiApproximately 8 miles (13 km)
Terminals4 terminals: North, Central, South, and Midfield
Concourses7 concourses: D, E, F, G, H, J, and K
Number of daily flightsOver 1,200
Destinations served74 domestic, 102 international
WebsiteMiami International Airport: https://www.miami-airport.com/
Phone number305-876-7000
Table: Updated 2023 Miami Airport Information

Updates

  • The number of daily flights has increased to over 1,200.
  • The airport has added a new terminal, the Midfield Terminal, which opened in 2022. 
  • The airport has also added a new concourse, Concourse K, located in the Midfield Terminal.
Teacher Catalina At Miami International Airport
Me, Teacher Catalina, at Miami Airport, Waiting for my flight to Ecuador

Amenities available at the Miami Airport (MIA)

  • Wi-Fi: Free and unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
  • Charging stations: There are many charging stations available throughout the airport, including in the terminals, concourses, and security checkpoints.
  • Luggage storage: There are several luggage storage facilities located at the airport, both inside and outside of the security checkpoints.
  • Rest areas: There are several rest areas located throughout the airport, including quiet rooms, napping areas, and family rooms.
  • Nursing rooms: There are several nursing rooms located throughout the airport, both pre- and post-security.
  • Airport lounges: There are several airport lounges available for passengers to use, either for free or for a fee. These lounges offer a variety of amenities, such as free food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
  • Disabled facilities: The airport is wheelchair accessible and has a number of amenities for disabled travelers, such as accessible restrooms, elevators, and ramps.
  • Pet relief areas: There are two pet relief areas located outside of the airport, one in the Main Terminal and one in the South Terminal.

Restaurants at Miami Airport and Their Google Rating, Location, and opening times.

Miami International Airport (MIA) is a large and busy airport with over 80 million passengers yearly. With so many people coming and going, it’s no surprise that there are a variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from quick snacks to fine dining.

Here are a few of the most popular restaurants at MIA, along with their Google rating, location, and opening times:

  • Beaudevin is a sleek airport wine bar serving Mediterranean bites, plus breakfast options like artisanal bagels. It has a 4.2-star rating on Google, is located in Concourse D, and is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
  • Air Margaritaville Miami is a restaurant and bar serving cocktails and American comfort food favorites. It has a 3.4-star rating on Google, is located in Concourse E, and is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
  • Gilbert’s Food Bar is a pre-security restaurant with sandwiches, baked goods, and snacks. It has a 4.5-star rating on Google, is located in South Terminal J, and is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
  • Cafe Versailles is a Cuban restaurant serving classic Cuban fare like sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. It has a 4.5-star rating on Google, is located in Terminal F, and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

These are just a few of the many restaurants at MIA. Whether looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you will find something to your taste. Check the table below to find all of them. 

RestaurantTerminalConcourseGoogle RatingNumber of RatingsOpening Times
BeaudevinNorthD 244.21,200+5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Chili’s Grill & BarConcourse GFoodcourt4.13,000+6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Air Margaritaville MiamiHotel Le Jeune Rd, Concourse E 2nd Floor, NW 20th StTerminal E3.4500+11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Wolfgang Puck Bar & GrillConcourse DTerminal4.31,000+6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
La Pausa RestaurantH-J ConnectorTerminal J2100+6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The CounterConcourse HTerminal4.11,500+6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
StarbucksConcourse FFoodcourt4.35,000+5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Shake ShackConcourse JFoodcourt4.31,000+5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Dunkin’Concourse GFoodcourt4.12,000+5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Burger KingConcourse EFoodcourt3.91,000+5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
SubwayConcourse DFoodcourt4.22,000+5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Table: Restaurants at Miami Airport and Their Google Rating, Location, and opening times

Shops at Miami Airport and their Locations and opening times.

Encounter a range of shopping options at Miami Airport, though experiences may vary. The airport’s shopping scene caters to different preferences, from pricey fashion outlets showcasing the latest styles to duty-free stores claiming deals on luxury goods. Engage in retail therapy at recognizable brand stores, hunt for souvenirs in local artisan stalls, and navigate several convenience shops for travel necessities. Whether you’re seeking upscale items or rushed purchases, the shops at Miami Airport offer a pre-flight shopping encounter.

ShopGoogle RatingNumber of RatingsLocationOpening Times
Aelia Duty-Free4.415,000+All concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
The Florida Panther Club4.3500+North Terminal, Concourse D5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
The Market by Wolfgang Puck4.51,000+North Terminal, Concourse D5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
MIA Duty Free4.51,000+Midfield Terminal, Concourse K5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Hudson News4.310,000+North, Central, South Terminals, all concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
News & Gifts4.25,000+North, Central, South Terminals, all concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
TUI Travel Shop4.2500+North Terminal, Concourse D5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Victoria’s Secret4.11,000+North Terminal, Concourse D6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunglass Hut4.25,000+North, Central, South Terminals, all concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Foot Locker4.21,000+North, Central, South Terminals, all concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
MAC Cosmetics4.51,000+North, Central, South Terminals, all concourses5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Table: Shops at Miami Airport and their Locations and opening times.

Miami Airport parking

There are several parking options available at Miami International Airport (MIA). The rates vary depending on the location and length of stay.

  • Dolphin Garage: This garage is located near the North Terminal and serves Concourses D and E. The daily rate is $25 for the first 24 hours and $17 per day thereafter.
  • Flamingo Garage: This garage is located near the Central Terminal and serves Concourses F and G. The daily rate is $25 for the first 24 hours and $17 per day thereafter.
  • Economy Lot: This lot is about 2 miles from the airport and offers free shuttle service to the terminals. The daily rate is $10 per day.
  • Off-airport parking: Several off-airport parking facilities offer lower rates than the airport garages. These facilities typically offer shuttle service to the terminals. Check out airportparking.com to compare rates and find the best price.

Here is a table of the parking rates at MIA:

Parking LocationDaily Rate
Dolphin Garage$25 for the first 24 hours, then $17 per day
Flamingo Garage$25 for the first 24 hours, then $17 per day
Economy Lot$10 per day
Off-airport parkingVaries
Table: Miami Airport Parking Prices

Compare the different Car Rental companies to find the best one below.

Miami Airport map, which includes restaurant and bathroom locations,  

Miami Airport map, Map includes restaurant & Bathroom locations

How many gates are there at the Miami Airport

MIA accommodates 131 gates, with the North Concourse (D) being the most extensive, housing 51 gates serving international and domestic airlines. The Central Concourse (E) is dedicated to domestic airlines and features 18 gates. Meanwhile, the Satellite Concourse caters to international airlines with its 14 gates. The South Concourse (F) offers 19 international and domestic airline gates. Concourse H also has 13 gates for domestic airlines, while Concourse J provides 15 for international airlines.

ConcourseNumber of Gates
North (D)51
Central (E)18
Satellite14
South (F)19
H13
J15
Table: with gates at the Miami Airport

Miami Airport Gates map

map with the Gates at the Miami Airport

How early do I need to be at the Miami Airport

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving at Miami International Airport (MIA) at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off your bags, go through security, and find your gate.

However, the time you need to arrive at the airport will vary depending on several factors, such as:

  • The time of day you are flying. The busiest times at MIA are early morning and late afternoon/evening.
  • The day of the week you are flying. Weekends are typically busier than weekdays.
  • The time of year you are flying. Holidays and peak travel seasons are busier.
  • Your airline. Some airlines have stricter security requirements than others.
  • Your personal circumstances. If traveling with young children or elderly passengers, you may need to allow more time.

Check out the MIA Airport Website: Security Checkpoint Wait Times

It is always a good idea to check with your airline for their specific recommendations for arriving early at the airport.

Here are some tips for arriving at the airport on time:

  • Check-in online or use a mobile boarding pass to avoid waiting at the check-in counter.
  • Pack light so you can move through security quickly.
  • Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, even if you are not checking any bags.
  • Be familiar with the airport layout so you can quickly find your way to your gate.
  • Bring snacks and activities to keep them occupied when traveling with young children.

Following these tips, you can arrive at the Miami Airport on time and avoid stress or delays.

Is there a free shuttle at the Miami Airport

Yes, a free shuttle at Miami International Airport (MIA) exists. The MIA Mover is a free, elevated people mover system that connects the airport’s terminals and parking garages. It runs seven days a week.

The MIA Mover has three stations:

  • Central Terminal Station: This is the main station located in the center of the airport.
  • Rental Car Center Station: This station is at the Rental Car Center.
  • Miami Airport Station: This station is located at the Miami Airport Station, connected to the Metrorail and Metromover.

The MIA Mover is a convenient way to get around the airport, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with small children. Getting to the Rental Car Center or the Miami Airport Station is also free.

Some other transportation options are available at MIA:

  • Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport’s taxi stand. The fare to downtown Miami is around $30.
  • Uber: Uber is a popular ride-hailing service available at MIA. The fare to downtown Miami is around $25.
  • Lyft: Lyft is another popular ride-hailing service available at MIA. The fare to downtown Miami is around $25.
  • Rental car: There are several car rental companies located at MIA. The cost of a rental car will vary depending on the type of car you rent and the length of your rental. 

What rental car companies are at the Miami Airport 

CompanyOpening TimesGoogle Rating
Alamo24/74.3
Avis5:00 AM to 11:59 PM3.2
Budget5:00 AM to 1:00 AM2.7
Dollar5:00 AM to 1:00 AM3.9
Enterprise5:00 AM to 11:59 PM4.3
Hertz5:00 AM to 3:00 AM3.7
National5:00 AM to 3:00 AM4.4
Payless5:00 AM to 11:59 PM3.4
Thrifty5:00 AM to 2:00 AM2.8
SIXT5:00 AM to 3:00 AM4.0
Table: Rental car companies are at the Miami Airport

Check out our 6 Best Car Rental Companies at Miami International Airport

Compare the different Car Rental companies to find the best one below.

Where to change your baby at Miami Airport 

There are several places to change your baby at Miami International Airport (MIA). Here are a few options:

  • Nursing Suites: Two nursing suites are in the airport, one in each of the North (D) and Central (E) concourses. These suites are private rooms with a changing table, sink, and comfortable seating.
  • Family Restrooms: There are family restrooms located throughout the airport. These restrooms have a changing table and a sink.
  • Restrooms: Most restrooms in the airport have a changing table. 
  • Airport Lounges: If you are a member of an airport lounge, you can change your baby in the lounge’s private restroom.

Best place to sleep at the Miami Airport

There are a few places to sleep at Miami International Airport (MIA), but the best option will depend on your budget and preferences.

  • MIA Hotel: The MIA Hotel is located inside the airport terminal (concourse E) in the departures area. It offers rooms for rent by the hour or overnight. Amenities include soundproofed rooms, blackout curtains, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, and modern in-room amenities.
  • Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel: The Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel is located just outside the airport, a short walk or shuttle ride away. It offers a variety of room types, including suites and rooms with airport views. Amenities include a fitness center, pool, and restaurant. 
  • Sleeping in the Airport Lounges: If you are a member of an airport lounge, you can sleep in the lounge’s comfortable seating area. However, most lounges have limited capacity and may not be available for overnight stays.

If you are on a tight budget, you can also try sleeping in one of the airport’s many chairs or benches. However, this is not the most comfortable option, and you may be interrupted by noise or other passengers.

No matter where you sleep at MIA, it is important to know the airport’s rules and regulations. For example, sleeping in the security checkpoints or in front of the gates is not allowed.

Does the Miami Airport have sleeping pots? 

No, Miami International Airport (MIA) does not have sleeping pods for passengers. However, there are a few other options for resting and sleeping within the airport:

  • Lounge chairs: Many lounge chairs are located throughout the airport. These chairs are not designed for sleeping but can be used for a short nap.
  • Airport hotels: Several hotels, including the MIA and Sheraton Miami Airport hotels, are inside the airport. These hotels offer rooms for rent by the hour or overnight.

Where can I charge my phone at Miami Airport? 

You can charge your phone at Miami International Airport (MIA) in several places. Here are a few options:

  • Power outlets: There are power outlets throughout the airport, including in the concourses, terminals, and restrooms.
  • Airport lounges: If you are a member of an airport lounge, you can charge your phone in the lounge’s private power outlets.
  • Tech stores: Several tech stores are located in the airport, such as Apple Store and Samsung. These stores usually have power outlets to charge your phone for free.
  • Charging stations: A few charging stations are located throughout the airport. These stations typically have multiple power outlets and may also have USB ports.

Miami Airport: Airport lounge & opening hours and price for each lounge

LoungeLocationOpening HoursAverage price PriceFree for members of
Centurion LoungeConcourse D, near Gate D125:00 AM to 10:00 PM$50American Express Platinum Cardholders, Centurion Cardholders, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Cardholders, and Delta SkyTeam Elite Plus members
American Airlines Admirals Club | Concourse Dnear Gate D155:00 AM to 11:00 PMN/AFree for American Airlines Flagship members
LATAM VIP LoungeConcourse D, across from Gate D126:00 AM to 12:00 AM$39LATAM Pass Elite members
Priority Pass LoungeConcourse E, near Gate E15:30 AM to 10:30 PM$32Priority Pass members
United ClubConcourse F, near Gate F155:00 AM to 11:00 PMN/AFree for United Club members
Table: Miami Airport: Airport lounge & opening hours and price for each lounge

Can I exchange money at the Miami Airport?

You can exchange money at Miami International Airport (MIA). There are several currency exchange bureaus located throughout the airport.

Here are a few of the currency exchange bureaus at MIA:

  • ICE International Currency Exchange: Located in Concourse D, near Gate D19. Open 24 hours a day
  • Lenlyn Group: Located in the Meeter/Greeter lobby. Open 24 hours a day.
  • International Currency Exchange: Located in Concourse H. Open 9 AM to 3 PM.

The exchange rates at currency exchange bureaus can vary, so comparing rates before you exchange your money is a good idea. You can exchange money at banks, but the hours may be limited.

Check out my page about money and travel for more information about exchanging money: Money & Travel