Ridership on Miami-Dade County’s public transportation system jumped significantly on Saturday, April 4, as more than 2,000 fans used Metrorail and Metrobus to attend Inter Miami CF’s inaugural match at Miami Freedom Park’s Nu Stadium.
Officials reported that the Miami International Airport Station — the closest public transit hub to the stadium — recorded a same-day Metrorail ridership increase of more than 150% compared with the previous year and over 170% compared with the April 2025 daily average. The surge extended across the system, with overall Metrorail ridership rising by more than 16% compared to the April 2025 average.
Daniella Levine Cava, mayor of Miami-Dade County, said the event demonstrated the importance of reliable public transit in supporting major regional events and community growth.
“The excitement surrounding Inter Miami’s first real home game brought incredible energy to our community, and it’s great to see so many residents and visitors choosing public transit as part of that celebration,” Levine Cava said. She added that Miami-Dade’s transportation system — the 10th largest in the United States — plays a key role in reducing congestion and improving the overall experience for fans traveling to major events.
Metrobus routes serving the stadium area also recorded increased usage. Route 37 experienced approximately a 10% rise in ridership compared to the previous year, while Route 150, which connects Miami Beach to Miami International Airport, saw a slight uptick in passengers.
Stacy L. Miller, director of the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works, said the event showcased the system’s readiness to handle large crowds.
“Saturday night was a great reminder of just how ready our system is,” Miller said. “What excites me most isn’t just the ridership spike; it’s the thousands of first-time riders who experienced our system and discovered how it can work for them.”
Inter Miami CF is also encouraging fans to use public transit by offering a $10 food and beverage credit to those who travel to games using the system. With 17 events already scheduled at the stadium in the coming months, officials expect ridership to remain strong.
The club’s next home game is scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.
On game days, Metrorail trains will run to the Miami International Airport Station approximately every 15 minutes, with the last Orange Line trains departing at midnight. Officials noted that Metrorail also provides a convenient option for travelers heading to Miami International Airport, allowing them to bypass heavy game-day traffic.
Fares for both Metrorail and Metrobus are $2.25 per ride or $5.65 for a one-day pass. Officials encouraged fans to use public transit for upcoming events at Miami Freedom Park.
