I have a 19 hour layover in Miami.

Question

Hi, I’m a college student traveling via Miami to go to Costa Rica on spring break for a research trip. I’m taking the Brightline train from Orlando and my train arrives in Miami at 10:20 PM. My flight is the next day at 5:44 PM. I was thinking of just crashing in the airport in a lounge, but however, since I’m flying American Airlines, the lounge opens at five so I have about six hours with nothing to do and I really don’t wanna book a hotel just for that. I am a single woman traveling alone, so please keep that in mind. I plan to sleep on the train and on my flight so sleep shouldn’t really be that much of an issue.

Answer

A 19-hour layover in Miami gives you plenty of time to explore the city a bit, even as a solo traveler, without needing to book a hotel for just the night. Since your Brightline train arrives late at 10:20 PM, you’ll likely want to stay near the airport initially for safety and convenience, but the next day you can enjoy some daytime activities before your 5:44 PM flight.

Here are some options to make your layover comfortable and interesting:

Airport Overnight Options: Since you arrive late, consider using Miami International Airport’s lounges or sleeping areas. The American Airlines Admirals Club opens at 5 AM, but you can still stay in well-lit, safer areas near gates. Some travelers use recliners in airport hotels connected to the terminals (like the Miami International Airport Hotel) for a few hours if needed.
Morning Coffee & Breakfast: After your overnight, you could walk to nearby cafes in the airport or take a short Uber/Lyft ride to Miami Beach or Brickell for a nice breakfast and to stretch your legs.
Daytime Activities in Miami: With your layover schedule, you have roughly 7–8 hours during the day before heading to the airport. Some manageable options include:

Stroll along South Beach and Ocean Drive – iconic for first-time visitors, and perfect for people watching.
Walk through Lincoln Road Mall – pedestrian shopping street with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Visit Brickell City Centre for quick urban sightseeing, dining, and a coffee stop.
If interested in art, a short visit to Wynwood Walls offers vibrant murals and photo opportunities.
Relax at a waterfront park like Bayside Marketplace for a casual walk and views of the bay.

Practical tips for solo travelers:

Use Uber or Lyft rather than public transit to minimize time and maximize safety.
Keep your belongings close, especially at the beach or in busy areas.
Plan to return to the airport at least 2–3 hours before your international flight to Costa Rica.

Overall, your overnight will be mostly resting at the airport, but the following day gives you a nice window to experience Miami’s highlights without overcommitting, keeping safety and convenience in mind.