What to do about Tampa to Miami/traffic/drive

[tbmrt]

Since we have to drop our dog off at petsitter and cannot do so until 10:30 AM if we drive straight to Miami the day before our cruise that will put us there about 3:30 on a Thursday. Dread Miami traffic.  Should we plan on getting there at 3:30 or leaving Tampa/arriving Miami later?  

 

Thinking of staying in a park/cruise hotel but taking Uber instead of free shuttle. 

 

I've read that the LaQuinta Inn Miami Airport East is OK.  Has anyone done that?  

 

Other suggestions appreciated.

 

 

[JohninDC]

LQ East is somewhat isolated, but since you will have a car you are not limited to delivery pizza.  Hampton Inn Blue Lagoon gets better reviews.

[hrhdhd]

You'll have to deal with Miami traffic anyway, so just get there when you get there. 🤷 Agree with above that HIBL is better choice.

[Rothko1]

If you're getting into Miami around 3:30, the traffic shouldn't be too bad.  The rush hour out of Miami won't have started yet.

[Flymia]

3:30 won't be that bad, especially heading into Miami. Most of the traffic in the afternoon is heading away from Downtown/Brickell. I would not over think this. Even if you do get traffic so what, a 20-min delay? 

 

As for where to stay. Up to you. You could park at the port and enjoy staying in Downtown/Brickell area instead. 

[BoozinCroozin]

Since you have zero control of traffic, just grin and bear it. Miami traffic will be what it will be. 3:30PM won't be as bad as 4:30-6PM. Just go with it and see.