Guide to Watching Orlando Magic Games at Amway Center
Orlando, Florida, is a city known for its magic—not just the enchantment of Disney World, but also the thrilling basketball games of the Orlando Magic, hosted at the state-of-the-art Amway Center. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for an evening of high-energy sports entertainment, a visit to the Amway Center is a must. In this guide, we'll navigate you through the best ways to get there, park your car, or use public transportation for a hassle-free game day experience.
Driving to Amway Center
Nestled in the heart of downtown Orlando, the Amway Center is conveniently located off of I-4 and the East-West Expressway (SR 408), making it accessible from all directions. If you're driving, the first step is to set your GPS for the Amway Center, located at 400 W Church St #200, Orlando, FL 32801. Coming from the north or south, you'll want to take I-4 and exit at South Street (82A), make a slight left onto Garland Ave, and then turn left onto Central Blvd before reaching Church St. From the East or West, SR 408 provides a direct route, exiting onto Rosalind Ave, and turning right onto Church St.
Remember that game nights often mean heavy traffic, so it's wise to head out early. This allows you to beat the crowds and perhaps enjoy a pre-game meal or stroll around the vibrant downtown district.
Parking at Amway Center
Finding parking at Amway Center is less of a challenge and more of a slam dunk if you know where to look. The center itself offers multiple parking options in the form of its Geico Garage and Church Street Garage, linked to the arena by an elevated walkway. These garages typically open two hours before event time, and pre-paid parking can save you the stress of searching for a spot when you arrive.
Additionally, downtown Orlando offers numerous public parking lots and garages within walking distance of the arena. Prices vary, but purchasing a parking pass ahead of time for one of the official lots is recommended. You can find up-to-date information and reserve your parking space at the City of Orlando's official website (Orlando's Parking Information).
Public Transportation to Amway Center
If you prefer to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, public transportation is a reliable and eco-friendly option. The LYNX bus service is Orlando's comprehensive public transit system, and several routes will drop you within walking proximity to the Amway Center. Specifically, you might look for LYNX Central Station (LCS), which is a short walk from the arena. You can plan your bus trip using the LYNX Trip Planner (LYNX Trip Planner) to ensure you time your journey just right.
Another cool way to reach the arena is via the SunRail, Central Florida's commuter rail system. The Church Street Station is just a couple of blocks away from Amway Center. SunRail offers special late-night trains for select Magic games, so be sure to check the SunRail schedule (SunRail Schedule) for any changes on game days.
Tips and Tricks
- Arrive Early: Beat the rush, soak in the atmosphere, and perhaps catch the pre-game warm-ups.
- Mobile Tickets: Ensure you have your mobile tickets downloaded and ready for a seamless entry.
- Clear Bag Policy: Like many venues, Amway Center has a clear bag policy in place. Check the website for specifics to avoid any entrance delays.
- App & Wi-Fi: Download the official Orlando Magic app for real-time updates and take advantage of the Amway Center's free Wi-Fi to stay connected.
Wrap-Up
Watching an Orlando Magic game at the Amway Center is a must-do for sports enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you're coming from near or far, driving or using public transportation, a little planning goes a long way in guaranteeing a fantastic time. From the minute you step into the electrifying atmosphere of the arena to the final buzzer, you're sure to make magical memories that last a lifetime.
For more information, visit the official Orlando Magic website (Orlando Magic Official) and the Amway Center's homepage (Amway Center). Now, with these tips in hand, you're all set for a slam dunk Orlando Magic game day experience! Go Magic!