Finding parking for a concert at Amway Center in downtown Orlando can be a bit tricky, as there are limited parking options right at the venue itself. However, with a bit of planning and preparation, you can secure parking close by at a reasonable rate. Here are some tips and options for where to park for a concert at Amway Center.
Parking at Amway Center
There are only about 1,200 parking spaces available in the parking garages at Amway Center itself. These spots are reserved for premium ticket holders, certain levels of Orlando Magic season ticket holders, and participants in the Magic Money program. If you don’t fall into one of these categories, parking on-site is not an option.
Nearby Parking Garages
If you want guaranteed close parking, your best bet is to reserve a spot in advance at one of the many parking garages within a few blocks of Amway Center. Prices and availability vary, so booking early is recommended. Some options to consider include:
- GEICO Garage – Directly across the street on West Church Street
- Centroplex Garage – Connected to Amway Center, entrance on Terry Ave
- City Commons Garage – 2 blocks away on North Orange Ave
- 55 West Garage – 3 blocks away on West Jackson St
Most concert goers can expect to pay anywhere from $10-$20 for garage parking within a 5-10 minute walk of the arena. Be sure to factor this cost in when buying your concert tickets. Some people find it more affordable to park further away and use rideshare or public transportation.
Street Parking
If you don’t mind searching for a spot, on-street parking is available on many surface streets near Amway Center. This option does involve a bit of luck and timing to find an open spot, and having to walk several blocks. Rates vary from $1 per hour up to a $10-15 maximum for evening events. Some streets to watch for parking include:
- West Church Street
- South Street
- Terry Avenue
- Central Boulevard
- North Orange Avenue
Be sure to pay close attention to parking signs in this area, as many spots have a 2 or 3 hour limit without a special event permit. Getting towed or ticketed could make for an expensive night.
Where to Avoid Parking
When searching for concert parking near Amway Center, there are a few places you’ll want to avoid:
- Residential streets in the Parramore neighborhood – You’ll risk being towed
- Off-street surface lots charging less than $10 – These are often unofficial lots without proper permits
- Metered street parking without paying – Parking enforcement is heavy on event nights
- I-4 exit ramps – These areas are designated for rideshare pick-up
Stick to reputable garages, official city streets, and be wary of parking offers that seem too good to be true. Planning ahead and allowing enough time to find parking is key.
Getting to Amway Center
Once you’ve parked, you’ll need to make your way to the arena entrance. Give yourself at least 15-20 minutes walking time, longer if you parked farther away. Here are some tips for navigating to and from parking to Amway Center:
- Follow pedestrian signs and guides posted around downtown
- Use the overhead walkways whenever possible, especially crossing I-4
- Watch for pre- and post-event crowds along Church Street
- Have your parking location pinned on maps to find your way back
- Consider rideshare or pedicabs if walking long distances
For most garages and street parking you can expect around a 1/2 mile walk, which takes 10-15 minutes at a moderate pace. The route is flat and straightforward, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Public Transportation to Amway Center
If you don’t want to deal with downtown parking, using public transportation to get to events at Amway Center is a convenient option:
LYNX Bus System
- Several routes stop near Amway Center
- Link 10, Link 11, Link 31 are most direct
- Single ride fare is $2, day pass is $5
- Drops off on Division Ave, Church St, or Central Blvd
SunRail Train
- Church Street Station is 2 blocks away
- Northbound trains arrive 2 hours before event
- Southbound trains depart 20 minutes after event ends
- Fare is $2 to $6 depending on distance traveled
Public transportation provides an affordable and hassle-free option for Amway Center concerts and events if you live along the bus or rail routes. Be sure to check schedules and give yourself plenty of extra time.
Rideshare Services at Amway Center
Using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi can be a convenient way to get dropped off right at the entrance of Amway Center without having to park. Here are some tips for rideshare at the arena:
- Designated rideshare pickup and dropoff zone is on Division Ave
- Request your return ride before the event ends to avoid surge pricing
- Splitting a ride with friends can make it very affordable
- Traffic leaving downtown is heavy so expect some delay
Ridesharing works best when you plan ahead and communicate with your driver. Be very clear on the exact pickup location to connect after the show.
Where to Park for Other Downtown Venues
In addition to Amway Center, downtown Orlando has a number of other major event venues and parking tips:
Camping World Stadium Parking
- Limited parking in lots surrounding stadium
- Many use Church Street Station and SunRail
- Free shuttles provided from downtown bars and hotels
- Allow extra time due to pedestrian traffic on game days
Dr. Phillips Center Parking
- Parking garage attached to venue
- Nearby street parking and City Commons garage
- Drop-off zone on Anderson Street
- Validation available for paid parking
Amway Center Concert Parking Tips
- Reserve parking in advance whenever possible
- Arrive early to get a good street parking spot
- Check all signs and restrictions carefully
- Carpool or use public transit to save money
- Have a backup plan if your first lot is full
Knowing where to park for a concert, show, or game in downtown Orlando takes some research and planning. Following these tips will help you choose the best options getting to and from Amway Center and other major venues conveniently and affordably.
Conclusion
Parking for major events in downtown Orlando can be challenging due to limited space and high demand. When seeing a concert at Amway Center, you’ll need to plan ahead by reserving a guaranteed garage spot, allowing extra time to find street parking, or using public transportation or rideshare. Avoid unauthorized lots and beware of restrictions and time limits throughout downtown. Give yourself plenty of walking time from your parking spot to the arena entrance and back. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy your concert without parking headaches.