| Kia Center Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team(s) | Orlando Magic (NBA), Orlando Solar Bears (ECHL), Orlando Predators (NAL) |
| Opened | October 1, 2010 |
| Capacity | ~18,846 (NBA); configuration varies by event (e.g. hockey, concerts) |
| Best Value Seats | Promenade level (Sections 201, 217) & Terrace (Sections 101, 110) under $20–$30 |
| Premium Seating | Club Seats, Loge Boxes, Legends & Silver Suites, Hardwood Suites, Presidents Suites |
| Top Arena Foods | On-site Big Storm Brewery, seasonal craft vendors; club lounges serve upgraded fare |
| Nearby Bars | Church Street district and Orange Avenue nightlife—easy walk from arena |
| Closest Hotels | Aloft Orlando Downtown (~0.4 mi), Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Crowne Plaza |
| Transit Access | Church Street Metrorail station; frequent LYNX bus routes; rideshare zones and garage parking available |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Magic or concert gameday?
Use our Gameday Guides AI to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and where to stay near Kia Center.
Best Seats At The Kia Center
The Kia Center sits right in downtown Orlando, and here’s what you need to know straight away: this isn’t one of those cavernous NBA barns where the upper deck feels like you’re watching from a blimp. It’s intimate for an arena that holds nearly 20,000, the sightlines are solid from almost everywhere, and—because it’s Orlando—you’re never dealing with weather since it’s all climate-controlled. I’ve been here for both Magic games and concerts, and the venue works surprisingly well for both, though where you sit matters way more for basketball than most people realize.
Seating Guide
The bowl wraps around the court in typical NBA fashion, with lower level (100s), club level (200s), and upper level (300s) sections numbered sequentially. Seat numbering follows standard arena logic: seat 1 in any section is always closest to the lower-numbered adjacent section. So in Section 210, seat 1 is next to Section 209, not Section 211—sounds simple but I’ve watched people wander confused looking for their seats more times than I can count.
Best Regular Seats: Lower level center court (Sections 101-104 and 115-118) gives you that classic NBA broadcast angle where you can see plays develop. Rows 10 to 20 in these sections hit the sweet spot—close enough to see facial expressions and hear the game, high enough that you’re not craning your neck when the action moves to the far basket. Section 103 and 116 are dead center and typically the priciest, but 102/104 and 115/117 are nearly identical views for less money.
Best Value: Club level center sections (Sections 201 to 204, 215 to 218) offer legitimately great sightlines at a fraction of lower bowl prices. You’re elevated enough to see the entire floor, the seats are wider and more comfortable than standard, and you get access to club amenities without paying suite prices. Section 203 and 216 are your best bets for dead-center views. The tradeoff? You’re further from the action, so you miss some of the floor-level intensity, but for watching actual basketball strategy, this might be the best view in the building.
Budget Options: Upper level (300s) gets you in the door cheap, and honestly, the views aren’t bad at all. Sections 301 to 304 and 315 to 318 (center court upper) give you a bird’s-eye view that’s perfect if you care more about seeing the whole game than individual player details. Avoid the corners (305-309, 311-314) unless you’re getting a serious discount—you’ll be watching the jumbotron more than the court. First few rows of the upper deck (Rows A-F) are noticeably better than the top rows, so if you’re buying budget, aim low in the section.
Floor Seating for Concerts: Concert floor setup typically runs 7 sections, with Section 1 closest to the stage and Sections 5-7 at the back. Rows start at A in Section 1 and can go as far as AA or BB depending on the show. These are the most expensive tickets but the closest you’ll get to the stage in an arena setting.
Premium Seating
Premium at Kia Center actually delivers, especially if you’re doing this for a special occasion or client entertainment.
Club Level (200s): Club seats come with access to exclusive clubs, wider padded seats, VIP entrance, and access to Jernigan’s restaurant and North Club Bar. You’re not getting in-seat service, but the club lounges have solid food options and full bars that beat standard concessions by a mile. Best for fans who want an upgrade without committing to suite prices. Legends Suites on the club level offer all-inclusive food and beverage for Magic games in a large shared suite environment.
Loge Seating (Section F): This is the most exclusive non-suite seating in the building. Loge seats come in four-seat and six-seat private “boxes” with in-seat food service, tons of space, and real privacy—like having your own mini-suite. Orlando Magic season ticket holders get right of first refusal on these for major events, so they rarely hit resale markets. If you see them available, they’re worth it for the experience alone, but expect to pay accordingly.
Courtside (Fields Ultimate Lounge): Three rows of VIP seating right on the NBA floor with larger padded seats, VIP entrance, and in-seat wait service. Access to Fields Ultimate Lounge includes all-inclusive food and drink (though check your specific listing, as this can vary). You’re close enough to hear players talking, coaches yelling, and the squeaks of sneakers—it’s the full NBA experience. Pricing varies wildly by opponent, but expect premium dollars for premium access.
Suites: Kia Center has 62 luxury suites ranging from $2,000-$6,000 for Orlando Magic games depending on location and matchup. Concert and special event suite pricing is heavily dependent on the performer. Each suite holds 16-24 guests and includes VIP entrance, multiple seating options with leather stadium-style seats, premium food and all that stuff.
Kia Center Seating Chart
The Kia Center in Orlando has a seating capacity that varies depending on the event type:
- NCAA Basketball: 20,000
- NBA Basketball: 18,500
- Hockey/Arena Football: 17,000
- End Stage Concert: 12,000 – 17,000
Click here for an updated Seating Chart Of The Kia Center.
Tickets To Orlando Magic Games
Experience the thrill of NBA action at Orlando Magic games in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kia Center. If you’re looking for tickets to Magic games or any upcoming event at the arena, here are some ways to get tickets:
- Get Your Orlando Magic Tickets Here! Through our partnership with Vivid Seats you can get tickets to Magic games, concerts or any event at the Kia Center
- Kia Center Box Office: Visit the Kia Center Box Office in person to purchase tickets. This allows you to inquire about available seating options and receive assistance from venue staff.
- Season Ticket Packages: Consider becoming a season ticket holder for the Orlando Magic. Season ticket packages often come with perks, including priority seating, exclusive events, and potential cost savings.
- Official Website: Purchase tickets directly from the official website of the Orlando Magic or the Kia Center. This ensures authenticity and provides access to a variety of seating options.
- NBA Ticket Exchange: Utilize the NBA Ticket Exchange, an official resale marketplace for NBA tickets, where fans can buy and sell verified tickets.
- Local Retailers or Sports Bars: Some local retailers or sports bars may have partnerships with the Orlando Magic to sell tickets or offer promotions.
Remember to purchase tickets from authorized and reputable sources to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience at Orlando Magic games.
Kia Center Bag Policy
The bag policy at the Kia Center in Orlando specifies that bags are generally not allowed at events. However, guests may bring one small clutch, measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 1″ or smaller. Exceptions are made for medical and parent bags, although they will undergo X-ray screening at designated entry points to the Kia Center.
Other Policies
- Cameras:
- Non-flash, still cameras are allowed for Orlando Magic and Orlando Solar Bears games.
- Cameras with detachable lenses longer than three (3) inches are prohibited from all sporting events.
- Tripods or other photography equipment require building-issued media access.
- For other events, cameras with a detachable lens or lenses longer than three (3) inches are prohibited without a tour-issued media credential.
- Outside Food and Beverages:
- Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the arena.
- Individual exceptions for medical purposes may be considered.
- Cashless Transactions:
- The Kia Center operates on a 100% cashless system.
- Concession and merchandise sales accept payments via debit or credit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or the Orlando Magic App presented by Total by Verizon.
Kia Center Insider Tips
Orlando Market is Your Move: Skip the generic concession stands and head to Orlando Market, which gathers several local favorites in a street food-style food court setup. Orlando Table offers a similar experience but seated if you want to sit down and eat properly. The food quality is genuinely a step up from typical arena fare, and you’re supporting local spots instead of national chains.
Big Storm Brewing Co. Adjacent: There’s a Big Storm Brewing Co. location right next to the venue where you can grab drinks before heading inside. It’s a solid pre-game spot that’s less chaotic than trying to get a beer inside right before tip-off. Once inside, Bud Light Baseline Bar, O3 Bar, and The ULTRA Club are your main watering holes.
No Outside Food (Mostly): Outside food and beverages aren’t officially permitted, but enforcement seems inconsistent based on what people report—small snacks in pockets sometimes get through, and medical exceptions are granted if you contact customer service beforehand. Don’t plan on it, but also don’t stress if you’ve got a granola bar for a kid.
Seat Numbering for Concerts: Unlike sports where seat 1 is always toward the lower-numbered section, concert and theater-style setups reverse this logic—lower seat numbers are closer to the center of the stage. If you’re buying floor or lower bowl for a concert, keep this in mind so you don’t end up on the wrong aisle.
Local Culture: Orlando’s not a classic NBA city like Boston or LA, so the crowd energy varies wildly depending on the opponent and how the Magic are doing. Big matchups (Heat, Lakers, Celtics) bring out the loudest crowds, while random Tuesday games can feel subdued. The arena does a solid job manufacturing energy with the jumbotron and music, but don’t expect raucous home-court advantage every night unless it’s playoffs or a marquee game.
Getting to the Kia Center
Downtown Orlando isn’t quite as straightforward as you’d hope, but the venue is centrally located enough that most options work if you plan it right. Parking is the most common move, but you’ll pay for the convenience, and traffic around I-4 can be rough on event nights. Public transit exists and works fine if you’re already near SunRail or Lymmo routes, and rideshare is painless if you know where to get dropped.
Parking
Kia Center offers reserved pre-paid parking in the GEICO Garage (400 West South Street) and the 520 W Pine St. Garage (formerly HD Supply), which is about a 5-minute walk. You can buy parking through Ticketmaster or the box office, but it must be done by 5 PM the day before the event. Beyond official options, the City of Orlando has several downtown garages available first-come, first-served, with prices ranging from $10-$20 depending on the event.
Nearby Garage Options: Amelia St. Garage starts around $15 and is a local favorite for affordability and proximity. Plaza Parking Garage runs about $13.99, while Orlando City Commons Garage is pricier (around $22) but offers premium convenience and security. If you’re willing to walk 5-10 minutes, these off-site garages often beat official pricing and sometimes empty out faster post-event.
Parking Hack: Pre-book your parking online through ParkWhiz or similar services to lock in rates and avoid day-of price surges. Garages can change pricing on event day, especially for big games or concerts, so reserving ahead saves both money and stress. Also worth noting: I-4 construction is ongoing around downtown Orlando, so give yourself extra travel time and check the I-4 Ultimate website for road closures before you leave.
Public Transportation
Lymmo (Free Bus Rapid Transit): The Lymmo Grapefruit Line serves Kia Center directly and runs every 12 minutes during office hours, 15-16 minutes evenings and weekends. It connects Parramore, the arena, SunRail station, and Lake Eola, making it a solid option if you’re staying downtown or near any of those areas. The Lime Line also stops near the arena and runs every 20 minutes on weekdays (no weekend service). Service is completely free, which is a massive win if you’re on a budget.
SunRail: Church Street Station is the nearest SunRail stop, about a 24-minute walk from Kia Center. It’s not the most convenient option unless you’re already coming from one of the SunRail corridors north or south of downtown, but it connects well with Lymmo if you don’t want to walk the whole way. Several Lynx bus routes (15, 18, 21, 36, 40, 61) also serve the area around the arena.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare drop-off and pickup is at the corner of Hughey and Pine Street, just a short walk from the arena. It’s a designated spot that keeps things organized and avoids the chaos of everyone trying to get picked up at the main entrance. Pre-game drop-off is smooth, but post-event pickup can get congested—expect surge pricing and a bit of a wait as thousands of people request rides simultaneously. Walking a block or two away from the official pickup spot after the event often gets you a car faster and cheaper
Hotels Near The Kia Center
Staying within walking distance of the arena makes perfect sense if you’re in town specifically for an event and want to skip parking headaches or rideshare surge pricing. Downtown Orlando has been revitalized over the last decade, so you’re not just stuck in a concrete wasteland—there are actual restaurants, bars, and Lake Eola Park nearby if you want to explore before or after the game. The bonus is you can walk back to your hotel after the event while everyone else is stuck in traffic or waiting 30 minutes for an Uber.
AC Hotel Orlando Downtown This is the closest option and perfect if you literally want to roll out of bed and walk to the game. Modern Marriott vibes, clean rooms, and you’re also near Church Street and Wall Street Plaza for pre-game dining and drinks.
Aloft Orlando Downtown: A favorite for its location, reasonable pricing, and walkability to both the arena and downtown nightlife. It’s got that W Hotel-style vibe but without the ridiculous price tag, and the rooftop bar is a solid pre-game spot.
Embassy Suites Orlando Downtown: This is around a half a mile from the venue and consistently gets high marks for location and value. You’re getting complimentary breakfast and made-to-order drinks at the evening reception, which is a nice touch if you’re trying to save money on food. It’s slightly further but still an easy 10-minute walk.
Grand Bohemian Hotel is the upscale pick if you want boutique luxury with an art collection, rooftop lounge, and a more refined atmosphere. It’s pricier, but you’re paying for the experience and proximity to everything downtown.
Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Downtown South: Budget option with free breakfast and a quieter location slightly removed from the main nightlife chaos. Good choice if you’ve got kids or just want a less hectic stay while still being walkable to the arena
Restaurants/Bars Near The Kia Center
Downtown Orlando’s nightlife has come a long way, and there are a few concentrated pockets where locals and visitors actually want to spend time before or after events.
Church Street District is the most established entertainment strip and sits just blocks from Kia Center. You’ve got a mix of bars, restaurants, and venues that stay busy year-round, not just on event nights. Irish Shannon’s does the classic pub thing well, Delaney’s Tavern has solid comfort food and a neighborhood feel, and Mathers Orlando leans upscale cocktail bar if you want something a bit more refined. The Courtesy and SideBar Orlando are also in this cluster, offering everything from craft cocktails to late-night drinks. Church Street also hosts regular block parties with live music, vendors, and street entertainment, so it’s worth checking the schedule if you’re in town on a weekend.
Wall Street Plaza is an entire city block dedicated to nightlife and sits at the epicenter of downtown Orlando. It’s home to eight different bars and restaurants, each with its own vibe, so you can bar-hop without ever crossing a street. Hooch does happy hour from 4-7 PM with an outdoor patio setup, Monkey Bar specializes in cheap martinis, Sideshow has American bar food and live sports, and Shine is the all-out nightclub if you’re staying late. Cantina offers Mexican food and drinks, while venues like Cowboys and Waitiki cater to country fans and tiki bar lovers respectively. Wall Street does weekend nighttime block parties that get absolutely packed, so if you want energy and crowds, this is the spot.
Orange Avenue Corridor runs through downtown and has a scattering of bars, restaurants, and nightlife spots that locals actually frequent. It’s less touristy than Wall Street Plaza but still has plenty of options depending on your mood. Hanson’s Shoe Repair is a tiny speakeasy rooftop bar inside a former cobbler’s shop—it only holds about 30-40 people total, but the cocktails are rated among the best in the city and they occasionally have live bands or movie screenings. The Attic near Lake Eola Park is a 3-in-1 nightclub with a bar area, VIP lounge, and main club room that spins EDM all night if that’s your scene.
Lake Eola Park Area is about a 10-15 minute walk from Kia Center and offers a more relaxed atmosphere if you want to grab dinner or drinks without the Wall Street chaos. There are several restaurants and bars around the lake, and it’s a nice spot to walk around during the day if you’ve got time to kill before an evening event. Several of the nearby hotels (like Eo Inn and Wellborn Hotel) sit right on the park, so you can post up at a hotel bar or nearby restaurant and enjoy the quieter side of downtown
Fun Things To Do In Orlando
Discover the vibrant experiences awaiting you near downtown Orlando, offering an array of activities beyond the well-known Disneyworld and Universal Studios—perfect for those seeking entertainment during shorter stays for events at the Kia Center. From the serene Lake Eola Park to the cultural hub of the Dr. Phillips Center, these five local gems provide a delightful blend of leisure and exploration in the heart of the city.
- Lake Eola Park: Enjoy a serene escape at Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of downtown. Rent a swan boat, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and explore the vibrant Thornton Park neighborhood nearby.
- Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Catch a live performance or Broadway show at the Dr. Phillips Center. The state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of events, from concerts to theatrical productions, providing a cultural experience in downtown Orlando.
- Orlando Science Center: Engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at the Orlando Science Center. Perfect for families and science enthusiasts, this educational attraction offers a mix of fun and learning for visitors of all ages.
- Thornton Park District: Explore the trendy Thornton Park District, known for its eclectic shops, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options. This charming neighborhood is great for leisurely walks, boutique shopping, and discovering unique eateries.
- The Wells’ Built Museum of African American History & Culture: Directly next to the arena and housed within the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, a tangible relic of Orlando’s rich African American heritage. Constructed in 1926 by Dr. William M. Wells, the hotel served as a haven for African American travelers during the era of segregation. Today, the museum preserves this impactful history through engaging exhibits and artifacts, offering visitors a compelling journey into the contributions, struggles, and achievements of the African American community in Orlando and beyond.
Here are some other stadiums in Central Florida and around the state:
Raymond James Stadium and Amalie Arena in Tampa
A Guide To the Swamp in Gainesville
A Guide To Everbank Stadium In Jacksonville
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.