Nov 5, 2025
·Mary Callahan
In the heart of downtown Orlando, Kia Center (formerly known as Amway Center) stands as a hub for entertainment, sports and community pride. Opened in 2010, this state-of-the-art venue is home to the Orlando Magic of the NBA and the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL, while also hosting concerts, family shows and major events year-round. With sleek architecture, modern amenities and a fan-first design, Kia Center has established itself as one of the premier arenas in the Southeast.
About Kia Center
Address: 400 W Church St #200, Orlando, FL 32801
Kia Center replaced the old Amway Arena (nicknamed “The O-rena”), ushering in a new era for Orlando sports and live entertainment. Built with both technology and comfort in mind, the arena boasts a capacity of 18,846 for basketball and up to 20,000 for concerts. Its design focuses on flexibility, with multiple seating options, interactive fan areas and cutting-edge audiovisual features that make every event immersive.
The venue is also known for its sustainability, having earned LEED Gold Certification for eco-friendly construction. From wider concourses to digital signage, Kia Center reflects Orlando’s growth as a destination city.
History of Kia Center
2010: Arena opens as Amway Center, replacing the outdated Amway Arena.
2012: Hosts the NBA All-Star Game, showcasing its world-class facilities.
2015: Becomes the home for the Orlando Predators (Arena Football League).
2019: Serves as a key venue for the NBA 2K League and esports tournaments.
2024: Renamed Kia Center after a new naming rights deal with the automaker.
Since its opening, the arena has become a centerpiece of Orlando’s downtown revitalization, serving as a gathering place for sports fans, concertgoers and families alike.
Getting to Kia Center
By Car: Conveniently located near I-4 and State Road 408, Kia Center is easy to access from across Central Florida.
Parking: More than 18,000 parking spaces are available within walking distance. The GEICO Garage and Church Street Garage are popular choices. Pre-booking spots online through the arena’s partners or apps like SpotHero is recommended for big events.
Public Transit: Fans can take the LYNX bus system or the SunRail commuter train to Church Street Station, a short walk to the venue.
Walkability: Kia Center sits in Orlando’s Church Street District, known for its restaurants, bars and nightlife—making it easy to turn a game or show into a full night out.
Game Day Traditions at Kia Center
While Orlando may not have the longest sports history, it makes up for it with energy, flair, and fan-focused traditions:
Orlando Magic’s “Stuff the Magic Dragon”: The team’s beloved mascot entertains with high-flying antics, skits, and crowd hype during timeouts.
Blue and White Ignite: The Magic’s rallying cry, bringing fans together during key moments in games.
Solar Bears’ Teddy Bear Toss: A beloved minor-league hockey tradition, fans throw stuffed animals on the ice to donate to local charities.
Concert Nights in Orlando: Known as one of the best concert cities in the South, Kia Center shows often feature elaborate staging, fan zones and after-parties nearby.
Seating at Kia Center
The arena is designed to offer a variety of experiences for fans:
Lower Bowl: Close to the action, perfect for Magic games or big-name concerts.
Terrace Level: Great value seats with wide concourses and easy concession access.
Club Level: Premium seating with private lounges, upscale dining and in-seat service.
Suites: Options include Founders Suites, Presidential Suites and Loge Boxes—ideal for corporate entertaining or special occasions.
Sky Deck: A social space with standing-room views, bars and skyline backdrops.
Every seat benefits from the arena’s massive center-hung scoreboard, one of the largest in the NBA, ensuring fans never miss a detail.
Food & Drink at Kia Center
Kia Center offers a mix of classic arena food and local Orlando flavors:
4 Rivers Smokehouse: A local favorite known for BBQ sandwiches and brisket.
Gringos Locos: Famous for its “Double D” tacos with queso-filled shells.
Harrell’s Chicken Tenders: A must-try Orlando staple.
Craft Beers: Rotating local brews from Orlando Brewing, Crooked Can and others.
Traditional Fare: Hot dogs, nachos, pizza and popcorn available throughout the arena.
Premium seating also offers chef-inspired dishes, carving stations and curated cocktails.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Only small clutches (max 6.5” x 6.5”) are permitted. Clear bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed.
Cashless Venue: All food, drink, and merchandise transactions are cashless.
Mobile Tickets: All entry is via mobile ticketing
Accessibility: The arena provides ADA seating, elevators, wheelchair escorts, assistive listening devices and sensory-friendly resources.
Notable Events at Kia Center
Beyond Magic and Solar Bears games, Kia Center has hosted a range of headline events:
NBA All-Star Game (2012): Brought global basketball stars to Orlando.
Concerts: Beyoncé, Elton John, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift and Drake have all performed here.
Esports: Host to competitive gaming tournaments, reflecting Orlando’s growing esports scene.
Family Shows: Regularly welcomes Disney on Ice, Cirque du Soleil and monster truck shows.
WWE Events: Orlando’s rich wrestling history means Kia Center often stages major WWE cards.
Nearby Attractions
Kia Center is located in a lively district, making it easy to explore before or after your event:
Church Street District: Packed with restaurants, bars and live music venues.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Just a short walk away.
Lake Eola Park: Perfect for daytime strolls or a bite at the Sunday farmers market.
Theme Parks: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld are all under 30 minutes away.
Why Kia Center Is Special
Kia Center isn’t just an arena—it’s a reflection of Orlando’s vibrant energy. From NBA thrills to world-class concerts and family entertainment, it provides a space where locals and visitors can come together. With its modern design, community focus and top-notch amenities, Kia Center has quickly become one of the Southeast’s premier venues.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Ready to experience the best of Orlando sports and entertainment? SeatGeek has your tickets to Kia Center covered. Whether you’re planning a night out at an Orlando Magic game, catching your favorite artist on tour, or bringing the family to a special event, SeatGeek makes it simple to find the best seats and be part of the excitement.