Magic game

Question

We are headed to see the Magic play, any suggestions for things to do or where to eat before the stadium opens?

Answer

Amway Center is located right in downtown Orlando, which makes pre-game food and activities really easy — everything is walkable or a very short rideshare away. Whether you want a sit-down dinner, a casual drink, or something uniquely Orlando before the stadium opens, there's plenty to explore.

Below are the best things to do and places to eat before an Orlando Magic game, organized to help you pick based on time and style.

Top nearby restaurants for pre-game food (walkable to Amway Center):

Hamburger Mary’s (Church Street) – Fun, lively, great burgers, and a popular spot before games.
Ceviche Tapas – Excellent Spanish tapas and sangria, perfect for sharing before a game.
Artisan’s Table – Fresh American dishes, creative cocktails, and a nice atmosphere.
The Stubborn Mule – Modern comfort food and great drinks; a local favorite.
Rusty Spoon – Farm-to-table with a warm vibe and consistently good food.

If you want something fast + casual near the arena:

Amway Center District Carts – On game days, food carts or pop-up vendors often set up around the arena.
Gringos Locos Tacos – Local favorite taco spot with big portions and low prices.
Pizza@LakeEola – Build-your-own thin crust pizza, fast and easy.

Best places for drinks before the game:

SkyBar at Amway Center (if open early) – Outdoor rooftop-style bar with a great vibe just outside the arena security.
Harry Buffalo – Very popular pre-game bar with a sports atmosphere.
The Robinson Room – For something more stylish: cocktails + a chill lounge vibe.
Casey’s on Central – Casual, great drink options, and close to Church Street Station.

Things to do before the stadium opens (all very close):

Walk around Church Street Station – Historic area with bars, restaurants, music, and photo ops.
Lake Eola Park – A short walk or quick rideshare; peaceful lake views, swans, and a great way to relax before the game.
CityArts Orlando – Free, local art gallery in downtown if you want something cultural.
Grab a latte or dessert at spots like Craft & Common or Insomnia Cookies.

Timing tips:

Amway Center usually opens 1–1.5 hours before tip-off, so plan to finish eating about 45–60 minutes beforehand.
Parking garages near the arena fill up quickly on game nights — arrive early if you’re driving, or use rideshare.
Church Street is the best “pre-game energy” area, while Lake Eola is perfect if you want something calmer.

Bottom line: For the best pre-game experience, head to Church Street (Hamburger Mary’s, Harry Buffalo, Artisan’s Table) for food and drinks, or take a relaxing walk around Lake Eola before heading into the arena. Everything is close, and downtown Orlando offers plenty to start your night right before cheering on the Magic.

Magic game

More Orlando Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions