Photo by Jeff Houchin
f you are looking for the best parking advice if you are going to the VRBO Citrus Bowl in Orlando, then Sam Gardner — director of marketing and communications for the bowl — has a suggestion for Kentucky fans.
“We only have about 3,500 parking spots at Camping World Stadium. If you want to buy a parking spot at the stadium, do so now on our website (https://citrusbowlorlando.com/),” Gardner said. “But we have great parking options downtown.
“The stadium is only about one mile west of downtown and the city runs a free shuttle to the stadium. It’s a popular option because then you can take the shuttle back downtown after the game and enjoy yourself.”
The downtown shuttle service starts at 8 a.m. — an hour before FanFest opens and three hours before the stadium gates open for the 1 p.m. kickoff between Kentucky and Penn State. The shuttle will pick up near the Amway Center on the corner of Church and Division. Drop off at the stadium is at Nashville Avenue and Church Street, one block from the stadium. After the game shuttles pick up at the same location for the pregame stop and will run for two hours after the game ends.
Gardner says there is also one other game day option that might appeal to fans. Starting three hours before kickoff, fans can enjoy a climate-controlled VIP area next to the stadium featuring lounge seating and all-inclusive food and beverage. The team marching bands will make special performances. Tickets are $85.
“Last year we had some bad weather, so this was a great way to kick off the bowl for fans,” Gardner said. “There is also another tailgate option inside the stadium that is not on sale yet.”
There is a Citrus Bowl parade Dec. 31. Kentucky will have a pep rally at 4:45 p.m. Dec. 31 at Pointe Orlando with the band, cheerleaders and coach Mark Stoops.
FanFest will be at Tinker Field next to Camping World Stadium and will have interactive games, inflatables, face painters with a wide selection of food and beverages available for purchase. Admission is free.
Gardner also said ticket sales are on pace with last year’s LSU-Notre Dame matchup that brought 57,000 fans to the 60,000-seat stadium.
“When you come to Orlando there is always more to do than you can do in a week, so there is no shortage of things to do. You name it, we got it,” Gardner said. “On game day there are so many things you can take in to experience the Citrus Bowl. We are expecting a great crowd. We are seeing so much demand already and tickets are selling great.”
