Orlando Magic Basketball: Our Family’s Slam Dunk Night at the Amway Center
If you’ve ever thought, “Should I take the kids to an Orlando Magic game?” this post is for you. Maybe you’re a lifelong fan, maybe you just want to say you’ve seen a professional basketball game, or maybe, like me, you were bribed by your spouse with the promise of stadium nachos. Either way, you’re about to get the full scoop on what it’s like to experience the Magic—family style.
Key Takeaways:
- Orlando Magic games are big on entertainment—think lights, music, contests, and kid-friendly hype from start to finish.
- Amway Center is sparkling clean, easy to navigate, and has surprisingly good food (chicken tenders = MVP).
- Seats vary a ton in price and view, but there really are no “bad” seats for families—plenty to see, even from up high.
- Expect lots of extras: t-shirt tosses, on-court games, fun fan zones, and a full-blown mascot who will absolutely photobomb you.
- Parking can be stressful—arrive early and be ready for a walk, or consider a rideshare if you hate downtown garages.
Arrival & First Impressions: Big Lights, Big Smiles (and a Few Nerves)
Confession: I was nervous about taking all three kids to a packed arena on a school night. (Honestly, Jeff was too, but he pretended otherwise.) We parked about five blocks away—pro tip, pre-pay for a lot online if you want to avoid circling like a vulture. Heather handled directions (“We turn left at the churro cart, Mom”), Stevie wanted to race everyone on the sidewalk, and Laura was just in awe at how tall the building was. The Amway Center is seriously gorgeous, especially at night when it’s all lit up blue.
Security & Finding Your Seats
Security was efficient, with bag checks and metal detectors—standard, but not scary for the kids. The staff are incredibly friendly, giving out fist bumps and stickers at every turn. Finding our section was a breeze, even with Stevie trying to “dribble” his invisible basketball the whole way.
The Atmosphere: A Party From Tipoff to Final Buzzer
Here’s what surprised me: an Orlando Magic game isn’t just about basketball. It’s a full-on spectacle. There are lasers, hype squads, halftime dance routines, and a mascot (STUFF the Magic Dragon) who deserves his own sitcom. Laura is usually shy but squealed with delight when STUFF “blew confetti” on her. Stevie spent the whole pre-game showing off his “slam dunk” dance. Heather kept stats on a napkin. (Of course.)
Don’t worry if your kids aren’t sports-obsessed—there’s plenty of action to keep even the most restless entertained. And yes, the Magic’s drumline and light shows are loud. But in the best possible way.
Food & Drinks: Stadium Eats With Local Flavor
- Kid favorites: Chicken tenders, hot dogs, pizza, soft pretzels, and Dippin’ Dots.
- Mom favorites: The Cuban sandwiches and tacos are genuinely delicious, and there’s a solid selection of local beers and hard seltzers for grown-ups.
- Gluten-free and veggie options are available, but lines can get long during halftime.
Pro tip: Eat before tipoff to avoid the rush, and bring a water bottle (stadium prices = yikes).
What the Kids Loved
Laura: “STUFF gave me a high five and threw a shirt into the crowd! The lights were so cool.”
Stevie: “I danced the whole time! And I got a foam finger!”
Heather: “Keeping track of the score and stats was my favorite. I want to be the announcer someday.”
| Feature | Kim’s Take | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Tickets | Prices start around $20; splurge for lower bowl if you want a close-up, but nosebleeds are still fun. | Check for family packs and special deals online. |
| Parking | Amway garage fills fast; cheaper lots are a few blocks away. | Pre-pay online or use a rideshare for less stress. |
| Seating | All seats have great views; lower bowl = closer to action, upper = panoramic. | Kids love aisle seats for easy mascot access! |
| Food | Kid-pleasers and legit local eats, but expect stadium pricing. | Hit concession stands early for shorter waits. |
| Fan Zone | Free activities, mini-hoops, and photo ops before the game. | Arrive early to explore and burn off pregame jitters. |
| Bathrooms | Clean and plentiful—never had to wait more than a minute! | Family restrooms available on every level. |
Kim’s Hot Tips
- Go early: Fan Zone opens an hour before tipoff—perfect for selfies and warmup entertainment.
- Dress in blue, white, or black: Even if you’re not a superfan, repping the Magic colors is half the fun (bonus: team store has kids’ merch for reasonable prices!).
- Download the Amway Center app: Digital tickets, concession ordering, and a detailed map all in one spot.
- Don’t rush out after the game: Let the crowds thin and grab a last-minute treat. Sometimes there are bonus postgame events on the court!
Real Talk with Kim
Would I go again? Absolutely. The kids loved every second, and even if you’re not a hardcore sports fan, you can’t help but get swept up in the energy. Plus, seeing Jeff jump out of his seat for a last-minute dunk was priceless. It’s a memory-maker, and I say that as someone who once thought basketball was just “the sport with squeaky shoes.”
Anything I’d do differently? Maybe bring earplugs for Laura, who got startled during the fireworks intro. And next time, I’m getting two orders of churros—one for the family, and one just for me.
| Stat | Fact |
|---|---|
| Amway Center Capacity | ~18,500 |
| Year Arena Opened | 2010 |
| Average Game Length | 2.5 hours |
| Cheapest Ticket | $18-25 (advance) |
| Number of Concession Stands | 30+ (including gluten-free, local vendors, craft beer!) |
| STUFF’s Favorite Move | The backwards dunk. Don’t blink or you’ll miss it! |
“NBA games are about much more than basketball—they’re about community, entertainment, and inspiring the next generation.”
– Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
“Orlando’s Amway Center is consistently ranked among the top sports venues in the nation for family experience.”
– ESPN Travel, 2023
Top 10 Family Things To Do at an Orlando Magic Game
- High-five STUFF the mascot (bonus points if you catch a t-shirt).
- Try the fan zone mini-hoops before tipoff.
- Join the pregame light show and dance party.
- Take a family selfie in front of the giant “Orlando” sign.
- Snack on churros, pizza, or Dippin’ Dots (no judgment).
- Watch (and maybe participate in!) the halftime contests.
- Track stats and scores together—get the kids in on the action.
- Let your kids be loud—no one will notice over the crowd!
- Check out the Magic’s team shop for affordable souvenirs.
- Stay a little late—sometimes the Magic players do postgame signings or on-court events.
FAQs 🙋🏻♂️ 🙋🏽♀️
Q: Are Magic games family-friendly for all ages?
A: Yes! It’s energetic but not rowdy, with tons for kids and first-timers to enjoy.
Q: What time should we arrive?
A: At least 45-60 minutes before tipoff to park, find seats, and hit the fan zone.
Q: Is the Amway Center accessible?
A: Absolutely. Elevators, family restrooms, and plenty of accessible seating options.
Q: Can you bring bags?
A: Small bags are allowed but will be checked. No outside food/drink.
Q: Are tickets affordable?
A: There are often deals, especially for weeknight or early-season games. Look for family packs!
Q: Is it OK if my kids don’t know basketball?
A: 100%! The energy and extras make it a blast no matter what.
Q: Any healthy food?
A: Yes—salads, grilled options, and fruit cups in addition to kid classics.
Q: How loud is it?
A: Pretty loud at times (especially intros and big plays). Bring headphones for sensitive ears.
Q: What’s the best seat for families?
A: Anywhere! But lower bowl or end zones are close to action and fun for younger kids.
Q: Is there stuff to do besides basketball?
A: Plenty! Check out fan zones, merch shops, and halftime shows.
Q: Can you re-enter if you leave?
A: No re-entry is allowed, so bring everything in you’ll need for the night.
Q: Parking tips?
A: Pre-pay online and expect to walk a few blocks. Or take a rideshare if possible.
Q: Is it safe downtown at night?
A: Yes—Amway Center is well-lit with security present, but as always, be aware and stick together.
Q: Do they sell Magic gear for kids?
A: Tons of options in the team store and at merch carts throughout the arena!
Q: Should I bring cash or card?
A: The arena is cashless—bring your card or use mobile pay for everything.
See ya real soon, friends!
