South Carolina Stingrays at Orlando Solar Bears

ECHL Hockey Brings Southern Rivalry to Downtown Orlando

The Orlando Solar Bears face off against the South Carolina Stingrays on Saturday, October 24th at 7:00 PM, bringing ECHL action to the Kia Center. This matchup pits two southern hockey markets against each other in a league where intensity runs high and prospects showcase their skills. The 7:00 PM start gives downtown Orlando plenty of time to come alive before puck drop.

What to Expect:

The Kia Center transforms for Solar Bears games, creating an atmosphere that's more intimate than NBA nights but just as energetic. ECHL hockey delivers fast-paced action where players are hungry to prove themselves, making for unpredictable games that often come down to the final period. The Stingrays bring a physical style that typically makes for entertaining hockey, and Saturday night crowds at the arena tend to lean into the energy with a mix of die-hard hockey fans and curious first-timers.

Insider Tips:

- The GEICO Garage fills quickly for weekend games, so reserve parking through Ticketmaster by 5:00 PM Friday to guarantee a spot
- Sections along the blue lines offer the best sightlines for watching plays develop, particularly on the attack zones
- Between-period entertainment moves faster at hockey games than basketball, so grab concessions during stoppages in play rather than waiting for intermission
- The arena's 360-degree concourse means you can walk the entire building without missing action, perfect for stretching legs while keeping an eye on the ice
- Saturday night games sometimes feature post-game player meet-and-greets near the team store
- Download the Kia Center app beforehand for mobile ordering at Orlando Market and Orlando Table

Venue Details:

- The Kia Center enforces a strict no-bag policy, with only small clutches measuring 4.5" x 6.5" x 1" or less permitted
- Medical and parent bags up to 14" x 14" x 6" are allowed but require X-ray screening at designated checkpoints
- Children under two years old don't need tickets if sitting on a lap, though most parents prefer seats for active toddlers at hockey games
- Orlando Table near Section 114 showcases local restaurant favorites and moves faster than traditional concession stands
- The Michelob ULTRA Baseline Bar on the south end of the Terrace Level stays open throughout the game
- SunRail and LYMMO provide public transit access, with the closest stop about a five-minute walk from the main entrance

Getting There:

The Kia Center sits at 400 West Church Street in the heart of downtown Orlando, accessible from I-4 via the Anderson Street or Amelia Street exits. The GEICO Garage at 400 West South Street connects directly to the arena via skywalk, eliminating weather concerns. ThreatLocker Garage and City Commons Garage offer alternatives within a few blocks, typically running $10-$20 for event parking. Multiple LYMMO stops circle the arena, with platforms along West South Street and South Division Avenue providing the shortest walks. Rideshare pickup and drop-off happens at the corner of Hughey Avenue and Pine Street on the arena's northeast side. Church Street runs east-west through downtown, while Orange Avenue provides the main north-south corridor for those navigating the grid.

Local Scene:

Downtown Orlando's pre-game scene clusters within easy walking distance of the arena. The District GastroBar sits less than 200 meters away, perfect for grabbing food about an hour before puck drop. AC Sky Bar offers rooftop views and craft cocktails about 280 meters from the venue for those wanting atmosphere with their drinks. Cucina Pizza & Bar provides quick Italian options that won't cut into game time. After the final buzzer, 1Up Orlando brings arcade games and late-night energy about 440 meters away, fitting the playful vibe of a Saturday night hockey crowd. Sak Comedy Lab sometimes runs late shows that align perfectly with post-game timing for those wanting to extend the evening.