Orlando City Stadium, known officially as Exploria Stadium for sponsorship reasons, is a soccer-specific stadium located in the heart of Orlando, Florida. It is the home ground for Orlando City SC of Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Overview
- Address: 655 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32805
- Capacity: The stadium can seat approximately 25,500 spectators.
- Opening: It officially opened in 2017, offering an intimate atmosphere with steeply pitched stands, a natural grass playing surface, and a canopy roof to enhance the fan experience and amplify crowd noise.
Features
Design
The stadium was designed with the fan experience in mind, featuring:
- A 360-degree lower bowl.
- The steepest upper deck in MLS, allowing for excellent sightlines.
- A continuous canopy roof to protect fans from the sun and rain and to keep the noise in.
Supporter-Friendly
The stadium includes features specially designed for the supporters:
- A standing-room-only supporters’ section, known as “The Wall,” which can accommodate up to 3,000 dedicated fans.
- A fan zone for pre-game festivities.
Amenities
- Multiple concession stands offering a variety of food and beverage options.
- Club and premium seating areas for a more luxurious experience.
- Advanced technology with high-speed Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity.
Sustainability
Exploria Stadium was constructed with sustainability in mind, aiming for LEED Silver certification. It includes:
- Efficient water use, with low-flow fixtures.
- LED lighting, which consumes less energy.
- Recycling and composting programs.
Events
While primarily used for soccer, the stadium has also hosted other events, such as:
- International soccer matches.
- Rugby games.
- Concerts.
- Community events.
Website
For more information on event schedules, tickets, and news, you can visit the official website for Orlando City SC and Exploria Stadium at www.orlandocitysc.com/stadium.
Tips for Visitors
- Transportation: Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking can be limited, especially on game days.
- Arrive Early: To avoid congestion and enjoy pre-game activities, plan to arrive at the stadium early.
- Hydration: Florida’s climate can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated, especially during afternoon matches.
- Check Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with the stadium’s policies on what you can and cannot bring inside to ensure a smooth entry.
Conclusion
Exploria Stadium is a premier destination for soccer fans and a symbol of Orlando’s vibrant sports culture. With state-of-the-art facilities, fan-focused amenities, and a commitment to sustainability, the stadium provides an exciting and comfortable environment for enjoying live sports and entertainment. Whether you’re there to cheer on Orlando City SC, support the Orlando Pride, or attend a special event, Exploria Stadium offers an engaging experience for all visitors.
