Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) games are full of energy and excitement, but you don’t have to spend the entire gameday anticipating kickoff. Properly filling the hours before a match can maximize every minute of the big day and allow for sightseeing around Orlando. Here are four things to do before an OCSC game that will make every moment memorable.
Grab a Bite to Eat
It’s hard to enjoy a good match on an empty stomach. Of course, the Exploria Stadium is filled with delicious foods and beverages, but grabbing a bite to eat beforehand will allow you to spend more time in your seat and less time in the concession lines.
If you’re in the mood for some internationally inspired classics, head to Harp and Celt Irish Pub and Restaurant. This spot is two stories high and stacked with traditional Irish dishes and brews that will keep you feeling full. Or, order a southern-style plate from Nikki’s Place. Each dish at Nikki’s is filled with hearty flavors and filling comfort to turn your pre-game into a culinary experience.
Visit a Local Attraction
You don’t have to spend the day at Disney to have a good time before the match, but if you really want to make a full day out of gameday, consider heading to an affordable local attraction. Depending on your interests, you can get up close with nature, visit a local museum, or have an aquatic adventure without stretching your budget.
If you want to have a truly local and natural experience, take stroll through Harry P. Leu Gardens to witness the tropical gardens and natural wildlife of Orlando. You can learn more about the beautiful botanicals, schedule a tour, or develop a green thumb with expert advice from the gardeners at the Plant Clinic.
Remember the Schedule
If you’re ready to maximize the next game day, you need to know which ones to plan for. On Saturday, September 7, watch OCSC take on the Los Angeles Football Club at the Exploria Stadium. You can also catch OCSC as they face off against the New England Revolution on Saturday, September 14.
These evening home games will open up your day for plenty of pre-game activities, which means you’ll have more than enough time to piece together your game day attire. Hit up Orlando’s local shops and pick up some merchandise to represent your favorite team in style. Spend some time at the Florida Mall or browse the Church Street Marketplace until you find the right purple and gold fit.
Book the Right Hotel
If you’re looking for a great place to spend your day before the game, book your stay with the Midpointe Hotel, a Rosen Property. Our location has two swimming pools, two hot tubs, and a fitness center on-site to give every guest a fun way to spend the day. We’re located on International Drive, which puts you in the heart of Orlando attractions, eateries, and shopping centers. To get close to the game and close to the local action, reserve your room online or click the orange button above.
