Parking can often be one of the most confusing and frustrating aspects of attending an event or simply navigating a busy city. When it comes to the GEICO Garage, particularly in Orlando, Florida (adjacent to the Kia Center), understanding the parking situation beforehand can save you a significant amount of time, stress, and even money. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about parking at the GEICO Garage, from daily rates to event pricing and how to secure your spot.
Unraveling the Mystery: How Much is Parking at GEICO Garage?
Have you ever found yourself circling block after block, desperately searching for an open parking spot while the clock ticks down to your event? We've all been there! The good news is, with a little planning, you can avoid that pre-event panic when heading to the GEICO Garage. The cost of parking at the GEICO Garage isn't a single, fixed price; it varies depending on a few key factors, primarily what kind of day it is and what's happening in the area.
How Much Is Parking At Geico Garage |
Step 1: Understand the GEICO Garage's Purpose and Location
Before diving into prices, let's establish what the GEICO Garage is and where it's located. This isn't just any parking garage; it's a prominent facility, especially for those attending events in downtown Orlando.
Sub-heading: Where Exactly is it?
The GEICO Garage is strategically located at 400 West South Street, Orlando, FL 32805. Its prime position makes it a popular choice for events at the nearby Kia Center (home to the Orlando Magic and Orlando Solar Bears), Exploria Stadium, and even Camping World Stadium.
Sub-heading: What Makes it Special?
This 8-story parking garage can accommodate over 1,800 vehicles and is directly connected to the Kia Center via an elevated pedestrian walkway (the GEICO Gateway pedestrian bridge on the 5th floor). It's designed to handle high volumes of traffic efficiently, especially during major events. It even boasts features like electric vehicle charging stations and accessible parking.
Step 2: Differentiating Between Event and Non-Event Parking
This is the most crucial distinction when trying to determine parking costs. The GEICO Garage operates under different pricing structures for regular weekdays versus days with major events.
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Sub-heading: Non-Event Day Parking Rates
For standard weekday parking when there isn't a major event at the Kia Center or nearby venues, the GEICO Garage operates with more typical hourly and daily rates. However, it's important to note that the GEICO Garage is not part of the standard City of Orlando parking garages that offer $2/hour with a $15 daily maximum.
- Non-Event Day Hours: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
- Typical Daily Rate: While specific non-event daily rates for the GEICO Garage aren't as widely publicized as event rates, it's generally understood to be higher than the standard city-run garages. For most daily parking in downtown Orlando, you might find rates around $2 per hour with a $15 daily maximum in other City of Orlando garages. However, the GEICO Garage often operates independently with its own pricing, which can be higher.
Sub-heading: Event Day Parking Rates - The Big Numbers
This is where the cost can jump significantly. When a major concert, sports game, or other large event is happening at the Kia Center or nearby stadiums, the GEICO Garage implements special event pricing. These rates are typically flat rates for the duration of the event.
- Kia Center Events: For D.C. United matches, parking spots at GEICO Garage have been priced at $60. These are usually available for purchase via credit card only on match days, with no pre-sales. The garage typically opens 2.5 hours before kick-off and closes 2.5 hours after the match ends.
- General Event Parking: While not always as high as $60, event parking at the GEICO Garage generally falls in the $20 to $30 range, and can even go higher depending on the demand and the nature of the event. For example, some sources indicate pre-paid parking for certain events through Ticketmaster can be around $28.35.
- Pre-purchasing vs. Drive-up: For events, it's highly recommended to pre-purchase your parking if possible. Drive-up rates, if available, can be higher, and spaces can sell out quickly.
Step 3: Exploring Parking Reservation and Payment Options
Knowing the price is one thing, but knowing how to secure your spot is just as important.
Sub-heading: Online Reservation Platforms
Several platforms can help you reserve parking at the GEICO Garage in advance, especially for events.
- Ticketmaster: For events at the Kia Center, parking passes for the GEICO Garage are often sold directly through Ticketmaster alongside your event tickets. This is often the most reliable way to secure a spot for specific events. Purchases may need to be made by 5 p.m. the day prior to the event.
- ParkMobile/SpotHero: While not exclusively for the GEICO Garage, these popular parking apps can sometimes show available spots and allow you to reserve and pay in advance for garages in the vicinity, which might include or be close to the GEICO Garage. Always double-check the specific garage details when using these apps to ensure it's the GEICO Garage you intend to park in.
- City of Orlando Website: The City of Orlando's official parking website (orlando.gov/Parking-Transportation/Parking/Parking-Garages-and-Lots/GEICO-Garage) also provides information on the GEICO Garage, including hours of operation and general features. They may also link to pre-purchase options for specific events.
Sub-heading: On-Site Payment Methods
If you're driving up without a pre-paid pass, be prepared for on-site payment.
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- Credit Card Only: For many event days, the GEICO Garage operates on a credit card only basis for drive-up parking. Cash is often not accepted.
- Attendants: During events, parking attendants will typically be present to guide you and process payments.
Step 4: Considering Monthly Parking Options
For those who frequently visit downtown Orlando or work in the area, monthly parking passes can be a more economical choice.
- Limited Rate (Mon-Fri, 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.): The GEICO Garage offers a monthly limited rate of $70. This is ideal for commuters who only need parking during standard business hours.
- Unlimited Rate (24/7 Access): Interestingly, the GEICO Garage does not appear to offer a 24/7 unlimited monthly rate according to City of Orlando parking information. Other garages in the area do, with rates around $165. This suggests the GEICO Garage is primarily focused on event and weekday daytime parking.
- How to Apply: Information on applying for monthly parking passes is usually found on the City of Orlando's parking department website.
Step 5: Insider Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience
Even with all the information, a few extra tips can make your parking experience at the GEICO Garage even smoother.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early, Especially for Events
This cannot be stressed enough! For major events, the GEICO Garage can fill up quickly. Arriving at least 1-2 hours before the event starts is highly recommended, especially if you haven't pre-purchased a spot. This also allows you to account for any unexpected traffic or detours.
Sub-heading: Have Your Confirmation Ready
If you've pre-purchased your parking, have your mobile pass or printed confirmation easily accessible on your device. This will expedite your entry into the garage.
Sub-heading: Be Aware of Road Closures
Downtown Orlando, particularly around the Kia Center and other venues, can experience road closures before, during, and after major events. Check local traffic updates or the venue's website for any road closure information on the day of your visit.
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Sub-heading: Know Your Exit Strategy
The GEICO Garage is designed for efficient exiting, but understanding the flow of traffic out of the garage and the surrounding area can help. The reversible lanes are a feature that directs traffic flow, so follow the signage and attendant instructions carefully. Vehicles must typically exit within 2 hours after an event ends.
Sub-heading: Explore Alternative Parking if Needed
While the GEICO Garage is convenient, if it's full or the price is too high for your budget, be aware of other downtown Orlando parking options. The City of Orlando provides an interactive map of other garages and surface lots, with rates ranging from $10-$20 for events. These are often on a first-come, first-served basis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQs to help you navigate parking at the GEICO Garage:
How to check GEICO Garage parking availability?
You can check for event-day availability by looking for pre-sale parking options on Ticketmaster for your specific event. For non-event days, real-time availability is not typically published publicly, but the garage is very large with over 1,800 spaces.
How to pre-purchase parking for GEICO Garage events?
Pre-purchase parking for events at the GEICO Garage is primarily done through Ticketmaster when purchasing your event tickets, or via links provided on the Kia Center's official website.
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How to find the GEICO Garage location?
The GEICO Garage is located at 400 West South Street, Orlando, FL 32805. You can easily find it using GPS or mapping applications.
How to pay for parking at GEICO Garage?
For event days, payment is typically credit card only at the garage entrance. For pre-purchased parking, payment is made online through the booking platform (e.g., Ticketmaster).
How to get accessible parking at GEICO Garage?
Accessible parking spaces are available in the GEICO Garage. Guests using the GEICO Garage can access the Kia Center via the 5th-floor pedestrian bridge. Accessible parking for Nationals Park is on a first-come, first-served basis and requires a government-issued placard/license plate and parking pass.
How to find monthly parking rates for GEICO Garage?
Monthly parking rates for the GEICO Garage are listed on the City of Orlando's parking rates page, showing a limited Monday-Friday (6 a.m. - 6 p.m.) rate of $70.
How to exit the GEICO Garage after an event?
The GEICO Garage is designed with speed ramps and reversible lanes to facilitate efficient exit after events. Follow signage and attendant instructions, and be prepared for potential traffic congestion in the immediate vicinity. Vehicles must typically exit within 2 hours after the event concludes.
How to contact GEICO Garage management?
For inquiries or assistance regarding the GEICO Garage (which is operated by the City of Orlando), you can contact the City of Orlando Parking Division at 407.246.2155 or email parking@orlando.gov.
How to find alternative parking near GEICO Garage?
The City of Orlando provides an interactive downtown parking map on its website (orlando.gov/Parking-Transportation/Parking) listing various garages and surface lots with their respective rates and locations.
How to know if it's an event day at GEICO Garage?
Check the event schedule for the Kia Center, Exploria Stadium, or Camping World Stadium for the date you plan to visit, as major events at these venues will trigger the event parking rates and operations at the GEICO Garage.
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