Are you excited to watch LSU take on Purdue in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Jan.2 in Orlando? Here’s all the important information you need to know to attend the big game.
Game will be the first time LSU has played Purdue
When it comes to Florida sports betting, 2023 is more of the same. It’s still not legal in the Sunshine State, but there’s hope on the horizon. The D.C. Court of appeals should make a ruling by mid-year that could allow sports wagering again. It was briefly allowed in November 2021, but a federal lawsuit shuttered the industry.
The game on Jan 2 will mark the Louisiana State University Tigers’ third Citrus Bowl appearance in the last seven years. As it happens, LSU will be in Orlando again for the opening of the 2023 season against Florida State.
The Purdue University Boilermakers received an invitation to play in the Citrus Bowl after losing 43-22 to No. 2 Michigan in the Big Ten Championship game. Similarly, the Tigers were chosen following their 50-30 defeat to No. 1 Georgia in the SEC championship game.
LSU are veterans of the Citrus Bowl, having played five times before. For Purdue, it’ll be their first appearance. And though both franchises have been around for more than a century, this game will signal their first encounter on the field.
Are you going to the game?
Here is some basic information regarding the game:
- Date: Monday, Jan. 2
- Time: 1 p.m. EST
- Teams: LSU vs. Purdue
- Stadium/capacity: Camping World Stadium, 65,194
- Participating conferences: Big Ten and Southeastern Conference
The game will be broadcast by ABC, but fans can also stream the game on the Watch ESPN app with a cable provider login.
Camping World Stadium
The Citrus Bowl has been hosted at Camping World Stadium in Orlando since 1947. Back then, the game was called the Tangerine Bowl. Camping World Stadium is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
Where to purchase tickets
Tickets to the Citrus Bowl can be bought via TicketMaster. Tickets start at $70 in the upper deck. But lower-level tickets start at $85 and go up to $1,000.
How to get there
Situated west of downtown Orlando and just north of SR 408, the Camping World Stadium is easily accessible from multiple directions.
From Interstate 4
Eastbound traffic should exit at Orange Blossom Trail, and proceed north (right) on Orange Blossom Trail to the stadium.
Westbound traffic should exit at Colonial Drive/SR 50 and proceed west (right) on Colonial Drive to Orange Blossom Trail. Event signs will lead you to the stadium.
From SR 408 (East/West Expressway toll road)
Eastbound traffic should exit SR 408 Tampa Avenue.
Westbound traffic should exit SR 408 at Rosalind Avenue and proceed west (left) on South Street.
From Orlando International Airport (MCO)
North airport exit to SR 436 (Semoran Blvd.) and proceed north to SR 408 (E/W Expressway toll road) westbound. Exit SR 408 at Rosalind Avenue and proceed west (left) on South Street.
Where to stay in Orlando
Orlando is known as one of the world’s most visited destinations. Accordingly, accommodation prices can get steep. However, it’s possible to enjoy the Citrus Bowl live on a small-ish budget if you opt for hotels located a little further from the venue.
For those with a little money to spend, consider the Grand Bohemian Hotel, which offers world-class dining, a posh piano bar and mouth-watering Sunday brunch.
The Aloft Orlando Downtown is a great option if you’re looking for something light and more affordable. The hotel is sleek, clean and modern. It’s also pet-friendly, so bring your furry friend along for no additional cost.
Budget-minded travelers have several choices at hand. The Best Western Orlando West, which sits closest to the Citrus Bowl, offers wallet-friendly stays in neat surroundings.
Guests interested in finding a spot off the beaten track can explore Orlando’s charming neighborhoods like College Park and Ivanhoe Village. Another delightful option is the EO Inn & Spa, a boutique experience on the shores of Lake Eola.
A few more recommendations:
- Comfort Suites Downtown
- Courtyard at Lake Lucerne
- Doubletree by Hilton Orlando
- Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown
- Crowne Plaza Orlando – Downtown
- Embassy Suites Orlando – Downtown
What you need to know about parking
Fans can purchase parking passes for $50, plus fees. The city encourages visitors to use Orlando’s downtown shuttle service on game day if they do not have a parking permit.
Stadium parking
If parking at the stadium, you’ll need to purchase a pass. Guests should be aware that designated parking lots and locations may be subject to change per event. Therefore, it’s advised to regularly check the event page for changes.
Downtown parking options
During Camping World’s annual events, such as the Citrus Bowl, shuttle services are provided from downtown. On the other hand, parking is available in the downtown parking garages for a parking fee.
Most spots in downtown Orlando and Creative Village are metered, but some are free. To find them, visitors can use the SpotAngels map, which is updated in real-time. Type in the address you’re parking near, the time you expect to be there and your duration.
Additional tidbits
Like most other stadiums, Camping World Stadium follows a clear bag policy. As a result, bags sized 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches are permitted along with small clutch bags/purses no bigger than 4-½ inches by 6-½ inches.
Children who are 2 and older must have a ticket for entry. Face coverings are not required by guests at this time.
