With more than 1.4 million patrons having passed through its doors, Amway Center marks its one year anniversary today since opening to the Central Florida community.
From October 1, 2010, the state-of-the art sports and entertainment facility has been host to 200 different events, ranging from the biggest names in pop music, to sporting events and family shows, as well as, numerous free community events, rented private meeting space and several conferences.
The Amway Center had a record setting year with the highest grossing arena concert in Orlando’s history – Lady Gaga – and record overall merchandise and concession sales in the new building.
“The Amway Center is much more than an entertainment experience for our residents,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “The Amway Center has also become a vital part of Orlando’s economic recovery, from the jobs provided during construction to the opening of new restaurants and other businesses throughout Downtown.”
Over the course of the last 12 months, the Amway Center has become a powerful economic driver for local businesses and more than 65 new retail and dining establishments have opened in the Downtown Orlando core since January 2010, a statement released by the City of Orlando said.
The Amway Center is also spurring private investment. The Orlando Magic recently announced they are exploring long-term planning options to relocate and expand their corporate headquarters to Downtown Orlando as part of a much larger sports and entertainment complex to be located in Parramore.
“It’s hard to believe we’re already wrapping up our inaugural year in the Amway Center,” said Orlando Venues Executive Director Allen Johnson. “The talent we’ve managed to bring here has been nothing short of amazing. We’ve got some exciting announcements on the horizon and I’m pleased to say plenty more legendary experiences lie ahead.”
