If you plan on taking a trip to Florida to see a Panthers game, parking near the arena can quickly become a nightmare if you don’t know where to look. Nothing ruins a sports game faster than spending 45 minutes circling overcrowded parking lots or paying through the nose for a convenient spot. Most visitors rely on official parking options, unaware that there are better alternatives just minutes away. To win the parking game, you’ve got to know where to look, and you’ve got to know your way around the area. The good news is that in this guide, we’ll tell you all the trade secrets to finding the best parking for your next Panthers game. Whether you are looking for proximity to the arena or saving on budget, we guarantee these parking spots will make your life much easier.
Sawgrass Mills Mall Parking
One of the best-kept secrets among arena regulars is the free parking opportunity at Sawgrass Mills Mall. This popular option saves concert goers and sports fans vast amounts of money while offering good accessibility to the arena. The mall is located directly across the street from the stadium. It is an expansive shopping center and has plenty of free parking to choose from. Not only do you get to benefit from the free parking, but you get to avoid post-event traffic congestion. There have also been no reported issues with security or enforcement during events.
Amerant Bank Arena General Parking Lots
Suppose you like the idea of official venue parking for its convenience. In that case, the good news is that the venue offers expansive general parking lots surrounding the facility. The arena features two primary general parking areas, A lot and D lot. Garage parking is also available through gates 5 and 6. Typically, these parking spots open 2 hours before event start times, and remain accessible one hour after the game is over. Just know that if you want to park this close to the arena, you will pay for it, because general parking is $40. They also no longer accept cash payments.
VIP and Club Red Parking
If you are a Panthers game regular and want to capitalize on your exclusive parking privileges, you can do so through the VIP and Club Red parking location. Select VIP parking passes unlock access to the underground parking garage beneath the stadium. For club parking, attendees must stay in the center lanes on Panther Parkway until they pass Gate 7 and enter through Gate 6. Club parking costs $50 plus tax when you purchase it at the gate, and VIP parking is similar, but it does have the advantage of opening 4 hours before game time. This window allows you to get a premium spot, relax, and get some dinner before the game.
Rideshare Drop Off Zones
You may avoid trying to find a park altogether and go for a ride share instead. This is an excellent alternative, except knowing where the designated zones are is essential, as this will save time and reduce confusion when arriving for events. The arena has marked rideshare access points, with a straightforward system. All vehicles must enter through Gate 3, the dedicated rideshare entrance. Passengers are then dropped off at the north pedestrian walkway entrance, providing direct access to the venue. After Uber has completed the drop off, it will exit through Gate 2. Of course, you have to pay for the Uber, but this will save you money on parking, especially if your accommodation is close.
Parking Street Options
Another option if you don’t want to pay for an official car park is to try to find one on a street nearby. Street parking near the arena is primarily a fallback option because of limited options. Because the arena is located in a suburban area, it offers minimal curbside spaces. If you find a park on the street, you may have a walk ahead. Even the closest commercial lot requires you to cross a major intersection before walking a good quarter mile to reach the venue entrance. In short, street parking is the least reliable option if you are going to a Panthers game.
Sunrise Park & Ride Lot
An often-overlooked option for finding a good park is the Sunrise Park and Ride lot. This budget-friendly option combines reasonable proximity and affordability, making it increasingly popular among regular attendees. It is situated just 2000 feet from the arena and enables visitors to reach the venue on foot in approximately 7 minutes, if you don’t want to take the express bus. There are scheduled trips for high-profile events throughout the year at 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. The return service begins at 10:00 PM, with three buses continuing operations until all passengers have departed.
1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323
Ikea Lot
Local regulars have discovered another official parking option for Panthers arena attendees, a nearby IKEA store lot. It is situated down the street from the arena, making it a great free option if you don’t mind a little bit of walking. It is a slightly longer walk than the mall, but it is still a good choice if you don’t want to pay for parking. It is less crowded than official parking lots and offers multiple exit routes after the event. However, you do have to watch out for security and enforcement.
151 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise, FL 33325
Conclusion
Navigating the parking conundrum around Amerant Bank Arena involves balancing cost against convenience. You might not mind spending a bit more to park your car right at the arena’s entrance, or perhaps you are happy to park it in the mall and do some walking. Whatever your preferences are, this guide covers everything related to parking for your next Florida Panthers game, so that you can come prepared and not spend too much time trying to find a park.