Florida is one of the premier destinations for college football’s postseason. From Miami to Orlando to Tampa, the Sunshine State hosts some of the sport’s most historic and popular bowl games. Whether you’re planning to travel for your team, want to understand how matchups are selected, or need tips on buying tickets and exploring local hotspots, this guide covers everything you need.
The information below explains how each bowl selects teams, what fans can expect, and how to navigate each city—without relying on year-specific matchups.
Overview of Florida’s Bowl Games
Florida hosts multiple postseason games representing the ACC, SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and Group of Five programs. The five bowl games covered here include:
- Orange Bowl – Miami
- Citrus Bowl – Orlando
- ReliaQuest Bowl – Tampa
- Gator Bowl – Jacksonville
- Boca Raton Bowl – Boca Raton
Each has its own identity, traditions, and fan culture.
1. The Orange Bowl (Miami)
About the Game
One of the oldest and most prestigious bowls in college football, the Orange Bowl is typically played at Hard Rock Stadium. It is part of the New Year’s Six, meaning it can host CFP semifinals in certain years.
Matchup Selection
The Orange Bowl generally features:
- ACC champion (if not in CFP) vs.
- Best available team from the SEC or Big Ten
During years it hosts a CFP semifinal, teams are selected by the College Football Playoff Committee.
Buying Tickets
Tickets sell fast due to the game’s national relevance.
Tips:
- Purchase early from official bowl or team websites
- Avoid third-party markups by checking presales
- Premium seats offer shaded areas—a plus in Miami’s winter sun
Local Guide: What to Do in Miami
- South Beach – nightlife, dining, beachfront hotels
- Wynwood – murals, breweries, shops
- Little Havana – Cuban food, cigar shops, cultural tours
- Hard Rock Stadium – tailgate areas, fan activations
2. Citrus Bowl (Orlando)
About the Game
The Citrus Bowl, played at Camping World Stadium, is one of the highest-tier non-CFP bowls and a staple of New Year’s Day football.
Matchup Selection
Typically:
- SEC (non-CFP) team vs.
- Big Ten (non-CFP) team
This often creates top-10 or top-15 matchups filled with NFL-caliber talent.
Buying Tickets
- Family-friendly pricing compared to New Year’s Six bowls
- Check for bundle packages with theme-park partners
- Parking passes recommended due to busy downtown traffic
Local Guide: What to Do in Orlando
- Universal Studios & Disney World – holiday events, themed attractions
- International Drive – restaurants, entertainment
- Lake Eola Park – scenic downtown walk
- ICON Park – bars, rides, observation wheel
Orlando is ideal for families turning a bowl trip into a vacation.
3. ReliaQuest Bowl (Tampa)
About the Game
Formerly known as the Outback Bowl, the ReliaQuest Bowl is played at Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Matchup Selection
Usually matches:
- SEC team vs
- Big Ten team
It’s historically known for competitive, high-scoring matchups.
Buying Tickets
- Affordable compared to New Year’s Six games
- Club level seats provide shade and great sightlines
- Premium hospitality packages often include brunch events
Local Guide: What to Do in Tampa
- Ybor City – nightlife, Cuban sandwiches, breweries
- Tampa Riverwalk – museums, waterfront dining
- Clearwater Beach – 40 minutes away, excellent for families
- Raymond James Stadium – pirate ship attraction, tailgating
Tampa blends sports, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
4. Gator Bowl (Jacksonville)
About the Game
One of the longest-running bowls in college football, the Gator Bowl is hosted at EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Matchup Selection
Often features:
- SEC or ACC teams (depending on contracts and CFP selections)
- OCCASIONALLY Big Ten involvement depending on rotation
Known for passionate fanbases and unpredictable outcomes.
Buying Tickets
- Traditionally played around New Year’s Eve
- Tailgate-heavy atmosphere—parking passes sell out early
- Affordable end-zone seating with great energy
Local Guide: What to Do in Jacksonville
- Jacksonville Beach – relaxed, surf-friendly
- Riverside & Five Points – cafes, breweries, vintage shops
- St. Johns Town Center – ideal for shopping trips
- EverBank Stadium – fan fest and outdoor club areas
Jacksonville offers a casual, coastal experience for football fans.
5. Boca Raton Bowl (Boca Raton)
About the Game
The Boca Raton Bowl is played at Florida Atlantic University Stadium, offering an intimate and energetic atmosphere. It typically features top Group of Five programs.
Matchup Selection
Most commonly:
- Teams from the AAC, Conference USA, MAC, or Mountain West
Because of this, the game often showcases rising stars and future NFL sleepers.
Buying Tickets
- One of Florida’s most affordable bowl games
- Easy stadium access with on-campus parking
- Great for families or fans wanting a low-stress postseason trip
Local Guide: What to Do in Boca Raton
- Mizner Park – dining, shopping, entertainment
- South Beach Park – quiet, clean beaches
- Atlantic Avenue (Delray Beach) – lively nightlife nearby
- FAU campus – modern facilities and tailgate zones
The Boca Raton Bowl is perfect for a laid-back beach-bowl weekend.
How Bowl Matchups Are Determined in Florida
Even though matchups change every year, the selection process follows predictable guidelines.
Key Factors
- Conference tie-ins
- Team rankings
- CFP selections
- Committee or conference negotiations
Why Big-Time Programs Love Florida Bowls
- Luxury resorts and warm weather attract fan travel
- Major tourism markets boost attendance
- Recruit-rich state ensures lots of scouting buzz
Best Tips for Buying Bowl Game Tickets
1. Buy Early
Prices rise as teams are officially announced.
2. Use Authorized Sellers
Stick to:
- Bowl game websites
- Team ticket offices
- Trusted platforms like Ticketmaster
3. Consider Hospitality Packages
Many bowls offer:
- VIP seating
- Pregame parties
- Parking and food packages
4. Check Seating Maps
Florida stadiums vary widely:
- Hard Rock and Raymond James have shaded, premium corners
- Camping World has bleachers in some sections
- FAU Stadium is smaller and fills quickly
Travel Tips for Florida Bowl Game Fans
Weather
- Typically mild (60s–70s)
- Inland cities: cooler mornings (Orlando/Jacksonville)
- Coastal cities: breezy and warmer (Miami/Tampa/Boca)
Transportation
- Miami and Orlando: rideshares recommended
- Tampa: stadium lots fill early
- Boca Raton: easiest for parking
- Jacksonville: large tailgate lots, arrive 3+ hours early
Where to Stay
- Book early, especially around New Year’s
- Beachfront hotels fill months in advance
- Consider nearby suburbs for cheaper options
Conclusion: Florida Is the Heart of Bowl Season
With historic stadiums, warm weather, and top-tier matchups, Florida remains one of the best states for college football bowl games. Whether you’re following your team to a New Year’s Six showdown in Miami or traveling for an intimate Group of Five battle in Boca Raton, each bowl offers something unique:
- Orange Bowl: prestige and national spotlight
- Citrus Bowl: top SEC/Big Ten clash
- ReliaQuest Bowl: high-energy fan experience
- Gator Bowl: tradition and passionate SEC/ACC crowds
- Boca Raton Bowl: relaxed atmosphere with rising stars
From tickets and matchups to local guides and travel tips, Florida’s bowl season offers unforgettable experiences for every type of college football fan.
