Amelia Island Prepares for Historic Gator Bowl
Seminoles Face Mountaineers in Coach Bobby Bowden’s Final Game
On New Year’s Day, thousands of college football fans will pack the stands at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium to watch the Florida State University (FSU) Seminoles and West Virginia University Mountaineers compete in the 65th Konica Minolta Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla. The historic match-up will be the world’s last opportunity to see legendary college football coach Bobby Bowden in action, as he will retire after the game, marking an end to his 34 record-setting seasons at FSU. Located just 45 minutes away from the stadium, Florida’s on legendary Amelia Island is executing a game plan of its own to attract some of the visiting Mountaineer and Seminole fans for the exciting football weekend. Many of the island’s award-winning resorts, hotels, and inns are offering discounted specials and packages for the Gator Bowl. Win or lose, visiting fans can score big by planning a stay before or after the big game to enjoy Amelia’s beautiful beaches, state parks, and fabulous restaurants. The following accommodations on Amelia Island are offering specials and packages during the Gator Bowl:
Amelia Hotel at the Beach
Guests of the 86-room Amelia Hotel at the Beach find themselves just minutes from the historic downtown Fernandina area and across the street from the island’s famous beaches. Favorite amenities include free parking and complimentary wireless internet access. During the Gator Bowl, the property is offering special rates to MASCOT 1 and MASCOT 2 fans, starting at $109 per night on standard rooms, which include deluxe continental breakfast. (877) 263-5428, www.ameliahotel.com
Amelia Island Plantation
Nestled among 1,350 acres of natural splendor, the AAA-Four Diamond Plantation is home to 72 holes of championship golf, 23 tennis courts, 20 swimming pools, a remarkable spa, bike trails and much more, and features a wide variety of room types and views. With rates starting at $149 per night, the property is offering a variety of things to do for New Year’s Eve. The special rate includes 50 percent off recreation, including golf, tennis, bikes, nature and youth programs. Roundtrip bus transportation to the game is also available through Amelia Island Plantation for $55 per person.
(888) 261-6162, www.aipfl.com
ERA Fernandina Beach Realty
The experienced vacation rental experts at ERA Fernandina Beach Realty are now offering rentals at select oceanfront condos throughout Amelia Island at a 20 percent discount during the Gator Bowl. (800) 741-4011, www.amelia-era.com
The Fairbanks House
Amelia Island’s largest historic home, The Fairbanks House features oversized rooms and cottages, and amenities such as wireless internet access, spa robes, evening cocktail hour and more. Guests will enjoy a daily breakfast and evening social hour with complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. The property is offering a “Gator Bowl Extender” during the game. For those staying three nights at regular rates, the Fairbanks House will offer a fourth night free. Visitors must check in on Tuesday, Dec. 29 or Wednesday, Dec. 30 and mention the package when making reservation to receive the deal. (888) 891-9881, www.fairbankshouse.com
Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, a 444-room beachfront resort, invites TEAM 1 and TEAM 2 fans to experience the resort’s signature Southern hospitality with a special New Year’s Eve package available the night before the 2010 Konica Minolta Gator Bowl. With the “New Year’s Eve Celebration” package, visitors can ring in the New Year with elegant overnight accommodations, admission for two to the New Year’s Eve Celebration, buffet breakfast for two in Café 4750 on New Year’s Day, late check-out and overnight parking, starting at $519.
(904) 277-1100, www.ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland
Summer Beach Resort
Summer Beach Resort offers a variety of private, oceanfront accommodations, including villas, town homes, and luxury condominiums. All accommodations include fully-equipped kitchen, washer, dryer, patio, and other amenities, creating a home away from home. Guests visiting during the Gator Bowl can pay for two-nights and get their third night free on two-bedroom units during New Year’s Weekend.
(800) 862-9297, www.summerbeach.com
For additional accommodations please visit our web site below.
www.ameliaisland.com/accommodations
About Amelia Island
Northeast Florida’s coastal treasure, Amelia Island is a barrier island rich in colorful history and breath-taking natural beauty. Its long, beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and pristine waters have made the island a favorite destination for outdoor adventure. Upscale resorts with world-class spas, championship golf and exclusive dining blend effortlessly with a captivating collection of bed and breakfast inns and historic districts. The island is home to Fernandina Beach, once a vibrant Victorian seaport village, and now a charming downtown district of eclectic shops, attractions, and eateries. Forget the everyday getaway; Come make memories on Amelia Island. For visitor information and online planning, visit www.ameliaisland.com.
* All packages and special offers are based on availability. Restrictions apply based on individual property. Please contact individual properties for restrictions and to book a package.
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