DETROIT (WXYZ) — As of noon today, the NFL Draft Experience is underway in Hart Plaza, kicking off events Downtown surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft.
VIDEO: Fans give first impressions of the NFL Draft Experience:
The festival includes food, drinks, and several interactive booths. You can get a look at all that is going on at the NFL Draft website.
At the Vince Lombardi Trophy tent, there are jerseys on display so fans can take photos in front of them.
We asked several fans what they were most excited about.
"Really just experiencing everything that Downtown Detroit has to offer and being united with everyone," a Bears fan told us.
VIDEO: Eagles fans share their excitement for the NFL Draft in Detroit
"It's just been fun to walk around," her friend, a Lions fan said. "We've met a lot of really great people already, just at different restaurants and walking down the streets."
There will also be autograph signings from players and legends like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Barry Sanders, and Calvin Johnson at various times this weekend.
VIDEO: Watch as crowds stream into Downtown Detroit
"It's fantastic," said a Lions fan sporting a furry lion hat.
Fans can also get an up-close look at every single Super Bowl ring from years past. The ring from 2024 is not included because they are still in the process of being made and will be presented at a ceremony in June.
Visitors are encouraged not to bring bags as a clear bag policy is in place.
WATCH: See video of the crowds lined up before the doors opened:
The NFL says one of the most important things for fans planning to enjoy the draft is to download the NFL One pass app and register. The app will produce a QR code that will work as a "ticket" for entry. The QR code is good for all three days of the draft.
Reminder: You must download the NFL OnePass app and register to be able to access the NFL Fan Experience.
Click here to download the app on your device.
VIDEO: Watch 7 News Detroit reporters race in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Draft Fan Experience:
Games
Fans at the NFL Experience can try their hand at a variety of football games. They are:
- 40-yard dash
- Race down the field and digital NFL players on a giant 40-yard long LED wall
- Vertical Jump
- Find out the difference between your reach and the flag you hit is
- Hail Mary
- Throw a deep pass over defenders into a drop net
Attractions
Autograph Stage: There will be an autograph stage where you can get autographs from current NFL players and NFL legends. The schedule will be released by April 20.
Bud Light Backyard Bar: The Bud Light Backyard Bar will include Bud Light or Bud Light Seltzer and have a photo-op.
Look Like a Pro: You can step inside a uniformed body cast mold and wear your favorite NFL team at the "Look Like a Pro" attraction.
Taste of Detroit: The Taste of Detroit will have selections from dozens of local restaurants where you can chow down on some delicious food from award-winning restaurants and food trucks.
Check out the full list of the local restaurants here.
NFL Draft Stage: Stand on a replica of the official NFL Draft Stage and take your spot behind the Podium
NFL Locker Room: You can visit a replica NFL locker room as it appears on game day.
Pro Football Hall of Fame: There will be a HOF curated exhibit with Hall of fame bronze busts and different trophies and awards.
Pepsi Team Helmets: Fans can take their picture with oversized replica of all 32 NFL team helmets
Super Bowl Rings: There will be a display with all 57 Super Bowl Rings
Vince Lombardi Trophy: Fans can get a photo op with the trophy awarded to the Super Bowl winner every year.
