After nearly two years of planning, you will finally see the eyes of the football world focused on Green Bay and northeast Wisconsin for the NFL Draft. Road closures around the draft’s footprint in Green Bay and Ashwaubenon have been in place for a few weeks as crews construct a large theater and other amenities for the nearly 250,000 people expected to attend over the long weekend. Austin Straubel Airport in Green Bay is embracing its role as the welcome center for thousands of out-of-state fans, many visiting the area for the first time. Airport Director Marty Piette says flight traffic will be twice as busy as usual, exceeding usual traffic for a Packers game day. With the help of more than 100 volunteers, Piette says they want to leave a good impression on their visitors as the first and last thing they see of Green Bay during their trip.
Closer to home, area tourism leaders are leaning into the attendees looking to extend their Midwestern vacation or escape the activity surrounding Lambeau Field and the Titletown District. Similar to when they welcome cruise ships during the summer, the Algoma Chamber of Commerce plans on handing out more than 100 welcome bags for people either staying or visiting the city during the draft. Destination Door County launched its Draft Pass this week, inviting locals and visitors alike to get a taste of the county through the end of April. Destination Door County’s Jen Rogers says excitement is building for the weekend.
