CLEVELAND — Thousands of NFL Draft attendees in Cleveland this weekend are expected to pump millions of dollars into the local economy and that’s welcome news to local bars and restaurants who have been hurting due to COVID-19.
Football fans visiting Cleveland may want to stop by the iconic Flats at East Bank Downtown along the waterfront while they’re in town for the NFL Draft. The Flats is full of popular local bars and restaurants and is less than a mile from the NFL Draft Experience right by FirstEngery stadium.
The Flats at East Bank is one of three “Rock the Clock End Zones” where fans can enjoy live music, food, and non-alcoholic drinks in outdoor seating areas from 3 to 10 p.m. while tuning in to the NFL Draft.
Staffing and seating has been increased at nearby local bars and restaurants to accommodate the tens of thousands of fans in town.
Area spots like Truman’s 216, which just opened in 2019, said the draft is just what the city needed to make a comeback after a COVID-19 setback.
“Last night, we… unfortunately had to turn people away and that is something we don’t want to do, but we have to follow our guidelines. I expect us to be well at capacity all weekend,” said Lauren Pepple, Truman’s 216 finance director. “The draft has been amazing for Cleveland. It’s really given us a chance to shine, get new customers, get people out after COVID and just really kind of reinvigorate the city.”
All three Rock the Clock End Zones are open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservation is required, unlike the NFL Draft Experience where you need to get a free ticket ahead of time through the NFL OnePass app.
The other two Rock the Clock End Zones are at Mall C and Playhouse Square, which are other popular downtown attractions near the stadium.
