ULTIMATE FAN GUIDE
Dustin McGrew
CITY OF CHAMPIONS
In Pittsburgh, football isn’t just a game— it’s a way of life.
It’s the roar of the crowd, waves of Terrible Towels and the spirit of community that unites generations. As the 2026 NFL Draft descends upon the City of Champions, fans and families from every corner of the country—and world—are invited to experience a football journey like no other.
Here, the love of the game echoes from the historic halls of Acrisure Stadium to the bustling streets of the Strip District. And while our black and gold pride may run deep, it’s paired with just as much Midwest friendliness that makes our city feel like home away from home—no matter who you’re rooting for.
As you navigate and prepare for the excitement of the NFL Draft, discover a city where tradition meets innovation and one that prepares to amaze with the best event in history. Speaking of history, did we mention that the first NFL Draft took place right here in 1936? Ninety years later, it’s about time we welcome this historic event home.
Whether you’re rallying for your favorite team, taking in iconic sights or soaking up the electric energy that only Pittsburgh can deliver, this once-in-a-lifetime weekend is your chance to be a part of football history.
Read on for insider tips on the best places to stay, where to eat and how to make the most of your time in our city. And don’t forget to visit NFLDraftPittsburgh.com to plan your trip, receive event updates and more.
We can’t wait to see you soon. PLAN YOUR TRIP Scan to learn more about the 2026 NFL Draft.
WELCOME TO PITTSBURGH
While you’re here, we encourage you to explore all our city has to offer. From incredible outdoor adventures and historical sites to some of the country’s finest museums and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in Pittsburgh.
CONVENIENT LOCATION
Pittsburgh is within 500 miles of more than half the U.S. population and less than a 90-minute flight from 50 percent of North America’s population.
THE AIRPORT
The new 700,000-square foot terminal, set to open in advance of the 2026 NFL Draft, is designed to better serve travelers and features streamlined operations.
TRAVEL ADVICE
GETTING AROUND TOWN
Downtown Pittsburgh is a compact 50-acre space, but there are over 90 surrounding neighborhoods to explore. Traveling by car is a breeze with interstates 79, 279, 376 and the PA Turnpike. If you prefer to let someone else do the driving, rideshares or taxi services are easily accessible. Public transportation is also available via rideprt.org.
ALL ROADS LEAD TO PITTSBURGH
DETROIT 285 MILES
130 MILES
CHICAGO 460 MILES
CINCINNATI286MILES INDIANAPOLIS358MILES
Pittsburgh is located within a 500-mile drive of 11 NFL teams and 35 NCAA Division I markets, making us a convenient destination for sports fans looking to experience the 2026 NFL Draft.
CITY OF CHAMPIONS
Pittsburgh is home to widely-known professional sports teams—each with its own dynamic history of world championships, incredible moments and hall of fame players. But beyond the black and gold, there is so much for any sports fan to see and do.
Matt Shuck
Explore the region’s vast history of sports at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, with hundreds of artifacts and more than 70 interactive exhibits located inside the Heinz History Center. Or hop on The Burgh Bus to tailgate through distinct Pittsburgh neighborhoods for a one-of-kind tour featuring a live comedy show, trivia and more.
As you stroll along the North Shore, there are a number of monuments worth visiting. The Immaculate Reception Monument remembers the greatest NFL play of all time, signifying the exact spot of this miraculous catch with a bronze plate featuring the footprint of Franco Harris, who made the astounding play. Nearby, you’ll also find the Art Rooney Statue. Take a moment to sit with “The Chief,” the Pro Football Hall of Famer and founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
HEINZ HISTORY CENTER
Does your love of the game extend beyond football?
While on the North Shore, check out displays of retired baseball numbers and more on the lower walkway by PNC Park and the Clemente Bridge.
Additionally, we have an entire museum dedicated to Roberto Clemente, housed in a historic firehouse and full of memorabilia from The Great One himself. The Roberto Clemente Museum offers guided tours and open house hours, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
DISCOVER FANFAVORITE STOPS Scan to learn more about Pittsburgh’s champion sports.
PLACES TO STAY
Pittsburgh offers a wide selection of worldclass accommodations—from boutique hotels and B&Bs to all the major brands that are sure to offer an exceptional stay and lasting impression. Many of the properties, including several new hotels, are well within walking distance of the NFL Draft, making it easy to cheer for your pick and traverse the city.
Overlooking the Ohio River and just steps away from Acrisure Stadium, The Landing Hotel at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh offers panoramic views of the riverfront, Mt. Washington and Pittsburgh’s famous skyline. The seven-story hotel boasts more than 200 spacious guest rooms.
Hyatt Place Pittsburgh-North, Residence Inn Pittsburgh North Shore, SpringHill Suites Pittsburgh North Shore and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pittsburgh North Shore, are also centrally located within walking distance of Acrisure Stadium on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, offering plenty of options to make your home base near all the action.
There are also several hotels to choose from Downtown that are near the Draft event footprint. The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel delivers contemporary style in an exceptional atmosphere and two on-site restaurants. The Joinery Hotel and the Industrialist Hotel both reside in historic buildings yet offer vibrant community spaces, including noteworthy bars and restaurants. Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh Downtown also offers an ideal location in the heart of Market Square.
Kahlbaugh
WATCH PARTY WORTHY RESTAURANTS & BARS
You won’t find a lack of sports bars throughout our city. In fact, Pittsburgh has continuously been recognized as the best beer city due to a high concentration of bars and breweries paired with our extensive cuisine. So, no matter where you find yourself, you’re guaranteed the best seat in the house to watch all the Draftrelated coverage.
Julie
All sports, all the time, is the promise of Tom’s Watch Bar, between PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium. Hundreds of screens provide a great view of the action no matter where you sit, with personalized audio at each table.
Mike’s Beer Bar has one of the biggest selections of craft beer anywhere, with 500 beers available including 300 local bottles and cans and 80 local taps. Right next door with a shared kitchen, the North Shore Tavern is known for signature meals, including steak on a 700-degree lava stone.
RedBeard’s Bar & Grill, located on 6th Street Downtown, is a fan-favorite spot in a convenient location. This coveted sports bar is lined with TVs, offers a large beer selection and features game day specials for any Pittsburgh sporting event.
For those looking to skip the crowds, Mario’s Saloon (Southside, East Side and Oakland) and Bigham Tavern (Mt. Washington) also offer great food, drinks and atmospheres to toast to your team’s top pick.
FUEL UP
Scan to learn more about sports bars in Pittsburgh.
Matt Shuck
NEARBY NEIGHBORHOODS
DOWNTOWN
At the heart of our 90 neighborhoods, Downtown is a glittering gem with public art and extraordinary dining. Plus, Point State Park offers a lush urban escape with the iconic fountain positioned at the center of 24 miles of riverfront trail along the Golden Triangle.
There are more than 100 dining options Downtown, including Sally Ann’s, Gaucho Parrilla Argentina, Ritual House, Speckled Egg, Waffles INCaffeinated, Nicky’s Thai, Sly Fox Brewery at the Point and more.
Downtown Pittsburgh offers a number of options that reflect our city’s storied past, such as the rich heritage of jazz and nightlife at Con Alma, and a nod to our future in tech and innovation at Space Bar, a spaceship-themed venue in Market Square.
Additionally, there are a number of shops to peruse throughout the day. For example, Steel City sells a selection of staples inspired by sports and pop culture, and love, offers a curated boutique experience.
Downtown is also chock full of arts and culture opportunities thanks to our 14-block Cultural District. Prepare to be blown away by outstanding performance venues, public art and free galleries, such as the Liberty Avenue Musicians, Magnolias for Pittsburgh and the Yesterday’s Tomorrow mural.
STRIP DISTRICT
In the Strip District, you can see the old and new Pittsburgh collide, with some of our longest-standing businesses alongside new, innovative offerings.
Voted the best history museum in the U.S., the Heinz History Center is perfect for those who want to learn about the history of the region, including a two-floor exhibit dedicated to sports and nostalgic exhibits dedicated to Mister Rogers Neighborhood and retro Heinz artifacts.
STRIP DISTRICT
Sarah Coker
If you have time, a great way to explore our city through a foodie lens is by taking a ’Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour. The Strip District tour will allow you to delve into history while enjoying a variety of delicious bites.
The Strip District is packed with an array of global cuisines as well as Pittsburgh staples, such as the original Primanti Bros. location, Pamela’s Diner, Sunseri’s, Novo Asian Food Hall, DiAnoia’s Eatery and more.
Wash down your meal at a distillery and brewery, such as Wigle Whiskey, Kingfly Spirits, Cinderlands Warehouse, Bonafide Brewing, Maggie’s Farm and more.
You’ll also find plenty of shopping opportunities throughout this area.
Be sure to pick up fan gear at Yinzers in the Burgh, a souvenir at love, Pittsburgh or a treat at Pittsburgh Popcorn, Enrico’s Biscotti and Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop before you head home.
EXPLORE OUR CITY OF MULTITUDES Scan to learn more about Pittsburgh’s 90 neighborhoods.
WIGLE WHISKEY
Matt Shuck
2026 NFL DRAFT BUCKET LIST
Walk across one of our iconic, yellow Sister Bridges
Ride the Duquesne or Monongahela Incline and snap a photo of the view from atop Mt. Washington
Try an Almost Famous Sandwich at Primanti Bros.
Snap a picture in front of the famous Immaculate Reception monument
Earn a pickle pin by exploring all floors of the Heinz History Museum
Explore world-class art at The Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museums of Art & Natural History
Learn at least one Pittsburghese word – just ask a local!
SHARE ON SOCIAL
Enjoying your time in the ‘Burgh? That makes you an honorary Yinzer! We want to see our city through your POV, so be sure to share and tag #LovePGH on social media as you explore. Visit NFLDraftPittsburgh.com to see how other fans are experiencing the City of Champions.
ACRISURE STADIUM
Dustin McGrew
Brady Smith