The Draft Experience Is Built for Kids
The Draft Experience is the NFL's free fan zone that runs alongside the actual draft. It's huge. And it's packed with stuff kids love. Everything here is free with general admission (which is also free).
40-Yard Dash
Kids can run the same 40-yard dash the prospects run at the Combine. They get timed and everything. This is usually the longest line, so hit it early in the day.
Field Goal Challenge
Kick a field goal through real uprights. Sized for all ages. Kids go absolutely nuts for this one.
Autograph Stage
Current and former NFL players sign autographs at scheduled times throughout the event. Check the draft schedule for specific times once they're announced.
Interactive Exhibits
Past drafts have featured a Lombardi Trophy photo op, a helmet display from all 32 teams, and hands-on football drills. Pittsburgh's setup will likely be the biggest yet.
Family Attractions Near the Draft
Pittsburgh has a ton for families beyond the draft itself. Some of these are walking distance from the venues. Check our full things to do guide for even more options.
| Attraction | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Science Center | 0.5 miles | On the North Shore. Walk from Acrisure Stadium. SportsWorks exhibit is perfect for draft weekend. |
| Children's Museum | 0.7 miles | Also on the North Shore. Great for ages 2-10. Indoor, so it's a good rain backup. |
| National Aviary | 0.8 miles | The only standalone aviary in the US. Open Saturday and Sunday. CLOSED Thursday and Friday. |
| Pittsburgh Zoo | 15 min drive | In Highland Park. About 6 miles from downtown. Uber or drive. |
| Kennywood | 20 min drive | Classic amusement park. Opens for the 2026 season the same weekend as the draft. About 12 miles east. |
Tips for Families at the Draft
- Go Saturday. Smallest crowds, shortest lines, quickest day. Thursday night is electric but overwhelming for little kids. Saturday is the sweet spot.
- Arrive early. The Draft Experience opens before the actual picks start. Get there when gates open and you'll hit the 40-yard dash and field goal challenge with minimal wait.
- Strollers work, but barely. They're allowed, but navigating through 200,000+ people with a stroller is tough. If your kid can walk, let them walk. If you need the stroller, Saturday is much easier.
- Clear bag policy applies to diaper bags too. The NFL's bag rules don't make exceptions. Use a clear bag for diapers, snacks, and supplies. Check the draft day checklist for the full bag policy.
- Bring snacks. Food lines get long. Kids get hungry. Pack snacks in your clear bag to avoid a meltdown while you're waiting 30 minutes for chicken tenders.
- Set a meeting spot. Cell service gets unreliable with this many people in one area. Pick a visible landmark as your family's meeting point in case you get separated.
- Hearing protection for babies and toddlers. It gets loud. The main stage has massive speakers. If you have a baby or toddler, bring ear protection. You can grab baby ear muffs on Amazon for about $15.
Which Day Is Best for Families?
Thursday (April 23) - Round 1
The biggest crowd. The most energy. Also the most chaotic. Great for older kids (10+) who can handle long waits and big crowds. Tough for toddlers and young kids.
Friday (April 24) - Rounds 2-3
Still crowded but less intense than Thursday. A solid middle ground. Draft Experience lines are shorter than Day 1.
Saturday (April 25) - Rounds 4-7 (Best for families)
Smallest crowd. Shortest lines. The day moves fast. You can do the full Draft Experience in 2-3 hours without insane waits. This is the day for young kids, strollers, and families who want to enjoy it without the chaos.
FAQ
Is the NFL Draft family-friendly?
Yes. The Draft Experience is designed for all ages. Kids can run the 40-yard dash, try the field goal challenge, visit the autograph stage, and explore interactive exhibits. It's all free with general admission.
Can I bring a stroller to the NFL Draft?
Strollers are allowed but expect big crowds, especially Thursday and Friday. The Draft Experience areas are mostly flat and accessible. Saturday is the least crowded day and easiest for strollers.
What's the best day to bring kids to the NFL Draft?
Saturday, April 25. It's the shortest day (Rounds 4-7), the crowds are smaller, and lines for Draft Experience activities are much shorter. Kids won't have to wait as long for the 40-yard dash or autograph stage.
What else can families do near the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh?
Carnegie Science Center is on the North Shore (walking distance from the draft). The Children's Museum is nearby. The National Aviary is open Saturday and Sunday. Pittsburgh Zoo is a 15-minute drive. Kennywood amusement park opens the same weekend.
Plan your family's draft weekend.
Get the full schedule, packing list, and everything else you need.