CLEVELAND — Editor's note: the video in the player above is from a previous story.
With the 2021 NFL Draft in Cleveland nearly a week away, the Downtown Cleveland Alliance (DCA), Destination Cleveland and Greater Cleveland Sports Commission have announced three "protocol-compliant viewing and dining areas are designed to create safe, engaging and memorable atmospheres for residents and visitors, while helping to drive business to downtown restaurants and retailers" in the downtown area.
RELATED: More NFL Draft coverage from WKYC
The three Rock the Clock End Zones will consist of the following locations: Playhouse Square at US Bank Plaza, on Old River Road in Flats East Bank and on Mall C. All three locations will follow the clear bag and restricted items policy set forth by the city of Cleveland and the NFL, as well as the health and safety protocols that will be enforced at the NFL Draft Experience.
“As we prepare to welcome NFL Draft participants, visitors from across the country and local football fans, we want to provide a way for those who may not have tickets or not feel comfortable in a large event environment to take in the festivities, be part of this exciting atmosphere downtown and help bolster our significantly impacted restaurants, bars and retail stores,” said David Gilbert, president & CEO of Destination Cleveland and Greater Cleveland Sports Commission.
“The Rock the Clock End Zone sites promise to deliver an unforgettable and safe experience for all attendees,” says Joe Marinucci, President & CEO of Downtown Cleveland Alliance. “We look forward to welcoming fans downtown and hope that everyone shows their support by ordering takeout from our local restaurants and supporting small businesses during the weekend.”
The three End Zones will feature seating, live music from local DJs and broadcasts of the Draft. The schedules for the End Zone locations are as follows:
Playhouse Square at US Bank Plaza
- Thursday, April 29: 3-10 p.m.
- Friday, April 30: 3-10 p.m.
Flats East Bank on Old River Road (Outside Thirsty Dog & Dante’s Inferno)
- Thursday, April 29: 3-10 p.m.
- Friday, April 30: 3-10 p.m.
Mall C
- Thursday, April 29: 12-10 p.m.
- Friday, April 30: 12-10 p.m.
- Saturday, May 1: 12-7 p.m.