(Green Bay, Wis.) With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, community organizations, including Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), are finalizing their preparations for a surge of visitors across Green Bay and the surrounding areas.
Since the NFL announced Green Bay as the host city of the 2025 Draft, GRB, Greater Green Bay Chamber, Discover Green Bay, Oneida Casino Hotel and Destination Door Countyhave been collaborating to share insights, plans and resources to help Green Bay put on its largest event ever.
“Each of these entities plays a significant role in the overall success of the Draft,” said Airport Director Marty Piette. “This collaboration highlights how our individual roles overlap as well as how each of us brings a unique and vital element to our community and region.”
As GRB delivers travelers from across the country to Northeast Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, its partnership with Discover Green Bay has been key in providing a positive on-the-ground welcome for guests.
“We are pleased to have this collaboration where we can best support each organization,” said Discover Green Bay President and CEO Brad Toll. “As the destination marketer, our goal is to provide the best possible experience by showcasing all the positive attributes of our community.”
The airport often hears how the passengers love how convenient it is to stay at The Oneida Casino Hotel across the street.
“When people travel, they love the ease of accessing their hotel with our free shuttle from the airport,” said Oneida Casino Hotel General Gaming Manager Louise Cornelius.
Although travelers are mainly drawn to the NFL Draft festivities happening within the footprint of the event, surrounding communities are also prepared for the influx of visitors. Both the Greater Green Bay Chamber and Destination Door County are keeping local establishments informed and providing support as they anticipate a spike in business activity.
“Being part of this collaboration has allowed us to help our members and partners understand the economic impact and opportunity presented by the draft,” said Greater Green Bay Chamber President and CEO Laurie Radke. “We have provided business owners with training and spread the word about options for food, lodging, entertainment and more to drive interest in visiting other parts of our community.”
Meanwhile, for nearby Door County, the 2025 NFL Draft means it’s an early kick-off to their busy tourism season.
“We anticipate an overflow of visitors coming north to spend their weekend at our hotels and vacation rentals, but visitors who are staying in Green Bay are welcome to explore Door County before or after their draft activities,” said Destination Door County President and CEO Julie Gilbert.
Collaboration among these entities creates an incomparable visitor experience.
“We are grateful for the spirit of partnership and cooperation among so many organizations and businesses,” said Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach. “Thanks to their efforts, our welcome mat is out, our doors are open, and we’re ready to create lasting memories for all involved.”
