The most family-friendly event leading up to the 2024 Super Bowl in Las Vegas is the NFL Experience.
The event, which officials call an “NFL theme park,” runs Wednesday through Saturday at the Mandalay Bay South Convention Center. Fans of all ages can explore 70,000 square feet of all things football before the Chiefs’ showdown with the 49ers on Feb. 11 at Allegiant Stadium.
The space offers 15 activities, including the 40-yard dash, kicking a field goal and an obstacle course. There are also two pickleball courts for those who want to have fun outside of soccer.
“(It has) everything, whether you’re 6 years old or 70 years old, that you want to do as an NFL fan,” said Peter O’Reilly, executive vice president of club affairs, international events and the NFL league. “Run a 40-yard dash against an LED wall against some of the fastest players in the NFL. Kick a basket and realize how incredibly difficult it is.
There are also 22 sponsor spaces, 18 exhibits and four retail locations within the convention center space. A 36,000-square-foot NFL store will feature Super Bowl merchandise and player memorabilia.
Various NFL players will also participate in meet and greets and autograph sessions. Fans can take photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and also see the Super Bowl rings of all past champions.
Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice, who won three titles with the 49ers, will present the Lombardi Trophy at the event Wednesday. Equipment can only be touched by a player or coach of a winning team.
“This was before the NFC champions were determined, so it was locked in a few weeks ago,” said Nicki Ewell, NFL senior events director.
Fans are encouraged to download the NFL OnePass app before visiting the NFL Experience or any Super Bowl event. It contains information from the entire week and the day of the game itself, said Katie Keenan, the NFL’s senior director of live events.
Locals hoping to visit the NFL Experience should do so Wednesday or Thursday before more visitors arrive for the game. Tickets are $25 on Wednesday and $50 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Children 12 and under enter free.
Contact Mick Akers at [email protected] or 702-387-2920. Follow @mickakers on X.