Story perspectives

Strip District Turns Ghost Town on Draft Day

4/25/2026

Summary

Pittsburgh Ghosts Draft

Pittsburgh reported low foot traffic in the Strip District on April 23, 2026, NFL Draft’s first day that drew 320,000 attendees.
Greg Tenaglia, manager of Pennsylvania Macaroni Co., called the area a “ghost town” despite staffed vendors.
Sam Lagattuta, owner of Enrico Biscotti Co., blamed road closures and the draft for diverting visitors.
Visit Pittsburgh projected up to $213 million impact while short-term rentals hit 75% occupancy and hotels 60% on April 23, 2026.

Summary

Visitors Describe Pittsburgh

Visitors described Pittsburgh as a “wonderful, little city” with abundant trees, hill-top homes and Aztec gold bridges.
Hector and Eduardo Hernandez praised the draft setup, dined at Mike’s Beer Bar and attended a poker tournament at Cupka’s Café.
Brandon McKinzie and Alex Finster reported chaotic conditions leaving the city and cited public-transit delays.

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Pittsburgh Ghosts Draft

Pittsburgh reported low foot traffic in the Strip District on April 23, 2026, NFL Draft’s first day that drew 320,000 attendees.
Greg Tenaglia, manager of Pennsylvania Macaroni Co., called the area a “ghost town” despite staffed vendors.
Sam Lagattuta, owner of Enrico Biscotti Co., blamed road closures and the draft for diverting visitors.
Visit Pittsburgh projected up to $213 million impact while short-term rentals hit 75% occupancy and hotels 60% on April 23, 2026.

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