During the first weekend in April, the Final Four Men's Division 1 college basketball teams will face off at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Also known as the "Big Dance", fans can expect a weekend of fantastic basketball along with other special events.
2009 Men's Final Four Events
On Friday, April 3, fans will gather to watch participating teams in an open practice. Doors will open at noon, and there is no charge for this event. Later that afternoon, fans can enjoy an all-star game sponsored by Hershey's Corporation. This will be a match up of some of the NCAA's best senior players. The semi-finals will begin on Saturday, with the NCAA Men's Division 1 Finals taking place on Monday night.
Other Activities in Detroit During March Madness Weekend
Sports fans attending the Big Dance can also enjoy great music along Detroit's Riverfront. Several groups will perform on the Riverfront during March Madness weekend including Fergie, the Pussy Cat Dolls and Gavin DeGraw. At Cobo Hall (on the riverfront and about six or seven blocks from Ford Field), fans can participate in an array of March Madness related activities such as a 3-on-3 tournament, basketball clinics, NCAA trivia, various exhibits and much more.
Visiting Ford Field and Downtown Detroit
Ford Field is located on Brush Street, just across the street from Comerica Park in downtown Detroit. Because the two stadiums are in close proximity, there are numerous parking options nearby.
Inside Ford Field, one can purchase snacks such as peanuts, pretzels, popcorn, etc., along with more substantive foods such as gyros, pizza, burgers or chicken sandwiches. As with many stadiums, these items can however be quite pricey. As an alternative one can choose to park and eat before entering the stadium. Some places to consider include Elwood Bar & Grill (specializing in burgers, this is the closest restaurant to the stadium) or Cheli's Chili Bar. If time allows, one can also take the People Mover (a public train that travels around the downtown area) to Greektown for more of a variety of eating options.
Lodging in Downtown Detroit
Hotels near Ford Field include the Courtyard by Marriott/downtown Detroit, Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, the Hotel St. Regis and the Omni Hotel. If no vacancies are available in the downtown area, another option might be Southfield (about twenty minutes from downtown Detroit), Dearborn (about fifteen minutes from the downtown area) or even Windsor, Ontario (less than ten minutes away).
