​Both playoff games were held at Ford Field, meaning Detroiters experienced the back-to-back victories at home and Detroit businesses reaped the rewards. Economists believe the two weekends sparked a local economic boost of nearly $50 million, which is a high point for an already revitalizing season for Detroit’s hospitality scene.  

Tharp believes his businesses have “easily” seen a 30% uptick in sales, even on non-game days, in a needed financial first-down for businesses. Still recovering from the pandemic, Detroit’s restaurants and hotels have since struggled significantly with staffing issues, low turnout in the winter months, and other crippling challenges.  

“This gives us hope,” Tharp says of the city’s new energy.  

While NFL games can usually drum up $12-25 million in revenue for the host city’s businesses, it goes without saying: the more touchdowns the team scores, the more green ones the businesses score. Tharp explains that fans tend to head home after a loss; but after a rousing victory, people feel like hitting the town and celebrating.  

But Tharp has noticed another kind of revival downtown. More out-of-town guests and tourists have flocked to Detroit this football season, some to see the Lions play and others just to experience the city. “It has the momentum, that Detroit pride that is so good, and important, and fierce,” he says.