Top Sports Bars In Chicago: Where To Watch The Game
Hey sports fans! Looking for the best sports bars in Chicago to catch the next big game? You've come to the right place. Chicago is a city that bleeds sports, and that passion is reflected in its amazing sports bar scene. Whether you're a die-hard Bears, Cubs, Bulls, Blackhawks, or White Sox fan, or you just love the energy of a crowd cheering on their team, Chicago has a sports bar for you. In this guide, we'll dive into some of the top spots in the city and surrounding areas where you can enjoy cold drinks, delicious food, and an electric atmosphere. So, grab your jersey and get ready to explore the best sports bars Chicago has to offer!
Wrigleyville: A Home Run for Sports Fans
Wrigleyville, home of the Chicago Cubs, is a must-visit for any sports enthusiast. This neighborhood is absolutely buzzing on game days, and the energy is contagious. But even when the Cubs aren't playing, Wrigleyville's sports bars offer a fantastic atmosphere to watch any game. Let's check out some of the highlights:
Murphy's Bleachers
Murphy's Bleachers is practically a Wrigleyville institution. Located just across from Wrigley Field, this bar has been serving fans for decades. Expect a lively crowd, tons of TVs, and a great selection of beers. The walls are covered in Cubs memorabilia, adding to the classic sports bar ambiance. Grab a burger, a beer, and soak in the Wrigleyville atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to celebrate a Cubs victory or commiserate after a tough loss. This place gets packed, especially during baseball season, so get there early to snag a good spot.
Sluggers World Class Sports Bar
Looking for something a little different? Sluggers World Class Sports Bar offers a unique twist on the sports bar experience. Sure, they have plenty of TVs and a great beer selection, but they also have batting cages and arcade games! It's a fantastic place to go with a group of friends who want to do more than just watch the game. Take a few swings in the batting cages during commercial breaks, or challenge your friends to a game of hoops. Sluggers is always a fun and energetic spot.
The Cubby Bear
Right outside the iconic Wrigley Field, The Cubby Bear is another Wrigleyville staple known for its energetic atmosphere. This bar has been a pre- and post-game destination for Cubs fans for years. With a spacious interior, multiple bars, and a large outdoor patio, The Cubby Bear can accommodate even the biggest crowds. You can catch any game here on their numerous screens, and they often have live music after Cubs games. It's a great place to celebrate a win with fellow fans and soak up the Wrigleyville vibe.
River North: Upscale Sports Viewing
If you're looking for a more upscale sports bar experience, River North is the place to be. This neighborhood is known for its trendy restaurants and bars, and its sports bars are no exception. Here, you'll find stylish venues with gourmet food, craft cocktails, and state-of-the-art technology. The best sports bars in Chicago aren't just about cheap beer and greasy food.
Highline Bar & Lounge
Highline Bar & Lounge offers a sophisticated take on the sports bar. With its sleek design, comfortable seating, and massive video wall, Highline provides a premium viewing experience. The menu features elevated bar fare, such as gourmet burgers and truffle fries, and the cocktail list is impressive. It's the perfect spot to impress a date or enjoy a game with clients. While it's a bit pricier than your average sports bar, the ambiance and quality make it worth the splurge.
Theory
Theory is another popular River North sports bar that combines style and substance. This stylish venue boasts a spacious layout, plenty of TVs, and a lively atmosphere. The menu features a mix of classic and creative dishes, and the drink selection is extensive. Theory is a great spot to catch a game with friends or colleagues. They also have a private room available for larger groups, making it ideal for parties or corporate events. Check their website for game-day specials and promotions.
Hubbard Inn
While not strictly a sports bar, Hubbard Inn offers a unique and stylish setting to watch a game. This multi-level venue features a cozy bar area with plenty of TVs, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning city views. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from small plates to entrees, and the cocktail list is creative and well-crafted. Hubbard Inn is a great option if you're looking for a more refined sports-watching experience.
Lincoln Park: A Neighborhood Favorite
Lincoln Park is a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of college students, young professionals, and families. Its sports bars reflect this diverse population, offering a range of options from casual pubs to lively sports grills. You'll find plenty of places to cheer on your favorite team in Lincoln Park.
Halligan Bar
Looking for that perfect neighborhood bar? Halligan Bar is a popular spot known for its friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and plenty of TVs. This is a no-frills, classic sports bar where you can relax and enjoy the game. The beer selection is solid, and the food menu features all the usual suspects, like wings, burgers, and pizza. Halligan Bar is a great place to meet up with friends and watch the game without breaking the bank.
McGee's Tavern & Grille
McGee's Tavern & Grille is another Lincoln Park favorite, known for its lively atmosphere and extensive beer selection. This bar is always packed on game days, and the energy is infectious. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from pub fare to more substantial entrees, and the prices are reasonable. McGee's also has a large outdoor patio, which is perfect for enjoying a game on a nice day. Be sure to check out their daily specials and promotions.
Lincoln Park Tavern
Lincoln Park Tavern offers a more upscale sports bar experience in the heart of Lincoln Park. This stylish venue features a spacious layout, plenty of TVs, and a sophisticated menu. The cocktail list is creative and well-crafted, and the food is a step above typical bar fare. Lincoln Park Tavern is a great option if you're looking for a more refined sports-watching experience. They also have a private room available for larger groups.
Beyond the City: Suburban Gems
The best sports bars in Chicago aren't just limited to the city limits. The surrounding suburbs also have some fantastic sports bars that are worth checking out. If you live outside the city or are just looking for a change of scenery, here are a few suburban gems to consider:
Real Time Sports Bar (Elk Grove Village)
Real Time Sports Bar in Elk Grove Village is a massive sports complex with over 200 TVs, a huge video wall, and a state-of-the-art sound system. This place is a sports fan's paradise. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from classic bar fare to more creative options, and the beer selection is extensive. Real Time also has a full-service restaurant, a banquet hall, and even a bowling alley. It's a great place to spend an entire day watching sports.
The Sports Page Bar & Grill (Schaumburg)
The Sports Page Bar & Grill in Schaumburg is a popular suburban sports bar known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food. This bar has plenty of TVs, a great beer selection, and a menu featuring classic American fare. The Sports Page is a great place to catch a game with friends or family. They also have daily specials and promotions, so be sure to check their website.
Bulldog Ale House (Multiple Locations)
Bulldog Ale House has multiple locations throughout the suburbs and is a consistently solid choice for sports viewing. They offer a relaxed atmosphere, a wide selection of beers on tap, and a menu of classic pub fare. You can always count on a good time at Bulldog Ale House.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Sports Bar
With so many great sports bars to choose from in Chicago and the surrounding areas, how do you pick the perfect one for your needs? Here are a few tips to consider:
- Consider the Atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively and energetic atmosphere, or a more relaxed and laid-back vibe? Think about what kind of experience you're looking for and choose a bar that matches your preferences.
- Check the TV Situation: Make sure the bar has plenty of TVs and that they are positioned so you can see them from your seat. Bonus points if they have a large video wall or multiple screens showing different games.
- Evaluate the Food and Drink Menu: Does the bar have a good selection of beers on tap? Does the food menu offer something that appeals to you? Consider your culinary preferences when choosing a sports bar.
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other people are saying about the bar. This can give you a good idea of the overall experience and help you avoid any potential pitfalls.
- Consider Location and Transportation: Choose a bar that is conveniently located and easy to get to. If you're planning on drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or a plan for getting home safely.
Final Thoughts
Chicago's sports bar scene is as diverse and passionate as its sports fans. Whether you're looking for a classic Wrigleyville experience, an upscale River North venue, or a neighborhood favorite in Lincoln Park, you're sure to find the perfect spot to cheer on your team. So, gather your friends, put on your jersey, and head to one of these best sports bars in Chicago for an unforgettable game-day experience. Go [insert your favorite Chicago team here]!
