Discover the Top Sports Bars in Austin for Watching Games

Top Venues for Watching Games

Finding the perfect spot to catch the game in Austin is a breeze with an array of sports bars featuring great atmospheres, excellent food, and plenty of screens. From the iconic vibes of Lavaca Street Bar, which boasts three locations, to the outdoor patio experience at Black Sheep Lodge, Austin's sports bars ensure every sports fan feels right at home. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just out for a casual night, these spots offer something for everyone.

Skinny’s Off Track Bar and Parlay House stand out for their unique setups and community feel. Meanwhile, Rosedale’s welcoming environment with its popular beer, burgers, and hot dogs make it a favorite among Green Bay Packers fans. Each venue brings its own flavor to the Austin sports scene, converting even the most casual viewers into sporting enthusiasts.

Looking for a lively ambiance? Champions Austin Restaurant & Bar delivers with exceptional service and a true sports-centric focus. Neighborhood joints like Vincent’s Sports Pub and newer establishments such as Driftwood Dugout also contribute to the robust selection, ensuring there’s always a great place to watch the game no matter where you are in Austin.

What to Look for in a Great Sports Bar

When seeking out a great sports bar, there are several key elements to consider to ensure the best experience possible.

Atmosphere
The right atmosphere is essential. A lively and energetic environment enhances the enjoyment of any game. Look for bars that are known for their enthusiastic crowds and sports-centric decor, which can make a huge difference in your experience.

TV Screens
Multiple large, high-definition TV screens are a must. A great sports bar should offer clear views of several games simultaneously. This ensures you won’t miss a single moment of the action, no matter where you are seated.

Food Options
Quality food is a significant factor. Whether it's burgers, wings, or kabobs, a great sports bar will offer a diverse menu to satisfy all tastes. Look for places that specialize in hearty, game-day foods that are easy to share with friends.

Beer Specials
A good selection of beers, including local brews and popular favorites, can elevate your game-watching experience. Pay attention to bars that offer beer specials during games, making it more affordable to enjoy a drink or two while cheering on your team.

Outdoor Seating
If you prefer to watch the game outdoors, seek out sports bars with patio seating options. Outdoor areas can provide a more relaxed vibe and often come with large screens and a cooler environment, perfect for enjoying a game on a bright Austin afternoon.

Top Rated Sports Bars in Austin

Austin is home to numerous top-rated sports bars, each offering a unique atmosphere, excellent food, and plenty of screens to catch the game. Here are some of the best rated sports bars in town.

The Tavern

The Tavern, located on North Lamar Boulevard, is a classic Austin sports bar known for its rich history and lively atmosphere. Established in 1933, this spot has become a go-to for sports enthusiasts. The Tavern provides an extensive menu featuring burgers, wings, and other pub favorites.

Their two-story layout offers plenty of seating with numerous screens broadcasting various sports events. Locals particularly enjoy the rooftop patio, which provides a great view of the city and a relaxed environment to enjoy brews and bites. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and quick service.

Black Sheep Lodge

Black Sheep Lodge is a favorite among South Austin residents, renowned for its laid-back vibe and excellent bar food. This venue boasts an impressive selection of craft beers on tap and a menu that includes fantastic wings and burgers. The outdoor patio is a highlight, offering a spacious area for patrons to watch the game.

Frequented by both sports fans and families, Black Sheep Lodge has a welcoming atmosphere for all. It’s also well-loved for its weekly specials and happy hour deals. Reviews often highlight the attentive service and the overall quality of the food and drink offerings.

Cover 3

Cover 3 seamlessly blends an upscale dining experience with the lively atmosphere of a sports bar. With multiple locations in Austin, it's known for its wide array of high-quality menu options including steaks, seafood, and gourmet burgers. Cover 3 provides numerous HD screens for optimal viewing of all major sports events.

Frequent visitors appreciate the comfortable seating and modern decor. The service is consistently rated highly, and the ambiance makes it suitable for both sports fans and casual diners. It’s a great place to enjoy a game day with a touch of elegance.

Haymaker

Haymaker offers a cozy neighborhood bar feel combined with a robust selection of craft beers and hearty comfort food. Located in East Austin, Haymaker is popular for its poutine, sandwiches, and extensive beer list. The bar's casual and inviting environment makes it a perfect spot for watching a game with friends.

The outdoor beer garden is a draw for many, featuring picnic tables and plenty of space. Patrons often commend the friendly service and the variety of local brews available. Reviews frequently mention the relaxed ambiance and the quality of the food and drinks.

Scholz Garten

Scholz Garten is a historic gem in Austin, being the oldest operating beer garden in Texas. Situated near the University of Texas campus, it has been a favorite spot for sports fans since 1866. The venue offers a mix of German and American fare, including pretzels, sausages, and classic burgers.

Scholz Garten’s spacious outdoor seating and large screen TVs make it an ideal spot for catching a game. It’s particularly popular during football season, drawing crowds of Texas Longhorns fans. Patrons appreciate the unique blend of history and a vibrant sports bar atmosphere, along with the wide selection of beers and friendly service.

Bars for Specific Sports and Teams

Austin's sports bars offer great experiences tailored to specific sports and teams, ensuring fans always have the ideal spot to catch their favorite games.

Football Focused Bars

Football fans in Austin have plenty of options for watching games. Posse East is a favorite for University of Texas Longhorns supporters, thanks to its close proximity to campus and lively game day atmosphere. For NFL fans, The Tavern provides a great setup with numerous big screen TVs and a strong following for teams like the New England Patriots.

Pluckers Wing Bar also draws large crowds on Sundays for NFL games, boasting delicious wings and a robust beer selection. With a dog-friendly patio, The Dogwood is another excellent choice, especially for those in South Austin.

Basketball Enthusiast Hangouts

For basketball enthusiasts, Cover 3 stands out with its upscale environment and extensive menu, making it a perfect spot to watch NBA games. In addition to great food, Scholz Garten offers a historic setting known for its support of local college basketball.

Another key venue is Buford's, which catches the eye with its outdoor seating and multiple big screen TVs, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor viewing experiences. All these spots ensure that fans can watch every major game in comfort and style.

Baseball Bars

Baseball fans are not left wanting in Austin either. Haymaker brings an impressive fireplace and sports-heavy décor, perfect for enjoying MLB games. It's also a favored spot for St. Louis Cardinals fans.

Lavaca Street Bar features a range of beers on tap and ample TVs for catching every pitch. The Park at South Lamar is another solid choice, offering a spacious patio where fans can enjoy their games and cheer for their favorite teams in good company.

Food and Drink Specialties

Austin's sports bars offer a variety of mouthwatering food and drink options that cater to every palate. From juicy burgers to an array of craft beers and delightful pub grub, there's something for everyone to enjoy while cheering on their favorite team.

Bars with the Best Burgers

Rosedale: Known for its dive bar ambiance, Rosedale excels in serving classic American burgers that attract many Green Bay Packers fans. Their burgers are paired perfectly with a selection of beers.

Black Sheep Lodge: Located in South Austin, Black Sheep Lodge offers juicy, well-seasoned burgers. They also provide a substantial draft beer list, making it a popular place for sports fans to gather.

Haymaker: Sharing a menu with Black Sheep Lodge, Haymaker’s burgers come with unique toppings and high-quality ingredients, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.

Pub Grub Favorites

BBG’s: Situated in a historical building, BBG’s serves hearty American dishes like wings and nachos. The friendly staff enhance the overall dining experience for sports enthusiasts.

The Tavern: This establishment offers a variety of pub grub, including wings and fried pickles, in a lively sports bar environment. It's a staple for fans looking to enjoy good food while watching the game.

Champion's Austin Restaurant & Bar: Known for its extensive menu, this spot offers a mix of appetizers and main dishes that include everything from sliders to wings, making it a versatile option for game day.

Craft Beer and Beer Gardens

Lustre Pearl: Famous for its beer garden, Lustre Pearl provides a welcoming outdoor space with a rotating selection of craft beers. The casual atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for game viewings and socializing.

Black Sheep Lodge: With its massive draft beer list, Black Sheep Lodge caters to beer connoisseurs. Their rotating beer selection ensures that each visit feels unique.

BBG's: BBG's also boasts a strong selection of craft beers that pair wonderfully with their food offerings. The combination of good beer, great food, and a historical setting makes it a standout destination.

These sports bars in Austin excel in providing delicious food and drink options that enhance the overall game-watching experience, making each one a valuable addition to any sports enthusiast's list.

Bars with Unique Features

Austin is home to a variety of sports bars that offer distinctive atmospheres and amenities. Whether you're looking for a place to hang out with your dog, a spot for family fun, or somewhere to enjoy some recreational activities, there’s something for everyone.

Dog-Friendly Bars

For those who like to watch the game with their furry friends, Austin has several dog-friendly sports bars. These venues often feature spacious outdoor patios where pets are welcome. One notable example is the dog-friendly patio at Bender Bar & Grill, which boasts multiple large-screen TVs and a relaxed atmosphere.

Another popular spot is Yard Bar, which combines a sports bar with a dog park. This unique setup allows patrons to enjoy a drink while their dogs play safely in a designated area. Dogs are encouraged to socialize as their owners cheer on their favorite teams.

Family-Friendly Sports Bars

Finding a kid-friendly sports bar can be a challenge, but several Austin establishments cater to families. Cover 3 stands out as a prime destination, offering a welcoming environment with a special kids' menu and plenty of screens showing the latest games. It's an ideal place for parents and children to unwind together.

Additionally, Scholz Garten has long been a favorite for family outings. With its spacious beer garden, traditional German fare, and large televisions, it provides a fun and inclusive experience for sports fans of all ages. Kids can enjoy pretzels and root beer while adults savor a craft brew.

Bars with Recreational Activities

Some sports bars in Austin go beyond just showing games; they offer a range of recreational activities to keep guests entertained. Punch Bowl Social is a standout choice, featuring pool tables, bowling lanes, and an arcade in addition to a full bar and plenty of sports coverage. It’s a place where you can engage in some friendly competition during halftime.

The Park at South Lamar also offers a distinctive experience with its mix of games and a sports-focused atmosphere. Pool tables and other indoor games complement the extensive menu of drinks and pub food, making it a well-rounded venue for sports enthusiasts.

Seasonal and Weekly Specials

Many of Austin's sports bars offer a variety of seasonal and weekly specials to enhance the experience.

Weekend Brunch

For example, champions in Austin Restaurant & Bar provide a weekend brunch featuring mimosas and bloody marys. They serve brunch items like hearty omelets and breakfast tacos while guests enjoy live games on big-screen TVs.

Happy Hour

Happy hour is another highlight. Cover 3 features daily happy hour specials from 4 PM to 7 PM with discounts on popular beers, cocktails, and a range of appetizers.

Monday Night Specials

Monday nights are particularly engaging at places like Skinny's Off Track Bar, offering specials on burgers and craft beers. They often have themed nights linked to Monday Night Football.

Weekly Highlights

Posse East claims some of the best drink specials on Tuesday with $2 tacos and reduced-price margaritas.
Scholz Garten emphasizes their Wednesday sausage and beer pairings.

Seasonal Offerings

During the football season, many places, including Parlay House, introduce special game-day menus and exclusive drinks.

Varied Deals

Vincent's Sports Pub often adjusts their specials to reflect major sporting events, providing a rotating selection of specials.
Bouldin Acres incorporates local flavors into their seasonal specials, bringing a unique twist to classic bar bites and drinks.

Use of these specials enhances the enjoyment for sports enthusiasts seeking a lively atmosphere with flavorful selections.

Guide to Sports Bar Areas

Explore Austin's variety of neighborhoods for a vibrant sports bar scene catering to diverse tastes. Each area, from downtown to the north, offers unique atmospheres, food, and drink options.

Downtown Austin Sports Bars

Downtown Austin hosts a range of sports bars that cater to various preferences. Lavaca Street Bar is a staple, known for its three locations: Lavaca Downtown, South Lamar, and The Domain. The Lavaca Downtown location offers Turf n' Surf for food and a vast selection of beers on tap.

The Tavern is another popular spot, celebrated for its classic sports bar vibe. Located at 922 W 12th St, it is beloved for its extensive beer menu and hearty pub food, making it a perfect place to catch a game.

Champions Austin Restaurant & Bar delivers excellent service, great food and drinks, and a lively sports-focused ambiance. It's a winning choice for any sports enthusiast looking to enjoy a game in the heart of the city.

South Austin Sports Bars

South Austin boasts many sports bars that provide a casual, laid-back environment. Black Sheep Lodge, located at 2108 S Lamar Blvd, stands out for its patio seating and excellent bar food. Their nearly identical menu to Haymaker and a massive draft beer list make it a popular spot to watch sports outdoors.

Haymaker at 2310 Manor Rd is another favorite in the area, offering a diverse menu with comfort foods and a robust selection of craft beers. It’s a great location for joining friends and watching any sporting event.

Another noteworthy mention is the Rosedale dive bar on Hancock Dr. This sports bar caters especially to Green Bay Packers fans. With its indoor and outdoor dining areas, patrons can enjoy burgers, hot dogs, and beer while watching their favorite teams.

North Austin Sports Bars

North Austin also has its share of fantastic sports bars. Lavaca Street Bar's location at The Domain caters to sports fans with an array of beers and food. The vibrant environment and ample screens make it an ideal spot to watch games.

The Common Interest at 8440 Burnet Rd is well-known for its lively atmosphere. Featuring karaoke on non-game nights and multiple screens for sports events, it's a versatile destination.

The Local Post situated at 7113 Burnet Rd features a spacious patio, plenty of TVs, and a friendly vibe. Their menu includes a variety of pub favorites, and the relaxed setting is perfect for groups.

Mueller area’s BD Riley's at 1905 Aldrich St offers an Irish bar experience with a modern twist. Featuring a wide range of beers and classic pub food, it’s a great place to enjoy sports on high-definition screens.

Reader-Recommended Bars

Rosedale

Location: 2105 Hancock Dr, Austin, TX 78756
Contact: (512) 407-9305

Highlights:

Popular among Green Bay Packers fans
Serves beer, burgers, and hot dogs
Indoor and outdoor seating

Rosedale is a go-to spot for die-hard sports fans looking for a casual scene.

Champions Austin Restaurant & Bar

Highlights:

Great food and drinks
Excellent service
Lively sports-focused ambiance

Champions has been praised for being a top choice for any sports enthusiast.

Black Sheep Lodge

Known For:

Bar food and a massive draft beer list
Outdoor patio

Located in South Austin, Black Sheep Lodge is ideal for watching games in a lively atmosphere. The spot's wings come highly recommended.