Austin, Texas, is a city that knows how to celebrate, and what better way to celebrate than with great company, ice-cold drinks, and electrifying sports action? Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, Austin offers a plethora of sports bars catering to every taste and preference. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 19 sports bars in Austin, ensuring your next game day is unforgettable.
Finding Your Perfect Austin Sports Bar: A Tailored Approach
Choosing the right sports bar depends on what you're looking for in your game-day experience. To help you narrow down your choices, consider these factors:
- Atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, boisterous environment or a more relaxed, intimate setting? Some bars offer a mix of both.
- Screen Selection: How many screens are essential for you? Many bars boast wall-to-wall screens, but others focus on a few strategically-placed high-definition displays.
- Food and Drinks: Is the menu a major factor? Are you searching for classic pub fare or a more extensive menu? Consider what type of drinks and beer selections are available.
- Location: Is being in the heart of downtown important or would you prefer a more secluded sports bar experience?
Top 19 Austin Sports Bars: A Diverse Lineup
This list covers a broad spectrum of sports bars, catering to different preferences and sporting events. We've categorized them for easier navigation:
Classic Austin Sports Bar Experiences
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The Dogwood: Known for its massive outdoor patio and extensive beer selection, The Dogwood is a quintessential Austin experience, perfect for catching a game and soaking in the Texas sun. They frequently have live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
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Peter Pan Mini Golf: A unique addition to our list, Peter Pan Mini Golf isn’t your typical sports bar, but its laid-back vibe, multiple screens, and quirky atmosphere make it a fun choice for a casual game-day hangout.
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Yard Bar: Offering a wide array of beers on tap and a spacious setting, Yard Bar is great for large groups and boasts a true Austin feel. The food options complement their expansive beer list very well.
Upscale Sports Bar Options
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The Continental Club: While famous for its live music history, the Continental Club also provides a sophisticated setting to watch your favorite game. Its intimate atmosphere and excellent cocktails are a refreshing take on the sports bar scene.
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Azul: A rooftop bar with stunning views of the Austin skyline, Azul offers an upscale game-day experience. The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated but still very lively.
Family-Friendly Sports Bar Choices
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Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden: A massive outdoor space makes Banger's perfect for families with a large variety of sausages and craft beers. It's great for casual, fun game days.
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Little Woodrow's: With multiple locations across Austin, Little Woodrow's caters to a wide range of fans with their relaxed and family-friendly environment.
Unique and Themed Sports Bar Experiences
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Parlor & Yard: With a large selection of games, a unique atmosphere, and a rotating selection of local beers, Parlor & Yard offers a unique take on the typical sports bar.
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Lazarus Brewing Company: A brewery and taproom with a cozy atmosphere, Lazarus Brewing is perfect for craft beer lovers who want to watch the game in a casual, relaxing atmosphere. They often have food trucks on site.
Bars with Great Food & Drink
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Hopdoddy Burger Bar: Famous for its gourmet burgers and extensive beer list, Hopdoddy is a favorite among Austinites and offers a great viewing experience.
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Matt's El Rancho: A classic Austin institution, Matt's El Rancho is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine and large screen TVs. It's a perfect blend of delicious food and sports viewing.
Diverse Game Day Experiences
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Guero's Taco Bar: This vibrant location offers delicious tacos, great margaritas, and a bustling atmosphere making it a great place to cheer on your team.
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Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden: Combining the best of both worlds, this establishment offers a wide variety of beers paired with delicious baked goods and sandwiches. It is a popular spot for Austinites.
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Pinthouse Pizza: Known for its tasty pizzas and craft beers, Pinthouse Pizza is a popular choice for a casual game-day gathering.
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The Saxon Pub: While primarily known for its live music, the Saxon Pub occasionally shows sporting events, offering a unique blend of entertainment.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
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Handlebar: A beloved neighborhood bar, the Handlebar offers a cozy, local atmosphere perfect for enjoying games.
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Whisler's: Known for its creative cocktails and delicious food, Whisler's provides a sophisticated environment to watch your favorite teams.
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C-Boy's Heart & Soul: A classic Austin dive bar, C-Boy's is great for those seeking an authentic, unpretentious sports bar experience.
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Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden: With a unique blend of coffee, beer, and live music, Cosmic Coffee provides a different atmosphere from your typical sports bar.
Choosing Your Champion: The Perfect Austin Sports Bar Awaits
This extensive guide highlights just a fraction of Austin's diverse sports bar scene. Whether you're seeking a lively atmosphere, a relaxed hangout, or a unique experience, Austin offers a sports bar to perfectly match your game-day desires. Remember to check each establishment's website or call ahead to confirm their hours and special game-day events. Enjoy the game!
