Are you looking for the ultimate spot to catch the game in Indy? Look no further because we’ve found the 14 best and must-try sports bars in Indianapolis just for you!
Whether you’re looking for wings, burgers, impressive beers, cocktails, wine, or a great sports vibe, these hangouts have it all. From big screens to the friendly bartenders around, each place brings an unforgettable experience.
Get ready for some bite, a couple of cold ones, and the feeling of the crowd in Indy at these hottest sports bars. Find your spot for game day. It’s time to cheer!
Guide to Sports Bars in Indianapolis
Ale Emporium
Ale Emporium has been an Indianapolis go-to spot for over 40 years! This original location opened in 1982 right off 465 and Allisonville Road, across from Kittles and Castleton Mall.
With over 137 TVs, 66 beers on tap, a lovely patio, live bands every weekend, and private rooms, it’s got it all!
They boast a massive list of Indianapolis beers on their menu, always changing with what’s on tap. There’s a full bar with cocktails and spirits, too.
You can get veggie, sausage and pepperoni, or sausage and mushroom pizzas for food. Unless posted otherwise, lunch specials are $7 (Monday to Friday, 11 am to 2 pm).
The private rooms work great for parties big and small. They can set up the space and bar however you need, with entertainment and the full menu available.
If you want a lively spot to catch the game with good food and drinks, swing by the Ale Emporium. It always draws a fun crowd!
Punch Bowl Social
Punch Bowl Social has something for everyone looking for sports and entertainment. Nestled right in the Circle Centre Mall in the heart of downtown Indy, Punch Bowl Social is one of the most unique sports bars in Indianapolis.
Spanning over 20,000 square feet, this epic entertainment hot spot has it all – bowling, karaoke, shuffleboard, arcade games, and more!
You can fuel up for a lively night out with fantastic food and craft cocktails made from scratch.
The menu ranges from shareables and burgers to tacos and salads. The happy hour deals (Monday to Thursday, 4 pm to 6 pm) let you sample bites on a budget.
Between the bowling lanes, giant Jenga, karaoke stage, and walls of screens for game-watching, there’s always something happening at Punch Bowl Social Indianapolis. You’ll want to make reservations, especially on weekends when the place fills up!
The District Tap
The District Tap first opened its doors on Indy’s north side back in 2014 with a mission to serve up craft beers on tap and damn good grub. Now, with a second location in downtown Indianapolis, it remains focused on those two pillars – top-notch beers and food.
Whether you’re looking for lunch, dinner, or post-work happy hour drinks, The District Tap aims to be your go-to spot.
Catch the game on one of their TVs and take in some local live music Wednesday through Saturday. Feel free to celebrate a special occasion with AV hookups in their 1,500-square-foot private event space.
The District Tap has planted deep roots in Indy, bringing its signature craft taps and tasty eats to the north and downtown Circle City areas. Other happenings include live trivia Tuesdays and weekend music from local musicians.
So the next time you’re seeking things to do in Indianapolis or hunting for a solid craft beer lineup paired with delicious food, make sure to stop by The District Tap’s north side or downtown locations.
Fowling Warehouse
Fowling Warehouse brings a one-of-a-kind mashup of football and bowling to Indianapolis. Born from some tailgating creativity at the 2001 Indy 500, this spot combines the best of both sports into one awesome game.
The massive 50,000-square-foot venue houses 33 fowling lanes perfect for parties big and small.
Throw footballs to knock down bowling pins and enjoy rules like Overtime, Fair Ups, and Sudden Death to spice it up.
When you need a break, kick back at their fully loaded bar with beer, wine, liquor, and more. You can even order some pizza while catching games.
Open Wednesday through Sunday with hours varying daily, Fowling Warehouse offers excellent service and prices.
Located at the Circle City Industrial Complex, it’s a prime spot for a fun night out with friends or to host a corporate event.
With ample space and a bowling twist the whole gang will love, we recommend reserving lanes ahead of time, especially on weekends when it gets busy.
Kilroy’s Bar & Grill
A longtime fixture on the Indianapolis sports bar scene, Kilroy’s Bar & Grill has two lively locations downtown on S Meridian Street and Broad Ripple. Situated in bustling areas, the self-seating restaurants get packed, so stake your claim when you see an open table!
Kilroy’s fully loaded menu runs the gamut from wings and chicken tenders to salads, corn dogs, and their famous breadsticks. Wash it all down with ice-cold beers or cocktails.
As one of the most popular Indianapolis sports bars, Kilroy’s has TVs galore in both locations, so you can watch the big game while enjoying the chill vibe and friendly service.
The downtown spot by the Fieldhouse sees tons of fans before and after events. With great grub, drinks, and an electric game-watching energy, Kilroy’s is a prime Indy hangout. Get there early, order some sticks, and settle in!
High Velocity
Located downtown inside the sleek JW Marriott Indianapolis, High Velocity stakes its claim as one of the most upscale sports bars in Indianapolis.
With modern decor and over 60 big HDTVs, it’s a prime spot to root for your teams while enjoying top-notch dishes, local brews on tap, and handcrafted cocktails.
The spacious bar takes reservations and offers takeout, with a full menu featuring pescatarian and other options.
High Velocity gets loud and lively on game days – look out for specials as you walk over from nearby Pacers, Colts, or Indianapolis Indians games.
Complimentary parking in the JW garage makes High Velocity an easy downtown destination. Prices vary for dinner and private room rentals, so contact the hotel for details.
Dugout Bar
Dugout Bar is a fun, chill spot near Lucas Oil Stadium since 1954. It’s one of the oldest sports bars in Indianapolis.
With a divey vibe and a bunch of TVs, this venue has a few bar chairs and tables. You can also find three dog-friendly outside dining areas at this venue. They’ve even got some live music outside when the weather’s nice!
You’ll love the food here, too. Try the pulled pork sandwich, chicken tenders, and fries. They make their own chips and blue cheese dressing, which is great.
Step into Dugout Bar to watch the game, order beers and cocktails, and enjoy a decent happy hour.
Taxman CityWay
Taxman CityWay is a cool gastropub right in the heart of downtown Indy, just a stone’s throw from Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This place is like stepping into a chill beer garden that’s taken over an old horse livery from the 1850s.
They have big indoor and outdoor patios where you can kick back, and they even set up a stage for live music when it’s warm out. It’s a total go-to spot before or after games.
And if you’re all about that throwback feel, you’ll dig the farm-to-table eats they serve alongside their impressive beer selection.
Speaking of beer, they’ve got a killer lineup on tap, like 20 different kinds, focusing on Belgian styles. Still, honestly, there’s a brew for everyone. Want to sample a few? Grab a flight and find your fave.
The vibe is fancy but still laid-back enough to watch an Indiana Hoosiers game or hang with the fam. And those burgers? Top-notch. So whether it’s a fun evening or a big deal event, Taxman CityWay is worth visiting.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux stands out among sports bars in Indianapolis. The bright, clean interior rocks a gameday vibe with booths, tables, and a huge bar to take action on 57 giant flatscreen TVs.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux takes pride in from-scratch Louisiana-inspired dishes like fresh seafood, burgers, and salads with some Cajun/Creole flare.
They also offer a kid’s menu and a mini arcade area for family fun. With extensive beer taps, cocktails, and wine, the bar aims to treat every visitor like a hometown fan.
Partly owned by former Purdue QB and Super Bowl champ Drew Brees, this local spot stays true to its sports roots while serving great food in a lively atmosphere.
Screens everywhere you look make Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux a top pick for catching the big game in downtown Indianapolis.
Sam’s Silver Circle
Check out Sam’s Silver Circle, this gem of a spot tucked away in Fountain Square. It’s relaxing and classic, and it’s been serving good times since 1938.
Sam’s is your place if you’re all about that perfect slice of pizza, a hearty breakfast, or maybe throwing some darts. It’s the “Original Dart Bar” around these parts.
The vibe? It’s like stepping into a sports time capsule with cool memorabilia, quirky bits, and bobs that’ll have you chatting away. There aren’t a ton of TVs, but the chill atmosphere makes for a top-notch sports bar experience—darts in hand and all.
Hungry? Get ready for some mouth-watering pizza, breadsticks, and Stromboli’s that hit the spot. Thirsty? They’ve got 13 craft beers on tap waiting for you.
Need live music? Swing by the first Saturday of the month, and if you’re looking for a place with soul and stories, you’ll find it at Sam’s. It’s not just a bar; it’s a slice of Indy’s history.
Jamaican Breeze Sports Bar & Grill
Situated just off Keystone and Fall Creek Parkway, Jamaican brings a taste of island life and Jamaican cuisine to Indianapolis. This family-friendly spot wraps authentic Jamaican flavors in a relaxed, tropics-inspired sports bar atmosphere.
Jamaican Breeze has room for all, with a restaurant up front, a bar area to the side, and a party room out back. Enjoy island tunes inside and out as you soak up the cool vibes on the patio or at the full bar with signature beer options. Occasional live music and pool tables add to the fun.
Known for friendly staff and clean spaces, Jamaican Breeze provides a unique, culturally diverse dining and nightlife option among Indianapolis sports bars.
Their flavorful food and drink plus inviting spaces aim to draw locals and visitors alike for a memorable, easy-going experience with a taste of the islands.
Fat Dan’s Deli
If you’re in Mile Square, downtown Indy, and looking for some deli with game, you gotta check out Fat Dan’s Deli. It’s a Chicago-style deli and bar that knows how to throw a fun time, especially when sports seasons hit.
Grab a seat indoors or on the patio – these cool garage doors roll up, bringing in all that fresh air. Portions here are like, whoa! Big and wallet-friendly.
Plus, they’ve got a solid lineup of craft beers on tap, and you can even go for some liquor or wine.
Listen up, burger lovers! This place is a must-try. Italian Beef and Chicago Dogs are their specialties. Summertime? Hit the patio for sunshine dining. It’s got that college sports bar vibe, with the comfy seats and gorgeous wall decor.
TVs everywhere for a fun afternoon. Live music on Wednesdays, too! If you want a new go-to place, this is Fat Dan’s Deli, where delicious food and good times meet.
Average Joe’s
Average Joe’s in Broad Ripple is your spot for a laid-back tavern experience, especially if you’re into sports.
This place is a haven for softball, volleyball, and bowling enthusiasts who love to play the game. The walls are decked out with sports memorabilia; you might even spot a piece of yourself there.
Besides a selection of beers, Average Joe’s offers impressive cocktails. The menu includes types of American fare, and they’ve got pool tables and TVs galore for sports fans.
If you are visiting Wednesday, don’t miss Wing Nights; it’s a crowd favorite. As one of the best sports bars in Indianapolis, get in on the casual fun at Average Joe’s.
Coaches Tavern
Situated across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis, Coaches Tavern brings classic pub vibes with a sports twist.
The interior rocks two seating areas – a small space by the bar and a larger spot down a few steps, divided by a railing. Sports memorabilia covers the walls alongside endless TVs, so there’s always a game on.
The bar’s menu has something for everyone, from appetizers and seafood to burgers, wraps, and quesadillas. $5 drink specials are available daily.
Between the central location, gameday action, varied menus, and occasional live music sets, Coaches Tavern makes an energetic downtown destination before or after events.
Arrive early to settle in – with so many offerings at budget-friendly prices, this bar pleases Indianapolis sports fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
(Q1). What are some of the best sports bars in downtown Indianapolis?
Great downtown Indy sports bars include Punch Bowl Social, The District Tap, The Dugout Bar, High Velocity, Kilroy’s on S Meridian Street, and Taxman CityWay. These bars are close to major venues like Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Lucas Oil Stadium, and Victory Field.
(Q2). What is the best family-friendly sports bar in Indianapolis?
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and Fowling Warehouse stand out with their kid’s menu, mini arcade area, and lively but family-oriented vibe. Jamaican Breeze Sports Bar & Grill welcomes families with its relaxed atmosphere and authentic Caribbean flavors.
(Q3). Where can I watch football games in Indianapolis?
You can watch football games at various sports bars in Indianapolis, including Kilroy’s, Ale Emporium, and Average Joe’s, known for their vibrant game-watching experiences.
Note: Business statuses can change. We recommend verifying any establishment’s current location and operational hours before planning your visit.
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