Although enjoying the game from the comfort of your own home is always a nice option, nothing really compares to the lively atmosphere at a sports bar on game day with some friends or fellow fans!
And while there are definitely some fantastic bars around the District that are worth visiting, if you are hoping for a truly memorable gameday experience as a sports fan, these sports bars are the place to be!
Watch the Super Bowl on dozens of giant 4K screens at Walter’s — a true sports‑fan institution. If you want a gameday atmosphere near Nationals Park, this iconic sports bar delivers with over 30 220‑inch and 4K screens, plus a wide draft beer selection and classic bar food.
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If you want a lively spot for the Super Bowl with cheap “Funsies” drinks and a vibrant atmosphere, head to Nellie’s. Named for the owner’s grandmothers, Nellie’s serves up an extensive menu, fun cocktails, and inexpensive “Funsies” items like $3 Jell‑O shots, $6 Ice Pops and $16 slushies—perfect for keeping the energy up while you watch the game.
If you’re after a lively beer‑hall vibe and plenty of seating for a big Super Bowl crowd, Franklin Hall delivers. This American beer hall on 14th Street has two massive open rooms, picnic tables, extensive beer lists, and shareable game‑day foods — ideal for a memorable Super Bowl outing.
Watch the Super Bowl on dozens of giant 4K screens at Walter’s — a true sports‑fan institution. If you want an iconic Nationals Park–adjacent sports bar experience for the big game, Walter’s delivers with over 30 220‑inch and 4K screens, plus a gameday paradise vibe, a wide draft-beer selection, and classic bar food.
Catch the Super Bowl at a local favorite repeatedly voted D.C.’s best sports bar.
Voted D.C.’s best sports bar by the Washington Post, this conveniently located tavern near Capital One Arena offers classic American bar food and reliable game viewing.
City Tap House
Despite having a bit more of an elevated gastropub feel than your typical sports bar, both locations (Penn Quarter and Dupont Circle) have plenty of TVs and typically show live sports for guests to watch.
Here, you can tune in to the big game in comfort without the anxiety of your typically overcrowded sports bar, without sacrificing any of those classic gameday comforts like cold drinks and tasty snacks.
The Big Board
Your classic no-frills sports bar, this is a great place to watch your team with other fans on gameday for an incredible experience.
The small space does admittedly get cramped around kick-off, but the atmosphere is top-notch as the game goes on!
Being here to watch your team win feels like a rite of passage.
Union Pub
Located near Capitol Hill, this local institution has been serving suds to Washingtonians for over 30 years.
With plenty of TVs and lots of room, this place is a classic gameday destination for sports fans from all around the District.
Tom’s Watch Bar
Tom’s Watch Bar is one of the largest sports bars in the District, with over 50 screens, dozens of beers to choose from, and an excellent gameday snack menu.
This spot has it all.
However, you’ll want to arrive early to get prime real estate, because even though every seat has a view of at least one screen, some spots might fit your group better than others.
Tap99
Tap99 is an entirely self-pour taphouse, which means that there are ostensibly no lines whenever you finish your drink and need a refill (whether that be beer, seltzer, cider, or even a pre-mixed cocktail), something that can put a real damper on your gameday experience at other bars.
While not a generic sports bar like many of the other on this list, it does have plenty of TVs to ensure an optimal viewing experience!
You can even enjoy classic gameday snacks like wings with your choice of sauce, nachos, mozzarella sticks, and even burgers or pizza.
Solace Outpost
This craft brewery, located in Navy Yard, offers a fantastic gameday experience with its fantastic selection of craft brews and a solid menu full of fan favorites like fried chicken, tater tots, jumbo pretzels, and more!
The good news is that there is plenty of space for groups if you’re traveling with friends, but you’ll want to arrive early because all seats are first-come, first-served.