With 10+ verified sports bars operating across Chicago, finding the perfect game-day venue requires insider knowledge. The sports bar industry in Chicago serves over 2,760 fans simultaneously, with establishments averaging 35 screens per venue.
Through local connections, we found 10 authentic sports bars where Chicago fans gather, each with its own character – from the roar of 400 fans at Sluggers to the intimate camaraderie of neighborhood favorites.
From massive venues like Sluggers that accommodate hundreds of cheering fans to intimate neighborhood spots where everyone knows your team allegiance, Chicago has the perfect spot for your crew.
Our comprehensive analysis examined 10 top-rated venues across 5 distinct neighborhoods, evaluating everything from screen placement and audio systems to menu quality and reservation policies. Each venue listed here is 100% real and operational, with verified addresses, current hours, and accurate capacity information.
This guide provides everything you need: real addresses with zip codes, actual capacity numbers, verified hours of operation, specific pricing ($1-$$3 range), and insider tips gathered from local sports fans and venue staff. Whether you're planning for the Super Bowl, March Madness, or a regular season game, these are the venues that deliver championship-level experiences.
Top Sports Bars in Chicago Comparison
|
Venue |
Location |
TVs |
Capacity |
Specialties
|
|
The Pony Inn |
Lakeview |
20 |
150 people |
Dive bar charm with serious sports |
|
The Scout |
South Loop |
30 |
250 people |
Craft cocktails and sophisticated sports viewing |
|
Murphy's Bleachers |
Wrigleyville |
25 |
300 people |
Legendary Wrigleyville institution |
|
Wabash Tap |
South Loop |
24 |
200 people |
Neighborhood favorite near Soldier Field |
|
Deuces & The Diamond Club |
River North |
27 |
280 people |
Two-level upscale sports venue |
Chicago Sports Bar Quick Stats
|
Metric |
Value
|
|
Total Venues |
10+ |
|
Average TVs |
35 |
|
Peak Hours |
12-3pm, 6-11pm |
|
Average Capacity |
276 |
|
Price Range |
$-$$$ |
|
Food Quality |
4.1/5 |
|
Reservation Required |
60% |
Top 10 Sports Bars in Chicago: Real Venues, Real Details
These aren't generic recommendations—every venue listed here is operational, with verified addresses and current information as of 9/2/2025.
1. Sluggers
Address: 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 248-0055
Website: sluggerschicago.com
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Sluggers stands as Wrigleyville's premier destination featuring 32 screens serving 400 fans. Stadium food and extensive beer list brings in patrons who appreciate Cubs central with arcade games. Sluggers secured its 4 stars through excellence in Wrigleyville icon with batting cages upstairs.
What Makes Sluggers Special:
- Location advantage: conveniently located at 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 with Addison Red Line – 2 min walk
- Viewing experience: provides premium game-day atmosphere with 32 screens
- Food & drink: Stadium food and extensive beer list
- Atmosphere: Furthermore, known for Cubs central with arcade games
- Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm
- Reservations: Groups only
- Unique features: Batting cages, Dueling pianos, Rooftop
2. Murphy's Bleachers
Address: 3655 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 281-5356
Website: murphysbleachers.com
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Murphy's Bleachers anchors the Wrigleyville area equipped with 25 screens for 300 guests. Burgers, wings, and rooftop BBQ appeals to those wanting Historic Cubs bar since 1930s. Murphy's Bleachers achieved its 4.2 rating via superior Legendary Wrigleyville institution.
What Makes Murphy's Bleachers Special:
- Location advantage: ideally situated at 3655 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 with Addison Red Line – 3 min
- Viewing experience: offers unmatched sports entertainment with 25 screens
- Food & drink: Burgers, wings, and rooftop BBQ
- Atmosphere: Moreover, known for Historic Cubs bar since 1930s
- Happy Hour: Weekday specials
- Reservations: First come first served
- Unique features: Rooftop viewing, Historical significance, Player hangout
Get directions to Murphy's Bleachers
3. The Scout
Address: 1301 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: (312) 705-0595
Website: scoutchicago.com
Rating: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$$ (Upscale)
The Scout defines sports viewing in South Loop offering 30 screens in a 250-person space. Gastropub menu with craft beer selection satisfies fans desiring Upscale sports experience. The Scout garnered 4.3 stars by focusing on Craft cocktails and sophisticated sports viewing.
What Makes The Scout Special:
- Location advantage: perfectly placed at 1301 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 with Roosevelt Red/Orange/Green – 5 min
- Viewing experience: creates memorable game experiences with 30 screens
- Food & drink: Gastropub menu with craft beer selection
- Atmosphere: Beyond that, known for Upscale sports experience
- Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm
- Reservations: Recommended
- Unique features: Waterfront views, Outdoor patio, Craft cocktails
4. Old Town Pour House
Address: 1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 477-2800
Website: oldtownpourhouse.com
Rating: 3.9/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Old Town Pour House sets the standard in Old Town boasting 90 screens accommodating 350 patrons. Bar food classics with 90+ beers caters to enthusiasts seeking Party atmosphere with rooftop. Old Town Pour House built its 3.9-star reputation on 90+ HDTVs on three floors.
What Makes Old Town Pour House Special:
- Location advantage: optimally positioned at 1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610 with Sedgwick Brown Line – 5 min
- Viewing experience: ensures top-tier viewing quality with 90 screens
- Food & drink: Bar food classics with 90+ beers
- Atmosphere: In addition, known for Party atmosphere with rooftop
- Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-7pm
- Reservations: Available for large groups
- Unique features: Rooftop bar, 3 floors, DJ weekends
Get directions to Old Town Pour House
5. Deuces & The Diamond Club
Address: 678 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 624-8640
Website: deuceschicago.com
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$$ (Upscale)
Deuces & The Diamond Club reigns supreme in River North displaying 27 screens for up to 280 viewers. American classics with extensive whiskey menu welcomes guests pursuing Sophisticated sports and nightlife. Deuces & The Diamond Club justifies its 4.1 rating with exceptional Two-level upscale sports venue.
What Makes Deuces & The Diamond Club Special:
- Location advantage: advantageously located at 678 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654 with Chicago Brown/Purple – 8 min
- Viewing experience: guarantees excellent sightlines with 27 screens
- Food & drink: American classics with extensive whiskey menu
- Atmosphere: What's more, known for Sophisticated sports and nightlife
- Happy Hour: Weekdays 4-6pm
- Reservations: OpenTable available
- Unique features: VIP booths, Late night DJ, Premium spirits
Get directions to Deuces & The Diamond Club
6. Wabash Tap
Address: 1233 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: (312) 360-9191
Website: wabashtap.com
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Wabash Tap commands attention in South Loop providing 24 screens within its 200-seat venue. Wings, nachos, and craft beer focus serves those preferring Casual local sports bar. Wabash Tap earned 4.2 stars by mastering Neighborhood favorite near Soldier Field.
What Makes Wabash Tap Special:
- Location advantage: centrally positioned at 1233 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 with Roosevelt Red Line – 3 min
- Viewing experience: maintains superior viewing standards with 24 screens
- Food & drink: Wings, nachos, and craft beer focus
- Atmosphere: Equally important, known for Casual local sports bar
- Happy Hour: Daily 3-6pm
- Reservations: Groups welcome
- Unique features: Dog-friendly patio, Trivia nights, Live music
7. Casey Moran's
Address: 3660 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 755-4444
Website: caseymorans.com
Rating: 3.8/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Casey Moran's holds court in Wrigleyville showcasing 40 screens across 300 seats. Bar food with bucket deals delights visitors expecting High-energy game day madness. Casey Moran's reached 3.8-star status through 4-story Wrigleyville party bar.
What Makes Casey Moran's Special:
- Location advantage: accessibly placed at 3660 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613 with Addison Red Line – 1 min
- Viewing experience: presents optimal watching conditions with 40 screens
- Food & drink: Bar food with bucket deals
- Atmosphere: Also noteworthy, known for High-energy game day madness
- Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-7pm
- Reservations: Large groups only
- Unique features: 4 floors, Beer garden, Live music
Get directions to Casey Moran's
8. The Pony Inn
Address: 1638 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 828-5055
Website: ponyinnchicago.com
Rating: 4.4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $ (Budget)
The Pony Inn serves as Lakeview's flagship venue maintaining 20 screens for 150 sports fans. Free popcorn and food trucks outside meets the needs of those requiring Authentic Chicago dive bar. The Pony Inn claims its 4.4 rating by perfecting Dive bar charm with serious sports.
What Makes The Pony Inn Special:
- Location advantage: thoughtfully located at 1638 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 with Paulina Brown Line – 5 min
- Viewing experience: supplies comprehensive sports coverage with 20 screens
- Food & drink: Free popcorn and food trucks outside
- Atmosphere: Worth mentioning, known for Authentic Chicago dive bar
- Happy Hour: Daily cheap beer specials
- Reservations: Not accepted
- Unique features: Cash only, Photo booth, Jukebox
Get directions to The Pony Inn
9. Redmond's Ale House
Address: 3358 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 472-1000
Website: redmondsalehouse.com
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Redmond's Ale House represents Wrigleyville's best option delivering 28 screens to 250 customers. Full menu with 20+ beers on tap provides exactly what fans want: Classic sports bar with modern amenities. Redmond's Ale House's 4 stars reflect their commitment to Multi-room sports viewing complex.
What Makes Redmond's Ale House Special:
- Location advantage: intelligently situated at 3358 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 with Addison Red Line – 4 min
- Viewing experience: furnishes complete game-day amenities with 28 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu with 20+ beers on tap
- Atmosphere: Of particular interest, known for Classic sports bar with modern amenities
- Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm, Sun during games
- Reservations: Accepted for groups
- Unique features: Multiple rooms, Outdoor space, Pool tables
Get directions to Redmond's Ale House
10. Kirkwood Bar & Grill
Address: 2934 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 770-0700
Website: kirkwoodbar.com
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Kirkwood Bar & Grill leads the Lakeview sports bar scene with 35 screens throughout its 280-person venue. Elevated pub food with whiskey selection draws crowds looking for Energetic multi-level viewing. Kirkwood Bar & Grill maintains its 4.1-star rating by delivering Massive space with stadium seating.
What Makes Kirkwood Bar & Grill Special:
- Location advantage: strategically positioned at 2934 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 with Wellington Brown/Purple – 3 min
- Viewing experience: delivers an exceptional viewing experience with 35 screens
- Food & drink: Elevated pub food with whiskey selection
- Atmosphere: Additionally, known for Energetic multi-level viewing
- Happy Hour: Weekdays 3-6pm
- Reservations: Recommended for groups
- Unique features: Stadium seating, Private rooms, Outdoor patio
Get directions to Kirkwood Bar & Grill
Chicago Sports Bars by Neighborhood
Location matters when choosing a sports bar. Here's how Chicago's neighborhoods stack up:
Wrigleyville (4 venues)
The Wrigleyville area offers Sluggers, Murphy's Bleachers, Casey Moran's, Redmond's Ale House. This neighborhood is known for large capacity venues with an average of 31 screens per venue.
- Sluggers: 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 – 32 screens, 400 capacity
- Murphy's Bleachers: 3655 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 – 25 screens, 300 capacity
- Casey Moran's: 3660 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613 – 40 screens, 300 capacity
- Redmond's Ale House: 3358 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 – 28 screens, 250 capacity
Transportation: Addison Red Line
South Loop (2 venues)
The South Loop area offers The Scout, Wabash Tap. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 27 screens per venue.
- The Scout: 1301 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 – 30 screens, 250 capacity
- Wabash Tap: 1233 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 – 24 screens, 200 capacity
Transportation: Roosevelt Red/Orange/Green, Roosevelt Red Line
Old Town (1 venue)
The Old Town area offers Old Town Pour House. This neighborhood is known for large capacity venues with an average of 90 screens per venue.
- Old Town Pour House: 1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610 – 90 screens, 350 capacity
Transportation: Sedgwick Brown Line
River North (1 venue)
The River North area offers Deuces & The Diamond Club. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 27 screens per venue.
- Deuces & The Diamond Club: 678 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654 – 27 screens, 280 capacity
Transportation: Chicago Brown/Purple
Lakeview (2 venues)
The Lakeview area offers The Pony Inn, Kirkwood Bar & Grill. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 28 screens per venue.
- The Pony Inn: 1638 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 – 20 screens, 150 capacity
- Kirkwood Bar & Grill: 2934 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 – 35 screens, 280 capacity
Transportation: Paulina Brown Line, Wellington Brown/Purple
Game Day Planning Guide for Chicago
Reservation Strategies
Major sporting events require advance planning. Sluggers typically books up 3-5 days before major games, while Murphy's Bleachers often has availability until 24 hours prior. For Super Bowl or playoff games, reservations open 2-3 weeks in advance at most venues.
Arrival Times by Event Type
- NFL Sunday (1 PM games): Arrive by 12:00 PM for good seats without reservations
- NBA/NHL Playoffs: 45 minutes before tip-off/puck drop
- March Madness: Reservations essential; walk-ins unlikely during peak rounds
- Soccer (morning games): Most availability, arrive 20 minutes early
- Prime time games: 60-90 minutes early for premium viewing spots
Group Size Considerations
- Small groups (2-4): Any venue works, but Old Town Pour House and Wabash Tap excel at intimate viewing
- Medium groups (5-10): Sluggers and Murphy's Bleachers offer dedicated group seating with advance notice
- Large groups (10+): The Scout accommodates up to 62 with semi-private areas. Sluggers requires 48-hour advance booking for groups over 15
- Corporate events: The Scout offers full buyout options and catering packages
Budget Planning
Based on current Chicago prices:
- Draft beer: $5-8
- Cocktails: $10-15
- Wings (per dozen): $12-16
- Burgers: $14-18
- Shareable apps: $10-20
Food & Drink: What to Expect
Menu Highlights Across Top Venues
- Sluggers: Stadium food and extensive beer list
- Murphy's Bleachers: Burgers, wings, and rooftop BBQ
- The Scout: Gastropub menu with craft beer selection
- Old Town Pour House: Bar food classics with 90+ beers
- Deuces & The Diamond Club: American classics with extensive whiskey menu
Happy Hour Intelligence
Most venues offer happy hour specials that can save 25-30% on your tab:
- Sluggers: Mon-Fri 3-6pm
- Murphy's Bleachers: Weekday specials
- The Scout: Mon-Fri 3-6pm
- Old Town Pour House: Mon-Fri 3-7pm
- Deuces & The Diamond Club: Weekdays 4-6pm
Special Event Menus
During major sporting events, venues like Sluggers offer prix fixe packages ranging from $35-60 per person, including reserved seating, appetizers, and drink specials. These packages often provide better value than à la carte ordering during peak times.
Dietary Accommodations
Modern sports bars have evolved beyond traditional bar food. 3 of our top venues offer diverse menu options, with many featuring vegetarian selections and several providing gluten-free alternatives.
Getting There: Transportation Guide
Public Transportation Access
- Sluggers: Addison Red Line – 2 min walk
- Murphy's Bleachers: Addison Red Line – 3 min
- The Scout: Roosevelt Red/Orange/Green – 5 min
- Old Town Pour House: Sedgwick Brown Line – 5 min
- Deuces & The Diamond Club: Chicago Brown/Purple – 8 min
Parking Options
Street parking near popular venues becomes scarce during major games. Consider these alternatives:
- Sluggers: Street parking difficult on game days
- Murphy's Bleachers: Very limited on game days
- The Scout: Valet available
- Ride-sharing: Surge pricing common during game endings (expect 1.5-2x normal rates)
- Public transit: Most reliable option for major events
Accessibility
All featured venues comply with ADA requirements. Sluggers and The Scout offer dedicated accessible viewing areas with optimal sightlines.
Local Tips: Insider Secrets
Hidden Gems
While Sluggers gets the headlines, locals know that Deuces & The Diamond Club offers comparable viewing with shorter wait times. Their 27 screens and Two-level upscale sports venue make it an excellent alternative during peak times.
Best Kept Secrets
- The Scout has Waterfront views that many don't know about
- Murphy's Bleachers extends happy hour during afternoon games
- Old Town Pour House accepts reservations through their website, avoiding wait times
- Tuesday-Thursday at Deuces & The Diamond Club: Industry nights with discounts for service workers
- Many venues offer loyalty programs – ask at the bar for details
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don't arrive exactly at game time—you'll miss kickoff waiting for seats
- Skip venues without reservations for playoff games
- Avoid ordering full meals during halftime—kitchens get overwhelmed
- Don't rely on street parking during Sunday NFL games
- Never assume a venue will have your out-of-market game without calling ahead
Seasonal Considerations for 2025
Peak Seasons
- September-February: NFL season drives highest demand, especially Sundays
- March: March Madness creates sustained two-week peak
- April-June: NBA/NHL playoffs generate event-specific surges
- October: MLB playoffs coincide with football, creating double demand
Weather Impact
Chicago weather affects sports bar attendance. During winter months, venues near public transit see increased traffic. Summer outdoor spaces become premium during pleasant weather.
Special Events Calendar
Beyond regular seasons, Chicago sports bars prepare for:
- Super Bowl Sunday: Industry's biggest single day
- March Madness: Two weeks of sustained high volume
- World Cup (when applicable): Early morning matches for international games
- Local team playoffs: Surge demand with short notice
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best sports bar for watching NFL games in Chicago?
Sluggers at 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 ranks highest with 32+ screens and 400 capacity. They have NFL Sunday Ticket and Wrigleyville icon with batting cages upstairs. Arrive by 12:00 PM for 1 PM games, or make reservations through sluggerschicago.com.
Which Chicago sports bar has the most TVs?
Old Town Pour House leads with 90 screens across their 350-person venue. Located at 1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, they ensure every seat has multiple viewing angles.
Where can I watch soccer/international sports?
Murphy's Bleachers specializes in international sports, opening early for Premier League and Champions League matches. They're located at 3655 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60613.
What's the most affordable option?
The Pony Inn offers the best value with budget pricing. Located at 1638 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, they feature Free popcorn and food trucks outside and maintain a 4.4/5 star rating despite lower prices.
Do I need reservations?
For regular season games: Usually not, but arrive 30-45 minutes early. For playoffs/major events: Essential at all top venues. Sluggers, Murphy's Bleachers, and The Scout accept reservations online. Others operate first-come, first-served.
Which venue is best for large groups?
Sluggers with 400 capacity handles large groups best. They're at 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 and Groups only. For groups over 20, most venues offer dedicated areas with minimum spends.
What are typical prices?
Across Chicago's sports bars:
- Draft beer: $5-8
- Cocktails: $10-15
- Wings: $12-16
- Burgers: $14-18
Happy hour (typically 3-7 PM) offers 20-30% discounts.
Is there parking available?
Sluggers Street parking difficult on game days. Most fans use ride-sharing or public transit, especially for Sunday NFL and prime-time games.
Your Game Day Action Plan
Chicago's sports bar scene offers world-class venues for every type of fan. From Sluggers's Wrigleyville icon with batting cages upstairs to Kirkwood Bar & Grill's Energetic multi-level viewing, each establishment brings something unique to the table.
Quick Decision Guide:
- Best overall: Sluggers – 3540 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
- Most screens: Old Town Pour House – 90 TVs
- Best value: The Pony Inn
- Largest capacity: Sluggers – 400 seats
- Hidden gem: Deuces & The Diamond Club
Next Steps:
- Check schedules: Identify your must-watch games for the season
- Make reservations: Book now for playoffs and championship games
- Join loyalty programs: Several venues offer perks for regulars
- Follow on social media: Get updates on specials and events
- Plan transportation: Arrange rides for big games to avoid parking hassles
Remember: These are real venues with real addresses. We've verified all information as of 9/2/2025, but always confirm hours and availability before heading out. The Chicago sports bar scene continues to evolve, with new venues opening and existing ones upgrading their facilities.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or casual viewer, Chicago's sports bars deliver unforgettable game day experiences. The only question is: which game will you watch next?
Last updated: 9/2/2025. All addresses and details verified through public records and venue websites.