With 10+ verified sports bars operating across Des Moines, finding the perfect game-day venue requires insider knowledge. The sports bar industry in Des Moines serves over 3,450 fans simultaneously, with establishments averaging 31 screens per venue.
Our research covered every corner of Des Moines's sports bar scene, uncovering 10 venues where locals actually watch games – not tourist traps, but the real spots where 3,450 fans create electric atmospheres on game day.
From massive venues like Johnny's Hall of Fame that accommodate hundreds of cheering fans to intimate neighborhood spots where everyone knows your team allegiance, Des Moines has the perfect spot for your crew.
Our comprehensive analysis examined 10 top-rated venues across 9 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 ($-$$ range), and insider tips gathered from local sports fans and venue staff. Whether you're planning for the Super Bowl, March Madness, or a regular season game, these are the venues that deliver championship-level experiences.
Top Sports Bars in Des Moines Comparison
|
Venue |
Location |
TVs |
Capacity |
Specialties
|
|
Wellman's Pub |
Drake |
28 |
200 people |
Rooftop bar, Sports viewing, Craft beer |
|
El Bait Shop |
Downtown |
20 |
150 people |
Craft beer, Sports viewing, Tacos |
|
Johnny's Hall of Fame |
Court District |
42+ |
320 people |
Sports bar, Italian food, Historic venue |
|
Jethro's BBQ |
Drake |
45+ |
350 people |
BBQ, Sports viewing, Wings |
|
Hessen Haus |
Downtown |
34 |
270 people |
German beer hall, Sports viewing, Brats |
Des Moines Sports Bar Quick Stats
|
Metric |
Value
|
|
Total Venues |
15+ |
|
Average TVs |
31 |
|
Peak Hours |
12-3pm, 6-11pm |
|
Average Capacity |
230 |
|
Price Range |
$-$$$ |
|
Food Quality |
4.2/5 |
|
Reservation Required |
60% |
Top 10 Sports Bars in Des Moines: 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. Johnny's Hall of Fame
Address: 302 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Rating: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Johnny's Hall of Fame stands as Court District's premier destination featuring 42 screens serving 320 fans. undefined brings in patrons who appreciate undefined. Johnny's Hall of Fame secured its 4.3 stars through excellence in Sports bar, Italian food, Historic venue.
What Makes Johnny's Hall of Fame Special:
- Location advantage: conveniently located at 302 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: provides premium game-day atmosphere with 42 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Furthermore, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Johnny's Hall of Fame
2. The Keg Stand
Address: 4900 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
The Keg Stand anchors the West Des Moines area equipped with 38 screens for 280 guests. undefined appeals to those wanting undefined. The Keg Stand achieved its 4.2 rating via superior Sports viewing, Pizza, Arcade games.
What Makes The Keg Stand Special:
- Location advantage: ideally situated at 4900 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: offers unmatched sports entertainment with 38 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Moreover, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to The Keg Stand
3. Legends American Grill
Address: 8460 Birchwood Ct, Johnston, IA 50131
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Legends American Grill defines sports viewing in Johnston offering 35 screens in a 250-person space. undefined satisfies fans desiring undefined. Legends American Grill garnered 4.1 stars by focusing on Sports bar, American cuisine, Patio.
What Makes Legends American Grill Special:
- Location advantage: perfectly placed at 8460 Birchwood Ct, Johnston, IA 50131 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: creates memorable game experiences with 35 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Beyond that, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Legends American Grill
4. Wellman's Pub
Address: 2920 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Rating: 4.4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Wellman's Pub sets the standard in Drake boasting 28 screens accommodating 200 patrons. undefined caters to enthusiasts seeking undefined. Wellman's Pub built its 4.4-star reputation on Rooftop bar, Sports viewing, Craft beer.
What Makes Wellman's Pub Special:
- Location advantage: optimally positioned at 2920 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: ensures top-tier viewing quality with 28 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: In addition, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Wellman's Pub
5. High Life Lounge
Address: 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $ (Budget)
High Life Lounge reigns supreme in Downtown displaying 24 screens for up to 180 viewers. undefined welcomes guests pursuing undefined. High Life Lounge justifies its 4 rating with exceptional Dive bar, Sports viewing, Live music.
What Makes High Life Lounge Special:
- Location advantage: advantageously located at 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: guarantees excellent sightlines with 24 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: What's more, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to High Life Lounge
6. Buzzard Billy's
Address: 615 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Buzzard Billy's commands attention in Downtown providing 32 screens within its 240-seat venue. undefined serves those preferring undefined. Buzzard Billy's earned 4.2 stars by mastering Cajun cuisine, Sports bar, Full bar.
What Makes Buzzard Billy's Special:
- Location advantage: centrally positioned at 615 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: maintains superior viewing standards with 32 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Equally important, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Buzzard Billy's
7. Jethro's BBQ
Address: 3102 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
Rating: 4.3/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Jethro's BBQ holds court in Drake showcasing 45 screens across 350 seats. undefined delights visitors expecting undefined. Jethro's BBQ reached 4.3-star status through BBQ, Sports viewing, Wings.
What Makes Jethro's BBQ Special:
- Location advantage: accessibly placed at 3102 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: presents optimal watching conditions with 45 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Also noteworthy, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Jethro's BBQ
8. The Tavern
Address: 2810 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
Rating: 4.1/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
The Tavern serves as South of Grand's flagship venue maintaining 22 screens for 160 sports fans. undefined meets the needs of those requiring undefined. The Tavern claims its 4.1 rating by perfecting Neighborhood bar, Sports viewing, Pizza.
What Makes The Tavern Special:
- Location advantage: thoughtfully located at 2810 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: supplies comprehensive sports coverage with 22 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Worth mentioning, known for electric game day energy
9. Court Avenue Brewing Company
Address: 309 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Rating: 4.2/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Court Avenue Brewing Company represents Court District's best option delivering 30 screens to 220 customers. undefined provides exactly what fans want: undefined. Court Avenue Brewing Company's 4.2 stars reflect their commitment to Brewery, Sports bar, American food.
What Makes Court Avenue Brewing Company Special:
- Location advantage: intelligently situated at 309 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: furnishes complete game-day amenities with 30 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Of particular interest, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Court Avenue Brewing Company
10. Grumpy Goat Tavern
Address: 11262 NW 16th St, Clive, IA 50325
Rating: 4/5 based on customer reviews
Price Level: $$ (Moderate)
Grumpy Goat Tavern leads the Clive sports bar scene with 26 screens throughout its 190-person venue. undefined draws crowds looking for undefined. Grumpy Goat Tavern maintains its 4-star rating by delivering Sports bar, Burgers, Trivia nights.
What Makes Grumpy Goat Tavern Special:
- Location advantage: strategically positioned at 11262 NW 16th St, Clive, IA 50325 offering ample parking
- Viewing experience: delivers an exceptional viewing experience with 26 screens
- Food & drink: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Atmosphere: Additionally, known for electric game day energy
Get directions to Grumpy Goat Tavern
Des Moines Sports Bars by Neighborhood
Location matters when choosing a sports bar. Here's how Des Moines's neighborhoods stack up:
Court District (2 venues)
The Court District area offers Johnny's Hall of Fame, Court Avenue Brewing Company. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 36 screens per venue.
- Johnny's Hall of Fame: 302 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 42 screens, 320 capacity
- Court Avenue Brewing Company: 309 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 30 screens, 220 capacity
West Des Moines (1 venue)
The West Des Moines area offers The Keg Stand. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 38 screens per venue.
- The Keg Stand: 4900 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266 – 38 screens, 280 capacity
Johnston (1 venue)
The Johnston area offers Legends American Grill. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 35 screens per venue.
- Legends American Grill: 8460 Birchwood Ct, Johnston, IA 50131 – 35 screens, 250 capacity
Drake (2 venues)
The Drake area offers Wellman's Pub, Jethro's BBQ. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 37 screens per venue.
- Wellman's Pub: 2920 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 – 28 screens, 200 capacity
- Jethro's BBQ: 3102 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311 – 45 screens, 350 capacity
Downtown (4 venues)
The Downtown area offers High Life Lounge, Buzzard Billy's, Hessen Haus, El Bait Shop. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 28 screens per venue.
- High Life Lounge: 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 24 screens, 180 capacity
- Buzzard Billy's: 615 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 32 screens, 240 capacity
- Hessen Haus: 101 SW 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 34 screens, 270 capacity
- El Bait Shop: 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309 – 20 screens, 150 capacity
South of Grand (1 venue)
The South of Grand area offers The Tavern. This neighborhood is known for intimate viewing experiences with an average of 22 screens per venue.
- The Tavern: 2810 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 – 22 screens, 160 capacity
Clive (2 venues)
The Clive area offers Grumpy Goat Tavern, Mickey's Irish Pub. This neighborhood is known for intimate viewing experiences with an average of 28 screens per venue.
- Grumpy Goat Tavern: 11262 NW 16th St, Clive, IA 50325 – 26 screens, 190 capacity
- Mickey's Irish Pub: 11228 University Ave, Clive, IA 50325 – 29 screens, 200 capacity
Merle Hay (1 venue)
The Merle Hay area offers Fox Sports Grill. This neighborhood is known for medium-sized sports bars with an average of 36 screens per venue.
- Fox Sports Grill: 4755 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322 – 36 screens, 260 capacity
Windsor Heights (1 venue)
The Windsor Heights area offers Coach's Pizza. This neighborhood is known for intimate viewing experiences with an average of 25 screens per venue.
- Coach's Pizza: 7401 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50325 – 25 screens, 180 capacity
Game Day Planning Guide for Des Moines
Reservation Strategies
Major sporting events require advance planning. Johnny's Hall of Fame typically books up 3-5 days before major games, while The Keg Stand 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 Wellman's Pub and Buzzard Billy's excel at intimate viewing
- Medium groups (5-10): Johnny's Hall of Fame and The Keg Stand offer dedicated group seating with advance notice
- Large groups (10+): Legends American Grill accommodates up to 62 with semi-private areas. Johnny's Hall of Fame requires 48-hour advance booking for groups over 15
- Corporate events: Johnny's Hall of Fame offers full buyout options and catering packages
Budget Planning
Based on current Des Moines 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
- Johnny's Hall of Fame: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- The Keg Stand: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Legends American Grill: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- Wellman's Pub: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
- High Life Lounge: Full menu featuring classic sports bar favorites
Happy Hour Intelligence
Most venues offer happy hour specials that can save 25-30% on your tab:
Special Event Menus
During major sporting events, venues like Johnny's Hall of Fame 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. 0 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
Parking Options
Street parking near popular venues becomes scarce during major games. Consider these alternatives:
- 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. Johnny's Hall of Fame and Legends American Grill offer dedicated accessible viewing areas with optimal sightlines.
Local Tips: Insider Secrets
Hidden Gems
While Johnny's Hall of Fame gets the headlines, locals know that High Life Lounge offers comparable viewing with shorter wait times. Their 24 screens and Dive bar, Sports viewing, Live music make it an excellent alternative during peak times.
Best Kept Secrets
- Tuesday-Thursday at High Life Lounge: 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
Des Moines 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, Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
Johnny's Hall of Fame at 302 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 ranks highest with 42+ screens and 320 capacity. They have NFL Sunday Ticket and Sports bar, Italian food, Historic venue. Arrive by 12:00 PM for 1 PM games, or make reservations through undefined.
Which Des Moines sports bar has the most TVs?
Jethro's BBQ leads with 45 screens across their 350-person venue. Located at 3102 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311, they ensure every seat has multiple viewing angles.
Where can I watch soccer/international sports?
The Keg Stand specializes in international sports, opening early for Premier League and Champions League matches. They're located at 4900 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266.
What's the most affordable option?
High Life Lounge offers the best value with moderate pricing. Located at 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, they feature great food and drinks and maintain a 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. Johnny's Hall of Fame, The Keg Stand, and Legends American Grill accept reservations online. Others operate first-come, first-served.
Which venue is best for large groups?
Jethro's BBQ with 350 capacity handles large groups best. They're at 3102 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311 and accept reservations. For groups over 20, most venues offer dedicated areas with minimum spends.
What are typical prices?
Across Des Moines'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?
Most fans use ride-sharing or public transit, especially for Sunday NFL and prime-time games.
Your Game Day Action Plan
Des Moines's sports bar scene offers world-class venues for every type of fan. From Johnny's Hall of Fame's Sports bar, Italian food, Historic venue to El Bait Shop's undefined, each establishment brings something unique to the table.
Quick Decision Guide:
- Best overall: Johnny's Hall of Fame – 302 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Most screens: Jethro's BBQ – 45 TVs
- Best value: Johnny's Hall of Fame
- Largest capacity: Jethro's BBQ – 350 seats
- Hidden gem: High Life Lounge
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 Des Moines 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, Des Moines'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.