Best Sports Bars Near Me
In Arkansas

Sports Bars and Game Day Energy in Arkansas

Arkansas may be best known for Razorbacks fandom, Southern hospitality, and natural beauty, but its sports bar scene deserves just as much love. From Little Rock and Fayetteville to Hot Springs and Bentonville, Arkansans show up for football Saturdays, basketball playoffs, and fight nights with unmatched energy. Whether you’re a die-hard Hogs supporter, a fantasy league regular, or someone simply searching for sports bars near me for a good time, you’ll find great food, cold drinks, and passionate fans at the best game day bars across the state.

2025 Trends for Arkansas Sports Bars

In 2025, Arkansas sports bars are leaning into immersive experiences and local flavor. Expect upgrades like wall-to-wall LED screens, audio zones by section, and revamped outdoor areas with heaters, turf, and yard games. Some bars are even offering mobile app-based ordering and fantasy league integrations on site. The food scene is seeing an upgrade too, with bars introducing BBQ-infused everything, bourbon glazes, and creative spins on Southern staples. Razorbacks-centric décor, watch parties, and drink specials dominate Saturdays, while NFL Sundays and UFC nights bring in equally big crowds.

Vibe and Experience

The vibe at Arkansas sports bars varies from rowdy student hotspots in Fayetteville to chill, family-friendly taverns in suburban towns. Many bars feature Arkansas Razorbacks pride on full display—neon signs, hog wall art, and fight songs blasting after every touchdown. Expect lively crowds, friendly smack talk, dartboards, pool tables, and trivia nights to keep things going during commercials. Bars in college towns often double as late-night hangouts with DJs or live music following big games.

Food and Drink Focus

Arkansas bars keep it hearty and flavorful. Think smoked wings, pulled pork nachos, chicken and waffles, Delta-style catfish baskets, and plenty of spicy dipping sauces. The state’s growing love of craft beer shows up in rotating taps from breweries like Lost Forty, Ozark Beer Co., and Bike Rack Brewing. Whiskey and bourbon cocktails are on the rise, and don’t be surprised to find sweet tea vodka or Arkansas-inspired Bloody Marys with bacon and pickled okra garnishes.

Best Cities for Sports Bars in Arkansas

Little Rock

The capital city is home to some of the state’s largest and most energetic sports bars, perfect for Razorbacks games, pro sports, and tournament watch parties. Downtown spots draw after-work crowds, while west side venues cater to families and big groups.

Fayetteville

The heart of Razorbacks Nation, Fayetteville delivers electric college sports energy. Game days here are rowdy and packed, with students and alumni alike showing up early for pregame rituals and staying late into the night.

Hot Springs

This resort town blends old-school charm with a growing bar scene. Many bars are near the historic bathhouse row, offering elevated bar fare, strong drinks, and great views for the big game.

Bentonville

Fueled by a young, growing population, Bentonville has a fresh bar scene with upscale sports lounges and community-focused brewpubs that cater to fans of all ages and allegiances.

Top 10 Sports Bars in Arkansas

Brewski’s Pub & Grub – Little Rock

Located in the River Market district, Brewski’s is a classic sports bar with multiple viewing rooms, big sound, bar games, and late-night vibes. Website: brewskispubandgrub.com | Yelp: Brewski’s | Google: Map

JJ’s Grill – Fayetteville

With locations across Northwest Arkansas, JJ’s is known for reliable game coverage, live music, and solid wings. The Fayetteville spot near campus is Razorback country through and through. Website: jjsgrill.com | Yelp: JJ’s Grill | Google: Map

The Forge – Bentonville

A modern American tavern with an elevated menu, great beer list, and sports screens throughout. Known for its relaxed energy and solid cocktail game. Website: theforgebentonville.com | Yelp: The Forge | Google: Map

The Big Chill – Hot Springs

This popular bar and grill features a giant patio, solid beer lineup, and crowd-pleasing pub fare. Live music often follows game days. Website: Facebook | Yelp: The Big Chill | Google: Map

Dugan’s Pub – Little Rock

Downtown Irish bar with great screens, hearty Irish-American food, and a neighborhood vibe that’s perfect for game day mingling. Website: duganspublr.com | Yelp: Dugan’s | Google: Map

Lucky Lou’s – Fayetteville

A divey favorite among students with cheap pitchers, trivia nights, and no-nonsense sports coverage. Casual, fun, and filled with Hogs fans. Website: Instagram | Yelp: Lucky Lou’s | Google: Map

Grub’s Bar & Grille – Rogers

Part sports bar, part neighborhood eatery, Grub’s delivers screens on every wall and massive burgers. A chill hangout that’s popular on NFL Sundays. Website: grubsbargrille.com | Yelp: Grub’s Rogers | Google: Map

Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill – Little Rock

Upscale food, great tap list, and multiple TVs in a warm, woodsy interior. Great for sports fans who want craft cocktails with their games. Website: samanthastaproom.com | Yelp: Samantha’s | Google: Map

Cregeen’s Irish Pub – North Little Rock

Live music, a robust whiskey selection, and full game coverage make this Irish pub a low-key gem for football fans and travelers alike. Website: cregeens.com | Yelp: Cregeen’s | Google: Map

The Brickhouse Grill – Jonesboro

A well-loved neighborhood favorite with good eats, generous drink specials, and college football always on. Website: brickhousejonesboro.com | Yelp: Brickhouse | Google: Map