Best Sports Bar Near Me
In Kansas

Sports Bars and Game Day Traditions in Kansas

Kansas brings the heart of America to life with its passionate sports culture and welcoming bar scene. Whether you’re a die-hard Jayhawks, Wildcats, or Chiefs fan—or just there for cold beer and big plays—the state’s top sports bars near me deliver unbeatable hospitality, great viewing setups, and plenty of Midwest flavor. From Lawrence and Manhattan to Wichita and Overland Park, game day bars in Kansas serve as community hubs for cheering, debating, and celebrating every win (and riding out the losses together).

2025 Trends for Kansas Sports Bars

In 2025, Kansas sports bars are embracing a mix of rustic charm and tech upgrades. Expect more giant projection walls, mobile ordering from your table, and live game-day betting zones. Rooftop bars and beer gardens with fire pits are expanding in urban centers, while smaller-town bars keep it classic with jukeboxes, wood-paneled walls, and neon beer signs. Bars are also putting more emphasis on regional craft beer, with flights and tap takeovers from Kansas City, Wichita, and Lawrence breweries.

Vibe and Experience

Kansas sports bars deliver a warm, unpretentious vibe packed with loyal regulars and college pride. In Lawrence, the vibe is all about crimson and blue for KU, while in Manhattan, purple reigns for Kansas State. NFL Sundays are loud with Chiefs Kingdom chants, and March Madness transforms bars into mini-arenas. Expect communal tables, watch party raffles, and crowds that are friendly but deeply competitive when it comes to college rivalries or fantasy football matchups.

Food and Drink Focus

Kansas bars don’t hold back on comfort food—think loaded tots, pulled pork nachos, fried pickles, spicy wings, and brisket sliders. Local BBQ influences are strong, and many bars feature slow-smoked meats and house-made sauces. On the drink side, Kansas craft breweries like Free State, Tallgrass, Walnut River, and Wichita Brewing Co. shine. Bourbon and whiskey cocktails, pickleback shots, and beer-and-a-shot combos are popular, especially during rivalry games and tailgate events.

Best Cities for Sports Bars in Kansas

Lawrence

Home of the Kansas Jayhawks, Lawrence bars are packed with energy on game days—especially during basketball season. Mass Street becomes the center of the sports universe every March.

Manhattan

The Little Apple lives for Kansas State football. Purple shirts, loud chants, and packed patios define the bar scene here on Saturdays in the fall.

Wichita

Kansas’ largest city has a mix of gritty sports pubs and sleek taprooms with modern flair. It’s the best city in the state for year-round sports watching from all leagues.

Overland Park

Suburban but far from sleepy, Overland Park delivers classy sports lounges, family-friendly setups, and plenty of Chiefs fever. Great spots for big groups and Sunday traditions.

Top 10 Sports Bars in Kansas

The Wheel – Lawrence

A historic Jayhawks bar known for pizza, beer towers, and fans packed in from open to close during KU basketball games. Website: Facebook | Yelp: The Wheel | Google: Map

Tanner’s Bar & Grill – Overland Park

Local chain with loyal Chiefs crowds, a huge menu, and strong drinks. TVs everywhere and friendly servers make it a suburban favorite. Website: tannersbarandgrill.com | Yelp: Tanner’s | Google: Map

Johnny’s Tavern – Lawrence & Statewide

A staple across Kansas, Johnny’s delivers classic bar food, plenty of space, and nonstop sports action. The Lawrence location is a Jayhawk haven. Website: johnnystavern.com | Yelp: Johnny’s | Google: Map

Powercat Sports Grill – Manhattan

A Wildcat hotspot featuring purple pride, college-town energy, and a great selection of burgers, beers, and screens. Website: powercatsportsgrill.com | Yelp: Powercat Grill | Google: Map

The Anchor – Wichita

Not just a beer bar—The Anchor is known for food, beer, and great game day energy. A go-to for fans of all stripes. Website: anchorwichita.com | Yelp: The Anchor | Google: Map

Dempsey’s Burger Pub – Lawrence

Craft burgers, tall beers, and flat screens make this a fan favorite for watching KU games in comfort. Website: dempseysburgerpub.com | Yelp: Dempsey’s | Google: Map

Brickhouse BBQ – Topeka

Topeka’s go-to for BBQ and ball games, with cold beer, brisket nachos, and sports on every wall. Website: brickhousebbqtopeka.com | Yelp: Brickhouse | Google: Map

Wichita Brewing Company & Pizzeria – Wichita

Where pizza, sports, and house-brewed beer meet. A casual favorite for fans who want big flavors and full coverage. Website: wichitabrew.com | Yelp: WBC | Google: Map

Jeff’s Sports Bar & Grill – Manhattan

Laid-back, friendly, and full of Wildcat fans, this is a great spot for a beer, burger, and all things K-State. Website: Facebook | Yelp: Jeff’s | Google: Map

Maloney’s Sports Bar & Grill – Overland Park

Three levels, rooftop seating, and serious sports energy make this one of KC’s suburban staples for game days. Website: maloneyssportsbar.com | Yelp: Maloney’s | Google: Map