Best Sports Bar Near Me
In Delaware

Sports Bars and Game Day Culture in Delaware

Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it punches above its weight when it comes to sports fandom and lively game day gatherings. Located between major sports cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and D.C., Delaware’s sports bars cater to fans of the Eagles, Ravens, Phillies, Orioles, Sixers, and more. Whether you’re in Wilmington, Newark, Rehoboth Beach, or Dover, the best sports bars near me provide the perfect atmosphere for cheering, snacking, and enjoying every play. For locals and travelers alike, these game day bars are the go-to for catching the action.

2025 Trends for Delaware Sports Bars

Delaware’s sports bars are stepping up with enhanced viewing setups, expanded outdoor spaces, and menus that fuse classic bar food with local flair. Many venues now offer heated patios, weekend brunches for NFL games, and beer partnerships with regional breweries. Bars in university towns are incorporating fantasy league nights and gamified apps for in-bar competitions. In beach towns, rooftop setups and seafood-forward menus help maintain a party vibe year-round. Expect digital jukeboxes, mobile ordering, and beer walls to become more common as sports bars continue evolving in 2025.

Vibe and Experience

Delaware’s sports bars balance hometown charm with East Coast intensity. Wilmington and Newark bring packed student crowds and urban sports lounges, while coastal cities offer breezy patios and sports-friendly beach vibes. Expect enthusiastic crowds during NFL Sundays and a steady stream of Phillies and Sixers fans during the week. Most venues cater to both serious fans and social groups, making it easy to catch every play without missing out on trivia, cornhole, or craft beer samplers.

Food and Drink Focus

Bar menus feature wings, crab dip, cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and rotating beer taps with local breweries like Dogfish Head, Big Oyster, and Dew Point Brewing. Signature cocktails lean into bourbon and crush-style drinks, while brunch specials feature mimosa buckets and loaded Bloody Marys. Delaware’s coastal access also brings in fresh seafood options like shrimp tacos and fish and chips for game day variety.

Best Cities for Sports Bars in Delaware

Wilmington

As the state’s largest city, Wilmington offers a variety of sports bars from upscale lounges to relaxed corner taverns. Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers fans pack the bars every game day.

Newark

Home to the University of Delaware, Newark’s bar scene is college-focused with high energy, student specials, and loyalty to both local and Philly-area teams. It’s always loud on Saturdays and Sundays.

Dover

The state capital blends local charm with regional fandom. With the Dover Motor Speedway nearby, NASCAR energy also plays a unique role in the city’s bar culture.

Rehoboth Beach

A vacation favorite, Rehoboth’s sports bars blend beach vibes with solid AV setups and seafood-heavy menus. The bars are packed during NFL season and tourist weekends alike.

Top 10 Sports Bars in Delaware

Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon – Wilmington

A classic bar with a big personality, great wings, and strong sports energy. It’s packed for Eagles games and weekend matchups. Website: kidshelleens.com | Yelp: Kid Shelleen’s | Google: Map

Buffalo Wild Wings – Newark

A reliable go-to for wings, beer, and wall-to-wall sports in the heart of UD student life. Website: buffalowildwings.com | Yelp: BWW Newark | Google: Map

Stanley’s Tavern – Wilmington

Family-friendly and fan-favorite sports hub with an impressive beer list and plenty of TVs. Website: stanleys-tavern.com | Yelp: Stanley’s | Google: Map

Grotto Pizza – Rehoboth Beach

A Delaware institution known for its beachside pizza, beer specials, and surprisingly strong sports bar atmosphere. Website: grottopizza.com | Yelp: Grotto Rehoboth | Google: Map

McGlynns Pub – Dover

Great food, good beer, and lots of seating—McGlynns is a Dover favorite for locals and visitors alike. Website: mcglynnspub.com | Yelp: McGlynns | Google: Map

The Greene Turtle – Multiple Locations

This regional chain is a staple in Newark, Rehoboth, and Dover with consistent sports coverage and family-friendly appeal. Website: thegreeneturtle.com | Yelp: Greene Turtle | Google: Map

Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen – Newark

Trendy, lively, and loaded with craft beer. A modern twist on the classic sports bar vibe. Website: meetatgrain.com | Yelp: Grain Newark | Google: Map

Dewey Beer Company – Dewey Beach

Not a traditional sports bar, but their game day crowd, ocean views, and beer flights make it a beach fan favorite. Website: deweybeerco.com | Yelp: Dewey Beer Co | Google: Map

Pumpkin Patch Pub – Newark

A divey gem with low prices, strong drinks, and a local crowd that’s serious about their sports. Website: Facebook | Yelp: Pumpkin Patch | Google: Map

Big Chill Surf Cantina – Rehoboth Beach

A relaxed surf-style bar with outdoor games, frozen drinks, and casual screens for watching the big game under the sun. Website: bigchillbeachclub.com | Yelp: Big Chill | Google: Map