Best Sports Bar Near Me
State of South Dakota

Sports Bars and Game Day Hangouts in South Dakota

South Dakota may not boast a major pro sports team, but that doesn’t stop locals from going all-in on game day. Whether it’s college football Saturdays, NFL Sundays, or March Madness showdowns, sports bars across the state transform into energized hubs of team spirit and social connection. From Sioux Falls to Rapid City, the sports bar scene in South Dakota is rooted in community, good eats, and a shared love of the game. If you’re searching for sports bars near me or planning your next visit to a great game day bar, South Dakota has a lot to offer—especially if you love a friendly atmosphere and passionate fans.

2025 Trends in South Dakota Sports Bars

In 2025, South Dakota sports bars are doubling down on upgraded audio-visual experiences, pairing local flavor with interactive elements. Expect more bars offering massive projection screens, surround sound zones, and even phone chargers at tables. Menu innovations are also on the rise—think South Dakota takes on comfort food (bison sliders, buffalo nachos), beer flights from local breweries, and gamified trivia nights during halftime. Sports betting kiosks are becoming more common in larger cities, especially with the growing popularity of fantasy leagues and sportsbook-style viewing parties.

The Experience: Friendly, Casual, and Fan-Focused

Game day in South Dakota means casual wear, neighborly vibes, and a cold drink in hand. Many bars here reflect the state’s easygoing attitude—servers remember your name, everyone’s welcome, and the atmosphere stays fun whether you’re cheering or commiserating. Expect lively crowds during Vikings and Packers games, but strong college fanbases also dominate—especially for South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota.

What’s on the Menu?

Sports bars in South Dakota serve up classics with regional flair. Alongside your typical wings and burgers, you’ll find chislic (deep-fried cubes of meat), Midwestern-style pizza, and plenty of ranch dressing. Domestic beers are mainstays, but you’ll also find locally brewed picks from Fernson Brewing, Crow Peak, and Remedy. Happy hour specials, pitchers, and “wing Wednesdays” keep the locals coming back, especially in the colder months when indoor fun is essential.

Top Cities for Sports Bars

Sioux Falls is the state’s largest city and the undisputed sports bar capital, offering a wide range of venues from classic dives to modern gastropubs with giant screens. Rapid City brings a mix of tourist-friendly options and local fan favorites with mountain views and great vibes. Brookings and Vermillion—thanks to SDSU and USD—bring the college town energy, while smaller cities like Mitchell and Aberdeen hold their own with loyal fanbases and beloved neighborhood spots.

Top 10 Sports Bars in South Dakota

Jacky’s Restaurant & Sports Bar (Sioux Falls)

A mix of Guatemalan cuisine and sports bar fun—Jacky’s is one of Sioux Falls’ most unique game day spots. Yelp | Website | Google

Oggie’s Sports Bar (Deadwood)

Located in the Lodge at Deadwood, Oggie’s is a local favorite with wraparound TVs and hearty fare. Yelp | Website | Google

ROAM Kitchen + Bar (Sioux Falls)

More upscale, but still a sports bar at heart with big screens and a stunning drink menu. Yelp | Website | Google

Thirsty Duck (Sioux Falls)

A cozy place with strong drinks, duckpin bowling, and screens showing all the big games. Yelp | Website | Google

Blarney’s Sports Bar & Grill (Mitchell)

Mitchell’s best-known sports bar with friendly locals and great food and drink specials. Yelp | Website | Google

Buffalo Bodega (Deadwood)

Old-school bar with character, history, and enough TVs to satisfy any game day fan. Yelp | Website | Google

Pour 54 Taphouse (Rapid City)

Futuristic tap wall, tons of beer options, and TVs lining the walls—ideal for the modern sports fan. Yelp | Website | Google

Buffalo Wings & Rings (Rapid City)

A go-to for wings, draft beers, and game day action in a big, open layout. Yelp | Website | Google

Old Lumber Company Grill and Bar (Vermillion)

Right in the heart of USD territory—great for catching Coyotes games and NFL matchups. Yelp | Website | Google

The Back 40 (Brookings)

Laid-back Brookings bar known for cold beer, solid food, and loyal SDSU fans. Yelp | Website | Google