Best Sports Bar Near Me
State of Vermont

Sports Bars and Game Day Hangouts in Vermont

Vermont may be best known for its serene mountains, craft breweries, and small-town charm, but it’s also home to a quietly passionate sports bar culture. Whether you’re tucked into a cozy bar in Burlington or enjoying the game in a pub near a ski lodge, Vermonters know how to turn any space into a welcoming, lively hub for game day gatherings. Even without a major pro team in the state, local bars fill up fast for Patriots games, Bruins matchups, March Madness, and college hockey. So if you’re searching for sports bars near me or want a cozy game day bar experience in the Green Mountain State, you’re in luck.

2025 Sports Bar Trends in Vermont

In 2025, Vermont’s sports bars are focusing on comfort, character, and hyper-local offerings. Rustic-chic interiors meet high-end AV setups, and menus lean into Vermont’s farm-to-table values. Bars increasingly feature locally brewed beers, cider taps, and seasonal menus with hearty dishes—think maple BBQ wings, Vermont cheddar nachos, and grass-fed beef burgers. With Vermont’s love for craft culture, many sports bars double as brewpubs or hybrid taprooms, making them ideal for beer lovers and sports fans alike.

The Vibe: Laid-Back, Artsy, and Engaged

Game day in Vermont doesn’t mean loud crowds or neon signs—it means community, comfort, and good conversation. Patrons might debate the Red Sox rotation one moment, and local politics the next. Expect bars that blend classic sports coverage with a unique sense of place—art on the walls, fireplaces roaring in winter, and everyone dressed for the weather. There’s a strong mix of Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins fans, along with love for nearby college teams like UVM and Dartmouth.

Food and Drink Culture

Vermont sports bars go beyond typical bar food. Local ingredients shine on menus: sharp cheddar, maple-glazed meats, cider-braised sausages, and rotating charcuterie boards. Craft beer dominates, with local favorites from The Alchemist, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Fiddlehead, and Zero Gravity regularly on tap. Many spots also offer hard ciders, meads, and even non-alcoholic craft sodas. Expect vegan options, gluten-free pub fare, and elevated comfort food—because this is Vermont, after all.

Top Cities and Regions for Sports Bars

Burlington leads the pack, with its mix of students, professionals, and foodies. You’ll find a wide variety of bars with character, multiple screens, and strong drink menus. Montpelier and Brattleboro offer a mix of classic taverns and quirky local joints, often with historic roots. Killington and Stowe bring après-ski energy to their sports bars, where flat-screens share space with ski gear and slopeside views. Even smaller towns like Middlebury and Barre have bars that rally around local pride and seasonal sports events.

Top 10 Sports Bars in Vermont

Ri Ra Irish Pub (Burlington)

Located on the lakefront, Ri Ra combines classic Irish charm with multiple TVs and hearty pub fare. Yelp | Website | Google

Sweetwaters (Burlington)

A lively Church Street favorite with local brews, solid food, and big game coverage. Yelp | Website | Google

McGillicuddy’s Irish Ale House (Montpelier)

One of the capital city’s go-to spots for sports, beer, and a fun, energetic crowd. Yelp | Website | Google

The Pour House (South Burlington)

Classic sports dive with big TVs, pool, and some of the best wings in Chittenden County. Yelp | Website | Google

The Lookout Tavern (Killington)

A ski-town classic—grab a beer and watch the game with slope views in the background. Yelp | Website | Google

Stowe Bowl (Stowe)

A modern lounge with bowling, big games on the big screen, and craft cocktails. Yelp | Website | Google

Charlie O’s World Famous (Montpelier)

Divey and legendary—expect pool, darts, and diehard sports watchers. Yelp | Website | Google

Backside 405 (Burlington)

Warehouse-style music and sports venue with a great vibe for Sunday football. Yelp | Website | Google

The Taproom at Switchback Brewing Co. (Burlington)

While not a traditional sports bar, the taproom often shows games and offers a stellar beer experience. Yelp | Website | Google

Mulligan’s Irish Pub (Manchester)

Classic small-town bar with TVs, solid grub, and strong drinks—perfect for catching the game. Yelp | Website | Google