Best Sports Bar Near Me
State of North Dakota

Sports Bars and Game Day Hotspots in North Dakota

North Dakota may be known for its wide-open prairies, rugged winters, and friendly Midwestern spirit, but it’s also home to a growing roster of sports bars where locals and visitors alike come together to cheer on their favorite teams. Whether you’re in Fargo, Bismarck, or Grand Forks, you’ll find a tight-knit sports bar scene full of enthusiastic fans, hearty food, and cold beer. These establishments might not have the glitz of major metro markets, but they more than make up for it with authenticity, affordability, and loyal patrons who know their sports inside and out. Searching for sports bars near me or the perfect game day bars in North Dakota? Let’s take a closer look at what the state has to offer.

Trends in North Dakota Sports Bars for 2025

Sports bars in North Dakota are leaning into comfort, tech upgrades, and local pride. Expect upgraded AV setups—more big screens, better sound systems, and even private booths with personal TVs for fantasy football meetups or watch parties. There’s also a strong emphasis on North Dakota craft beer and regional food specials—think hot beef sandwiches, fried walleye, and bison burgers. Many bars are becoming community gathering points on game days, offering specials during Vikings, Packers, and UND Fighting Hawks games.

The Vibe: Laid-Back, Loyal, and Local

The vibe in North Dakota’s sports bars is defined by hometown loyalty and good-natured camaraderie. While you’ll certainly find die-hard NFL and NHL fans, there’s equal love for local college teams, high school rivalries, and regional leagues. Bars here don’t try to be flashy—instead, they offer a welcoming atmosphere where regulars know each other, bartenders remember your order, and new visitors are quickly brought into the fold.

Food, Drinks, and Local Flavors

Wings, burgers, and baskets still dominate the menu, but don’t be surprised to see signature twists—like ranch-based sauces, Scandinavian-inspired bar snacks, or beer-battered cheese curds. North Dakota breweries are increasingly featured on tap, and bars often rotate in seasonal selections from local outfits like Fargo Brewing Company or Drekker Brewing. Game-day drink specials are common, and many spots host beer pong or trivia during halftime.

City Highlights for Sports Fans

Fargo leads the pack with the largest concentration of sports bars, thanks to its population and college-town energy. Bars near North Dakota State University are especially lively. Bismarck and Grand Forks also boast popular game day destinations with cozy indoor setups—key during football season’s colder months. Smaller towns like Minot and Dickinson may not have as many venues, but you’ll still find passionate fanbases and bars that stay packed on Sundays and Saturdays alike.

Top 10 Sports Bars in North Dakota

The Turf (Fargo)

A staple of Fargo’s downtown scene with big TVs, pool tables, and a packed house during Vikings games. Yelp | Website | Google

Borrowed Bucks Roadhouse (Fargo)

Part club, part sports bar—perfect for game nights that turn into dance parties. Yelp | Website | Google

Peacock Alley (Bismarck)

Historic vibe, upscale bar fare, and strong cocktails—a classy option for game day. Yelp | Website | Google

Sports Bar & Grill at Ground Round (Grand Forks)

Big-screen TVs in every booth and reliable happy hour deals. Yelp | Website | Google

Hooligan’s Bar and Grill (Fargo)

Always lively for Bison games with great wings and late-night drink specials. Yelp | Website | Google

The Stadium Sports Bar (Bismarck)

One of Bismarck’s best-known sports lounges with all the major packages. Yelp | Website | Google

Spicy Pie (Fargo)

Pizza, beer, and sports—what more could you need? Great spot for casual group meetups. Yelp | Website | Google

The Loft Bar (Jamestown)

Jamestown’s favorite for NFL Sundays and UND hockey. Yelp | Website | Google

The Elks Lodge Bar (Minot)

Classic Minot stop with TV screens, drink deals, and members-only game day events. Yelp | Website | Google

Knights Bar (Devils Lake)

Small-town sports hub with loyal locals and great drink prices. Yelp | Website | Google