Best Sports Bar Near Me
In ohio

Sports Bars and Game Day Traditions in Ohio

Ohio is one of the most passionate sports states in the country, with deep-rooted rivalries, legendary teams, and fans who live and breathe game day. Whether it’s the Buckeyes on Saturday, Browns or Bengals on Sunday, or NBA and MLB action throughout the week, the best sports bars near me across Ohio deliver unmatched energy. From Cleveland and Columbus to Cincinnati and Akron, these game day bars serve as hallowed ground for fans who turn every game into an event.

2025 Trends for Ohio Sports Bars

Ohio’s sports bars in 2025 are leaning into legacy while embracing modern tech. Expect updated tap systems, better sound zoning for multiple games, and mobile app-based trivia, betting, and ordering. Bars in Columbus are organizing student section-style viewing parties for Buckeye games, while Cleveland bars honor Guardians and Cavs fans with themed menus and memorabilia walls. Beer flights, retro arcade games, and rooftop viewing decks are on the rise across cities large and small.

Vibe and Experience

Ohio’s sports bars are electric during game time. You’ll find industrial-chic venues in downtown Columbus, cozy dive bars near stadiums in Cleveland, and family-friendly neighborhood joints in the suburbs. What ties them together is passion—Ohioans love their teams and turn every win into a celebration. Whether it’s a Browns victory, a Reds double-header, or the Buckeyes in the playoff hunt, expect crowds chanting, cheering, and riding the highs and lows of every play together.

Food and Drink Focus

Menus balance comfort food with Midwest flair. Expect wings, pierogi platters, Reuben sliders, chili dogs, and bratwursts. Cleveland bars love Polish Boy sandwiches, and Cincinnati bars proudly serve up chili in every form. Ohio’s beer scene is strong—Great Lakes, Rhinegeist, Fat Head’s, and Jackie O’s dominate tap lists. Cocktails range from bourbon slushies to Ohio maple whiskey sours. Sunday brunch menus often include buckeye pancakes, loaded Bloody Marys, and skyline chili hash.

Best Cities for Sports Bars in Ohio

Cleveland

Home to die-hard Browns, Cavs, and Guardians fans. Bars here are full of local pride, vintage memorabilia, and full-on fan traditions.

Columbus

When it comes to Buckeyes, there’s no louder city. Bars near OSU campus shake during game time, while downtown lounges cater to pro sports and MLS Crew fans.

Cincinnati

Reds, Bengals, and FC Cincinnati fans come out strong. Riverfront and downtown bars bring serious energy for every major match.

Akron/Canton

Football country with a love for high school, college, and the NFL. Bars mix hometown charm with serious sports passion.

Top 10 Sports Bars in Ohio

TownHall – Cleveland

Trendy, health-conscious, and loaded with TVs. TownHall brings style and substance to game day. Website: townhallohiocity.com | Yelp: TownHall | Google: Map

Standard Hall – Columbus

Massive patio, brunch buzz, and wild Buckeye parties. A favorite in the Short North. Website: standardhall.com | Yelp: Standard Hall | Google: Map

Holy Grail Tavern & Grille – Cincinnati

Steps from Great American Ball Park, this place is Reds heaven and a solid spot for Bengals games too. Website: holygrailcincy.com | Yelp: Holy Grail | Google: Map

Press Grill – Columbus

A classic dive in the Short North with strong pours, TVs everywhere, and a regulars-welcome vibe. Website: Facebook | Yelp: Press Grill | Google: Map

Winking Lizard Tavern – Multiple Locations

Ohio sports bar royalty. Great wings, trivia nights, and every big game on tap. Website: winkinglizard.com | Yelp: Winking Lizard | Google: Map

R Bar – Columbus

The go-to spot for Blue Jackets fans. Arena District location, beer towers, and playoff vibes. Website: rbararena.com | Yelp: R Bar | Google: Map

Rhinehaus – Cincinnati

Over-the-Rhine bar with a big soccer following, 20+ taps, and lively Bengals watch parties. Website: rhinehausbar.com | Yelp: Rhinehaus | Google: Map

Parma Tavern – Parma

A Cleveland-area local staple with scratch kitchen eats and a devoted Browns following. Website: parmatavern.com | Yelp: Parma Tavern | Google: Map

Akron Family Restaurant – Akron

Old-school diner feel with game day energy and local loyalty. A hidden gem on Sundays. Website: Facebook | Yelp: Akron Family | Google: Map

The Foundry Kitchen and Bar – Elyria

Upscale take on the sports bar with big screens, bold flavors, and Cavs/Cleveland pride. Website: foundrykitchenandbar.com | Yelp: Foundry | Google: Map