The Best Sports Bars In Chicago

No one messes with sports in Chicago, because baseball is a lifestyle choice in the Windy City and football Sundays are practically a religious experience. Chicagoans have spent years at the top and years at the bottom (don’t mention those 108 brutal years to anyone!) but the consensus is clear – watching the game with some buddies at a bar is the best way to do it! Even out-of-towners are welcome at the following bars, even blasphemous Packer’s fans.

1. O'Callaghan's

Bar, Irish, Pub Grub, Beer

O’Callaghan’s is a staple for Chicago locals and, for the most part, it remains a well-kept secret. With a nod to the Irish roots of the city, the bar serves traditional (and incredible) pub food alongside Chicago craft brews and commercial classics. They also serve free pretzels with mustard when you arrive, which is a personal and thoughtful touch reflective of midwestern hospitality.

2. Theory

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub Grub, American, Beer

When it comes to hip and hopping places to watch the game, Theory takes the cake. Due to its location in the heart of downtown, Theory is often occupied by young professionals around the city enjoying a pint or grabbing some to-die-for buffalo wings. If getting rowdy and yelling at the television in a super classy environment sounds like a blast, then Theory is the place to be!

3. Joes on Weed Street

Bar, American, Pub Grub, Beer

More often than not, Chicagoans will refer to this hangout as just “Joe’s on Weed,” and the sports parties always end up finding themselves here! The specialize in live music and amazing trivia nights, unless the game is on, of course. If partying until dawn with fans of the Blackhawks, the Bears, and the Bulls, sounds like a great plan, then grab a pint at Joe’s and get ready for a wild Chicago ride.

4. The Cubby Bear

Bar, Pub Grub, American, Beer

Now that the Cubs have won the World Series, the famous Cubby Bear bar is filled with local and faraway fans alike. It’s located just caddy-corner from the world famous Wrigley Field, which is the best place besides the Cubby Bear to watch the great old game of baseball. The bar is pretty large, but good luck finding a place to stand if the Cubs are playing well. That being said, you’ll never meet more welcoming Chicagoans than the ones willing to share a pitcher at this iconic spot.

5. Old Town Social

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Restaurant, American, Pub Grub

For those refined patrons that can sip a beer and remain civil even through a hard Bears loss you’ll definitely enjoy Old Town Social. This upscale and classy sports bar has outdoor and indoor seating – perfect for those summer nights and wintry football Sundays. There’s a wide range of alcoholic beverages to choose from, and their food is an up-leveled version of traditional bar fare, so there are no dishes that will steer you wrong!