Catch the big game at these iconic Wisconsin sports bars
When you’re in Wisconsin, there’s no shortage of great places to settle in with a cold beer and some tasty food to watch the next big game on a big-screen TV. Here’s a look at some of the top sports bars around the state.
Bucketheads Sports Bar & Grill, Rhinelander
If you’re in the Northwoods, head to this friendly sports bar, which has been welcoming diners and drinkers since 2006. They’re sure to have the Packers, Bucks or Brewers on the TVs above the bar, and there’s always a great selection of Wisconsin beers on tap. If you’re hungry, grab some cheese curds, loaded tot-chos, a delicious burger or a homemade pizza.
Stadium View Bar & Grill, Green Bay
Just a block from Lambeau Field in Green Bay, this gigantic sports bar is the perfect place to watch the Packers or any other of your favorite Wisconsin sports teams. Stadium View is chock full of TVs, so there’s not a bad seat in the house, and the bar puts on some iconic tailgates on Packer gamedays. They’ve got great burgers, sandwiches and wings (plus fantastic drink specials), so you’re sure not to leave hungry.
Nutz Deep II, Marshfield
This family-owned and operated bar and restaurant in the heart of Marshfield is a longtime favorite among locals and visitors, consistently racking up “Best of Marshfield” awards for best burger, best fish fry, and best bartender (among others). Come see why everyone loves this spot for yourself and enjoy a fine selection of tap beers and big-screen TVs where you can watch the big game.
Forestry Tap & Axe, Minocqua
Head to Minocqua in northern Wisconsin to find a fun sports bar with a twist: it’s also home to three axe-throwing lanes where participants 18 and up can try their hand at a variety of games and competitions. (They’ve also got shuffleboard, pool, darts, ping pong, and hammerschlagen for those looking for other activities.) If you’re just there for the sports, check out the game on the five big-screen TVs and enjoy one of 20 craft beers on tap.
State Street Brats, Madison
Badger fans from across the state have flocked to this downtown Madison institution for more than 30 years to enjoy burgers, beer and the restaurant’s famous “red brat” (so named because of its beef-and-pork composition). With plenty of TVs, a great selection of tap beers and lots of room to sit (or stand and cheer), it’s the perfect place to take in your team’s next game.
Gooch’s 2 Bar & Grill, Boulder Junction
This Northwoods classic sits just north of downtown Boulder Junction and has been a longtime favorite among locals and visitors alike (the bar reopened in 2020 after rebuilding after a fire). Whether you’re stopping in after a day of snowmobiling or want to catch a football game on a Sunday afternoon, you’ll find plenty of great drinks and food at Gooch’s, including homemade pizzas, broasted chicken, fish fry and prime rib.
The Mecca Sports Bar and Grill, Milwaukee
Located in the city’s famed Deer District—home to Fiserv Forum, where the Milwaukee Bucks play—this restaurant and bar is open Tuesday through Sunday and features a huge 42-foot HD screen, an outdoor beer garden (ideal in the warmer months) and great gameday food and drink specials.
Time Out Sports Bar & Grill, Manitowoc
Choose from two dozen tap beers and enjoy the game on one of several high-definition televisions at this classic sports bars northwest of downtown Manitowoc. Time Out has been named the best sports bar in Manitowoc County and also features an updated game room with pool tables, darts, and more.
