The 10 Best Sports Bars in Columbus, OH

Best for: mac and cheese

The Walrus offers a fantastic atmosphere with ample seating and great service. Known for its incredible specials and delicious mac and cheese, it's a top spot for enjoying sports with friends.

“The Mac and Cheese here is insanely good! Nice atmosphere. Ample seating. Great service in general but T. will take care of you at the bar if you lik…”— Google review

Best for: game day vibe

Located near Buckeye Stadium, Varsity Club is perfect for game days with its lively vibe and classic bar food. The WiFi is fast, and the servers are always amazing.

“This is a classic sport bar close to the Buckeye stadium and arena. Their classic bar food is cheap and tastes good. Game day vibe is crazy. Servers a…”— Google review

Best for: draft selection

With a fantastic draft selection and delicious food like short rib nachos and buffalo wings, Short North Pint House offers a fun atmosphere for a night out.

“Great draft selection. Food was delicious. Short rib nachos, fries and buffalo wings were all fantastic! Fun atmosphere as well!”— Google review

Best for: TVs for sports

Parlay Sporting Club boasts the most TVs in one place, making it ideal for March Madness and other big events. Enjoy great food and drinks with attentive service.

“Very very nice staff..Great food and drinks and the most TV's I've ever seen in one establishment. They passed out free beers for March madness. Very…”— Google review

Best for: burgers

Known for its excellent burgers and unpretentious vibe, Club 185 is a charming spot with top-notch service. While not ideal for big games, it's great for a relaxed meal.

“Best burgers in Columbus? I don’t know, but very good. I got the “Daily Double,” which is two single cheeseburgers and fries for $12. This was an exce…”— Google review

Best for: casual hangout

Woodland's Backyard offers a great hangout space with activities like duck bowling and volleyball. It's perfect for a casual drink in a lively bar environment.

“Shannon is the one of my favorite bartenders. Prompt service, good attitude and a great atmosphere. Perfect for events or a quick drink after work.”— Google review

Best for: hockey atmosphere

R Bar Arena is the go-to spot for hockey fans, featuring a cool center bar jumbo-tron and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfectly located for a pre-game drink.

“Great hockey atmosphere and the food was good. I recommend you try the GORDIE. Drinks reasonably priced as well.”— Google review

Best for: Irish pub vibe

Mac's Proper Pub offers a cozy Irish pub setting with delicious options like shrimp and chips. Enjoy sports quietly playing on TVs while you relax.

“I’ve have been coming to Mac’s since 2015. So before and After the rebrand. Today experience was hands down the best. The food was terrific today. I o…”— Google review

Best for: friendly service

Dempsey's offers excellent food and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great stop for a light meal and drinks before heading out. The staff's hospitality is top-notch.

“Dempsey’s Food and Spirits – Downtown Columbus May 2026 I was staying at the Westin Great Southern in downtown Columbus mid-May 2026 and circulated ar…”— Google review

Best for: relaxed atmosphere

Sports & Spirits provides a fun and comfortable atmosphere with great food and attentive service. It's a solid choice for a relaxed sports viewing experience.

“Fun atmosphere. Great food. Quiet area surrounding the establishment. Service is on par.”— Google review