Ventura’s Best Sports Bars for Game Day

Game days hit different in Ventura. Whether it’s National Football League or Major League Baseball time, there’s no better way to catch the action than at one of Ventura’s sports bars. If you’re looking for the best bars to watch your favorite team play, we’ve got you covered with nine local sports bars in Ventura that deliver great food, fun drinks, big screens, and the perfect game-day ambiance.

Sports Bars in Downtown Ventura

Downtown Ventura has that chill beach town vibe with plenty to do. It’s a quick walk from the ocean, packed with local shops, and cool spots to eat like Immigrant Son Cafe, Lure Fish House, and Finney’s– it’s an overall fun place to explore.

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Yard Bar & Grill

Yard Bar & Grill brings the same energy locals love from Cronies Sports Grill- with a fresh new concept and a greater dining experience in Downtown Ventura. This hot spot offers an experience that makes every visit feel like a gathering at a friend’s place- comfortable and welcoming. Grab your friends, catch the game, and enjoy scratch-made dishes with a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and house cocktails that hit the spot- try the berry buzzed!

“The Yard is the best place to watch the game because it’s got it all, the massive 4 screen TV, the energy, and a crowd that feels like family. Whether you’re here to cheer every play or just unwind over great food and cocktails, everyone finds their place at The Yard,” said owner David Foldes Jr.

Happy Place Eatery

A few steps from Yard Bar & Grill, Happy Place Eatery is the place to be when the game is on. Happy Place Eatery brings the perfect mix of good food, good vibes, and good game-day energy. This Downtown Ventura gem lights up on game nights with seven big screen TVs lining the walls, ice-cold beers on tap, and a lively crowd the minute you walk in. Their smashburgers are a must try- crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Between the great food, great drinks, and downtown buzz, Happy Place Eatery makes game-night one to remember.

Barrelhouse 101

Barrelhouse 101 brings American fun with unbeatable game-day energy. Located right at the entrance of downtown Ventura, it’s a large venue that makes it perfect for big groups looking to hang out, grab a drink, and watch the big game. Barrelhouse features TV screens, great ambiance, and a large range of different beers from all over the world. Whether you’re here for the match or just the vibes, you’ve got to try their popular strawbanero wings- a sweet and spicy favorite that hits the spot with a side of a nice ice-cold beer.

Sports Bars in Midtown Ventura, South Seaward, and Ventura Harbor

Midtown Ventura has that easygoing charm with great spots to explore- you’ll find coffee shops and great eats along Main Street, plus it’s home to parks like Arroyo Verde, Camino Real, and Thille Park– perfect for walks, picnics, or a quick game outside.

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The Bench Warmer

People Pplaying pool at one of Ventura's sports bars Benchwarmer — Photo by The Bench Warmer

Bench Warmer is the ultimate spot for sports, camaraderie, and great vibes making it a welcoming haven for all sports fans. This spot offers a great mix of cocktails and beers on tap, plus a little extra fun with pool and darts. With loud energy and non-stop excitement, this place is the go-to spot for all sports enthusiasts. Be sure to catch their $6 Bloody Marys on Sundays and $6 Micheladas on Mondays- a solid way to kick off the week!

The Loose Cannon

Plates full of pizza and onion rings with a boot glass of beer at one of Venturas sports bars, Loose Cannon — Photo by Ventura Harbor

Step into Loose Cannon for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind game day experience. Right on the water at Ventura Harbor Village, bring your whole crew to Loose Cannon for a vibrant atmosphere. This waterfront bar is ideal for family fun and entertainment. With over 20 classic and modern arcade games and a variety of flavorful cuisine, the kids can play games themselves as the big game plays overhead. Happy hour runs weekdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it perfect for Monday and Thursday night football. The blend of coastal vibe and game time is an experience you can’t pass up.

Social Tap

Just a walk from the beach, Social Tap is the place for fans who want a casual spot with high-quality game day food, creative cocktails, and local craft beer. Tip: don’t miss their signature street tacos and sandwiches! With 16 large TVs located throughout the restaurant, it’s a nice spot to relax and watch your favorite team score a touchdown; and when the game’s over, head on over to the beach to keep the celebrations going.

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Sports bars in East End of Ventura

East Ventura offers a calm escape with plenty to enjoy- from a state-of-the-art community waterpark and aquatic center, sports fields like the Saticoy Regional golf course to local favorite restaurants like Two Trees and O’Sabi.

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Cronies Sports Grill

If you’re looking for a spot to kick back, catch a game, and enjoy a cold beer or margarita, Cronies delivers. With multiple TVs, a large crowd, and a fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to catch the game with family and friends, or solo. Cronies is an iconic local favorite where regulars feel at home and newcomers are always welcome. Located towards the east end of Ventura, this spot carries a menu filled with full of flavor options for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a touchdown or a home run, Cronies keeps the fun rolling all season long.

“For 35 years, Cronies has been the place where you’re greeted on a first-name basis and handed a smoking-cold schooner before kickoff. Loud, packed, and full of energy – this is where game day lives,” said owner Dave Foldes.

O’Leary’s Tavern

Hidden just off the main strip, O’Leary’s Tavern is one of Ventura’s hidden gems. With fun cocktail drinks, beer, and a laid-back local crowd, it’s a nice spot to kick back and catch the game. O’Leary’s has multiple entertainment options, including pool tables, a shuffleboard, and darts that keep the fun going between plays. Step out to the patio and enjoy the fresh Ventura breeze with a drink in your hand. The chill atmosphere makes O’Leary’s the kind of hangout spot you’ll always want to come back to.

The Varsity Club

Varsity Club Ventura — Photo by The Varsity Club

Game days hit different at The Varsity Club. With big screens throughout the restaurant, great food, and cold drinks flowing, it’s the perfect place to catch the action. The loud, lively ambiance makes it easy to cheer with friends, grab a couple beers or margaritas, and catch every play without missing a moment. With golf stimulators, batting bays, and nonstop good vibes, it’s the ultimate mix of fun, drinks, and sports- where the good times continue all night long.

Whether you’re rooting for your team or just in it for the drinks and good vibes, Ventura’s got the perfect spots to kick back and watch the game. Grab your crew, hit your favorite sports bar, and make game time one to remember.

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