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That’s right, the Wildcats are at it again. It’s time to celebrate the world of sports with the NCAA Tournament going on, and the best way to do that is to start at a sports bar. All around Tucson, you can sit and grab a beer while cheering on the local team you love so much. Even if you’re a fan of other colleges, you should still find a place to enjoy the sport — and that’s where we’ve got you covered. Check out the best bars we’ve found for getting your game on. And if you’re in Phoenix, we have a list of bars to watch the NCAA tournament too. Check them out here!
Hops Sports Grill
120 S Houghton Rd Unit 174, Tucson, AZ 85748
Various lagers, IPAs, sours, and porters are available here at Hops! The tap is full of options, and there are also a number of signature cocktails to warm you up to the bar as you lean in and watch your favorite team on one of the many TVs. Don’t forget to order up a burger or an Italian beef sub to complete the experience.
The Nugget
2617 N 1st Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719
Whether it’s the karaoke nights or the billiards, the beer or the buddies, there’s something that draws people into The Nugget. This reimagined experience brought to life by a new owner supersedes its roots as a dive bar, instead becoming a beautiful and welcoming neighborhood watering hole that even boasts live music from time to time. In addition, they sure do love to watch the Wildcats.
Pockets Pool & Pub
1062 S Wilmot Rd, Tucson, AZ 85711
The specials at this bar aren’t exclusive to cocktails and beer. In fact, the thing that gives Pockets its name is the pool table, and it fittingly features billiards specials as well. On Fridays, members of the military also get extended Happy Hour pricing till 11:00 p.m. But on top of all that, this place is also great for chilling and watching the game. Don’t get too invested in your pool tables — you’ll need to keep an eye open for the tournament playing on the big screen!
Louie’s Pub
746 E Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85719
The drinks are tasty, the staff are friendly, and the sports are on! Louie’s is the place to be no matter what you’re coming to enjoy. This dive bar is approachable, clean, and a great place to sit to watch the game and support local business!
Saint Charles Tavern
1632 S 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85713
This joint is known for its nice, open patio and its great selection of booze, including craft brews. It’s also a perfect spot to bring Spot, Fido, or whoever your furry friend is. This dog-friendly bar is an easy place to enjoy live music on the patio or the game on TV. The choice, as always, is yours!
The Jackrabbit Lounge
2000 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
This former strip club is now a bar and grill with an amazingly cool atmosphere, with low colored lighting, themed drinks like the Rabbit Hole and the Jackrabbit Spritz, and of course, hearty meals and appetizers. At happy hour, your signature cocktails are $2 off and all well drinks are $5 even, so make it there in time to place your order before the game!
Barrio Brewing Co
800 E 16th St, Tucson, AZ 85719
This Tucson-based brewery fills your belly with taproom goodness like the Hipsterville Hazy IPA or the Barrio Rojo red Scottish ale. But more than that, it offers great eats and a strong sports-bar atmosphere that can’t be beat! If you’re looking for a place to sit down with a cold one on game night, this is the place to be.
Murphys Public House
140 S Kolb Rd, Tucson, AZ 85710
With plenty of TVs around and a love for games (especially on Trivia Night), Murphys is a perfect spot for anyone looking to have some fun and watch the NCAA Tournament. A strong selection of whiskey and helpful bartenders make this place stand out as a wonderful experience for bar-goers looking for a good spot in sunny Tucson.
