Top Sports Bars At Disney World: Best Places To Watch The Game
Hey sports fans and Disney enthusiasts! Are you trying to find the perfect spot to catch the game while enjoying the magic of Disney World? Look no further! Combining the excitement of sports with the enchantment of Disney can be a home run, and I'm here to guide you through the best sports bars the resort has to offer. Whether you're craving a cold beer, some tasty wings, or just want to immerse yourself in the game-day atmosphere, Disney World has something for everyone. From lively venues with massive screens to more relaxed lounges with a sporty vibe, let's explore the top spots where you can cheer on your favorite team without missing out on the Disney fun.
ESPN Club (Now Closed)
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room right up front: The ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk, which was the definitive sports bar on property, is now permanently closed. I know, I know – huge bummer! It was practically legendary, with its wall-to-wall screens, interactive games, and energetic atmosphere. For years, it was the go-to destination for sports fans visiting Disney World. You could catch any game imaginable, enjoy some classic pub fare, and soak in the camaraderie of fellow fans. It really set the standard for what a sports bar at Disney could be. While its closure leaves a void, don't despair! There are still some fantastic options for watching sports at Disney World, and we'll explore those in detail. Think of this section as a fond farewell to a true icon – and a reminder that even though things change, the spirit of sports and Disney lives on!
Alternatives to ESPN Club
Even with the closure of the ESPN Club, there are still plenty of great places to catch your favorite games around Disney World. Let's dive into some of the best alternatives that offer a similar experience, combining great food, cold drinks, and a lively atmosphere. One excellent option is Splitsville Dining Room at Disney Springs. While it's primarily a bowling alley, Splitsville also boasts a fantastic sports bar area with plenty of screens and a fun, energetic vibe. It's a great place to enjoy a meal, knock down some pins, and watch the game all at the same time. Another solid choice is City Works Eatery & Pour House, also located at Disney Springs. This spot offers an extensive beer list, delicious American cuisine, and a huge array of TVs, making it perfect for sports fans. You can also check out some of the lounges in the various resorts, as many of them will tune into big games and offer a more relaxed, but still enjoyable, viewing experience. Keep an eye out for special events too, as Disney often hosts sports-related gatherings around major championships and tournaments. The key is to do a little research and find the spot that best fits your needs and preferences. While nothing can truly replace the ESPN Club, these alternatives offer a fantastic way to enjoy sports while still experiencing the magic of Disney World.
City Works Eatery & Pour House
City Works Eatery & Pour House is a fantastic option for sports enthusiasts visiting Disney World, located in the heart of Disney Springs. This place isn't just a restaurant; it's a sports-lover's paradise, boasting an impressive array of HDTVs strategically placed throughout the venue. No matter where you're seated, you're guaranteed a great view of the game. But it's not just about the screens; City Works also offers an extensive menu of mouthwatering American cuisine, from juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches to flavorful appetizers and entrees. And let's not forget the beer selection – with a vast and diverse list of craft beers on tap, you're sure to find the perfect brew to complement your meal and enhance your game-watching experience. The atmosphere here is lively and energetic, making it an ideal spot to cheer on your favorite team with fellow fans. Whether you're catching a major sporting event or just looking to unwind after a day at the parks, City Works provides a winning combination of great food, cold drinks, and a high-energy sports vibe. It's a must-visit destination for any sports fan visiting Disney World.
The Atmosphere and Ambiance
The atmosphere at City Works is electric, making it a prime spot for sports fans looking to immerse themselves in the game-day experience. The interior is designed with a modern, industrial-chic aesthetic, featuring exposed brick, sleek metal accents, and plenty of natural light. But the real draw is the sheer number of TVs – they're everywhere! From large screens above the bar to smaller ones in the booths, you'll never miss a moment of the action. The sound system is top-notch, ensuring you can hear every play, every call, and every cheer. The lighting is carefully calibrated to create a vibrant yet comfortable setting, perfect for both daytime and nighttime viewing. The seating arrangements are varied, with options for both large groups and intimate gatherings. Whether you're sitting at the bar, in a booth, or at a high-top table, you'll have a great view of the screens and a comfortable place to enjoy your meal and drinks. And let's not forget the staff – they're friendly, attentive, and always ready to help you find the perfect spot to watch the game. Overall, the atmosphere at City Works is unbeatable, making it a top choice for sports fans visiting Disney World.
Splitsville Dining Room
Located in Disney Springs, Splitsville Dining Room offers a unique blend of dining, entertainment, and sports viewing. While primarily known for its bowling lanes, Splitsville also boasts a fantastic sports bar area that's perfect for catching your favorite games. The atmosphere here is lively and fun, with a retro-inspired design that adds to the overall appeal. You can enjoy a delicious meal, bowl a few frames, and watch the game all in one place. Splitsville features multiple screens throughout the venue, ensuring you have a great view no matter where you're seated. The menu offers a wide variety of American classics, from burgers and pizzas to sushi and salads, catering to a diverse range of tastes. And of course, there's a full bar with plenty of beer, wine, and cocktail options. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to watch the game with friends or a unique dining experience, Splitsville Dining Room has something for everyone. It's a great option for families, groups, and solo travelers alike, offering a memorable and entertaining way to enjoy sports at Disney World.
Food and Beverage Options
At Splitsville Dining Room, the food and beverage options are as diverse and exciting as the entertainment. The menu features a wide range of American classics, with a few unexpected twists. Start with some appetizers like the loaded fries or the crispy calamari, perfect for sharing with friends. For your main course, you can choose from juicy burgers, flavorful pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and fresh salads. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the sushi – it's surprisingly good! The drink menu is equally impressive, with a full bar offering a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails. You can sip on a refreshing margarita, enjoy a cold beer on tap, or indulge in a signature cocktail. There are also plenty of non-alcoholic options available, including sodas, juices, and specialty drinks. Whether you're craving a classic burger and fries or something a little more upscale, Splitsville has something to satisfy every palate. The quality of the food and drinks is consistently high, making it a great value for your money. And the service is friendly and attentive, ensuring you have a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience.
Resort Lounges
Don't overlook the resort lounges when searching for a spot to watch sports at Disney World. Many of the resorts offer cozy and comfortable lounges that often feature TVs and will tune into major sporting events. These lounges provide a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere compared to the bustling sports bars, making them a great option for those who prefer a quieter setting. You can unwind with a cocktail, enjoy some appetizers, and catch the game without the crowds. Some notable resort lounges include the Crew's Cup Lounge at Disney's Yacht Club, the Tambu Lounge at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, and the Territory Lounge at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. Each lounge has its own unique charm and ambiance, reflecting the theme of the resort. The staff at these lounges are typically very accommodating and will do their best to ensure you have a pleasant viewing experience. While they may not have as many screens as a dedicated sports bar, the resort lounges offer a convenient and comfortable way to watch the game while staying on property. It's a great option for those who want to relax and unwind after a long day at the parks.
Benefits of Resort Lounges
Choosing a resort lounge to watch sports at Disney World comes with several unique benefits. First and foremost, the atmosphere is typically much more relaxed and intimate compared to the busier sports bars. This can be a welcome change after a long day of navigating the parks. You can unwind in a comfortable setting, enjoy a quiet conversation with friends, and still catch the game. Second, the convenience of staying on property makes resort lounges a great option. You don't have to travel far to find a spot to watch the game, which can save you time and energy. Third, the quality of the service at resort lounges is generally very high. The staff are attentive and accommodating, and they'll go out of their way to ensure you have a pleasant experience. Fourth, the food and beverage options at resort lounges are often more sophisticated and diverse than those at sports bars. You can enjoy a variety of appetizers, entrees, and cocktails, all prepared with care and attention to detail. Finally, the unique theming of each resort lounge adds to the overall experience. Whether you're transported to a tropical paradise at the Polynesian Village Resort or immersed in the rustic charm of the Wilderness Lodge, the resort lounges offer a memorable and enjoyable way to watch sports at Disney World. It's a great option for those who value comfort, convenience, and quality.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! While the closing of the ESPN Club was a blow to the Disney sports-watching scene, there are still plenty of fantastic options for catching your favorite games while enjoying the magic of Disney World. From the lively atmosphere of City Works Eatery & Pour House to the unique entertainment at Splitsville Dining Room and the relaxed ambiance of the resort lounges, there's something for every sports fan. Remember to check the schedules, plan ahead, and make reservations when possible to ensure you don't miss out on the action. Whether you're cheering on your team with a cold beer in hand or simply soaking in the game-day atmosphere, Disney World offers a winning combination of sports and entertainment. So grab your jersey, gather your friends, and get ready to experience the thrill of victory at the most magical place on earth! Have fun, guys!
