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Where to watch football games around Indy

If you’re not watching football from the stands at Lucas Oil Stadium, there are a few nearby watering holes that bring a similar camaraderie and atmosphere for football fans.

Photo by @coltsevents via Twitter

There’s nothing like a Colts tailgate before the game on a cool fall afternoon.

Photo by @coltslife

Football season is here + the countdown to the Colts’ kickoff is on. We’ve got the 411 on where to catch all the action around Indianapolis.

Whether you’re a Colts, Hoosiers, or Boilermakers fan — here’s where to watch football games in Indianapolis.

Tavern on South | 802 S. West St.
This little brick building was built in 1910 and sits in the shadow of Lucas Oil Stadium. Formerly known as Stadium Tavern, Tavern on South is a hole-in-the-wall spot that features a 60-seat second level deck that looks out to the downtown skyline.

The Bulldog Bar & Lounge | 5380 N. College Ave.
You may recognize this Broad Ripple staple as the site of former Moe & Johnny’s, which closed during the pandemic after 20+ years. The old favorite made a comeback as The Bulldog featuring a full-service bar with two 24-tap walls for self-serve beer, plus a bourbon lounge.

INDY_Slippery Noodle Inn_exterior street view_MAY2021

In more recent years, The Slippery Noodle has changed ownership.

The Dugout | 621 Virginia Ave.
This sports bar in the Fountain-Fletcher District has been offering a relaxed atmosphere for watching sports since 1954. It’s a go-to spot for cheap drinks, good food, and plenty of seats for watching the game. If you don’t need a TV screen, it also has a spacious outdoor patio.

The Slippery Noodle | 372 S. Meridian St.
Known as one of the oldest operating bars in Indiana, The Slippery Noodle Inn has been around since the 1850s + has served as a bar, restaurant, theater, and a stop on the Underground Railroad. Located right by Lucas Oil Stadium, it offers a Colts pregame special and Game Day brunch and reserved seating.

Do you have your tickets yet? There are five main ticket options — Season Tickets, Single Game tickets, Premium Seating tickets, and Group Seating tickets. Prices start at $50 for select single games. The ticket office is located at 7001 W. 56th St.

Know of a Colts, Hoosier, or Boilermaker bar that’s not mentioned above? We’d love to add it to our list. Email us your favorite spot to spend game day in Indianapolis.

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