The Best Places in Grand Rapids to Eat, Drink, and Watch March Madness

As far as I'm concerned it's officially the best time of the year: March Madness.

I live for college basketball, and with both Michigan and Michigan State in the tournament this year, it's going to be exciting for fans across the mitten state. (And let's be honest, if you're in Grand Rapids there's a 50/50 chance you're rooting for either team)

Do you remember these old Michigan teams we forgot existed? (Below)

No matter who you're rooting for, these are some of the best spots in the Grand Rapids area to enjoy watching the games in public, or to go drown your woes when your team gets knocked out of the big dance two games in.

The Score
5301 Northland Dr NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Website

If you love sports, you're probably already familiar with The Score in Grand Rapids. They have so many TVs that even if you're rooting for something obscure, they're probably going to be showing it. Seriously, there are over 70. Just ask for what you wanna watch, they've got it.

Big E's Sports Grill
Multiple Grand Rapids Area Locations
Website

One of Grand Rapids' best sports chains, Big E's is big, clean, and awesome. Bonus: if  bar food isn't your thing / you want something to eat that's healthier than the celery on your wing plate, they also offer an awesome salad bar.

Garage Bar & Grill
819 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Website

Grand Rapids' neighborhood sports bar is one you absolutely should check out, even when it's not game day. Even better if you're there when the weather is nice, because there's nothing better than hanging out on the patio and still being able to see the screen.

Bob's Bar
725 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Website

I'm a little biased as someone who loves Bob's Sports Bar even on an off day. But Bob's feels like the closest to Cheers that Grand Rapids could ever create. If you're looking for a community to rally around on game day, (and off)- this is a great place to start.

Brick and Porter
47 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Website

If the standard sports bar isn't your scene, and you love a great meal- Brick and Porter in Downtown GR is the perfect spot. They have a great beer and spirit list, as well as a burger I've thought about every day since I had it. This is the perfect viewing spot for the quiet, more reserved sports fan.

Gimme's Par and Grill
45 Ottawa Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Website

One of Grand Rapdis' newest additions to the sports game- You may know of Gimmie's already for their incredible golf simulators. But, you don't have to be a golfer to appreciate their great food, drink prices, and incredibly large TVs that make them a perfect place to visit for fans of any sport.