Best Brainerd Sports Bars for March Madness 2019
March is here, which means the Madness is soon to begin. No, we’re not talking about the cabin fever we get in Minnesota after being cooped up all winter- hopefully that will be abating soon! We mean the March Madness NCAA basketball tournament.
So where should you go in-and-around Brainerd to ensure a blissful game-viewing experience? Check our handy list to find out!
Ernie’s on Gull
10424 Squaw Point Rd, Brainerd
Located right out on the water, we enjoy Ernie’s on Gull for its high-quality menu and good prices. They’ve got a hardy selection of craft beers, and the atmosphere is always on point. On top of that, the service is friendly and often hilarious. If quality food, good beer, fair prices, and a sweet location are your priority, this is the place to hit up for a thoroughly satisfying round of Madness.
Shep’s on 6th
315 S 6th Street, Brainerd
Friendly bartenders, a proliferation of sports detritus, cornhole boards, and plenty of TVs set the endearing ambience of this townie sports bar. It’s just the kind of place to relax and watch a game in a laid-back, homey atmosphere.
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Boulder Tap House
15674 Edgewood Dr, Baxter
If you like to accompany your basketball viewing with a bevy of delicious comfort food, Boulder Tap House is the place to go. After all, they’ve got some of the best BBQ in the Brainerd area. They’ve also got top-of-the-line burgers, fries, shakes, malts, wings, and more. We recommend the tater tots- they come with an incredible sauce. If you like cheese, definitely get the curds- they’re giant cubes. We also dig the peanut-butter egg burger.
As you can see, this is not the place to come if you’re looking for health food, but it’s perfect for a trip to calorie world, which is a magical place to visit (with moderation- please eat responsibly).
On top of all this, they’ve got a good selection of beers and other beverages, and like any good sports bar, HD TVs adorn every corner.
Buffalo Wild Wings
14643 Edgewood Dr, Baxter
You can’t really go wrong with this solid, if a bit unoriginal, choice. They’ve got good drinks, good wings, and professional staff. It’s always busy, and you’re guaranteed a lively game-day atmosphere.
Johnny C’s Sports Bar
108 E Broadway, Little Falls
Johnny C’s is a bit more of a journey- it’s down in Little Falls. But it’s worth the drive if you’re craving some “pig wings.” This specialty of Johnny C’s consists of pork ribs deep-fried and dipped in “boom boom” barbecue sauce.
In addition, they’ve got other great fried food, such as battered onion rings and fried pickles, along with chicken sandwiches, pizza, and more. The service is good, the establishment is clean and well-lit, and the friendly atmosphere is a blast.
Good prices and plenty of TVs round out the experience and earn Johnny C’s a spot on our list, despite being about a thirty minute drive south of Brainerd.
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