Best Bars To Watch The Women's World Cup In Minnesota
The FIFA Women's World Cup promises to be as exciting as ever. Will Germany, the reigning men's champions, prove their women are just as unbeatable? Will it be a year for the underdogs to shine? Who will emerge victorious? Anything can happen, and while the tournament is being held in neighboring Canada, from Vancouver to Moncton, you don't even have to travel that far to get in on the action. These local bars, pubs, and taverns have got you covered.
Nomad World Pub
501 Cedar Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55454
(612) 338-6424
www.nomadpub.com
They're all about their soccer at this West Bank institution. Known as the place to go for local soccer games; to enjoy drink specials while watching the Minnesota Thunder stomp opponents into the ground, you can be sure it will be just as lively for the Women's World Cup. Take advantage of the drink specials that happen daily (especially the PBR and shot of Jameson for only $5) and get a little wild rooting for your team. You don't have to be a fan of the U.S. team, this is a world pub, after all.
Sweetwater Grille And Bar
161 St Anthony Ave.
St Paul, MN 55103
(651) 224-6373
www.bestwesternstpaul.com
For the soccer fans in the know, this hotel bar is the place to go to watch the best games. While located in a strange part of St. Paul, tucked off I-94 just outside of downtown with a massive Sears the only thing close by (although the Green Line drops you off within walking distance), the owner's undying enthusiasm for the sport has made it a soccer-haven for years. Catch all the best games with the most avid fans of the sport and cheer as loudly as you want.
The Local
931 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(612) 904-1000
www.the-local.com
Another Minneapolis pub dedicated to the art of soccer, The Local makes sure that all games are an event to remember. The Local encourages team colors, flags, and other forms of the rabble-rousing (although you'll get kicked out if you start throwing punches at a rival). But if you're rooting for Ireland, this is especially the bar for you. Great drink specials add to the game day fun. Pro tip: You can sign up for the Sports Newsletter, so you won't ever again need to miss your favorite team hitting the field.
Brit's Pub
1110 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 332-3908
www.britspub.com
Brit's has long been the go-to for fans of sports popular on the British Isles. Whether you like rugby, cricket, or, of course, soccer, Brit's makes you feel right at home. The lively crowd cheering their hearts out for their favorite team, greasy good food coming fast from the kitchen, and cold pints pouring from the bar make this one of the best places to watch the game. You might want to get there early, though, as Brit's is known to fill up quickly, especially during major sporting events.
Half Time Rec
1013 Front Ave.
St Paul, MN 55103
(651) 488-8245
www.halftimerec.com
Now churning out amazing eats from a brand new kitchen known as Paddy Shack, the Rec's comfortable setting and enthusiastic crowd make this one of the best places to watch the game. Take a break between games to play some bocce ball in the basement if you're feeling revved up by the action, or kick back on the patio out back if you need a break from it. Either way, this homey dive is a great place to enjoy the tournament.
Related: Best Sports Bars In Minnesota
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.