March Madness is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball fans. The fast-paced action, the nail-biting moments, and the thrill of each game create an electric atmosphere that fans eagerly anticipate. But to truly experience the tournament, you need the perfect spot to watch the games with great food, drinks, and a lively crowd.
If you’re in the Triangle area, you’re in luck! This region boasts some of the best sports bars where you can catch every buzzer-beater and dunk. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or Cary, these bars will make sure you don’t miss a single second of the action.
1. The Oxford – Raleigh

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, The Oxford is an excellent spot to watch March Madness. The bar features large flat-screen TVs all around, ensuring that you have a perfect view no matter where you sit. The atmosphere is energetic yet laid-back, making it a great place for friends to gather and enjoy the tournament.
The Oxford offers a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious comfort food. From burgers and fries to their signature wings, there’s plenty to enjoy while you cheer for your team. If you’re in Raleigh, this is definitely one of the best spots to soak in the March Madness excitement.
2. Lynnwood Grill & Brewing Concern – Raleigh
Another gem in Raleigh, Lynnwood Grill & Brewing Concern is a local favorite for watching sports. The spacious layout ensures that everyone has a great seat, and there are plenty of big-screen TVs to keep you in the game.
If you’re a fan of craft beer, Lynnwood Grill will not disappoint with its rotating selection of local brews. The bar has a fun and casual vibe, with an extensive menu of food options like pizza, sandwiches, and hearty appetizers like loaded fries and wings. The laid-back atmosphere and great food make it a perfect place to enjoy March Madness with friends or family.
3. Hops Supply Co. – Cary

For those in Cary, Hops Supply Co. is one of the best places to catch March Madness. This sports bar has an amazing selection of craft beers on tap, offering everything from local brews to your favorite national brands. With a variety of flat-screen TVs lining the walls, you won’t miss a second of the tournament action.
The spacious interior ensures there’s plenty of room to spread out, even during peak game times. The food menu includes fan favorites like burgers, wings, and loaded fries, so you can enjoy great food while watching your team compete. Hops Supply Co. provides an energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for March Madness.
4. The Player’s Retreat – Raleigh
If you’re looking for a more relaxed yet still vibrant place to watch March Madness, The Player’s Retreat in Raleigh is a solid choice. Known for its local charm, The Player’s Retreat offers a great selection of food, drinks, and plenty of big-screen TVs to keep you in the loop during every game.
The bar is famous for its signature sandwiches, burgers, and wings, making it a great spot to fuel up while watching your team take on the competition. The cozy atmosphere and friendly crowd make it feel like home, and you’ll quickly find yourself returning to enjoy more games here.
5. Boxcar Bar + Arcade – Raleigh

Boxcar Bar + Arcade offers a fun twist on the classic sports bar experience. Located in downtown Raleigh, this spot is perfect for those who love both basketball and games. While you watch the March Madness action on their big-screen TVs, you can also play some classic arcade games between games.
With a wide range of food and drink options, including burgers, tacos, and craft beers, you’ll be well-fed while enjoying the tournament. The lively and upbeat atmosphere makes it an exciting choice for anyone looking to watch March Madness in a fun and unique way.
6. The Flying Saucer – Raleigh
For craft beer lovers, The Flying Saucer in Raleigh is a must-visit. This bar offers one of the best selections of craft beers in the area, making it a great spot to watch March Madness with a cold drink in hand. The Flying Saucer has a relaxed and comfortable vibe, with big TVs around the bar showing all the action.
Their food menu features everything from pizza and sandwiches to burgers and appetizers, so you won’t go hungry while cheering for your favorite team. Whether you’re a basketball fan or a beer enthusiast, The Flying Saucer is a great place to watch the tournament.
7. Tapworks – Durham
Tapworks in Durham offers a welcoming and lively environment for sports fans looking to enjoy March Madness. With an impressive selection of craft beers on tap and multiple big-screen TVs, Tapworks ensures that you’ll never miss a moment of the action.
The spacious bar has a cozy vibe, making it ideal for both large groups and smaller gatherings. The menu includes a variety of mouthwatering options like wings, burgers, and salads, so there’s something for everyone. Tapworks is perfect for fans who want great food, excellent drinks, and an exciting atmosphere to enjoy the March Madness games.
8. The Town Hall – Chapel Hill
If you’re in Chapel Hill, The Town Hall is one of the best places to watch March Madness. This cozy sports bar combines great food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of TVs to keep up with all the games.
Their menu features a variety of bar favorites, including wings, sandwiches, and other delicious options. Whether you’re watching with friends or just enjoying the tournament solo, The Town Hall provides a great spot to catch all the action. The friendly crowd and comfortable setting make it a perfect spot for March Madness in Chapel Hill.
Final Thoughts
March Madness is a time for basketball fans to come together, and there’s no better way to experience it than at one of the Triangle’s best sports bars. From Raleigh to Durham to Chapel Hill, the area is filled with sports bars that offer fantastic food, drinks, and an atmosphere that makes every game feel exciting.
Whether you’re looking for a lively crowd, great craft beer, or just a place to enjoy good food with friends, these 8 sports bars are the best spots to watch all the action during March Madness. Grab your friends, find your seat, and get ready to cheer for your team!
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.

Benjamin Ford is a dedicated local journalist passionate about reporting on community news, events, politics, crime, and finance. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to uncovering impactful stories, he provides in-depth analysis and timely updates on issues that matter to the local audience. Benjamin enjoys engaging with the community and staying informed on emerging trends when he’s not covering the latest developments.